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Entry Level Programmer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Sargent & Lundy

Entry Level Civil Engineer

Elkridge, MD · On-site

$62K - $90K/yr

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 ...

Sargent & Lundy

Entry Level Civil Engineer

Elkridge, MD · On-site

$62K - $90K/yr

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

Entry Level Transportation Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$79K - $81K/yr

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 ...

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Entry Level Programmer information

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$16

$30

$89

How much do entry level programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level programmer in Washington is $30.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.33 and $26.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Programmer, you need a solid understanding of programming fundamentals, algorithms, and at least one programming language, often demonstrated by a relevant degree or coding bootcamp experience. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, basic database management, and development environments is typically expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with team members and learn quickly. These skills are crucial for successfully building, testing, and maintaining software while adapting to evolving project requirements.

What are entry level programmers?

Entry level programmers are individuals who are just starting their careers in software development. They typically have a basic understanding of programming languages and software development practices, often gained through education or internships. Entry level programmers are usually responsible for writing simple code, fixing bugs, and assisting more experienced developers on projects. Their role is to learn on the job, gain experience, and gradually take on more complex tasks. Employers often look for candidates with problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn.

Can I become a programmer with no experience?

Entry level programmers can start without prior experience by learning programming languages such as Python or Java, completing online courses, and practicing coding skills. Many employers value problem-solving ability and willingness to learn, and some roles offer on-the-job training or internships for beginners.

Is 25 too old to start coding?

Entry level programmers can start coding at any age, including 25. Many successful developers begin learning programming languages like Python or JavaScript in their twenties or later, and employers value skills and experience over age. Continuous learning and building a portfolio are key to entering the field regardless of age.

Is 27 too late to start coding?

Entry level programmers can start coding at any age, including 27, as many successful developers begin learning later in life. Building skills through online courses, coding bootcamps, and practice projects can lead to entry-level positions regardless of age.

What types of projects and tasks can an entry level programmer typically expect to work on during their first year?

As an entry level programmer, you will often be assigned to support tasks such as debugging code, writing simple scripts, developing small features, and assisting with software testing. You may also update documentation and collaborate with more experienced developers on larger projects. This hands-on experience helps you become familiar with company coding standards, version control systems, and agile development processes while building a foundation for more complex assignments in the future. Teamwork and communication are important, as you’ll regularly interact with other programmers, QA testers, and sometimes project managers.

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

AspectEntry Level ProgrammerSoftware Developer
Required CredentialsAssociate's degree or coding bootcamp certificationBachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field often preferred
Work EnvironmentEntry-level coding tasks, supervised projectsDesign, develop, and maintain software applications
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, startups, IT departmentsSoftware firms, tech companies, enterprise IT teams

While both roles involve coding and software development, an Entry Level Programmer typically focuses on basic coding tasks under supervision, whereas a Software Developer often handles full project cycles, including design and testing. The roles overlap in skills and industry usage, but the Software Developer position generally requires more experience and responsibility.

What Is an Entry-Level Programmer?

As an entry-level programmer, you use software programming languages to create and maintain applications for in-house, proprietary use or clients. You go through an onboarding process to learn your company’s code base and their processes for software development. You work on a team with other programmers and developers, and your job duties include writing code to develop software according to required specifications, testing and debugging code, creating and rolling out fixes, and publishing finished code to the production server. As you gain experience and your skillset expands, you can take on jobs with more autonomy and responsibility.

Is AI replacing coders?

AI tools are increasingly automating certain coding tasks, but entry level programmers are still essential for designing, testing, and maintaining software. AI can assist with code generation and debugging, allowing programmers to focus on complex problem-solving and creative aspects. Overall, AI complements human programmers rather than replacing them entirely.
More about Entry Level Programmer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Programmer jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Programmer jobs in Washington are:
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What job categories do people searching Entry Level Programmer jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Programmer jobs in Washington are:
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Entry Level Programmer jobs near you
Production Programmer - Entry Level SQL Developer

Production Programmer - Entry Level SQL Developer

DataLab USA

Germantown, MD • On-site

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
DataLab USA is an analytics and technology driven database marketing consultancy, recognized for its rapid growth and innovative solutions. They are seeking an entry-level Production Programmer to learn and apply fundamental skills in monitoring and executing ETL, reporting, and campaign processes to support client goals.
Responsibilities:
• Monitor existing process execution to ensure completion
• Execute & review existing process QC reports
• Review wiki and other documentation to understand existing processes purpose and steps
• Update Wiki documentation to improve team documentation
• Review ETL QC reports and identify any data quality issues
• Run existing scripts to update DWH
• Perform QC to ensure proper execution and completeness of DWH
• Run existing scripts to generate client reports
• QC & review report providing feedback to internal customers & stakeholders
• Assist with minor modifications & enhancements to reports
• Save all work with careful documentation (for QC and future use)
• Run existing ETL data feeds and monitor for issues
• Troubleshoot automated production tasks issues
• Automate existing production code
• Assist with development of ad-hoc reports
• Know all client file inputs for a campaign, understand which would be critical for campaign processing and how the fields within each file are used in the campaign and results reporting
• Setup new ETL scripts & QC for new client data feeds
• Know when client files are expected; notify team members if they do not come in
• Responsible for the movement of files and assets from FTP sites and/or emails to appropriate folders and notify appropriate team members
• Be able to use FTP, MoveIT, JIRA and navigate through Wiki
Qualifications:
Required:
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science
• Knowledge in SQL
• Microsoft Outlook, Word and Excel
• Strong attention to detail
• Ability to communicate clearly
• Self-motivated
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to deal effectively in a team environment
Preferred:
• Work experience a plus
• Direct Marketing experience or knowledge a plus
• Certifications/Technical training are a plus
Company:
DataLab USA is an award-winning addressable marketing agency. Founded in 1979, the company is headquartered in Germantown, USA, with a team of 51-200 employees. The company is currently Growth Stage.

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