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Entry Level Programmer Jobs in Gulfport, MS (NOW HIRING)

Relativity Space

Mechanical Engineer II

Kiln, MS · On-site

Test and flight articles are designed and built in our Long Beach factory, then sent to Stennis to undergo rigorous testing. Entry-level engineers at our Stennis facility work in partnership with ...

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Entry Level Programmer information

See Gulfport, MS salary details

$14

$26

$78

How much do entry level programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level programmer in Gulfport, MS is $26.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.97 and $22.98 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 Gulfport, MS? The most popular types of Programmer jobs in Gulfport, MS are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Programmer jobs in Gulfport, MS? For Entry Level Programmer jobs in Gulfport, MS, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Gulfport, MS are hiring for Entry Level Programmer jobs? Cities near Gulfport, MS with the most Entry Level Programmer job openings:
Entry Level Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Programmer job openings in Gulfport, MS as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 30% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 16% Contract, and 33% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,312 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Propulsion Test Engineer I

Relativity Space

Kiln, MS

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Relativity Space rating

9.7

Company rating: 9.7 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 71 rated aerospace companies

Job description

At Relativity Space, we're building rockets to serve today's needs and tomorrow's breakthroughs. Our Terran R vehicle will deliver customer payloads to orbit, meeting the growing demand for launch capacity. But that's just the start. Achieving commercial success with Terran R will unlock new opportunities to advance science, exploration, and innovation, pioneering progress that reaches beyond the known.

Joining Relativity means becoming part of something where autonomy, ownership, and impact exist at every level. Here, you're not just executing tasks; you're solving problems that haven't been solved before, helping develop a rocket, a factory, and a business from the ground up. Whether you're in propulsion, manufacturing, software, avionics, or a corporate function, you'll collaborate across teams, shape decisions, and see your work come to life in record time. Relativity is a place where creativity and technical rigor go hand in hand, and your voice will help define the stories we're writing together. Now is a unique moment in time where it's early enough to leave your mark on the product, the process, and the culture, but far enough along that Terran R is tangible and picking up momentum. The most meaningful work of your career is waiting. Join us.

About the Team

The Stennis Test team designs, builds, and operates test sites to evaluate Terran R's high-energy components, rocket engines, and both booster and upper stages. Team members are hands-on with these large-scale, complex systems, pushing hardware to the limits and directly contributing to flight readiness. The work is fast-paced, highly operational, and collaborative. No aerospace experience required—we welcome fresh graduates as well as those with hands-on backgrounds in aviation, automotive, manufacturing, offshore operations, industrial systems, construction, or adjacent industries. As the Stennis Test site scales to meet growing demand, the team plays a critical role in paving the way for routine, reliable flights of Terran R.
About the Role

As an entry-level Propulsion Test Engineer, you will work with test stands and test articles (high-energy components, engines, and full stages) for Terran R. You'll have the opportunity to see a heavy-lift orbital launch vehicle and its many parts come to life through testing. Test and flight articles are designed and built in our Long Beach factory, then sent to Stennis to undergo rigorous testing. Entry-level engineers at our Stennis facility work in partnership with experienced engineers, technicians, and welders to build and modify test facilities and participate in test campaigns to evaluate complex rocket hardware. You'll solve a variety of technical problems across broad ranges of timeframe, complexity, and impact, and continuously improve processes to move faster and more efficiently. The role includes three focus areas - Design & Build, Operations, and Integration. You'll initially be placed on a team in one focus area, with opportunities to work across focuses as you develop in the role, particularly between Operations and Integration which work closely together.
[Design & Build Focus]
  1. Design fluid systems (gas, liquid, cryogenic) including Piping & Instruction Diagrams (P&IDs), analysis, and component selection
  2. Design structural and mechanical systems including 3D modeling, analysis, and fabrication drawings
  3. Source components and develop detailed fabrication work instructions
  4. Bring new test stands to life by managing fabrication, activation, and initial operations
  5. Design and implement upgrades to operational test stands to enable new test capabilities
  6. Maintain test stands through preventive maintenance and rapid response to anomalies & equipment failures
[Operations Focus]
  1. Conduct test operations on high-energy components, engines, and stages
  2. Control test stand and test article through GUIs and automation while monitoring cameras and telemetry
  3. Conduct flight acceptance, qualification, and development testing campaigns to validate designs and continuously improve the rocket
  4. Develop and optimize GUIs, procedures, control automation, and data review processes
  5. Prepare test articles for testing through inspections, functional checks, leak checks, and managing non-conformances
  6. Bring new test stands to life and support modifications and maintenance on existing facilities
Operations Engineers typically work a scheduled morning or evening shift
[Integration Focus]
  1. Manage test articles through test prep, post-test processing, and repairs
  2. Author work instructions for test articles and coordinate work with technicians and quality inspectors
  3. Manage non-conformances, author corrective work instructions, and implement part requirements
  4. Maintain work instructions current with evolving build specifications and drive standardization across sites
  5. Incorporate feedback and optimize part usage to streamline hardware flow and reduce waste
Integration Engineers typically work a scheduled morning or evening shift
About You
  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related field
    • No aerospace experience needed—we value unique backgrounds and perspectives
  • Demonstrated ability to safely operate common power tools
  • Ability to deliver on tight schedules, especially when unconventional & creative solutions are necessary
  • This role may require travel to production and launch locations, up to 10%
  • Valid driver's license to operate vehicles on the test site
Nice to haves but not required
  • Proficiency in 3D modeling and drafting, including GD&T
  • Strong engineering fundamentals in Thermal Fluid Systems and Structures
  • Hands-on fabrication experience for complex assemblies
  • Working knowledge of fluid components and ability to understand/develop fluid P&IDs for large-scale test systems
  • Experience safely operating complex fluid systems, including high pressure gas, cryogenic fluids, flammables, and hydraulics
  • Technical writing or documentation experience

Successful candidates must clear a background check administered by the US government to obtain clearance for on-site work at our government partner location in Stennis, Mississippi.

At Relativity Space, we are committed to transparency and fairness in our compensation practices. Actual compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and other job-related factors.
Compensation is only one part of our total rewards package. Relativity Space offers competitive salary and equity, a generous PTO and sick leave policy, parental leave, an annual learning and development stipend, and more! To see some of the benefits & perks we offer, please visit here.

Hiring Range:
$90,000—$136,000 USD

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

If you need a reasonable accommodation, please contact us at accommodations@relativityspace.com.

Please note: Relativity Space does not accept unsolicited resumes, candidate profiles, or referrals from recruitment agencies or search firms. Any unsolicited submission - via email, our website, social media, or directly to an employee - will be deemed the property of Relativity Space, and no fee will be owed absent a current, fully executed agreement with Talent Acquisition that specifically authorizes submissions for the applicable role.

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