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Entry Level System Engineer Jobs in Virginia Beach, VA

Amentum

Entry Level RF Engineer

Norfolk, VA · On-site

Amentum is seeking an RF Engineer to join our team providing technical and engineering support to ... One year experience with conducting, analyzing, or testing electronic systems testing or conducting ...

Pae

Entry Level RF Engineer

Norfolk, VA

Amentum is seeking an RF Engineer to join our team providing technical and engineering support to ... One year experience with conducting, analyzing, or testing electronic systems testing or conducting ...

U.S. Army

Technical Engineer (U.S. Army)

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$38K - $44K/yr

This is an entry level position, now hiring with no experience necessary where you will acquire ... Draw topographic maps and charts using Computer Aided Drafting systems and software * Attend Paid ...

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All JobsSystem Engineer JobsEntry Level System Engineer JobsEntry Level System Engineer Jobs in Virginia Beach, VA

Entry Level System Engineer information

See Virginia Beach, VA salary details

$50.8K

$120.7K

$158.5K

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

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level system engineer in Virginia Beach, VA is $120,730.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,000.00 and $149,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What qualifications do I need to be an entry level system engineer?

Entry level system engineers typically need a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. Knowledge of operating systems, networking, and basic scripting or programming skills are important, along with familiarity with tools like Linux or Windows environments. Certifications such as CompTIA A+ or Network+ can also enhance job prospects.

How to start as an entry level system engineer?

To start as an entry level system engineer, obtain a relevant bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. Gain foundational knowledge of operating systems, networking, and scripting languages, and consider earning certifications such as CompTIA Network+ or Cisco CCNA to enhance your skills. Internships or entry-level positions can provide practical experience and help build a professional network in the field.

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.

Is entry level system engineer in high demand?

Entry level system engineers are in high demand due to the increasing reliance on IT infrastructure and network systems across industries. Employers seek candidates with foundational knowledge of operating systems, networking, and troubleshooting, often requiring certifications like CompTIA or Cisco. The role offers growth opportunities as organizations expand their technical teams and upgrade their systems.

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 cities near Virginia Beach, VA are hiring for Entry Level System Engineer jobs? Cities near Virginia Beach, VA with the most Entry Level System Engineer job openings:
Entry Level System Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level System Engineer job openings in Virginia Beach, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,730 per year, or $58 per hour.

Software Engineer (Entry-Senior) - Navy Training & Simulation Systems - 28027

HII's Mission Technologies division

Virginia Beach, VA

$70K - $145K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Requisition Number: 28027 

Required Travel: 0 - 10%

Employment Type: Full Time/Salaried/Exempt

Anticipated Salary Range: $70,000.00 - $145,000.00 

Security Clearance: Secret  

Level of Experience: Mid 

This opportunity resides with Global Security (GS). Mission Technologies' Global Security (GS) group comprises live, virtual, constructive (LVC) solutions; fleet sustainment; nuclear and environmental; and Australia business.
As a trusted partner to our military customers, HII designs, develops and operates the largest LVC enterprise that prepares warfighters for cross-domain battle. With advanced technologies to enable mission readiness, HII understands that preparation requires full coordination-not readiness in piece-parts.
For more than 40 years, the U.S. Navy has entrusted HII to maintain and modernize the vast majority of its fleet. With a holistic approach to life-cycle maritime defense systems-from small watercraft to submarines, surface combatants and aircraft carriers-HII ensures a high state of readiness.
HII supports the Department of Energy's national security mission through the management and operation of its sites, as well as the safe cleanup of legacy waste across the country. HII meets clients' toughest nuclear and environmental challenges.

Leadership Mindset at HII - Mission Technologies

Leadership at HII is a mindset, not a title. Through our Leadership Capability Framework, we define how every team member contributes to our mission and culture:

  • Know & Grow Your People - Commit to learning and supporting team success.
  • Build Relationships - Communicate openly, collaborate well, and build trust.
  • Take Ownership - Deliver on commitments and take pride in your work.
  • Customer First - Focus on the mission and those we serve.
  • Shape the Future - Bring ideas, curiosity, and continuous improvement.
  • Act with Urgency - Take initiative and follow through with purpose.

These capabilities guide how all employees contribute to our shared success across Mission Technologies.

Summary

HII Mission Technologies is seeking Software Engineers across multiple experience levels (Entry through Senior) to support the design, development, and deployment of the Advanced Training Domain (ATD) System-a missioncritical U.S. Navy combat systems trainer. This team delivers highfidelity simulations that enhance fleet readiness and modernize shipboard and shore-based training.

This is an onsite, hands-on engineering role working within a secure environment alongside developers, systems engineers, and Navy operators. As part of our Integrated Training Systems group, you will help deliver software that directly improves warfighter performance. #LI-MJ1

Why This Role Matters
  • Modernizes advanced Navy training systems used fleetwide
  • Builds realworld combat system simulation capabilities
  • Supports mission readiness, national defense, and advanced training modernization
  • Offers growth across multiple levels of engineering responsibility
The following positions are available: (Role and target salary) 
  • Software Engineer I: $70,000
  • Software Engineer II: $82,500
  • Software Engineer III: $110,000
  • Software Engineer IV / Senior: $145,000

Final offers aligned to level, experience, skills, and internal equity.


