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Entry Level System Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

You will design, implement, and configure automation systems, and/or write custom systems. We ... success! Entry Level Position: College Graduate - 2 years experience RoviSys offers a broad ...

Dewberry is currently seeking an Entry Level Site/Civil Engineer to join our Site/Civil department ... Site/civil development including grading design, roadway design, storm water management systems ...

Dewberry is currently seeking an Entry Level Site/Civil Engineer to join our Site/Civil department ... Site/civil development including grading design, roadway design, storm water management systems ...

Dewberry is currently seeking an Entry Level Site/Civil Engineer to join our Site/Civil department ... Site/civil development including grading design, roadway design, storm water management systems ...

You will design, implement, and configure automation systems, and/or write custom systems. We ... Responsibilities Entry Level Position: College Graduate - 2 years experience RoviSys offers a broad ...

Entry Level Transportation Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$76K - $101K/yr

Dewberry is seeking Entry Level Transportation Engineers to join our Transportation Group in our ... drainage systems, erosion and sediment control, development of maintenance and protection of ...

Entry Level Transportation Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$76K - $101K/yr

Dewberry is seeking Entry Level Transportation Engineers to join our Transportation Group in our ... drainage systems, erosion and sediment control, development of maintenance and protection of ...

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Entry Level System Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$60.6K

$144.1K

$189.1K

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

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level system engineer in Washington is $144,083.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $111,000.00 and $177,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level System Engineer, a solid grounding in computer science, networking fundamentals, and operating systems is essential, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with tools like Linux, Windows Server, scripting languages (such as Python or Bash), and basic cloud platforms, as well as certifications like CompTIA Network+ or Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals, is typically expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help individuals excel in team environments and troubleshoot issues efficiently. These skills and qualities are critical for maintaining system reliability, supporting IT infrastructure, and contributing to organizational success.

What is an Entry Level System Engineer?

An Entry Level System Engineer is a professional who assists in designing, implementing, and maintaining computer systems and networks for organizations. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers, helping to resolve technical issues, monitor system performance, and ensure the security and reliability of IT infrastructure. Entry Level System Engineers often perform routine tasks such as software installations, updates, troubleshooting, and documenting system configurations. This role serves as a starting point for a career in systems engineering, providing foundational experience in IT operations and support.

What are some typical challenges entry-level system engineers face when transitioning from academic projects to real-world environments?

Entry-level system engineers often find that real-world projects involve more complex and interconnected systems than academic assignments. They may encounter challenges such as navigating legacy infrastructure, adhering to strict security protocols, and collaborating with cross-functional teams. Additionally, prioritizing tasks and troubleshooting under time constraints are common hurdles. However, active communication and a willingness to learn from senior engineers can help new hires adapt quickly and grow in the role.

What is the difference between Entry Level System Engineer vs Network Technician?

AspectEntry Level System EngineerNetwork Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science or related field; certifications like CompTIA A+ or Network+Associate's degree or technical certification; CompTIA A+ often preferred
Work EnvironmentDesigning, implementing, and maintaining IT systems; often in office or data centersInstalling, troubleshooting, and repairing network hardware; on-site or helpdesk settings
Employer & Industry UsageIT departments, tech companies, large organizationsTelecom providers, ISPs, corporate IT support

While both roles involve technical skills and certifications like CompTIA A+, Entry Level System Engineers focus on system design and integration, whereas Network Technicians primarily handle network hardware and troubleshooting. The roles often overlap but differ in scope and responsibilities within IT infrastructure.

What are the most commonly searched types of System Engineer jobs in Washington? The most popular types of System Engineer jobs in Washington are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level System Engineer job openings in Washington as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 2% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $144,083 per year, or $69.3 per hour.
Entry-Level Java Developer/Automation Tester

Entry-Level Java Developer/Automation Tester

SAIC

Ashburn, VA • On-site

Full-time

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


SAIC rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 78 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

70th of 203 rated it services


Job description

Job ID: 2613418

Location: Ashburn, VA, US

Date Posted: 2026-06-05

Category: Software

Subcategory: SW Engineer

Schedule: Full-Time

Shift: Day Job

Travel: No

Minimum Clearance Required: None

Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: Public Trust

Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE


Description

SAIC is currently seeking a motivated and energetic Java/JEE Developer (Entry Level) to join our team to begin an exciting and challenging career in Ashburn, VA.

This position starts in an automation tester role for the first 12-18 months of employment (developing automation test cases using Java to verify the processing of incoming and outgoing messages and storing the end state data in the database). This position will be 100% on-site for the first year of employment.

The Java Developer will participate in the system architecture design, systems engineering, development, integration testing and validation, and all aspects of the software life-cycle (requirements to design to implementation to test) for a browser-based application implemented using Java and backend web services. The candidate will be responsible for developing and testing Java code as dictated by project requirement.

Job Responsibilities

  • Design, develop, and implement Micro Service Architecture JEE software applications.
  • Use modern software engineering tools including Eclipse, Gitlab, and Atlassian Suites for ticketing and documentation, development, and testing the software.
  • Write automation test scripts using Java.
  • Generating test data and performing Data Validation by writing SQL queries.
  • Work with users in an Agile development approach to understand and document requirements in JIRA, then elicit feedback and refine solution through demonstrations.
  • Present the solution at formal and informal design reviews, and document the design according to the Government’s system lifecycle methodology.

Qualifications

Required Skills and Experience

  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or related field with 0+ years of technical experience.
  • Experience with Java & Java Frameworks (design and software development experience including designing, programming, and documenting large-scale software systems.)
  • Experience with:
    • Spring Boot.
    • AWS Cloud.
    • Developing front-end using Angular and React.
  • Javascript.
  • IBM MQ/AWS SQS.
  • Oracle/PostgresDB.
  • Write SQL queries with clear understanding of relational databases.
  • Ability to generate test data and perform validation.
  • Experience with NoSQL DBs like MongoDB, DocumentDB, DynamoDB etc.

Desired Skills and Experience

  • Experience with Cloud Migration.
  • AWS Lambda.
  • Dynatrace.
  • Docker.
  • Kubernetes.
  • JEE Server experience (Weblogic\Websphere\JBOSS\etc.)
  • Jenkins.
  • Experience writing their own automation scripts.
  • Selenium.
  • First-hand experience working with large project teams (working with the Federal Government a strong plus.)
  • Demonstrated ability to think critically and creatively to develop innovative solutions to software problems.
  • Ability to develop and maintain components with stringent performance requirements.
  • Agile development experience a plus.
  • Master’s degree in Computer Science or related field.

Customer Requirements

  • Clearance – Ability to obtain and hold a public trust position and favorable suitability based on a CBP Background Investigation.
  • Citizenship – Must be a US Citizen.
  • Location – This position will require on-site work in Ashburn, VA 5 days per week for the first year of employment. All candidates must be within the GWA/commutable area.


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