ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Programmer Jobs in Columbia, IL (NOW HIRING)

HiFyve

Manufacturing Engineer Entry Level

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

HiFyve is hiring a Manufacturing Engineer (Entry-Level / New Grads) in St. Louis, MO! Salary: $65-80K/yr Shift: 1st Shift M-F Location: St. Louis, MO Job Duties and Responsibilities Design, implement ...

Maritz

Software Engineer I

Fenton, MO · On-site

What You'll Be Doing We are looking for an entry level engineer who is eager to learn and build strong technical foundations. You will work alongside senior engineers across codebases, cloud ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsProgrammer JobsEntry Level Programmer JobsEntry Level Programmer Jobs in Columbia, IL

Entry Level Programmer information

See Columbia, IL salary details

$14

$26

$77

How much do entry level programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level programmer in Columbia, IL is $26.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.68 and $22.60 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 cities near Columbia, IL are hiring for Entry Level Programmer jobs? Cities near Columbia, IL with the most Entry Level Programmer job openings:
Entry Level Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Programmer job openings in Columbia, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,386 per year, or $26.1 per hour.
Entry level C# Developer

Entry level C# Developer

The Timberline Group

Saint Louis, MO • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

We are seeking an entry level developer (less than 2 years of full stack development experience).
The candidate should be familiar with developing web applications using:
  • C#
  • .NET
  • SQL Server
  • Entity
  • JQuery
Knowledge of MVC is a plus.
What can we offer?
  • 100% premium-paid medical insurance for employee-only-coverage
  • 100% premium-paid dental insurance for employee-only-coverage
  • 100% premium-paid vision insurance for employee-only-coverage
  • Premium assistance for dependent medical/dental/vision insurance
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Educational assistance, some certifications and professional memberships paid
  • Professional Referral Program

Apply