1

Entry Software Engineer Jobs in Arlington, VA (NOW HIRING)

Software Engineer

Annapolis Junction, MD ยท On-site

$80K - $300K/yr

All development languages Entry - Principal Level * Active TS/SCI FSP is required The Software Engineer develops, maintains, and enhances complex and diverse software systems (e.g., processing ...

We are looking for a Software Developer with experience in building high-performing, scalable, enterprise-grade applications. You will be part of a talented software team that works on mission ...

We are looking for a Software Developer with experience in building high-performing, scalable, enterprise-grade applications. You will be part of a talented software team that works on mission ...

We are looking for a Software Developer with experience in building high-performing, scalable, enterprise-grade applications. You will be part of a talented software team that works on mission ...

M&J is seeking a Software Engineer. This role is essential to ensure the reliability, performance, and compliance of Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA)'s software and operational ...

Software Engineer

Gaithersburg, MD ยท On-site

$129 - $150/hr

Overview Software Engineer Gaithersburg, MD Are you ready to enhance your skills and build your career in a rapidly evolving business climate? Are you looking for a career where professional ...

M&J is seeking a Software Engineer. This role is essential to ensure the reliability, performance, and compliance of Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA)'s software and operational ...

M&J is seeking a Software Engineer. This role is essential to ensure the reliability, performance, and compliance of Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA)'s software and operational ...

Software Engineer

Chantilly, VA ยท On-site

$120 - $180/hr

The Software Engineer will work within an Agile development environment and collaborate with engineers, architects, and stakeholders to design, build, test, and deploy modern software solutions. The ...

New

Req ID: 41420 Summary Software Engineer Gaithersburg, MD Are you ready to enhance your skills and build your career in a rapidly evolving business climate? Are you looking for a career where ...

Software Engineer

Rockville, MD ยท On-site

$85 - $120/hr

M&J is seeking a Software Engineer. This role is essential to ensure the reliability, performance, and compliance of Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA)'s software and operational ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Entry Software Engineer information

See Arlington, VA salary details

$27.7K

$120.8K

$217.8K

How much do entry software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry software engineer in Arlington, VA is $120,831.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,900.00 and $138,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry software engineer?

Entry software engineers are professionals who have recently started their careers in software development, typically with less than two years of experience. They are responsible for writing, testing, and maintaining code under the supervision of more experienced engineers. Entry software engineers often work on smaller tasks, bug fixes, and learn industry best practices while contributing to larger projects. Their role provides a foundation for building advanced technical skills and growing into senior engineering positions.

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

To thrive as an Entry Software Engineer, you need a solid grasp of programming fundamentals, problem-solving abilities, and typically a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with languages such as Java, Python, or C++, and experience with tools like Git, integrated development environments (IDEs), and basic software development methodologies are commonly required. Strong communication, teamwork, and a willingness to learn help you collaborate effectively and adapt to evolving technical challenges. These skills ensure you can contribute to projects, work well within a team, and grow quickly in the fast-paced software industry.

What are some common challenges faced by entry software engineers when joining their first development team?

Entry software engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to large codebases, understanding team workflows, and getting comfortable with collaborative development tools like version control systems. Navigating code reviews and learning to communicate technical ideas clearly can also be new experiences. However, most teams provide onboarding resources, mentorship, and regular feedback to help new engineers integrate smoothly and grow their skills.

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

AspectEntry Software EngineerJunior Software Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in CS or related field, some internshipsBachelor's in CS or related field, internship experience helpful
Work EnvironmentTeam-based, collaborative projects, entry-level tasksSupportive team, learning-focused, entry-level coding
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, startups, corporate IT departmentsTech firms, software companies, startups
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles, career pathClarifying job responsibilities, entry-level positions

Both roles are entry-level positions in software development, often requiring similar educational backgrounds and internships. The term "Entry Software Engineer" emphasizes a broader engineering role with potential involvement in design and architecture, while "Junior Software Developer" typically focuses on coding and implementation tasks. Employers may use these titles interchangeably, but understanding the nuances helps candidates target the right opportunities.

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

Entry software engineer roles often require foundational programming skills in languages like Python, Java, or C++, which can be gained through online courses, coding bootcamps, or self-study. Building a portfolio with personal projects, contributing to open-source, and obtaining relevant certifications can help demonstrate skills to employers despite limited professional experience.

