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Entry Level Programmer Jobs in Longview, WA (NOW HIRING)

Engineer I

Saint Helens, OR · On-site

$6K - $7K/mo

This entry-level professional engineering position provides an excellent opportunity to develop technical expertise and project management experience while contributing to essential public ...

Engineer I

Saint Helens, OR · On-site

$6K - $7K/mo

This entry-level professional engineering position provides an excellent opportunity to develop technical expertise and project management experience while contributing to essential public ...

Project Engineer (Civil)

Battle Ground, WA · On-site

$23.23 - $34.84/hr

This entry-level role is designed to actively impact project performance and field operations ... The Project Engineer will work closely with Project Managers, Superintendents, and field teams to ...

Technicians interpret engineering documentation, fabricate parts, and perform precision assembly ... and experience. * Entry Level (Tech I): 1-year related experience or equivalent training.

Entry Level Programmer information

See Longview, WA salary details

$15

$28

$85

How much do entry level programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level programmer in Longview, WA is $28.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.37 and $24.86 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.

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.

What cities near Longview, WA are hiring for Entry Level Programmer jobs? Cities near Longview, WA with the most Entry Level Programmer job openings:

$6K - $7K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

The City of St. Helens is seeking a full-time Engineer I to join the City's Public Works Engineering team. This entry-level professional engineering position provides an excellent opportunity to develop technical expertise and project management experience while contributing to essential public infrastructure projects that serve the community. Under the guidance of senior engineering staff, the Engineer I assists with the planning, design, review, and construction administration of water, wastewater, street, storm drainage, transportation, and other public works projects and programs. Responsibilities include reviewing private development plans for public improvements; assisting with project management, contract administration, and budget tracking for public works projects; coordinating with consultants, contractors, developers, and regulatory agencies; and ensuring compliance with applicable engineering standards, codes, permits, and City criteria. Related duties are performed as assigned. This position is well-suited for candidates who are eager to grow professionally, develop strong municipal engineering experience, and work on a diverse range of meaningful community infrastructure projects.

PAY & BENEFITS

The City of St. Helens offers a competitive salary range with annual step increases based on performance. The monthly salary range for the Engineer I position is $6,323 to $7,686.

The City also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

  • Multiple health, dental, and vision insurance plan options for employees and families with only a 2% employee premium contribution
  • Employer-paid participation in the Oregon Public Employees Retirement System
  • 14 paid holidays annually
  • Two to six weeks of vacation leave annually, based on years of service
  • Sick leave accrual of 12 days per year
  • $75 monthly wellness/fitness benefit
  • Life insurance
  • An annual PPE clothing and boot allowance of $450

LIFE IN ST. HELENS

Located along the scenic Columbia River, St. Helens offers the character and pace of a small community while remaining conveniently connected to the greater Portland metropolitan area. Residents enjoy easy access to outdoor recreation, local shops and restaurants, community events, and nearby regional destinations, all within a setting known for its natural beauty and historic downtown. St. Helens provides an excellent balance between professional opportunity and quality of life. Whether enjoying local parks and trails, spending time on the river, or taking advantage of the amenities available in nearby Portland and Hillsboro, residents appreciate the community-focused atmosphere and accessibility the area offers. At the City of St. Helens, employees are part of a collaborative organization committed to providing high-quality public service and supporting the community's continued growth and success. The City values professionalism, accountability, innovation, and public stewardship while fostering an environment that supports professional development and meaningful work.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS & DESIRED SKILLS

Successful candidates for the Engineer I position will possess a combination of technical knowledge, communication skills, and the ability to grow within a municipal engineering environment. Qualified applicants should have:

  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from an accredited four-year college or university
  • Engineer in Training (E.I.T.) certification, or the ability to obtain certification within one (1) year of hire
  • Basic familiarity with Computer-Aided Drafting and Design (CADD) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software and technology
  • Knowledge of fundamental civil engineering principles, practices, and techniques
  • Ability to learn methods, materials, and construction practices associated with public works infrastructure projects
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to prepare clear and effective written correspondence, reports, and technical documents
  • Ability to read, interpret, and assist in the preparation of engineering plans, specifications, and contract documents
  • Ability to work collaboratively with staff, contractors, consultants, developers, regulatory agencies, and the public

The ideal candidate will be organized, adaptable, detail-oriented, and interested in developing a well-rounded career in municipal engineering and public infrastructure.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

The Engineer I is a full-time position with a typical in-office work schedule of Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., including a one-hour lunch break. As an Engineer I, you will work on a variety of municipal infrastructure and development projects that directly support the community.

Typical responsibilities include:

  • Reviewing private development plans for compliance with applicable City standards, codes, regulations, and engineering requirements
  • Assisting with the planning, design, bidding, construction, and closeout of public works projects
  • Coordinating bid advertisements, reviewing construction bids, and assisting with contractor and consultant selection recommendations
  • Performing construction observation and inspection to verify compliance with project plans and specifications
  • Coordinating with contractors, consultants, developers, utility providers, regulatory agencies, and City staff
  • Maintaining project documentation and accurate record drawings/as-built information
  • Assisting with project tracking, contract administration, and other engineering-related assignments as needed

This position offers exposure to a broad range of municipal engineering functions and provides valuable hands-on experience in public infrastructure project delivery.

APPLY TODAY

If you are interested in building a career in municipal engineering and contributing to meaningful public infrastructure projects, we encourage you to apply today to join the St. Helens team.

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete the required employment eligibility verification documentation upon hire. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without the need for visa sponsorship.

Veterans' preference points are available in accordance with Oregon law. Applicants wishing to claim veterans' preference should contact Human Resources Coordinator Kathy Payne at 503-366-8217 or kpayne@sthelensoregon.gov for required application materials.

The successful candidate will be required to pass an extensive background check and pre-employment drug and alcohol screening.

The City of St. Helens is an equal opportunity employer.