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Entry Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$70 - $157/hr

The below job summary and responsibilities reflect the entry engineer level role. The successfully chosen candidate will be placed at a level that is commensurate with their skills and experience as ...

Entry Bridge Engineer

Helena, MT · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

Entry Bridge Engineer Job Status: Exempt-salaried Location: Join us in either Helena, MT or Bozeman, MT (Relocation assistance may be provided) TOTAL REWARDS We know work is just one part of life.

Entry Bridge Engineer

Helena, MT · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

Entry Bridge Engineer Job Status: Exempt-salaried Location: Join us in either Helena, MT or Bozeman, MT (Relocation assistance may be provided) TOTAL REWARDS We know work is just one part of life.

$55 - $75/hr

Intuitive Machines is seeking an Entry Level Design Engineer to join our team. This position will support our growing Lunar Lander Team. The applicant will be located on-site in Houston, TX. The ...

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Develops, communicates, and effects Engineering Change Requests/Authorizations, including update of drawings, and other product related documents that improve cost, quality, and delivery.

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Entry Programmer information

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How much do entry programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry programmer in the United States is $26.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry programmer?

An Entry Programmer is a beginner-level software developer responsible for writing, testing, and maintaining simple code under supervision. They typically work on basic programming tasks, fix bugs, and assist more experienced developers as they learn industry practices. Entry Programmers are usually recent graduates or individuals new to the programming field, and this role helps them gain practical experience and develop their coding skills for more advanced positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry programmer?

To thrive as an Entry Programmer, you need a solid understanding of programming fundamentals, problem-solving skills, and typically a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with coding languages such as Python, Java, or C++, and experience with version control systems like Git, are commonly required. Attention to detail, eagerness to learn, and effective communication help entry programmers collaborate and adapt in team environments. These skills and qualities are essential for efficiently writing, debugging, and maintaining code while supporting project goals.

What types of projects can an entry programmer expect to work on during their first year?

As an Entry Programmer, you'll typically start by working on smaller tasks within larger projects, such as fixing bugs, writing basic code modules, or assisting with testing and documentation. You'll collaborate closely with more experienced developers and may participate in code reviews, which helps you learn best practices and team workflows. Over time, you'll gradually be given more responsibility, such as developing features or maintaining portions of the codebase, allowing you to build technical skills and gain exposure to project lifecycles.

What is the difference between Entry Programmer vs Junior Software Developer?

AspectEntry ProgrammerJunior Software Developer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate degree, some programming knowledgeBachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field, basic coding skills
Work EnvironmentEntry-level tasks, supervised, often in IT or software companiesDeveloping software, debugging, collaborating with teams in tech firms
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in tech, finance, and government sectors for entry rolesWidely used in software development companies and tech startups

The main difference between an Entry Programmer and a Junior Software Developer lies in their experience level and educational background. Entry Programmers typically have less formal education and work under close supervision, focusing on basic coding tasks. Junior Software Developers usually hold a bachelor's degree and participate in more complex development activities, often with more independence. Both roles serve as stepping stones in a programming career, with the Junior Software Developer position generally requiring more skills and experience.

How to get a job as an entry programmer with no experience?

Entry programmers can improve their chances by learning programming languages such as Python or Java, building a portfolio of personal projects, and gaining familiarity with development tools like Git. Internships, coding bootcamps, and online courses can also provide practical skills and certifications that demonstrate capability to employers.
More about Entry Programmer jobs

What cities are hiring for Entry Programmer jobs?

Cities with the most Entry Programmer job openings:

What states have the most Entry Programmer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Entry Programmer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Entry Programmer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 10% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,594 per year, or $26.7 per hour.

Distribution Planning Engineer (Entry, Staff, Senior, or Principal)

Xcel Energy

Osseo, MN • On-site

$81K - $106K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Xcel Energy rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 90 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

22nd of 53 rated energy and utility


Job description

Are you looking for an exciting job where you can put your skills and talents to work at a company you can feel proud to be a part of? Do you want a workplace that will challenge you and offer you opportunities to learn and grow? A position at Xcel Energy could be just what you're looking for.