Is 25 too late to become an entry software engineer?

Entry software engineering roles typically target recent graduates or those with limited professional experience, but age is not a strict barrier. Many employers value skills, coding ability, and relevant projects over age, and individuals can start learning programming languages and building portfolios at any age to qualify for such positions.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Software Engineer jobs in Arlington, VA?

For Entry Software Engineer jobs in Arlington, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Software Engineer jobs in Arlington, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Software Engineer jobs in Arlington, VA are:

What cities near Arlington, VA are hiring for Entry Software Engineer jobs?

Cities near Arlington, VA with the most Entry Software Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Software Engineer job openings in Arlington, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,831 per year, or $58.1 per hour.

Software Engineer

Independent Software

Annapolis Junction, MD โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

What You Will Do:
At Independent Software, as a Software Engineer, you will design, develop, test, and maintain enterprise Java applications supporting mission-critical systems. You will work with modern technologies including Java, Spring Boot, RESTful APIs, relational databases, containerization, Kubernetes, and automated CI/CD pipelines.
You will participate throughout the software development lifecycle, collaborating with engineering teams to build scalable solutions, modernize existing applications, troubleshoot complex technical issues, and improve software quality and deployment reliability.
Key Responsibilities:
 

  • Design, develop, test, and maintain enterprise Java applications using Spring Boot and modern software engineering practices
  • Develop scalable RESTful APIs and backend services
  • Design, optimize, and troubleshoot relational database solutions using MariaDB and other enterprise database technologies
  • Support application modernization through containerization, Kubernetes deployments, and improvements to system architecture
  • Participate in technical design sessions, architecture discussions, code reviews, testing, and troubleshooting
  • Develop and maintain automated testing solutions
  • Build and support GitLab CI/CD pipelines to improve software quality and deployment efficiency
  • Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams throughout the software development lifecycle
  • Use Jira and Confluence to support Agile software development activities

Required Skills and Qualifications:
 
  • Experience developing enterprise applications using Java and Spring Boot or similar modern frameworks
  • Experience designing and developing RESTful APIs and backend services
  • Experience with relational databases such as MariaDB, PostgreSQL, Oracle, or similar technologies
  • Experience with container technologies such as Docker or Podman, Kubernetes, or similar application deployment platforms
  • Experience using Git-based source control and CI/CD pipelines
  • Experience with automated software testing practices
  • Experience working in Agile software development environments
  • Strong software troubleshooting, debugging, and problem-solving
  • Ability to collaborate effectively within cross-functional engineering teams

Desired Skills:
 
  • Experience developing Angular or other modern web applications
  • Experience with microservices architecture, application modernization, or cloud-native software development
  • Experience implementing GitLab CI/CD pipelines and DevSecOps practices
  • Experience with SQL performance tuning and high-volume enterprise applications
  • Experience using Jira and Confluence
  • Experience supporting enterprise software in secure or classified environments

Education and Experience:
Level 1
  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a related discipline from an accredited college or university plus twelve (12) years of relevant Software Engineering experience supporting programs and contracts of similar scope, type, and complexity; OR
  • Sixteen (16) years of relevant Software Engineering experience may be substituted for the Bachelor’s degree.

Level 2
  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a related discipline from an accredited college or university plus fourteen (14) years of relevant Software Engineering experience supporting programs and contracts of similar scope, type, and complexity; OR
  • Eighteen (18) years of relevant Software Engineering experience supporting projects with similar software processes may be substituted for the Bachelor’s degree.

Clearance Requirement:
 
  • Must possess an active TS SCI with appropriate Polygraph to be considered for this role

Why Choose Independent Software:
At Independent Software, our people are the mission. We’ve built a company around collaboration, integrity, and innovation and we make sure our team has the tools and support to grow, succeed, and thrive.
When you join us, you will:
  • Support critical national security missions that matter
  • Be part of a close-knit, employee-first culture where your voice is heard
  • Expand your skills through ongoing training, mentorship, and career development
  • Enjoy competitive compensation, generous benefits, and work-life balance


Ready to take the next step in your career? Join us and be part of something bigger.
Apply today.
We’re an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.
 

Powered by JazzHR

0Jov9oeBU3