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Entry Level Programmer Jobs in Dunkirk, MD (NOW HIRING)

Entry-Level Analyst U.S. citizenship required. Are you a critical thinker with acumen for problem ... Experience with MS Project, analytical software tools, and programing languages such as R, Python ...

The Field Service Engineer (FSE) 1 is an entry-level engineering position responsible for providing technical field engineering support for company security and surveillance systems. This role is ...

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Entry Level Programmer information

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How much do entry level programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level programmer in Dunkirk, MD is $26.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.97 and $22.93 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.
What cities near Dunkirk, MD are hiring for Entry Level Programmer jobs? Cities near Dunkirk, MD with the most Entry Level Programmer job openings:
Engineering Graduate - Entry Level

Engineering Graduate - Entry Level

Johnson Controls Federal Systems

Arlington, VA • On-site

$40 - $50/hr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 6 days ago

New


Johnson Controls rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 401 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

131st of 528 rated manufacturers


Job description

We are seeking an entry level engineer who has a desire to learn and grow in the exciting field of HVAC Controls and Building Automation Systems (BAS) to join our Federal Systems team based at one of the most iconic buildings in the world – the Pentagon (military experience is not required). We’ve supported the Pentagon for nearly 20 years with their energy efficiency and sustainability needs, and are looking to grow our team.

At Johnson Controls, we support our nation’s most critical facilities, the people who occupy them, and the missions they enable. Johnson Controls Federal Systems (JCFS) is a specialized team serving as a trusted partner to the federal government. We help modernize U.S. military installations, Department of Defense and other federal agency facilities to be smarter, more resilient, efficient, sustainable, and secure.
Pay range: $40.00 - $50.00 per hour to start with designated milestone pay increases for completed training. Negotiable based on experience. 
Company Vehicle: Yes. Gas card provided also.
Shift: Day shift, primarily 6:30am-3:00pm, Monday-Friday
Benefits: Eligible for benefits on first day of employment
Vacation: 3 weeks of paid vacation, 5 sick days, 3 floating holidays, and 10 standard holidays per calendar year
Travel: Limited. Primary work will all be at the Pentagon. May travel some initially for training.

As an Entry Level Engineer, you will:

  • Conduct self-study and instructor led training to improve technical proficiency in company's product lines and systems; completes certifications as required
  • Perform preventive maintenance, repair, installation, commissioning, point-to-point checkouts, troubleshooting and/or replacement of HVAC controls systems (BAS systems) and related light commercial mechanical equipment; most work will involve Johnson Controls Metasys and Distech controls
  • Diagnose and repair a variety of electronic and digital control system malfunctions
  • Test and perform modifications to systems software when needed
  • Assist with sketching and documenting field changes and discrepancies for engineering corrections and drawings
  • Provide training and associated manuals and documentation to customers on electronic control systems operations
  • Help mechanical staff troubleshoot issues and may help with minor mechanical maintenance
  • Ensure work performed complies with company, federal regulations, industry standards and guidelines, and customer requirements
  • Compile project documentation, such as certificate of completion, customer training forms, training certificates and punch lists
  • Read and properly interpret blueprints, diagrams, submittals, specifications, software/systems programs, schematics and operational product manuals
  • Adhere to Johnson Controls and customer safety standards, provide safety awareness leadership and instruction to technicians and subcontractors on Johnson Controls work sites

Required Qualifications:

  • Associates Degree or Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, preferably in Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics, HVAC, or Industrial Engineering fields
  • U.S. citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain required government security clearances and/or badges as required to perform site duties. (This involves a background/character, criminal history, employment, and credit check.)

Preferred Experience:

  • Experience working with HVAC mechanical equipment or HVAC Controls (Direct Digital Controls), VAV's, VRF's, or other related systems and equipment
  • Knowledge of electronic or digital controls systems, HVAC controls systems, facilities management systems, site preparation, peripheral equipment installation and servicing techniques
  • Technical knowledge and experience working with Johnson Controls Metasys, Tridium Niagara, or Distech Direct Digital Control (DDC) system
  • Programming and/or troubleshooting various brands of HVAC controls products is highly desired (Johnson Controls, Honeywell, Siemens, Delta, Distech, Carrier, ALC, Andover) 
  • Experience with BAS communication protocols including at least one of the following: BACnet MSTP, BACnet IP, N2, P1, Modbus, and/or LON
  • Experience using SMP, SCT, and/or CCT


Who We Are

At Johnson Controls (NYSE:JCI), we are One Team working collaboratively to create purposeful solutions that make a difference in the world. We are a Fortune 500 company with more than 100,000 employees worldwide offering the world`s largest portfolio of building technology products, solutions and services. As a member of our Federal Systems team, your work matters. We value and recognize your contributions and want to help you succeed. We invest in our employees, provide opportunities for growth and advancement, and foster a culture of inclusion and respect.

To learn more about who we are and what we do, please check out our Take a Journey video.

Recently, Johnson Controls has been recognized by several organizations for leadership in Environment, Sustainability and Governance, as well as innovations in smart building platforms:

  • Named to FORTUNE’s “Most Admired Companies” List
  • Corporate Knights Global 100 Most Sustainable Corporations in the World
  • Named to Forbes Net Zero Leaders list
  • CDP 2023 Climate Change 'A List'
  • Ranked 67 on the Drucker Institute’s list of best-managed companies in America
  • Forbes Best Employers for Diversity
  • Newsweek  America’s Greatest Workplaces for Diversity
  • Ethisphere 2024 World's Most Ethical Companies list for the 17th time
  • Newsweek America’s Greatest Workplaces for Women in 2024
  • Named to Newsweek America’s Greatest Workplaces for Veterans 2024 / 2025 listing
  • Named to Forbes America’s Best Employers for Veterans 2024
  • Named one of the top military friendly employers by military.com.

Johnson Controls is an equal employment opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, protected veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a qualified individual with a disability, or any other characteristic protected by law. For more information, please view EEO is the Law. If you are an individual with a disability and you require an accommodation during the application process, please visit www.johnsoncontrols.com/careers

Division: JCFS (Johnson Controls Federal Systems)

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About Johnson Controls

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Johnson Controls is a world leader in smart buildings, creating safe, healthy and sustainable spaces. For nearly 140 years, we’ve made buildings better and now we’re transforming them again with our award-winning digital technologies and services. We’re using artificial intelligence and data driven solutions to give you deeper insight into your building’s health, sustainability and performance. It’s changing the way we design, operate and maintain indoor environments and driving to a new era of autonomous buildings. We deliver the blueprint of the future for industries such as healthcare, schools, data centers, airports, stadiums, hotels, manufacturing and beyond through OpenBlue, our comprehensive suite of connected solutions. Johnson Controls offers the world’s largest portfolio of building technology, software and services. Supported by a team of more than 100,000 dedicated employees working across 150 countries, we’re helping customers achieve their sustainability goals and power their mission.

Industry

Machinery manufacturing, water transportation, public safety statistics centers and offices and manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Milwaukee, WI, US