Key Job Responsibilities
All Levels

Participate in Agile sprint planning, execution, and reviews. Design, develop, test, and deploy C++ and/or Java software on Linux platforms as part of the ATD system. Analyze and resolve software issues, including STRs. Create clear technical documentation such as sequence diagrams, developer notes, and code commentary. Conduct developer testing in lab environments and aboard ship as required. Support installation, integration, and system verification events with minimal travel. Collaborate with crossfunctional teams-including systems engineering, test, integration, and Navy operators-to deliver highfidelity training capabilities. Follow secure coding, configuration management, and Agile best practices throughout the software lifecycle. Teammates will also perform additional related duties as assigned to support project and organizational needs

Level Differentiators Entry-Level (Software Engineer 1)

Works under guidance to implement wellscoped features and support development tasks. Troubleshoots routine issues with assistance and contributes to documentation, code hygiene, and Agile ceremonies. Builds familiarity with ATD systems, Navy training environments, and simulation technologies. Focuses on learning, growth, and contributing reliably with limited systemlevel ownership.

Intermediate (Software Engineer 2)

Independently develops features and resolves moderately complex issues. Troubleshoots across multiple components with limited oversight and contributes to componentlevel design discussions. Supports GUI development, integration tasks, ActiveMQ/JAWS components, and lab/shipboard testing with minimal supervision.

Advanced (Software Engineer 3)

Owns subsystem development and deep troubleshooting. Leads sprint tasks and resolves complex STRs. Coordinates with multiple engineering disciplines, supports crossteam integration, and provides technical guidance to peers. Promotes coding/testing best practices and performs highercomplexity integration and testing activities autonomously.

Senior (Software Engineer 4)

Architects multicomponent C++/Java solutions and serves as a senior technical contributor. Leads integration efforts across teams, drives technical decisions, and mentors engineers at all levels. Reviews major technical products, influences systemlevel strategy, and owns significant ATD system components and roadmap direction.

Note: System ownership expectations, troubleshooting complexity, and collaboration/leadership responsibilities increase with each level.

What you must have
Education & Experience

Must have relevant experience with Bachelors in related field:

  • Software Engineer 1: Bachelor's (0 exp) OR HS + 4 yrs
  • Software Engineer 2: Bachelor's + 2 yrs OR Master's (0 yrs) OR HS + 6 yrs
  • Software Engineer 3: Bachelor's + 5 yrs OR Master's + 3 yrs OR HS + 9 yrs OR PhD or Juris Doctorate (0 yrs)
  • Software Engineer 4: Bachelor's + 9 yrs OR Master's + 7 yrs OR HS + 13 yrs OR PhD or Juris Doctorate + 4 yrs 
Technical Skills
  • Experience with C++ and/or Java development in Linux environments
  • Familiarity with Agile/Scrum processes
  • Ability to troubleshoot complex software issues
  • System ownership, troubleshooting complexity, and collaboration/leadership expectations will vary and increase based on level.
Clearance Requirements
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen
  • Must have a current or active a DoD Secret clearance
  • Ability to otain a DoD Information Assurance Technician (IAT) Level II certification or higher (e.g., Security+ CE, CCNA Security, CySA+) within 3 months of hire if not currently held.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, IT, Data Science, or related
  • Experience developing or integrating Navy training systems or simulations
  • Familiarity with ActiveMQ, JAWS, GUI development
  • Experience with Jira, GitLab, CI/CD pipelines, virtualization, or container tools
  • Experience in Navy training environments or other mission-critical systems
  • IAT Level II certification or higher (e.g., Security+ CE, CCNA Security, CySA+)
Physical Requirements
Adequate visual acuity and manual dexterity for meeting the requirements Software Engineer family.


The listed salary range for this role is intended as a good faith estimate based on the role's location, expectations, and responsibilities. When extending an offer, HII's Mission Technologies division takes a variety of factors into consideration which include, but are not limited to, the role's function and a candidate's education or training, work experience, and key skills.
Meet HII's Mission Technologies Division
Our team of more than 7,000 professionals worldwide delivers all-domain expertise and advanced technologies in service of mission partners across the globe. Mission Technologies is leading the next evolution of national defense - the data evolution - by accelerating a breadth of national security solutions for government and commercial customers. Our capabilities range from C5ISR, AI and Big Data, cyber operations and synthetic training environments to fleet sustainment, environmental remediation and the largest family of unmanned underwater vehicles in every class. Find the role that's right for you. Apply today. We look forward to meeting you.
To learn more about Mission Technologies, click here for a short video: https://vimeo.com/732533072
HII is more than a job - it's an opportunity to build a new future. We offer competitive benefits such as best-in-class medical, dental and vision plan choices; wellness resources; employee assistance programs; Savings Plan Options (401(k)); financial planning tools, life insurance; employee discounts; paid holidays and paid time off; tuition reimbursement; as well as early childhood and post-secondary education scholarships. Bonus/other non-recurrent compensation is occasionally offered for qualified positions, and if applicable to this role will be addressed by the recruiter at the screening phase of application.
Why HII
We build the world's most powerful, survivable naval ships and defense technology solutions that safeguard our seas, sky, land, space and cyber. Our workforce includes skilled tradespeople; artificial intelligence, machine learning (AI/ML) experts; engineers; technologists; scientists; logistics experts; and business administration professionals.
Recognized as one of America's top large company employers, we are a values and ethics driven organization that puts people's safety and well-being first. Regardless of your role or where you serve, at HII, you'll find a supportive and welcoming environment, competitive benefits, and valuable educational and training programs for continual career growth at every stage of your career.
Together we are working to ensure a future where everyone can be free and thrive.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or mental disability, age, or veteran status or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law.
Do You Need Assistance? 
If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to buildyourcareer@hii-co.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Reasonable accommodations are considered on a case-by-case basis. Please note that only those inquiries concerning a request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this email address. Additionally, you may also call 1-844-849-8463 for assistance. Press #3 for HII Mission Technologies.

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