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Entry Level Software Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA

Software Engineer TS

Centreville, VA · On-site

$63K - $111K/yr

Parsons is seeking an entry-level engineer with a Top Secret clearance to join our agile, tight ... As an Associate level Software Engineer/Developer, your responsibilities will include:

Full Stack Software Engineer (Entry level - Senior Levels) Locations: Arlington, VA and areas throughout the DMV (DC, MD, VA) Onsite Expectations: MUST be willing to go onsite 2 - 3 days per week ...

Full Stack Software Engineer (Entry level - Senior Levels) Locations: Arlington, VA and areas throughout the DMV (DC, MD, VA) Onsite Expectations: MUST be willing to go onsite 2 - 3 days per week ...

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Entry Level Software Engineer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$25K

$109.3K

$197K

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

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level software engineer in Reston, VA is $109,295.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,700.00 and $125,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Will AI replace developers in 2026?

Entry level software engineers will continue to play a vital role in software development, as AI tools are designed to assist rather than fully replace human programmers. Developing skills in coding, problem-solving, and understanding AI integration will remain valuable in the evolving tech environment.

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.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced software engineers, especially those in senior or specialized roles such as machine learning engineers or software architects at large tech companies, can earn $500,000 or more annually. These roles often require advanced skills, extensive experience, and sometimes stock options or bonuses as part of compensation packages.

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

Entry-level software engineer positions often require demonstrating programming skills through personal projects, internships, or coding bootcamps. Building a strong portfolio, learning relevant tools like Git and languages such as Python or Java, and obtaining certifications can improve chances of securing an entry-level role without prior work experience.

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 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 is unlikely to fully replace entry-level software engineers, as human skills such as problem-solving, creativity, and understanding complex requirements remain essential. AI tools can assist with coding and automation, but software engineering involves tasks that require critical thinking and collaboration. Developing proficiency in programming languages and understanding AI capabilities can enhance job performance and adaptability in the field.
What are the most commonly searched types of Software Engineer jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Software Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Software Engineer jobs in Reston, VA? For Entry Level Software Engineer jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Entry Level Software Engineer jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Entry Level Software Engineer job openings:
Software Engineer Level 1 or 2

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 353 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

108th of 528 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: YesCLEARANCE TYPE: Top SecretTRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescriptionAt Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

Northrop Grumman Space Sector is seeking multipleSoftware Engineersto support an innovative program in their development, integration, deployment, and sustainment of satellite ground software.

This position is located onsite on ourAurora, CO, Fairfax, VA, or Morrisville, NC campus.

The ideal candidate will have the ability to take ownership of hard problems and drive to a solution, while working in a team environment and provide leadership for its implementation. It is critical that you understand the software development life cycle. The Software Engineer will participate in the full life cycle of software development, to include requirements development, modeling and design, application development, unit to CSCI testing, integration, formal system testing, release, installation, and maintenance. The Software Engineer will apply technical expertise in solving complex integrations problems.

This position requires interfaces between systems analysts/programmers and users located in a specialized area to ensure that information technology designs meet the needs of the end users within an organization. Documents product/service requirements and develop test procedures to ensure user requests are carried out. The Software Engineer will interact with Program Management, and/or government customers.Therefore, excellent verbal, written and interpersonal skills are required.A solid experience in bash scripting, Python, or other OOP languages, in a Linux environment is required.

About our organization:Our Aurora Software & Digital Engineering department comprises 200+ engineers, DevOps specialists, system administrators, DBAs, and network engineers-from entrylevel talent to chief architects. Engineers often serve as informal subjectmatter experts and may assume formal technicalleadership roles. Career progression into higherlevel technical or leadership positions is strongly supported.

What You'll Have an Opportunity to Do:

  • Full stack development at the OS, platform, and mission unique software layer

  • Applications will span languages and toolsets including GO, Python, Postgres, Kubernetes/Docker, AWS cloud infrastructure provisioning, PKI, and static code analysis execution and finding remediation.

  • Developer will be expected to be a self-starter capable of making decisions with overall project budget and schedule in mind.

  • Develop software which provides command and control functionality of a hardware system (sending commands, receiving acknowledgements, working on and integrating across interfaces)

  • Develop software which enables activity planning and constraint checking to achieve mission outcomes.

  • Develop software which enables the visualization of a complex and dynamic environment in both two and 3 dimensions, complete with decisions tools, intelligent context, and user-centric interface design.

This position may be filled at the Associate Software Engineer (level 1) or Software Engineer (level 2).

Basic Qualifications:

Associate Software Engineer Level 1:

  • Bachelor's degree with 0 years of development experience. 4 years of experience may be considered in lieu of degree.

  • ActiveTop Secret clearancewithSCI eligibilityat time of application.

  • Knowledge of Agile programs

  • Knowledge of design, build, and deployment of software products

  • Knowledge of producing software architecture documentation

  • Experience with Python, GO, AWS, GitLab workflows, and Docker/Kubernetes

Software Engineer Level 2:

  • Bachelor's degree with 2 years of development experience. 0 years of experience with a Master's degree.4 additional years of experience may be considered in lieu of degree.

  • ActiveTop Secret clearancewithSCIeligibility at time of application.

  • 2 years with Agile programs

  • 2 years of experience with the design, build, and deployment of software products

  • 2 years of experience in producing software architecture documentation

  • 2 years of experience with Python, GO, AWS, GitLab workflows, and Docker/Kubernetes

  • Prior experience with development of microservice software architecture

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience developing satellite ground software with any of the following applications for spacecraft missions is highly preferred: Command and Control, Mission Planning, Visualization, and/or Astrodynamics

  • Experience with the creation and use of planning software and constraint checking applications utilized in complex and dynamic space mission planning

  • Experience with the creation and implementation of visualization tools for space missions, including dynamic renderings of space vehicles, depiction of space vehicle missions, simulation of space vehicle sensor and mission outputs, and configuration displays of complex contextual and situational awareness information

  • Linux, Ansible, Docker, UI/UX experience

  • Active CI polygraph

Primary Level Salary Range: $76,200.00 - $114,400.00Secondary Level Salary Range: $91,800.00 - $137,600.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939