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Entry Level Software Engineer Jobs in Los Altos, CA

Nvidia

GPU Compiler Engineer

Santa Clara, CA

We are searching for a Backend Compiler Engineer for an exciting and fun role in our GPU Software organization. Our Compiler team is responsible for constructing and emitting the highest performance ...

Nvidia

GPU Compiler Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

We are searching for a Backend Compiler Engineer for an exciting and fun role in our GPU Software organization. Our Compiler team is responsible for constructing and emitting the highest performance ...

UL Solutions

Associate Software Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$83K - $93K/yr

University degree in Computer Science or a related discipline. * 1 years of experience in a entry level role, an total of 2 years minimum in software development * 1 year minimum of experience in ...

UL Solutions

Associate Software Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$83K - $93K/yr

University degree in Computer Science or a related discipline. * 1 years of experience in a entry level role, an total of 2 years minimum in software development * 1 year minimum of experience in ...

Fortinet

New Grads 2026 (US)

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

Software Developers * Embedded Software Developers * AI Developers * Web Developers * Software Developer QAs * Release QAs * AV Analysts/IPS Analysts * Hardware Developers * DevOps Engineers * C ...

Fortinet, Inc.

New Grads 2026 (US)

Sunnyvale, CA

Software Developers * Embedded Software Developers * AI Developers * Web Developers * Software Developer QAs * Release QAs * AV Analysts/IPS Analysts * Hardware Developers * DevOps Engineers * C ...

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All JobsSoftware Engineer JobsEntry Level Software Engineer JobsEntry Level Software Engineer Jobs in Los Altos, CA

Entry Level Software Engineer information

See Los Altos, CA salary details

$28.4K

$124.2K

$223.8K

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

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level software engineer in Los Altos, CA is $124,190.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,000.00 and $142,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 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 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.

Is 25 too late to become an entry level software engineer?

Entry level software engineering roles are open to candidates of all ages, and starting at 25 is common. Many employers value skills, such as programming languages and problem-solving abilities, over age, and individuals can transition into the field through coding bootcamps, online courses, or degree programs. Age should not be a barrier to entering an entry level software engineering position.
More about Entry Level Software Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Software Engineer jobs in Los Altos, CA?

The most popular types of Software Engineer jobs in Los Altos, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Software Engineer jobs in Los Altos, CA?

For Entry Level Software Engineer jobs in Los Altos, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Software Engineer jobs in Los Altos, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Software Engineer jobs in Los Altos, CA are:

What cities near Los Altos, CA are hiring for Entry Level Software Engineer jobs?

Cities near Los Altos, CA with the most Entry Level Software Engineer job openings:

Entry Level Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Software Engineer job openings in Los Altos, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,190 per year, or $59.7 per hour.

Software Engineer, Runtime & C++ Middleware

PlusAI

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

$120K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

You will develop and optimize the core infrastructure that facilitates reliable, low-latency execution of on-vehicle robotics software. Your mission extends beyond building a rock-solid foundation for autonomous driving - you will also equip engineers with the tools needed to analyze system behavior, identify performance bottlenecks, and enhance robustness.
 
In this role, you will contribute to existing frameworks, libraries, and tools while also designing and implementing new components across various mission-critical domains.
Responsibilities:
  • Design and optimize low-latency interprocess communication and data flow monitoring.
  • Develop high-performance event logging and structured telemetry.
  • Implement safety-enhanced memory allocators and efficient memory provisioning policies.
  • Build lock-free data structures and algorithms to support real-time system requirements.
  • Work on network communication and coherency protocols.
  • Develop on-the-fly component health monitoring and rapid response mechanisms for critical events.
  • Manage on-vehicle configurations and system state validation.
  • Optimize low-level OS interactions and fine-tune system performance.
  • Ensure that your work is performed in accordance with the company's Quality Management System (QMS) requirements and contribute to continuous improvement efforts.
  • Ensure team compliance with QMS, monitor quality, and drive process improvements.
Required Skills:
  • BS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
  • Solid hands-on coding experience using C++14(or later)
  • Strong understanding of Linux development tools, including build systems, compilers, debuggers, and performance analyzers.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Proactive problem-solving mindset: ability to identify, propose, and implement solutions.
Preferred Skills:
  • Experience in writing, debugging, and profiling multithreaded C++ applications.
  • Familiarity with robotics-related libraries such as ROS.
  • Knowledge of real-time OS, database internals, network programming, GPGPU, or robotics.
Salary Range:
  • $120,000 - $200,000 a year
Our compensations (cash and equity) are determined based on the position, your location, qualifications, and experience.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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