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Entry Level Developer Jobs in Olympia, WA (NOW HIRING)

Transportation Engineer 2

Olympia, WA · On-site +1

$76K - $102K/yr

This position may also provide guidance and training to entry-level engineers and technicians while contributing to a workplace that values respect, inclusion, and public stewardship. What to Expect ...

New

Entry-Level Labor

Shelton, WA · On-site

$22.22/hr

Entry-level positions earn $22.22 per hour We train and promote from within Excellent low-cost ... Electronics, CNC, and PLC Programming * Responsible for general shop cleanup and maintenance ...

Change Order Engineer (TE3)

Olympia, WA · On-site +1

$84K - $113K/yr

The Opportunity WSDOT is seeking a Change Order Engineer to support the SR 520 Bridge Replacement and HOV Program in Seattle, WA. This position plays a key role in administering change orders for ...

Machine Operator

Centralia, WA · On-site

$17.75 - $21.25/hr

The NorPlex Machine Operator plays a key role in supporting maintenance and engineering activities at the Continental Products facility in Centralia, WA. This entry-level position involves assisting ...

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Entry Level Developer information

See Olympia, WA salary details

$31.6K

$107.5K

$259K

How much do entry level developer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level developer in Olympia, WA is $107,516.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,100.00 and $113,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level developer?

Entry level developers are individuals who are starting their careers in software development, typically with less than two years of professional experience. They are responsible for writing, testing, and maintaining code under the guidance of more experienced developers. Entry level developers often work on basic coding tasks, bug fixes, and learning new technologies as part of a development team. Their role is crucial for gaining practical experience and building foundational skills needed for advancement in the tech industry.

What does an entry level developer do?

As an entry-level developer, your duties are to work as part of a team to develop a piece of software or an application for a computer or web browser. Your responsibilities vary depending on your specific assignment. As an entry-level developer, you may assist in multiple aspects of the project while you determine a more specific career path. Your duties include working with QA testers to troubleshoot bugs in your programs, programming specific portions of the app or software, and collaborating with programmers, developers, and other technical professionals to understand and clarify the goals of the application.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Developer, you need a solid understanding of programming languages (such as Java, Python, or JavaScript), problem-solving abilities, and a relevant degree or coding bootcamp certification. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, basic knowledge of databases, and exposure to development environments or frameworks are typically required. Strong communication, teamwork, and a willingness to learn new technologies help set candidates apart. These skills and qualities are essential for contributing effectively to projects, adapting to evolving technical requirements, and collaborating within development teams.

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

Entry level developers often encounter challenges such as adapting to new codebases, learning company-specific development workflows, and collaborating effectively with more experienced team members. Balancing the need to ask questions with the desire to solve problems independently can also be tricky. Additionally, keeping up with frequent technology updates and understanding project requirements thoroughly are important hurdles. Most organizations offer mentorship, code reviews, and regular feedback to help new developers overcome these challenges and grow their skills quickly.

What is the difference between Entry Level Developer vs Junior Software Engineer?

AspectEntry Level DeveloperJunior Software Engineer
Required CredentialsAssociate degree or coding bootcamp certificationSimilar; often an associate degree or equivalent experience
Work EnvironmentEntry-level projects, supervised tasksCollaborative team settings, basic coding tasks
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, startups, IT departmentsSoftware firms, tech departments, consulting firms
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both roles typically require similar foundational skills and certifications, with slight differences in job responsibilities. Entry Level Developers focus on learning and supporting projects, while Junior Software Engineers often have more technical responsibilities. The terms are often used interchangeably, but understanding these nuances helps in job search and career planning.

What are the most commonly searched types of Developer jobs in Olympia, WA?

The most popular types of Developer jobs in Olympia, WA are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Developer jobs in Olympia, WA?

For Entry Level Developer jobs in Olympia, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Developer jobs in Olympia, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Developer jobs in Olympia, WA are:

What cities near Olympia, WA are hiring for Entry Level Developer jobs?

Cities near Olympia, WA with the most Entry Level Developer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Developer job openings in Olympia, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,516 per year, or $51.7 per hour.

Transportation Engineer 2

State of Washington

Olympia, WA • On-site, Remote

$76K - $102K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


State Of Washington rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 83 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 50 rated states


Job description

Description About WSDOT The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal agency with a global reputation for excellence. Our dedicated workforce plans, designs, builds, and operates an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. In addition to maintaining over 20,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, manages the world's longest floating bridge, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation.

The Opportunity WSDOT is currently seeking a Transportation Engineer 2 to join the Port Angeles Project Engineer Office, where you will support the delivery of highway construction projects that improve the safety, quality, and capacity of Washington's transportation system. In this role, you will serve as a designer, inspector, and/or project administrator, developing and reviewing designs and estimates, performing construction inspections, and managing project documentation and contract payments for Design-Bid-Build and Design-Build projects. You will exercise sound judgment while ensuring projects comply with WSDOT standards, contract specifications, and agency policies.

This position may also provide guidance and training to entry-level engineers and technicians while contributing to a workplace that values respect, inclusion, and public stewardship. What to Expect This position requires working outdoors year-round in all weather conditions at active construction sites and working a varied schedule, including night work. Duties include traversing rough, steep, and uneven terrain; standing for extended periods; performing work at ground level; and lifting or carrying equipment weighing up to 35 pounds.

The work also involves exposure to highway traffic, heavy equipment, noise, dust, chemicals, vehicle exhaust, bodies of water, and hot materials and equipment up to 350F. Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Transportation Engineer 2 will: Inspect highway construction projects to verify compliance with plans, specifications, contract requirements, and WSDOT standards while documenting field activities and maintaining project records. Develop engineering designs, plans, specifications, estimates, and technical documentation using CADD software and transportation engineering principles to support project delivery.

