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Freshman Software Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

General Application for Interns

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$14.75 - $19/hr

Engineering Intern Are you a highly motivated graduating high school student or college freshman ... Experience with software programming a plus Benefits: * Excellent growth and promotion ...

Adjunct - Engineering Instructor

Baytown, TX · On-site

$34.03 - $51.04/hr

Teach freshman and sophomore-level Engineering courses. * Qualified applicants must be committed to ... Experience with software including, but not limited to: spreadsheets, symbolic algebra packages ...

Completed at least freshman year of coursework * Strong analytical and problem-solving skills ... Familiarity with MS Office applications and basic engineering software We are searching for driven ...

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Showing results 1-20

Freshman Software Engineering information

See salary details

$63.5K

$147.5K

$205.5K

How much do freshman software engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for freshman software engineering in the United States is $147,524.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $120,000.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Freshman Software Engineering position, and why are they important?

To excel as a Freshman Software Engineer, you should have a foundational knowledge of programming languages like Python, Java, or C++, along with a basic understanding of algorithms and data structures, typically gained through a relevant degree or coursework. Familiarity with version control systems such as Git and exposure to collaborative development environments or internships are highly valued. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and a willingness to learn set standout candidates apart. These skills ensure that new engineers can quickly adapt to team workflows, contribute to real projects, and grow professionally in a dynamic tech environment.

Is it true that AI will replace software engineers?

AI is transforming software engineering by automating routine tasks and assisting in code generation, but it is unlikely to fully replace software engineers. Instead, AI tools enhance productivity, requiring engineers to focus on complex problem-solving, design, and system architecture. Continuous learning and adapting to new technologies remain essential for software engineers in this evolving environment.

What does a first year software engineer make?

A first-year software engineer typically earns between $60,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on location, company size, and industry. Entry-level salaries often include benefits such as health insurance and paid time off, and may increase with skills in programming languages like Java, Python, or C++.

What is a Freshman Software Engineering job?

A Freshman Software Engineering job is an entry-level position or internship designed for students in their first year of a software engineering or related program. It provides hands-on experience with coding, debugging, and software development processes under the guidance of experienced engineers. These roles help students apply classroom knowledge to real-world projects, develop technical skills, and build a foundation for future career opportunities.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior software engineers, especially those in high-demand fields like machine learning, cloud computing, or fintech, can earn $500,000 or more annually with bonuses and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, specialized skills, and working at large tech companies or startups with significant funding.

What kind of projects or tasks are common for someone starting as a Freshman Software Engineer?

As a Freshman Software Engineer, you will typically work on tasks such as debugging code, writing unit tests, participating in code reviews, and contributing to the development of small features or modules within larger applications. You may also assist in updating documentation and collaborating with senior developers to learn best practices. These responsibilities are designed to help you build technical proficiency while gradually taking on more complex and independent work. Teamwork is common, and you’ll often be paired with a mentor or work as part of an agile team, providing plenty of opportunities to ask questions and grow your skill set.

What is L1, L2, L3, and L4 developer?

In software engineering, L1, L2, L3, and L4 typically refer to different levels of developer experience and responsibility, with L1 being entry-level or junior developers and L4 representing senior or lead developers. These levels often indicate increasing expertise, problem-solving skills, and leadership responsibilities, and are used by companies to structure career progression and compensation. Freshman software engineering roles usually correspond to L1 or L2 levels, focusing on foundational skills and learning on the job.
What are the most commonly searched types of Freshman Software Engineering jobs? The most popular types of Freshman Software Engineering jobs are:
Infographic showing various Freshman Software Engineering job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,524 per year, or $70.9 per hour.

Optics Engineering Co-op - San Diego State University

Samtec, Inc Careers

San Diego, CA

$22/hr

Other

Retirement

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Description
Position at Samtec, Inc
Samtec, Inc., a $1B+ privately held, global electronic connector manufacturer headquartered in New Albany, Indiana, with high growth and a focus on emerging technology, is seeking engineering Co-Ops and interns for its Optical Group located in Vista, CA. This is a fast-paced environment focused on development of the Samtec FireFly and HALO optical transceiver product lines. 
 
Please only apply if you are a student currently enrolled and pursuing a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field at a local University. 
The schedule would be a minimum of twenty hours per week. Hours may vary but are flexible, ideally support is needed from M-F 8AM - 6PM. Pay is $22.00 per hour.  Co-ops are eligible to participate in our student program for tuition assistance.  They may also opt to participate in Samtec's 401k plan. 
  
Co-ops and interns will work with electrical, mechanical, optical, process, data, and software engineers within the Optical Group. The position will be responsible for completing assigned projects, building trust with team members, maintaining customer focus, as well as initiating and following up on actions taken. 
  
The ideal candidate for this position will have the ability to work with and take direction from senior engineers, and be creative, passionate, and resourceful while taking initiative to explore new solutions. The ability to work part time during the school year is highly desirable. Upcoming and recent grads are also welcome to apply. 
  
The student will be exposed to and be expected to learn the basics of many different disciplines and technologies. Depending on the student's background and interests, these may include: 
  • Rapid mechanical prototyping 
  • Thermal design, test, and analysis 
  • High speed (RF) electrical design and measurement 
  • Semi-conductor laser physics and reliability 
  • Optical laboratory test and measurement 
  • High volume manufacturing and process development 
  • Test automation and scripting 
  • Data science and engineering data analysis 
  • Software development for laboratory and manufacturing systems 
  
QUALIFICATIONS: 
  • Student pursuing a degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Optical, Process/Industrial, Computer/Software Engineering; Physics; Data Science; or related field 
  • Junior/Senior or graduate level preferred, or exceptional Freshman/Sophomore with demonstrated hobby, project, or internship experience in a related field 
  • Excellent Written and Verbal Communication skills 
  • Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work well with a team 
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills 
  • Effective time management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects 
  • Eager to gain new expertise and quick to pick up required skills 

SAMTEC, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and committed to creating a diverse environment. All employment decisions at Samtec are based in business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, pregnancy or parental status, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender and/or gender identity/expression, marital status, past or present military service, family medical history or genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable laws. Privacy Policy: https://www.samtec.com/about/legal/#privacyrightspage