The below job summary and responsibilities reflect the entry engineer level role. The successfully chosen candidate will be placed at a level that is commensurate with their skills and experience as different skills and/or experience will be required at the staff, senior and principal engineer levels.

Position Summary
The Distribution Planning Engineer is responsible for developing and implementing near- and mid-term distribution system plans that ensure the safe, reliable, and cost-effective delivery of electric service. This role conducts distribution system analyses, including power flow studies, hosting capacity assessments, capacity checks, and load forecasting to identify infrastructure needs and support system growth. The engineer develops detailed execution plans for capacity expansion projects, evaluates non-wires alternatives and other innovative grid solutions, and collaborates with account management, economic development, community relations, and regulatory teams. Responsibilities also include supporting distribution planning regulatory filings, maintaining design philosophy documents and planning standards, identifying distributed energy resource integration opportunities, and providing technical recommendations that align operational system needs with long-term business and customer objectives.


This position is designed to develop technical expertise in a particular area of specialty. Performs work that involves conventional types of plans, investigations, surveys, structures or equipment with relatively few complex features for which there are precedents. Activities are of limited scope requiring knowledge of principles and techniques commonly employed in the specific narrow area of assignments. May lead small-medium, non-critical projects and/or provide field oversight of critical projects under direction of higher level engineer or supervisor. Work is reviewed for soundness of technical judgment, overall adequacy and accuracy. As proficiency is gained, may work on portions of larger projects. Works under supervision and follows established procedures. May supervise or coordinate the work of interns, drafters, craft personnel, technicians and/or others.
Essential Responsibilities

  • Uses and applies technical standards, principles, theories, concepts, and techniques to perform activities/assignments of limited scope.
  • Supports the development of technical documentation (including but not limited to designs, testing, calculations, reports, standards, etc.) Utilizes and may assist with the development of procedures.
  • Provides ongoing technical support for project activities within areas such as Operations, Maintenance, Testing/diagnostics, Regulatory, etc. May provide field engineering oversight for activities such as commissioning, testing, inspections etc. under direct supervision.
  • Coordinates/leads projects or portions of projects (including phases such as research, design, equipment selection, procurement support, installation and commissioning), under the direction of a higher level engineer or supervisor.
  • Under the direction of a higher level engineer/supervisor, supports bid/evaluation processes by performing basic analysis and calculations on existing documentation and materials that support the preparation of bid documents. In completing segments of technical evaluations for proposals may need to effectively communicate with other business areas of the company following appropriate processes.
  • Effectively exchanges information in all formats, on matters having a wide range of importance and complexity both inter-organizationally and with outside customer/vendors.
  • May coordinate the work of interns, drafters, technicians, and/or others and provides guidance and mentoring to less experienced engineers. Responsible for continuous self development of technical skills and competencies.
  • May perform activities such as budgeting, estimating, forecasting, accounting, work order management, in support of engineering projects.

Entry Engineer Level (Salary Range: $70,000-$86,667)

Minimum Requirements

  • Required bachelor's degree in engineering from ABET accredited curriculum

  • 0+ years relevant engineering experience. Ability to demonstrate the unique technical skills and core competencies for this engineering level established & documented by the organization.

  • Preferred EIT/FE (Engineer in Training/Fundamentals of Engineering) preferred.

Staff Engineer Level (Salary Range: $81,800-$106,267)

Minimum Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering from ABET accredited

  • 2+year's relevant engineering experience. Demonstrated broad knowledge & proficiency in specialty area, knowledge of related specialties, & general knowledge of other related disciplines.

  • Ability to demonstrate the unique technical skills & core competencies for this engineering level established & documented by the organization.

  • EIT/FE (Engineer in Training/Fundamentals of Engineering) strongly preferred.