Perform design and construction quality verification for Design-Build projects by conducting audits, reviewing submittals, monitoring compliance, and coordinating with project teams. Manage Requests for Information (RFIs), contractor submittals, design changes, and project closeout activities to ensure accurate documentation and timely project delivery. Prepare contractor progress estimates, change orders, financial reports, and contract documentation while tracking budgets, schedules, risks, and payment records.

Monitor materials quality by performing verification testing, auditing quality programs, coordinating laboratory testing, and ensuring compliance with WSDOT and contract requirements. Coordinate with engineers, contractors, regulatory agencies, and internal stakeholders to resolve technical issues, communicate project information, and support successful project delivery. Promote a safe work environment by implementing safety plans, conducting field oversight, reporting incidents, and ensuring compliance with environmental and workplace safety requirements.

Qualifications To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required: Foundational Engineering Knowledge: Demonstrated understanding of civil, structural, geotechnical, or transportation engineering principles, typically acquired through formal education or equivalent on-the-job experience. Demonstrated ability to apply technical civil engineering principles, practices, and methods to support design, construction, and project delivery activities to real-world scenarios. Technical Interpretation and Analysis: Skilled in reading, analyzing, and interpreting contract plans, specifications, manuals, and other WSDOT documents in accordance with project requirements and engineering standards.

Ability to perform engineering-related calculations, review technical data, analyze quantities and costs, and verify the accuracy of computations related to construction and project delivery. Construction Inspection and Materials Testing: Ability to interpret and apply highway construction plans, specifications, and special provisions; observe and document contractor work; track submittals; and perform or support materials sampling and testing activities in accordance with industry standards and established procedures. Field Reporting, Documentation, & Records Management: Demonstrated skill in preparing and maintaining accurate and timely construction documentation, reviewing engineering calculations for accuracy and completeness, tracking quantities, completing daily field reports based on direct field observations and inspection activities, and supporting the preparation of final records and as-built documentation.

Quality & Compliance Oversight: Demonstrated ability to evaluate workmanship, materials, and construction activities to ensure compliance with project specifications and engineering standards. Project and Design Support: Ability to support product development and delivery by assisting with design documentation, technical reports, special provisions, estimates, contract administration activities, and coordination with consultants and internal stakeholders. Technology Proficiency: Advanced skills in operating Windows-based computer systems and software, including MS Office Suite (Excel, Word, SharePoint, and Outlook).

Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills to convey technical information effectively and professionally to a diverse audience, including those with non-technical backgrounds, virtually, telephonically, and in-person. Collaboration & Adaptability: Demonstrated experience working productively in a team environment under tight deadlines and shifting priorities, producing accurate and consistent results. Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.

Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others. In addition to the above, the following are also required: Ability to traverse rough, steep, and uneven terrain. Ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 35 pounds.

A valid driver's license and ability to operate state-owned vehicles for travel to and between project sites in support of field duties and essential job functions. Obtain certification as a Certified General Inspector within six (6) months of appointment and any additional Division certifications required for the position. It is preferred that qualified candidates also have: Construction & Contract Administration: Demonstrated ability to apply construction practices, contract administration processes, and Design-Build contracting methods to ensure project compliance and delivery.

Engineering Software Proficiency: Demonstrated ability to use computer-aided engineering and design software to support engineering analysis, documentation, and decision-making. Project Management Exposure: Experience supporting or performing project management tasks such as organizing resources, tracking processes, and contributing to a successful project delivery, with specific experience utilizing Primavera P6. Important Notes This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.

Regular in-person attendance is required, and overnight travel may be required. This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options. The salary range listed includes the 5% Group C Assignment Pay associated with this position.

In addition to base salary, employees may be entitled to other forms of compensation depending on the type, duties, or location of the position. For union-represented positions, more information on other forms of compensation can be found in the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreements. Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in Chapter 357-28 of the Washington Administrative Code.

WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov. Why WSDOT Work-Life Balance - We are committed to ensure that our staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individuals' lifestyle

Paid Leave - In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees may earn up to 25 paid vacation days per year. Tuition Assistance - Permanent employees have several options for assistance with education expenses, including tuition reimbursement programs, government discounts at participating colleges throughout the state, and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness. Plan For Your Future - WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options.

Employees also have their choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to State Benefits for more information. Check out this video to learn more: Why WSDOT.

How to Apply Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Your relevant experience may be evaluated to determine salary. Therefore, it is very important that the "Work Experience" portion of the application be completed in as much detail as possible.

In order to be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application: An attached Resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date. An attached Cover Letter that further explains your qualifications and indicates why you believe you are a viable candidate for this role. Contact details for a minimum three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies.

This information can be entered in the "References" section of the online application; does not require an additional attachment. Please click the "APPLY" button to proceed. Note that you will be prompted to either sign in or create an account.

This step is required in order to submit an application to this opportunity. WSDOT is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included, and empowered to bring unique ideas to the agency.

Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace. All persons, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, and/ or gender identity, are encouraged to apply. Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the listed Recruiter.

Contact Us For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at Robyn.Lovely@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-OR-30770 in the subject line.


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About State of Washington

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Washington is not a traditional company, but a governmental organization that is tasked with managing the various state-run services and enterprises in Washington. Headquartered in Seattle, Washington, USA, the organization is responsible for the overall administration of the state's agencies and public services. Since the admission of Washington into the Union on November 11, 1890, the state government has aimed to provide a high quality of life for its residents through effective and efficient public services.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Seattle, WA, US

Year founded

1889