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Entry Level Developer Jobs in Santa Barbara, CA (NOW HIRING)

Geologist

Ventura, CA · Hybrid

$35 - $41/hr

This position offers the opportunity to work on a variety of geotechnical engineering and ... Experience Level Entry Level Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of ...

Entry Level Developer information

See Santa Barbara, CA salary details

$32.8K

$111.6K

$268.7K

How much do entry level developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level developer in Santa Barbara, CA is $111,563.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,700.00 and $117,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is L1, L2, L3, and L4 developer?

In the context of entry-level development roles, L1, L2, L3, and L4 typically refer to different levels of experience and responsibility within a company's technical hierarchy. L1 is usually an entry-level developer with basic skills, while L2 and L3 indicate increasing expertise and independence, often involving more complex tasks. L4 may represent a senior or lead developer position, requiring advanced knowledge, problem-solving skills, and sometimes mentorship responsibilities.

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.

Will AI replace developers in 2026?

Entry level developers will continue to play a vital role in software development, as AI tools are designed to assist rather than fully replace human programmers. While AI can automate repetitive tasks and improve productivity, human skills such as problem-solving, creativity, and understanding user needs remain essential for building complex applications. Therefore, AI is expected to augment rather than replace entry level developers by 2026.

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 engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced software engineers, especially those in specialized fields like machine learning, AI, or working at major tech companies, can earn $500,000 or more annually. Such roles often require advanced skills, extensive experience, and sometimes stock options or bonuses as part of compensation packages.

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.

Will AI replace junior dev?

AI is unlikely to fully replace entry-level developers, as they perform tasks that require creativity, problem-solving, and understanding of context. Instead, AI tools can assist junior developers by automating repetitive coding tasks and improving productivity, allowing them to focus on learning and complex problem-solving. Developing skills in programming languages, version control, and understanding AI tools can enhance job security and growth opportunities.

What are entry level developers?

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 are the most commonly searched types of Developer jobs in Santa Barbara, CA? The most popular types of Developer jobs in Santa Barbara, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Developer jobs in Santa Barbara, CA? For Entry Level Developer jobs in Santa Barbara, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Developer jobs in Santa Barbara, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Developer jobs in Santa Barbara, CA are:
What cities near Santa Barbara, CA are hiring for Entry Level Developer jobs? Cities near Santa Barbara, CA with the most Entry Level Developer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Developer job openings in Santa Barbara, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,563 per year, or $53.6 per hour.
Civil Engineering | Engineer

Civil Engineering | Engineer

RRM Design Group

Santa Barbara, CA

$36.75 - $45.75/hr

Other

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Description

Join the vibrant team at RRM Design Group - a powerhouse of innovation and creativity! As a 100% employee-owned company, we're not just a firm; we're a community of architects, engineers, landscape architects, planners, and surveyors. Throughout California, we undertake projects from conception to realization, resulting in authentic, innovative, and timeless designs that strive to make a lasting and positive impact on those who encounter them.
In our Civil Engineering department, adventure awaits as we tackle an exhilarating array of projects in land development. From building essential infrastructure to crafting breathtaking parks and trails, our team pushes boundaries and sparks change. Plus, you'll have the chance to work alongside brilliant minds across different disciplines, fostering innovation and unleashing your full potential.
Ready to embark on an exciting journey? Join us now as we seek entry to upper-level civil engineers to be part of our dynamic team. Let's create something extraordinary together!

Requirements

What you'll bring to the table:

Entry Level: Engineer I - Engineer II

  • A Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering.
  • Work experience in Civil 3D.
  • 1 -3 years

Above & Beyond:

Some work experience in architecture, engineering, surveying, landscape architecture, or planning firm.

We're eager to learn more about your qualifications and interest in joining our team!


*Psst...at RRM, we recognize that factors such as imposter syndrome or the confidence gap may deter some applicants from applying. However, we encourage you to apply anyways, as we recognize these restraints do not reflect an applicant's abilities, and we don't want them to get in the way of us meeting potential RRMers!


ABOUT US:


Ensuring the health and happiness of our RRMers is paramount to how we run our business. RRM Design Group is a 100% employee-owned multidiscipline design firm with a full spectrum of services including architecture, landscape architecture, planning, civil and structural engineering, and surveying. Our offices are located along the California coast from Orange County to the Bay Area. Over one-third of our workforce has been with us for a decade or more and we work on engaging projects in several diverse markets throughout the state.


We value the diversity of intersecting identities and strive to maintain an environment that is equitable, respectful, and inclusive. We expect our work environments to be places of diverse engagement and informed discourse. Ultimately, we acknowledge that our standards of excellence as a multidiscipline design firm are not separate from the values of diversity, equity, and inclusion.


COMPENSATION: The hiring ranges below depend on skills and experience.

Engineer I - $36.75 -$40.88 per hour.

Engineer II: $41.00 - $45.75 per hour.