ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Software Engineer Jobs in Santa Cruz, CA

Muon Space

Software Engineer, Entry-Level

San Jose, CA

$142K - $169K/yr

They make it possible to build, test, launch, and run constellations of satellites for a wide variety of missions. Entry-level software engineers are expected to bring significant skills and training ...

New

Muon Space

Software Engineer, Entry-Level

San Jose, CA · On-site

$142K - $169K/yr

They make it possible to build, test, launch, and run constellations of satellites for a wide variety of missions. Entry-level software engineers are expected to bring significant skills and training ...

New

Evolver

GenAI Engineer (Python)

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

Role Overview: We're looking for a motivated Software Developer who's ready to jump into the world ... Competitive Entry-Level Salary: Reflecting your skills and potential. * Flexible Work: Work options ...

Evolver

GenAI Engineer (Python)

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

Role Overview: We're looking for a motivated Software Developer who's ready to jump into the world ... Competitive Entry-Level Salary: Reflecting your skills and potential. * Flexible Work: Work options ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSoftware Engineer JobsEntry Level Software Engineer JobsEntry Level Software Engineer Jobs in Santa Cruz, CA

Entry Level Software Engineer information

See Santa Cruz, CA salary details

$27.7K

$121.1K

$218.2K

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

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level software engineer in Santa Cruz, CA is $121,081.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,100.00 and $138,600.00 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.

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.

What is the entry-level position for a software engineer?

The entry-level position for a software engineer is typically called a Software Engineer I or Junior Software Engineer. It involves basic coding, debugging, and learning company tools and processes, often requiring familiarity with programming languages like Java, Python, or C++. This role provides foundational experience and may require a bachelor's degree in computer science or related fields.

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

To secure an entry level software engineer position with no experience, focus on building a strong foundation in programming languages like Python or Java, create a portfolio of personal projects, and gain familiarity with tools such as Git and Linux. Internships, coding bootcamps, and certifications can also improve your chances by demonstrating practical skills to employers.

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

Entry level software engineering roles are open to individuals of various ages, including those starting in their mid-20s. Many employers value skills, relevant training, and problem-solving ability over age, and career changers often successfully transition into software engineering at this stage by learning programming languages and gaining practical experience. Age is generally not a barrier to entering the field at an entry level.
More about Entry Level Software Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Software Engineer jobs in Santa Cruz, CA? The most popular types of Software Engineer jobs in Santa Cruz, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Software Engineer jobs in Santa Cruz, CA? For Entry Level Software Engineer jobs in Santa Cruz, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Software Engineer jobs in Santa Cruz, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Software Engineer jobs in Santa Cruz, CA are:
What cities near Santa Cruz, CA are hiring for Entry Level Software Engineer jobs? Cities near Santa Cruz, 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 Santa Cruz, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,081 per year, or $58.2 per hour.

Software Engineer, Entry-Level

Muon Space

San Jose, CA

$142K - $169K/yr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

About the role

Software Engineers at Muon work on embedded software on satellites and test equipment, physics simulations, customer-facing APIs and services, user interfaces, scheduling algorithms, data pipelines, computer vision, signal processing, cloud systems and more. They make it possible to build, test, launch, and run constellations of satellites for a wide variety of missions.

Entry-level software engineers are expected to bring significant skills and training, and then to quickly develop into experts in their domains to accelerate Muon's Mission with high quality software and systems. They must be a high performer ready to work in an exciting, fast-paced environment that values continuous improvement, embraces taking risks, and crafts the right solutions to delight our customers.

This position is hybrid and requires working on-site in our San Jose, CA office three days per week.

Responsibilities
  • Take ownership of the code for a new software capability on ground or in space
  • Propose and iterate on the design for software components
  • Write tests and monitoring to validate correctness of one's own code
  • Conduct analysis to support both development and testing
  • Quickly learn new skills, technology and techniques
  • Communicate clearly and accurately
  • Complete work in a timely manner
Required Qualifications
  • A bachelor's degree in computer science, aerospace engineering, computational mathematics or a related field
  • Proficient in C++, Python, TypeScript or a similar high-level language
  • Coursework or relevant experience in operating systems, algorithms, data structures, physics and statistics
Desirable Qualifications
  • Expertise in embedded software, network protocols, hardware and software testing, FPGA programming, GPU programming or other relevant disciplines
  • Experience with satellites, robots, or other autonomous systems
  • Previous experience on technical project teams (i.e. programming, robotics or rocket club, etc.)
  • Understanding of orbital mechanics
  • Experience with mathematical optimization, machine learning, signal processing or advanced algorithms
  • Experience with cloud environments and distributed systems
  • Advanced coursework or experience in physics, statistics, distributed systems, or embedded software
Salary

The salary range for this role is $142,000 - $169,000, plus a competitive equity grant and comprehensive benefits package. Final compensation will be determined based on skills, qualifications, experience, and geographic location as assessed during the interview process. 

Apply