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Entry Level Computer Programmer Jobs in State College, PA

Penn State

Guidance and Control Engineer

State College, PA · On-site

$81K - $137K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... is seeking entry level Engineers to research, develop, analyze, implement, and test new ... Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Physics, or Data Science * Strong ...

Montana

Civil Engineering Specialist-Lewistown

Lewistown, PA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

At time of position entry (graduation), candidates must possess; Entry Level - o The required ... computer-assisted drafting and design software, and engineering techniques are required for ...

IBM

Federal Data Engineering Co-Op: 2027

University Park, PA · On-site

$112K - $134K/yr

... entry-level positions. You'll receive a status update email for each application, so be sure to ... Currently pursuing a quantitative degree in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Engineering ...

Posted today

IBM

Federal Data Engineering Co-Op: 2027

University Park, PA

$112K - $134K/yr

... entry-level positions. You'll receive a status update email for each application, so be sure to ... Currently pursuing a quantitative degree in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Engineering ...

Posted today

IBM

Co-Op Data Engineer - 2027

University Park, PA · On-site

... entry-level positions. You'll receive a status update email for each application, so be sure to ... Pursuing a degree in Business, Information Systems, Computer Science, Engineering, or related field.

IBM

Co-Op Data Engineer - 2027

State College, PA · On-site

... entry-level positions. You'll receive a status update email for each application, so be sure to ... Pursuing a degree in Business, Information Systems, Computer Science, Engineering, or related field.

New

IBM

Co-Op Data Engineer - 2027

University Park, PA · On-site

... entry-level positions. You'll receive a status update email for each application, so be sure to ... Pursuing a degree in Business, Information Systems, Computer Science, Engineering, or related field.

IBM

Co-Op Data Scientist 2027

University Park, PA · On-site

... entry-level positions. You'll receive a status update email for each application, so be sure to ... Currently pursuing a quantitative degree in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Engineering ...

IBM

Co-Op Data Scientist 2027

University Park, PA · On-site

... entry-level positions. You'll receive a status update email for each application, so be sure to ... in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Engineering, IST, or a related field with an ...

New

IBM

Co-Op Security Consultant 2027

University Park, PA · On-site

Enrollment in a Bachelor's degree program in Cybersecurity, Information Security, Computer Science ... Engineering, Identity and Authentication Technology. * Exposure to software tools such as Java ...

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All JobsComputer Programmer JobsEntry Level Computer Programmer JobsEntry Level Computer Programmer Jobs in State College, PA

Entry Level Computer Programmer information

See State College, PA salary details

$32.3K

$63.5K

$93.4K

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

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level computer programmer in State College, PA is $63,544.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,400.00 and $78,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

How to get a job as an entry level computer programmer with no experience?

To secure an entry level computer programmer position with no experience, focus on building a strong foundation in programming languages like Python or Java through online courses and personal projects. Internships, volunteering, or contributing to open-source projects can also demonstrate skills to employers and improve your chances of getting hired.
More about Entry Level Computer Programmer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Computer Programmer jobs in State College, PA?

The most popular types of Computer Programmer jobs in State College, PA are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Computer Programmer jobs in State College, PA?

For Entry Level Computer Programmer jobs in State College, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Computer Programmer jobs in State College, PA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Computer Programmer jobs in State College, PA are:

What cities near State College, PA are hiring for Entry Level Computer Programmer jobs?

Cities near State College, PA with the most Entry Level Computer Programmer job openings:

Entry Level Computer Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Computer Programmer job openings in State College, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $63,544 per year, or $30.6 per hour.

Guidance and Control Engineer

Penn State

State College, PA • On-site

$81K - $137K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Penn State University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 104 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

229th of 619 rated colleges and universities

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
POSITION SPECIFICS
The Guidance and Control Technologies Division in the Undersea Systems Office (USO) of the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) is seeking entry level Engineers to research, develop, analyze, implement, and test new capabilities for autonomous undersea systems. You will be part of one or more design teams whose primary function is to develop guidance and control systems for current and future autonomous undersea systems.
You will:
  • Design algorithms for vehicle guidance and control in an undersea environment, including signal processing, detection, classification, tracking, and autonomous decision-making
  • Analyze multi-sensor data to evaluate system performance
  • Design, implement, integrate, and test software to demonstrate guidance and control algorithms
  • Collaborate and communicate with a team of peers
  • Document work through reports and presentations

Additional responsibilities for higher-level position include:
  • Investigate and evaluate applicability of theories and practices to the development of guidance and control systems
  • Lead specific tasks within the project scope

Required skills/experience include:
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Physics, or Data Science
  • Strong written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills

Preferred skills/experience include:
  • One of more of the following: MATLAB, Python, C++
  • Object-oriented software design
  • Vehicle autonomy
  • Object tracking and classification
  • Machine learning
  • Intelligent control and fuzzy logic

You working location will be full on-site located in State College, PA
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
If filled as Research and Development Engineer - Intermediate Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science2+ years of relevant experienceRequired Certifications:NoneIf filled as Research and Development Engineer - Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or ScienceNo prior relevant work experience requiredRequired Certifications:None
ARL's purpose is to research and develop innovative solutions to challenging scientific, engineering, and technology problems in support of the Navy, the Department of Defense (DoD), and the Intel Community (IC).
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our web site at ;br>
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
Notice regarding employment at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL):Employees must be eligible to obtain a government security clearance, participate in the ARL drug testing program, and comply with electronic and physical monitoring requirements applicable to federal contractors. ARL operates in a secure information environment involving Unclassified, Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), and Classified information. Personal electronic devices brought onsite must be registered and may be restricted from certain areas.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $81,312.00 - $137,280.00.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact .
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