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Entry Level Programmer Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

KEYENCE

Field Application Engineer

Portland, OR · On-site +1

$54K - $81K/yr

Locations | Entry-Level | Full-Time Are you ready to launch your career with one of the world's most innovative companies? KEYENCE is looking for driven, adaptable engineers to join our Field ...

Actalent

Electrical Engineer 1

Vancouver, WA

$37 - $43/hr

Engineer 1 This contract Engineer 1 role will provide critical support to the Transmission Line Engineering organization. The position entails performing electrical clearance analysis, developing ...

HDR

Structural Engineer

Vancouver, WA · On-site

HDR is looking for a Structural PE (entry-level) to support our growing Building Engineering Services team in Oregon and SW Washington. The successful candidate would be seated in either the ...

KEYENCE

Field Application Engineer '27

Portland, OR · On-site +1

$53K - $80K/yr

Locations | Entry-Level | Full-Time Are you ready to launch your career with one of the world's most innovative companies? KEYENCE is looking for driven, adaptable engineers to join our Field ...

HDR

Structural Engineer

Vancouver, WA · On-site

HDR is looking for a Structural PE (entry-level) to support our growing Building Engineering Services team in Oregon and SW Washington. The successful candidate would be seated in either the ...

BMWC CONSTRUCTORS

Project Engineer I

Portland, OR · On-site

$73K - $93K/yr

We will train an entry level graduate and/or hire an experienced industrial construction project engineer. BENEFITS * Competitive Pay with Bonus * PTO and paid holidays * 401K/Profit Sharing with ...

BMWC Constructors

Project Engineer I

Portland, OR · On-site

$73K - $93K/yr

Bachelor's Degree in Construction Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field is required. * • We will train an entry level graduate and/or hire an experienced industrial construction ...

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All JobsProgrammer JobsEntry Level Programmer JobsEntry Level Programmer Jobs in Portland, OR

Entry Level Programmer information

See Portland, OR salary details

$15

$28

$83

How much do entry level programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level programmer in Portland, OR is $28.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.12 and $24.47 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 Portland, OR? The most popular types of Programmer jobs in Portland, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Programmer jobs in Portland, OR? For Entry Level Programmer jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Programmer jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Programmer jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Entry Level Programmer jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Entry Level Programmer job openings:
Entry Level Programmer jobs near you
Planning Engineer - I/II

Planning Engineer - I/II

TOTH AND ASSOCIATES INC

Portland, OR • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Utility Planning Engineer - I/II

Toth & Associates is hiring an entry-level Utility Planning Engineer - I/II for our Portland office. You'll model electric distribution systems for utility clients across the US - running load flow, contingency, generator interconnection studies, battery charging studies, fault current analysis - and translate the results into recommendations that get built. You'll work alongside Transmission Planning, Transmission Design, and Substation Design engineers to scope real system upgrades for real utilities.

This is a role designed for new or early-career engineers. You'll get structured mentorship from senior PE-licensed engineers. Expect a clear path from Engineer I to II to III as you build experience. A qualified applicant must have good interpersonal skills as the job requires management of projects and team members as well as meeting and working closely with clients.

Responsibilities and Duties: (Include but are not limited to)

  • Demonstrate developmental experience as a professional engineer.
  • Responsible for the design and management of assigned projects.
  • Exhibit a detailed knowledge of industry standard methods, specifications, and materials.
  • Develop design documentation, drawings, and project data for assigned projects; review documentation, drawings, and project data submitted by team members.
  • Coordinate with multiple entities and oversee project completion.
  • Direct drafters in the development of exhibits and construction documents.
  • Organize project management practices to include coordination/communication with team members and clients.
  • Perform detailed calculations to compute and establish manufacturing, construction, and installation standards and specifications.
  • Investigate the extent and nature of client concerns, and prepare remedial measures to be presented to management.
  • Oversee project production efforts to help assure projects are completed satisfactorily, on time, and on budget.
  • Manage the design and monitor construction projects to ensure compliance with the engineering design.
  • Perform or assign field observation and project inspection.
  • Occasional travel/driving is required.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • BS degree in Electrical Engineering from an ABET-accredited engineering program is required.
  • Coursework in power systems, electric machines, or power electronics.
  • Understanding of core power concepts (power factor, per unit, load flow) at a coursework level.
  • Proficiency with Excel and the rest of MS Office.
  • Strong interpersonal and written communication skills.
  • EIT certification, or ability to obtain within 6 months of hire.

Valued but not required skills and experience:

  • Exposure to any power systems analysis software (Milsoft, CYME, Synergi, PowerWorld, or Aspen).
  • Proficiency in a programming language (Python, VBA, etc).
  • Internship or co-op experience with a utility, co-op, or consulting firm.

Benefits:

  • Paid Time Off
  • Eight paid holidays
  • Company-paid medical and dental coverage with buy-up options
  • 401(k) w/company matching and profit sharing
  • Discretionary bonuses
  • Paid Bonding Leave
  • Vision
  • Company-paid life insurance and long-term disability insurance
  • Supplemental life insurance available
  • Short-term disability available
  • FSA and HSA options
  • Education assistance

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