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Entry Software Engineer Jobs in Columbia, MD (NOW HIRING)

The Software Engineer designs, develops, tests, deploys, documents, maintains, and enhances complex and diverse software systems based upon documented requirements. These systems might include, but ...

Software Engineer LOCATION Annapolis Junction, MD 20701 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this position requires full U.S. Citizenship) KEY SUMMARY We are seeking a talented and motivated ...

The Software Engineer will leverage their strong technical background and knowledge to design, develop, and maintain complex software systems while ensuring all functional and performance ...

Software Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$105K - $150K/yr

Our Software Engineers are at the forefront of defense technology, crafting high-impact, cutting-edge solutions that redefine innovation. We are looking for experienced Software Engineers who will ...

Software Engineer

Annapolis Junction, MD · On-site

$57.70 - $91.35/hr

Job Title Software Engineer Overview EverWatch is a government solutions company providing advanced defense, intelligence, and deployed support to our country's most critical missions. We are a full ...

Software Engineer LOCATION Tysons, VA 22182 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this position requires full U.S. Citizenship) KEY SUMMARY We are seeking a talented and motivated Software Engineer ...

The Software Engineer will leverage their strong technical background and knowledge to design, develop, and maintain complex software systems while ensuring all functional and performance ...

The Software Engineer will analyze user requirements, develop software solutions, and advocate for automation in system processes. Responsibilities : • Drive next generation PKI architecture ...

Software Engineer

Hanover, MD · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

This individual will collaborate with software, systems, and hardware engineers to develop, integrate, test, and maintain scalable, highly available mission systems. This role is based in Hanover ...

The Software Engineer will leverage their strong technical background and knowledge to design, develop, and maintain complex software systems while ensuring all functional and performance ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Software Engineer information

See Columbia, MD salary details

$23.6K

$103.2K

$186K

How much do entry software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry software engineer in Columbia, MD is $103,220.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,000.00 and $118,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 your abilities to employers despite limited experience.

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 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.

Is 25 too late to become an entry software engineer?

Entry software engineering roles typically require foundational programming skills and sometimes a degree or coding bootcamp completion. Age is not a barrier; many successful software engineers start later in life and bring valuable experience to the field.

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.

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 cities near Columbia, MD are hiring for Entry Software Engineer jobs? Cities near Columbia, MD with the most Entry Software Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Software Engineer job openings in Columbia, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,220 per year, or $49.6 per hour.

Software Engineer

Fuse Engineering LLC

Annapolis Junction, MD • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Description

**A SECURITY CLEARANCE AND POLYGRAPH ARE REQUIRED

  •  The Software Engineer designs, develops, tests, deploys, documents, maintains, and enhances complex and diverse software systems based upon documented requirements. These systems might include, but are not limited to, processing intensive analytics, novel algorithm development, manipulation of extremely large data sets, real-time systems, business management information systems, and systems which incorporate data repositories, data transport services, and  application and systems development and monitoring. Works individually or as part of a team. Reviews and tests software components for adherence to the design requirements and documents test results. Resolves software problem reports. Utilizes software development and software design methodologies appropriate to the development environment. Provides specific input to the software components of system design to include hardware/software trade-offs, software reuse, use of Open Source Software (OSS) and/or Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) Government Off-The-Shelf (GOTS) software in place of new development, and requirements analysis and synthesis from system level to individual software components. Experience developing in UNIX. Ability to perform shell scripting. Working knowledge of Configuration Management (CM) tools and Web Services implementation. 

Requirements

  • Master's degree in Computer Science or related discipline from an accredited college or university, plus three (3) years of experience as a SWE, in programs and contracts of similar scope, type, and complexity.

OR

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related discipline from an accredited college or university, plus five (5) years of experience as a SWE, in programs and contracts of similar scope, type, and complexity

OR

  • Seven (7) years of experience as a SWE, in programs and contracts of similar scope, type, and complexity.

Task Description

The Software Engineer shall be responsible for software development activities for a tiered Zero-touch provisioning (ZTP) and infrastructure automation (IA) solution for the bring-up and hands-off automation of complex High Performance Computing Systems. Software development activities include requirements analysis, design, implementation, testing, and sustainment. The primary focus is on integrating COTS and FOSS products, packages, and libraries. The Software Engineer must have a demonstrated understanding of the software development lifecycle.


Required Skills

  • Experience using the Unix CLI
  • Experience with scripting using Bash/Python
  • Experience developing with multiple programming languages such as C, Java, and Python in a Unix environment
  • Experience with software frameworks used for searching, monitoring, and analyzing big data such as Splunk and Elastic Stack 
  • Experience with SQL technologies such as MySQL, MariaDB, and PostgreSQL
  • Experience with NoSQL technologies such as MongoDB and Elasticsearch
  • Experience with containerization technologies such as Docker
  • Experience with CI/CD principles, methodologies, and tools such as GitLab CI and Jenkins
  • Experience with IaC (Infrastructure as Code) principles and automation tools such as
    Ansible, SaltStack, and Terraform 
  • Experience with designing, implementing, and using REST and/or RPC APIs 

Desired Skills

  • Experience with Messaging Frameworks such as Kafka, ActiveMQ, and RabbitMQ 


EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER VETERANS DISABLED