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Entry Level Software Qa Engineer Jobs in California

QA Engineer II

Irvine, CA · Hybrid

$97K - $114K/yr

The Software Quality Engineer is results-driven, team oriented, self-motivated software quality ... The Software QA Engineer will report to the QA Manager Is this you? At least 2 years' experience in ...

We are seeking an enthusiastic and collaborative QA Engineer who has the curiosity to break things ... You will be responsible for testing tools, software and services to ensure seamless integration for ...

Software Developer in Test. * Onsite in Foster City, CA | 5 days in office. Responsibilities ... Partner with engineering and QA to translate release requirements into automated coverage and ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Software Qa Engineer information

See California salary details

$23.7K

$103.5K

$186.5K

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

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level software qa 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.

Is a Entry Level Software QA Engineer entry-level?

Yes, an Entry Level Software QA Engineer position is designed for individuals starting their careers in quality assurance and software testing. These roles typically require basic knowledge of testing tools, scripting, and attention to detail, and do not usually require extensive experience. They are suitable for recent graduates or those new to the field seeking to develop their skills in software quality assurance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level software QA engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Software QA Engineer, you need a solid understanding of software development fundamentals, testing methodologies, and a relevant degree or coursework in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with bug tracking tools, test case management systems, and basic scripting languages such as Python or Java is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills help you effectively identify issues and collaborate with development teams. These skills ensure software quality, enhance team productivity, and contribute to reliable product releases.

What does an entry level software QA engineer do?

An Entry Level Software QA (Quality Assurance) Engineer is responsible for testing software applications to identify bugs, errors, or issues before the product is released to users. They write and execute test cases, report defects, and work closely with developers to ensure software quality. This role often involves both manual and automated testing, and it's a great way to learn about the software development lifecycle while building technical skills.

What is the difference between Entry Level Software Qa Engineer vs Software Tester?

AspectEntry Level Software Qa EngineerSoftware Tester
Required CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree in computer science or related field; basic knowledge of testing toolsOften a high school diploma or associate degree; focus on testing techniques
Work EnvironmentCollaborates with development teams in software development lifecyclePrimarily executes test cases, often in dedicated testing teams
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across tech companies, startups, and software firmsCommon in software companies, QA firms, and IT departments

Both roles focus on software quality assurance, but Entry Level Software Qa Engineers typically have broader responsibilities including test planning and process improvement, while Software Testers mainly execute test cases. The roles often overlap, especially at entry levels, but QA Engineers tend to have more involvement in the overall quality strategy.

How to become an entry level software QA engineer without experience?

To become an entry-level software QA engineer without experience, focus on learning basic testing concepts, familiarize yourself with common testing tools like Selenium or JIRA, and build a foundation in programming and software development. Gaining certifications such as ISTQB can also improve your prospects and demonstrate your commitment to quality assurance.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry level software QA engineers, and how can they effectively overcome them?

Entry-level Software QA Engineers often encounter challenges such as understanding complex software requirements, learning new testing tools, and managing communication across development teams. To overcome these, it's important to ask clarifying questions during requirement reviews, take advantage of onboarding resources and mentorship, and proactively seek feedback from more experienced testers. Building a habit of documenting test cases and results thoroughly also helps minimize errors and improves collaboration with developers and product managers.

How much do entry-level software QA engineer jobs pay?

Entry-level software QA engineer positions typically offer salaries ranging from $50,000 to $70,000 annually, depending on location, company size, and individual skills. Candidates with knowledge of testing tools, scripting, and basic automation may earn toward the higher end of this range.

What are the most commonly searched types of Software Qa Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Software Qa Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Software Qa Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Software Qa Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Software Qa Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,490 per year, or $49.8 per hour.

Software Quality Assurance Engineer (Level 2 - 5)

Lockheed Martin

Sunnyvale, CA • On-site

$70K - $123K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Lockheed Martin rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 391 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description


