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Entry Level Computer Programmer Jobs in Fort Walton Beach, FL

Entry Level Computer Programmer information

See Fort Walton Beach, FL salary details

$27.1K

$53.4K

$78.4K

How much do entry level computer programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level computer programmer in Fort Walton Beach, FL is $53,369.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,500.00 and $65,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Computer Programmer vs Software Developer?

AspectEntry Level Computer ProgrammerSoftware Developer
Required CredentialsAssociate's or Bachelor's in Computer Science or related fieldBachelor's degree often preferred; certifications like Java or Python are common
Work EnvironmentOffice or remote; coding in teams or individuallySimilar; often collaborative, project-based work
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level roles in tech, finance, healthcare, and moreBroader; includes designing, developing, testing software
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Entry Level Computer Programmers typically focus on writing and testing code under supervision, while Software Developers are involved in designing and building software solutions. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work environments, but Software Developers often have broader responsibilities and higher expectations for project involvement.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level computer programmers during their first year on the job?

Entry level computer programmers often encounter challenges such as adapting to new development tools, understanding complex codebases, and managing project deadlines. It's common to feel overwhelmed by unfamiliar programming languages or frameworks, but most teams offer mentorship and training to help with the transition. Collaboration with senior developers and participating in code reviews are valuable opportunities to learn best practices and improve coding skills. Over time, persistence and proactive communication can help overcome these initial hurdles and contribute to professional growth.

What is an entry level computer programmer?

Entry Level Computer Programmers are professionals who write, test, and maintain computer code under supervision, usually at the start of their careers. They typically work with more experienced developers to learn best practices and develop their coding skills. Their responsibilities may include debugging programs, writing simple scripts, and assisting in software development projects. Entry level programmers often have a degree in computer science or a related field and are proficient in one or more programming languages. This role serves as a foundation for advancing to more complex software engineering positions.

What does an entry level computer programmer do?

The job of an entry-level computer programmer is to write code, troubleshoot design issues, and debug software. They typically work as part of a software development team or under direct supervision. An entry-level computer programmer may sit in on development meetings and perform other administrative tasks as needed. The qualifications you need to become an entry-level computer programmer typically include a bachelor's degree and a working knowledge of one or more programming languages.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level computer programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Computer Programmer, you need a solid understanding of programming languages (such as Python, Java, or C++), problem-solving abilities, and at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with integrated development environments (IDEs), version control systems like Git, and debugging tools is typically expected. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and a willingness to learn help individuals excel in collaborative and dynamic environments. These skills and qualities are important for delivering reliable code, adapting to evolving project needs, and contributing effectively to software development teams.
What cities near Fort Walton Beach, FL are hiring for Entry Level Computer Programmer jobs? Cities near Fort Walton Beach, FL with the most Entry Level Computer Programmer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Computer Programmer job openings in Fort Walton Beach, FL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,369 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Engineer (entry level & senior level)

Signature Research, Inc

Navarre, FL • On-site

$70 - $145/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Signature Research, Inc. has immediate openings for entry level and senior level Engineers on their team in Navarre, Florida.

Whether you're starting your engineering career or bringing years of advanced modeling experience, this is a chance to work on problems that are anything but ordinary.

These positions support advanced defense and national security projects involving physics-based signature prediction, with an emphasis on radar. You will use engineering, physics, computational modeling, programming, and real-world test data to help predict and understand how targets and backgrounds appear to radar, infrared sensors, and other detection systems.

WHAT WE OFFER.
  • Entry-Level/Junior (0-3 years of experience): $70,000 - $90,000 annual starting wage.
  • Senior Level (8 or more years of experience): $110,000 - $145,000 annual starting wage.
  • Comprehensive health and benefit package in which company pays all base plan health insurance premiums; buy-up options available.
  • Simplified Employee Pension (SEP) Plan.
  • Paid vacation, sick time and holidays.
  • Full-time, Monday - Friday in-office position; remote work is not available.
WHAT YOU'LL DO.

You build and run computational models of targets and backgrounds, generate meshes from CAD geometry, run physics-based prediction tools, and compare model results against measured data. Depending on your experience, you work alongside senior technical experts or independently lead advanced modeling efforts. You also:

  • Generate and validate surface and volume meshes from CAD geometry.
  • Assess and improve mesh quality for accurate solver results.
  • Configure, run, and post-process radar, thermal, and infrared signature models.
  • Apply computational fluid dynamics to model flow, exhaust, plume effects, and aero-thermal heating.
  • Develop and modify MATLAB, Python, and C/C++ software to automate workflows and process signature data.
  • Use high-performance computing (HPC) clusters and GPUs to scale computational runs.
  • Support measurement campaigns, including calibration, data formatting, labeling, and analysis.
  • Compare predicted signatures against collected EO/IR and RF data.
  • Document findings in technical reports and signature data products.
WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR.
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related technical field. A Master's degree is a plus.
  • Relevant experience via exposure to coursework, internship, or research, or hands-on experience with CAD, mesh generation, CAD-to-mesh workflows, computational modeling, or physics-based simulation.
  • Experience with MATLAB and/or Python; the ability to read and modify C/C++ is helpful and expected at the senior level.
  • Familiarity with electromagnetic, thermal, fluid, radar, or infrared modeling tools.
  • Entry-level candidates should be eager to learn and grow with guidance from experienced technical experts.
  • Senior candidates should be able to independently build, run, validate, improve, and document complex computational models using sound technical judgment.
  • U.S. citizenship is required, along with the ability to obtain (and maintain) a security clearance. Don't have clearance? No problem - we'll help you through the process.
  • A valid driver's license and ability to travel within the United States is required. Field test and evaluation activities at remote ranges throughout the U.S. may require travel for periods of up to two weeks or more, occasionally with extended hours supporting classified work.

Signature Research, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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