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Entry Level Software Engineer Jobs in California

Sidecar

Software Engineer - Fraud

San Francisco, CA

For this position, we are looking for a full stack backend engineer, who will be working directly ... Passion for finding problems with software and helping ensure they never happen again. * Easily ...

Space Kinetic

Flight Software Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

What You'll Do: The Flight Software Engineer will design, develop, and maintain the critical ... * Entry level to Intermediate proficiency in C/C++, with working knowledge of Python or scripting ...

Space Kinetic

Flight Software Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$120K - $150K/yr

What You'll Do: The Flight Software Engineer will design, develop, and maintain the critical ... * Entry level to Intermediate proficiency in C/C++, with working knowledge of Python or scripting ...

Space Kinetic

Flight Software Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

What You'll Do: The Flight Software Engineer will design, develop, and maintain the critical ... * Entry level to Intermediate proficiency in C/C++, with working knowledge of Python or scripting ...

Space Kinetic

Flight Software Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

What You'll Do: The Flight Software Engineer will design, develop, and maintain the critical ... * Entry level to Intermediate proficiency in C/C++, with working knowledge of Python or scripting ...

SynergisticIT

Software Engineer I

Chula Vista, CA · On-site +1

With remote work and global talent pools, even entry-level roles receive hundreds of applications ... Software Programmers (Java/Python) * Java Full Stack Developers * Data Analysts & Data ...

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All JobsSoftware Engineer JobsEntry Level Software Engineer JobsEntry Level Software Engineer Jobs in California

Entry Level Software Engineer information

See California salary details

$23.7K

$103.5K

$186.5K

How much do entry level software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level software engineer in California is $103,490.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,100.00 and $118,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Software Engineer vs Software Developer?

AspectEntry Level Software EngineerSoftware Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in CS or related field; some internshipsBachelor's in CS or related; coding experience
Work EnvironmentTeam-based, collaborative projects, entry-level tasksProject-focused, coding, debugging, and implementation
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, startups, IT departmentsSoftware firms, tech startups, enterprise IT
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Software Engineers and Software Developers often share similar educational backgrounds and work environments. The main difference lies in their roles: engineers may focus more on designing systems and architecture, while developers typically concentrate on coding and implementation. Both roles are essential in tech industries and often overlap in job functions, but understanding these distinctions helps job seekers target the right positions.

How to get a job as a software engineer with no experience?

Entry level software engineers can improve their chances by building a portfolio of personal projects, contributing to open-source software, and learning relevant programming languages like Python or Java. Gaining certifications, such as those in specific technologies or coding bootcamps, can also demonstrate skills to employers. Internships or apprenticeships provide practical experience and networking opportunities in the field.

What types of projects do entry level software engineers typically work on, and how do they collaborate with other team members?

Entry level software engineers often start by working on smaller features, bug fixes, or assisting with testing and documentation within larger projects. They usually collaborate closely with senior engineers, product managers, and QA teams through code reviews, daily stand-ups, and pair programming sessions. This structure helps new engineers learn best practices, understand the codebase, and gradually take on more complex assignments. Effective communication and a willingness to learn are key to success in these collaborative environments.

What does an entry level software engineer do?

An entry level software engineer is responsible for assisting in the design, development, testing, and maintenance of software applications. They typically work under the guidance of more experienced engineers and may write code, debug programs, and participate in code reviews. The role often involves learning company-specific tools and workflows, collaborating with team members, and continuously improving technical skills. Entry level software engineers are expected to adapt quickly, communicate effectively, and contribute to the team's overall goals.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced software engineers, especially those in specialized fields like machine learning, data science, or working at top tech companies, can earn $500,000 or more annually through base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires advanced skills, significant industry experience, and often working in leadership or senior technical roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Software Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Software Engineer, you need a solid understanding of programming languages (such as Java, Python, or C++), computer science fundamentals, and often a relevant bachelor’s degree. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, development frameworks, and basic software development tools is typically expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, eagerness to learn, and effective collaboration are standout soft skills in this role. These skills are crucial for building reliable software, adapting to evolving technologies, and contributing productively to team projects.

What Does an Entry Level Software Engineer Do?

An Entry-Level Software Engineer, also called a Junior Engineer, works with a team of mid-level and senior engineers to develop, test, and maintain software applications and programs. The job duties of Junior Software Engineers typically include relatively simple routine tasks, such as debugging, testing, and code documentation. These tasks hone a Junior Engineer’s skills and familiarize them with the company’s code base. As Software Engineers gain more years of experience, they work on more complex development projects.

Is it true that AI will replace software engineers?

AI technology is advancing and automating certain coding tasks, but entry level software engineers are still essential for designing, testing, and maintaining software systems. AI tools can assist developers, but human oversight and problem-solving skills remain critical in software development roles.

Will AI replace coders by 2040?