Senior Engineer Level (Salary Range: $97,000-$129,267)

Minimum Requirements

  • Required bachelor's degree in engineering from ABET accredited curriculum

  • 5+ years relevant engineering experience with EIT/FE (Engineer in Training/Fundamentals of Engineering) required; 7+ years relevant engineering experience without EIT/FE.

  • Ability to demonstrate the unique technical skills and core competencies for this engineering level established & documented by the organization.

  • Preferred PE (Professional Engineer) registration may be required depending on business need.

Principal Engineer (Salary Range: $112,000-$156,600)

Minimum Requirements

  • Required bachelor's degree in engineering from ABET accredited curriculum

  • 9+ years relevant engineering experience with PE (Professional Engineer) registration required; 15+ years relevant engineering experience without PE.

  • Ability to demonstrate the unique technical skills and core competencies for this engineering level established & documented by the organization

Preferred

  • Experience in distribution planning, distribution/substation design, DER interconnection, or distribution operations
  • Experience with LoadSEER or other load forecasting tools
  • Experience with CYME or other power flow tools
  • Familiarity with utility regulatory processes and filings

As a leading combination electricity and natural gas energy company, Xcel Energy offers a comprehensive portfolio of energy-related products and services to 3.4 million electricity and 1.9 million natural gas customers across eight Western and Midwestern states. At Xcel Energy, we strive to be the preferred and trusted provider of the energy our customers need. If you're ready to be a part of something big, we invite you to join our team.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Individuals with a disability who need an accommodation to apply please contact us at recruiting@xcelenergy.com.

Non-BargainingThe anticipated starting base pay for this position is: $70,000.00 to $156,600.00 per yearThis position is eligible for the following benefits: Annual Incentive Program, Medical/Pharmacy Plan, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Dependent Care Reimbursement Account, Health Care Reimbursement Account, Health Savings Account (HSA) (if enrolled in eligible health plan), Limited-Purpose FSA (if enrolled in eligible health plan and HSA), Transportation Reimbursement Account, Short-term disability (STD), Long-term disability (LTD), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Fitness Center Reimbursement (if enrolled in eligible health plan), Tuition reimbursement, Transit programs, Employee recognition program, Pension, 401(k) plan, Paid time off (PTO), Holidays, Volunteer Paid Time Off (VPTO), Parental Leave

Benefit plans are subject to change and Xcel Energy has the right to end, suspend, or amend any of its plans, at any time, in whole or in part.

In any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information including but not limited to dates of school attendance and graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.

Deadline to Apply: 09/03/26

EEO is the Law |EEO is the Law Supplement | Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination | Equal Opportunity Policy (PDF) | Employee Rights (PDF)

All Xcel Energy employees and contractors share responsibility for protecting the company's information and systems by adhering to cybersecurity policies, standards, and best practices, recognizing that cybersecurity is everyone's responsibility.

ACCESSIBILITY STATEMENT

Xcel Energy endeavors to make https://www.xcelenergy.com/ accessible to any and all users. If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact Xcel Energy Talent Acquisition at recruiting@xcelenergy.com. This contact information is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.


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About Xcel Energy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Xcel Energy is a prominent electricity and natural gas service provider serving multiple states in the United States, including Colorado, Michigan, Minnesota, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, Texas, and Wisconsin. Our commitment revolves around delivering essential services to our valued customers. As a trailblazer in the industry, we were the first major US electricity provider with a visionary goal to achieve 100% carbon-free electricity by 2050 and an ambitious 80% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030, based on 2005 levels. Through innovative electric vehicle initiatives, we actively contribute to carbon reduction not only in our electricity generation but also in the transportation sector within the states we operate. Simultaneously, we remain devoted to ensuring cost-effectiveness for our customers by implementing advanced electricity rates and energy efficiency programs.

Industry

Utilities

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Minneapolis, MN, US

Year founded

1909