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Entry Level Software Test Engineer Jobs in Washington

SkillStorm

Entry Level Software Developer

Washington, DC · On-site

Required : • A bachelor's degree in a related technical field (Computer Science, Software Engineering, IT, or similar) • A working understanding of programming fundamentals -- data structures ...

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Entry Level Software Test Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$27.2K

$118.8K

$214.1K

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

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level software test engineer in Washington is $118,767.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,600.00 and $135,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an Entry Level Software Test Engineer do?

An Entry Level Software Test Engineer is responsible for testing software applications to ensure they work as intended and meet quality standards. They create and execute test cases, report bugs, and collaborate with developers to resolve issues. Their work helps improve software reliability and user experience. Entry-level roles typically involve learning about testing tools, methodologies, and working under the guidance of more experienced engineers.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Software Test Engineer, you need a solid understanding of software development life cycles, basic programming concepts, and a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with testing tools like Selenium, JIRA, and test case management systems, as well as knowledge of scripting languages, is typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong communication skills help you effectively identify issues and collaborate with development teams. These abilities are crucial to ensure software quality, minimize defects, and support successful product releases.

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

AspectEntry Level Software Test EngineerQA Tester
Required CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree in computer science or related field; basic understanding of testing toolsOften similar; may require a degree or relevant certifications
Work EnvironmentSoftware development teams, testing labs, Agile/Scrum environmentsQuality assurance departments, testing labs, collaborative teams
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, software firms, startupsIT firms, software companies, product development teams
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both roles involve testing software to ensure quality, but an Entry Level Software Test Engineer often has a broader scope, including test planning and automation, while a QA Tester may focus more on manual testing and defect reporting. The roles are closely related and often overlap, especially at entry levels.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level software test engineers, and how can they overcome them?

Entry level software test engineers often encounter challenges such as understanding complex software systems, getting up to speed with new testing tools, and effectively communicating defects to development teams. To overcome these challenges, it's helpful to proactively seek mentorship from experienced team members, participate in training sessions, and practice clear, concise documentation of test cases and bugs. Additionally, collaborating closely with developers and other testers can provide valuable insights and foster a supportive learning environment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Software Test Engineer jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Software Test Engineer jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Entry Level Software Test Engineer jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Entry Level Software Test Engineer job openings:
Entry Level Software Test Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Software Test Engineer job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,767 per year, or $57.1 per hour.
Test Engineer

Test Engineer

Open Systems Technologies Corporation

Chantilly, VA

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Open Systems Technologies is looking for a Testing Engineer to conduct testing of technically complex software applications.

Essential Functions:

  • Evaluate and understand system's requirements and capabilities. Analyze high-level requirements to derive test cases.
  • Develop test procedures to validate and verify requirements and capabilities.
  • Perform testing on complex software applications and provide associated documentation and recommendations.
  • Document workflows.
  • Support test team execution, including providing input for test reviews.

Qualifications:

  • CLEARANCE: Active TS/SCI w/CI poly required
  • 6+ years of experience testing software applications Sound understanding of, and experience with, the testing process at both the unit testing and system testing levels.
  • Experience in developing test plans/procedures, expected outcomes, and verification statements.
  • Playwright automated test experience or similar (previously used Selenium)
  • Comprehensive understanding of Agile & DevOps methodology and culture.
  • Understanding of software lifecycle management skills related to application development tasks and planning testing cycles.
  • Ability to apply in-depth knowledge of the Software Development Life Cycle to help anticipate complexities in the system.
  • Proficient in JIRA/Confluence (or equivalent) and MS Excel spreadsheets.
  • Strong oral and written communication skills.
  • B.S. or M.S. degree in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Quality Engineering, or a related technical field.

Preferred Additional Skills:

  • Active TS/SCI security clearance + CI Polygraph
  • Security+ certification
  • Experience with Java, ideally comfortable reading (not coding) Java to understand the code being tested when necessary.
  • Experience with modern web client technologies and the associated front-end to-backend interactions.
  • Experience developing/testing software using an Agile/Scrum methodology.
  • Comfortable working with aggressive timelines, in a team environment, self-starter, and ability to work independently with a willingness to learn and grow.
  • It would be beneficial for the candidate to have some background in space systems.

BENEFITS

Our company OST has been operating since 1996 and have various contracts with Government agencies. We offer a comprehensive benefit package that includes 3 weeks paid time off, 2 weeks Holiday pay, medical/dental coverage, STD, LTD, Life Insurance, AD&D, 401k with up to 4% match, and end of year profit sharing paid out in 401k.

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