Entry level software engineers perform coding tasks that are likely to evolve with AI tools, which can automate repetitive programming aspects. However, human oversight, problem-solving, and creativity remain essential, making complete replacement unlikely by 2040. AI will serve as a complement, enhancing productivity rather than replacing developers entirely.
More about Entry Level Software Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Software Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Software Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Software Engineer jobs in California? For Entry Level Software Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Software Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Software Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Software Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Software Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Software Engineer jobs in CA? For Entry Level Software Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Entry Level Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Software Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 4% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,490 per year, or $49.8 per hour.
junior java spring boot developer/Data engineer

junior java spring boot developer/Data engineer

SynergisticIT

Santa Clara, CA

$133K - $160K/yr

Other

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Graduate With a Degree. Get Hired With a Plan.
If you just graduated (or you're about to) and the job search is already feeling confusing, you're not imagining it. A degree proves you can learn-but employers hire for job readiness: projects that look like real work, current tech stacks, interview confidence, and the ability to contribute on day one. That's why many new grads send hundreds of applications and still hear nothing back. It's not because you're "not smart enough." It's because most entry-level pipelines are crowded, and hiring teams filter heavily for candidates who look production-ready.
We are actively considering candidates for entry-level software engineering and data roles, especially Java full stack, Java/Python development, DevOps automation, data analytics, data engineering, data science, and ML/AI-full-time opportunities aligned to client needs. Our core emphasis remains Java/Full Stack/DevOps and Data/Analytics/Engineering/ML.
That's exactly what SynergisticIT's Job Placement Program (JOPP) is designed to solve: the gap between "I completed coursework" and "I can pass interviews and perform in a real dev/data role." SynergisticIT JOPP is a job-placement-focused program. The intent is to build your skills deeply, package your profile correctly, and support you through interviews until you land an offer. The program focuses on two high-demand lanes: Java / Full Stack / DevOps and Data (Data Analyst, Data Engineer, Data Scientist) + ML/AI-so you don't graduate with scattered skills, you graduate with an employable stack.
SynergisticIT since 2010, has helped candidates land full-time roles at major organizations (examples often cited include Google, Apple, PayPal, Visa, Western Union, Wells Fargo, Client, Banking, Wayfair, Client, Client, and more) with offers commonly in the $95k-$154k range depending on role and skill depth. For a new grad, the bigger message isn't the number-it's that results require a structured pathway, not random applications.
Here's a realistic way to think about your advantage as a fresh graduate: you're early enough to build the right foundation before bad habits set in. If you master fundamentals-coding, debugging, data structures, system thinking-and then layer modern tools on top (frameworks, cloud, CI/CD, analytics stacks), you become the kind of "entry-level" candidate who actually feels like a safe hire.
What roles are companies hiring for right now? A typical market demand pattern is clear: organizations still need entry-level software programmers, Java full stack developers, Python/Java developers, DevOps-focused engineers, and on the data side data analysts, BI analysts, data engineers, data scientists, and machine learning engineers. The strongest candidates aren't "tool collectors"-they're people who can show end-to-end capability: build an API, connect a database, deploy a service, analyze data, explain results, and handle interviews calmly.
Why fresh grads get stuck-and how a job-placement program changes the outcome
Fresh grads often struggle for four predictable reasons:
  1. Resume doesn't match job keywords (ATS filters you out).
  2. Projects look like school assignments (not production-aligned).
  3. Interview skills are undertrained (DSA, system design, SQL, behavioral).
  4. No structured pipeline (random applying without feedback loops).
A job-placement-first approach addresses these systematically: build the right portfolio, practice the right interview questions, align your tech stack to roles, and keep improving until the market says "yes."
Who this path fits best
If you're a recent graduate, you'll likely fit if you match any of these:
  • New grads in CS, Engineering, Math, or Statistics with limited job experience
  • Students finishing Bachelor's or Master's programs who need a real hiring plan
  • Candidates who apply consistently but don't get callbacks
  • Candidates who reach interviews but struggle to close
  • International students on F-1/OPT who need a job plan for STEM extension/H-1B timing
  • Graduates with strong academics but thin practical experience
SynergisticIT helps STEM extension and work authorization pathways, and for candidates who need long-term stability, support related to H-1B and green card processes as part of employer-side realities.
If you're tired of guessing, stop treating your job search like a lottery. Treat it like a project with milestones: skills → portfolio → interview readiness → targeted applications → scheduled interviews → offer.
If you want to explore the program directly, here are the key links:
  • Job Placement Program (JOPP):
  • Java Job Placement Program
  • Data Science / Data Jobs Program
  • Event videos (OCW, JavaOne, Gartner):
  • USA Today feature
  • Contact & get a roadmap: https://www.synergisticit.com/contact-us/
Bottom line for fresh grads: Your degree is the starting line, not the finish line. If you want to get hired faster, you don't need "more random courses." You need a guided, job-focused path and the right people around you. In tech, it's not just what you learn-it's how you learn and who you build with that decides how far you go.

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