Lockheed Martin Space will be hosting an invitation-only hiring event in very early September in Sunnyvale, CA. This requisition is to capture Level 2 through Level 5 Software Quality Assurance Engineer candidates to invite to the hiring event. We will be reviewing all Software Quality Assurance Engineer applicant resumes, contacting those that meet all of the Basic Qualifications and Desired Skills and may be a fit for one of our open roles, and interviewing candidates for the appropriate level opportunities. If invited to the event, you will be provided with the details regarding date, time, and location of the invitation-only hiring event.
We will be interviewing candidates at Level 2 through Level 5 for roles on several different programs, including LM Space, the Next Generation Interceptor, Remote Sensing, THAAD, and many other efforts where your expertise will be put to the test. The positions are on-site 100% of the time.
By applying to this job, you are expressing interest in this position and could be considered for other career opportunities where similar skills and requirements have been identified as a match. Should this match be identified you may be contacted for this and future openings.
Basic Qualifications
• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college in a related technical discipline (e.g., Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Software Engineering, or equivalent).
• Experience in a Software/Hardware development environment and/or production around Software/Hardware
• Experience in supporting Agile/Scrum software development
• Must be a U.S. Citizen with active Secret Clearance
Desired skills
• Able to work independently in an environment with challenging requirements and dynamic schedules
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to engage and resolve technical issues with multiple teams, suppliers, and customer
• Ability to interpret software design and code to verify the implementation of requirements
• Experience with Software Development Pipeline, Configuration Management, and Collaboration tools
• Experience in test planning, processing, and nonconformance processing, including root cause analysis and corrective action development
• Experience in establishing quality assurance performance metrics for identifying process improvement
• Experience with US Military customers and/or other government customer support organizations
• Experience working with space vehicle subcontractors and suppliers
• Lean/Six Sigma black (or green) belt
• ASQ Certified Software Quality Engineer (CSQE)
EEO
Lockheed Martin is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified candidates will be considered without regard to legally protected characteristics.
The application window will close in 90 days; applicants are encouraged to apply within 5 - 30 days of the requisition posting date in order to receive optimal consideration.
*
At Lockheed Martin, we use our passion for purposeful innovation to help keep people safe and solve the world's most complex challenges. Our people are some of the greatest minds in the industry and truly make Lockheed Martin a great place to work.
With our employees as our priority, we provide diverse career opportunities designed to propel, develop, and boost agility. Our flexible schedules, competitive pay, and comprehensive benefits enable our employees to live a healthy, fulfilling life at and outside of work. We place an emphasis on empowering our employees by fostering an inclusive environment built upon integrity and corporate responsibility.
If this sounds like a culture you connect with, you're invited to apply for this role. Or, if you are unsure whether your experience aligns with the requirements of this position, we encourage you to search on Lockheed Martin Jobs, and apply for roles that align with your qualifications.
Other Important Information
By applying to this job, you are expressing interest in this position and could be considered for other career opportunities where similar skills and requirements have been identified as a match. Should this match be identified you may be contacted for this and future openings.
Work Schedule Information
Lockheed Martin supports a variety of alternate work schedules that provide additional flexibility to our employees. Schedules range from standard 40 hours over a five day work week while others may be condensed. These condensed schedules provide employees with additional time away from the office and are in addition to our Paid Time off benefits.
National Pay Statement
Pay Rate: The annual base salary range for this position in California, Massachusetts, and New York (excluding most major metropolitan areas), Colorado, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Minnesota, New Jersey, Vermont, Washington or Washington DC is $70,100 - $123,625. For states not referenced above, the salary range for this position will reflect the candidate's final work location. Please note that the salary information is a general guideline only. Lockheed Martin considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/ training, key skills as well as market and business considerations when extending an offer.
Benefits offered: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, 401(k) match, Flexible Spending Accounts, EAP, Education Assistance, Parental Leave, Paid time off, and Holidays.
(Washington state applicants only) Non-represented full-time employees: accrue at least 10 hours per month of Paid Time Off (PTO) to be used for incidental absences and other reasons; receive at least 90 hours for holidays. Represented full time employees accrue 6.67 hours of Vacation per month; accrue up to 52 hours of sick leave annually; receive at least 96 hours for holidays. PTO, Vacation, sick leave, and holiday hours are prorated based on start date during the calendar year.
This position is incentive plan eligible.
Premium Pay Statement
Pay Rate: The annual base salary range for this position in most major metropolitan areas in California, Massachusetts, and New York is $80,600 - $139,840. For states not referenced above, the salary range for this position will reflect the candidate's final work location. Please note that the salary information is a general guideline only. Lockheed Martin considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/ training, key skills as well as market and business considerations when extending an offer.
Benefits offered: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, 401(k) match, Flexible Spending Accounts, EAP, Education Assistance, Parental Leave, Paid time off, and Holidays.
This position is incentive plan eligible.

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About Lockheed Martin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As a global security and aerospace company, the majority of Lockheed Martin's business is with the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. federal government agencies.The remaining portion of Lockheed Martin's business is comprised of international government and commercial sales of products, services and platforms.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Bethesda, MD, US

Year founded

1912