2

Entry Level Developer Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

This entry-level position will offer you the opportunity to utilize and expand your civil engineering degree and skills, while working in a multi-disciplined team environment with other engineers and ...

Dewberry is seeking Entry Level Transportation Engineers to join our Transportation Group in our Fairfax, VA office. This is an excellent career opportunity for an enthusiastic and talented ...

Dewberry is seeking Entry Level Transportation Engineers to join our Transportation Group in our Fairfax, VA office. This is an excellent career opportunity for an enthusiastic and talented ...

DevOps Engineer

Chantilly, VA

$54 - $74/hr

DevOps Engineer Location: Chantilly VA We are looking for a DevOps Engineer with experience in ... Experience developing in an Agile environment Level: Entry Level - SME Clearance: Active security ...

DevOps Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$54 - $74/hr

DevOps Engineer Location: Chantilly VA We are looking for a DevOps Engineer with experience in ... Experience developing in an Agile environment Level: Entry Level - SME Clearance: Active security ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Developer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$33.3K

$113.1K

$272.5K

How much do entry level developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level developer in Washington, DC is $113,134.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,600.00 and $119,600.00 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 Washington, DC? The most popular types of Developer jobs in Washington, DC are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Developer job openings in Washington, DC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,134 per year, or $54.4 per hour.
Entry Level Civil Engineer

Entry Level Civil Engineer

Sargent & Lundy

Elkridge, MD

$62K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

This entry-level position will offer you the opportunity to utilize and expand your civil engineering degree and skills, while working in a multi-disciplined team environment with other engineers and/or designers in the design, modification, and analysis of power plant systems. As a member of a multi-disciplined engineering and design team, you will work on a wide range of power plant projects and perform civil site development work including creating calculations, designs, and specifications.

  • Your responsibilities may include the following:
    • Prepare calculations relating to storm water drainage, sanitary sewer systems and disposal fields, and earthwork, to support design and permitting.
    • Prepare technical specifications to define construction requirements.
    • Prepare site layout, grading, and drainage designs.
    • Design storm sewer systems, roads, trackwork, water storage and wastewater disposal ponds, and solid waste landfills.
    • Work with Designers to accurately portray designs in 3-D models and design drawings.
    • Review shop drawings and other vendor documentation for conformity with specifications.
    • There is the potential for you to travel to client offices for design reviews and to plant site locations for construction coordination and field verification of designs. 

We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.

Essential skills and experience:

  • This position requires a BS or MS in Civil Engineering with a graduation date of winter 2025 or spring 2026.
  • Proficiency with civil engineering software programs such as Civil 3D, StormCad, PondPack, and Mircrostation or AutoCad.
  • Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in the production of technical plans, drawings, and models.
  • Proficiency with MS Office applications.
  • The ability to work in a team environment.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Valued but not required skills and experience:

  • A BS in Civil Engineering from an ABET Engineering Accreditation Commission-approved program.
  • One or more years of related experience in site grading and drainage, storm sewer systems, road design, track design, ponds, and/or landfills.
  • Related engineering internship or co-op work experience.
  • Successful completion of the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, and designation as an Engineer in Training.
  • Experience in writing and providing support documentation for Civil Engineering specifications or calculations. 

In this role, we expect people to be willing or able to solve problems using modern tools:

  • You are expected to take engineering problems from issue to solution using data and modern tools such as automation and AI to improve workflows, reduce rework, and deliver cost-effective designs.
  • Many engineers in these roles build or use automation to create calculations, summarize technical documents, or draft design documentation, including appropriate use of agentic AI tools, with strong engineering judgment and verification of results.
  • Programming or scripting (e.g., Python, MATLAB, advanced Excel) to automate calculations, design checks, reporting, or data transformation is valued but not required.
  • We also value additional learning, such as a minor, certificate, or other training in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Software Engineering, or related fields that helps you apply automation or agentic AI to real engineering problems.

At Sargent & Lundy, we care about the health and well-being of our employees. Our commitment extends beyond the workplace, offering comprehensive healthcare plans and generous paid time off to support our team members in every aspect of their lives. We understand the importance of work-life balance, which is why we are proud to provide competitive, award-winning benefits. Our dedication to employee satisfaction has earned us the prestigious Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Award for compensation and benefits in 2022, 2023, and 2024.

Health & WellnessFinancial BenefitsWork-Life Balance
  • Health Plans: Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Life & Accident Insurance
  • Disability Coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Back-Up Daycare
  • FSA & HSA
  • 401(k)
  • Pre-Tax Commuter Account
  • Merit Scholarship Program
  • Employee Discount Program
  • Corporate Charitable Giving Program
  • Tuition Assistance
  • First Professional Licensure Bonus
  • Employee Referral Bonus
  • Paid Annual Personal/Sick Time (PST)
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Paid Bereavement Leave
  • Flexible Work Arrangements

$62,998 - $90,586
Sargent & Lundy discloses compensation ranges that comply with all local and state regulations. The total compensation package for eligible positions will include a base salary or an hourly rate and a comprehensive benefits package, reflecting our commitment to rewarding performance and supporting the overall well-being of our employees. Individuals may also be eligible to participate in our yearly discretionary bonus.

The Energy & Industrial Group (EIG) specializes in delivering advanced engineering solutions across various sectors, including power generation, environmental compliance, oil & gas, and industrial projects, from new plant design to plant betterment and upgrade services for operating facilities. We have designed nearly 900 conventional power plants, yielding over 100,000 megawatts (MW) of generation capacity. Our expertise includes numerous recent and ongoing combined cycle projects that leverage the latest advanced machinery, including combustion turbines, steam turbines, and heat recovery steam generators from all leading suppliers. EIG is recognized for its commitment to decarbonization through innovative technologies in renewable energy, carbon capture, and hydrogen power. We excel in detailed engineering services for photovoltaic (PV) solar projects and energy storage integration, and lead the industry in carbon capture technologies, managing projects from conceptual studies, pilot demonstrations and through commercial scale implementation for utilities and industrial plants.


Sargent & Lundy is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any protected status as defined by applicable law.


Sargent & Lundy logo

About Sargent & Lundy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Sargent & Lundy is one of the most experienced full-service architect-engineering firms in the world. Founded in 1891, the firm is a global leader in power and energy with expertise in grid modernization, renewable energy, energy storage, nuclear power, and fossil fuels. Sargent & Lundy delivers comprehensive project services--from consulting, design and implementation to construction management, commissioning and operations/maintenance--with an emphasis on quality and safety. The firm serves public and private sector clients in the power and energy, gas distribution, industrial, and government sectors.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1891

Social media