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Jr Software Engineer Jobs in Salinas, CA (NOW HIRING)

Jr. .NET developer

Monterey, CA · On-site

$74K - $96K/yr

... software solutions to a diverse array of business concerns worldwide. Position : Jr. .NET developer ... Location : Monterey, CA Job Type: 12+ months to full time : Experience with the agile development ...

Jr. .NET developer

Monterey, CA · On-site

$74K - $96K/yr

... software solutions to a diverse array of business concerns worldwide. Position : Jr. .NET developer ... Location : Monterey, CA Job Type: 12+ months to full time : • • Experience with the agile ...

Jr Software Engineer information

See Salinas, CA salary details

$50K

$101.6K

$152.6K

How much do jr software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for jr software engineer in Salinas, CA is $101,576.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,400.00 and $102,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Jr software engineer?

Jr Software Engineers are entry-level professionals who assist in designing, developing, and maintaining software applications under the guidance of more experienced engineers. They typically handle coding tasks, debugging, and testing, while learning industry practices and tools on the job. This role is ideal for recent graduates or those new to the field, providing valuable hands-on experience and opportunities for skill development. Jr Software Engineers often work as part of a larger development team and contribute to various phases of the software development lifecycle.

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

To thrive as a Jr Software Engineer, you need a solid understanding of programming languages (such as Java, Python, or JavaScript), basic software development principles, and a relevant degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, integrated development environments (IDEs), and basic debugging tools is commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, a willingness to learn, and effective teamwork set excellent junior engineers apart. These competencies are essential for contributing to development projects, adapting to evolving technologies, and collaborating efficiently in a technical environment.

What are some common challenges faced by Jr software engineers when starting out, and how can they overcome them?

Jr Software Engineers often encounter challenges such as understanding large codebases, adapting to new development tools, and collaborating effectively within a team. It's common to feel overwhelmed at first, but seeking mentorship from senior engineers, actively participating in code reviews, and dedicating time to learn the team's workflow can help smooth the transition. Asking questions and embracing feedback are crucial for rapid learning and building confidence in the role.

What cities near Salinas, CA are hiring for Jr Software Engineer jobs?

Cities near Salinas, CA with the most Jr Software Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Jr Software Engineer job openings in Salinas, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,576 per year, or $48.8 per hour.

Software Developer - Journeyman / Operations Research Software Engineer

Mks2, Llc

Monterey, CA • On-site

$127 - $173/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Software Developer – Journeyman / Operations Research Software Engineer

Jul 24, 2026

Government IT Division

Monterey, California, United States

MKS2 Technologies, LLC, an award-winning high growth small business, creates innovative and customer‑centric technology solutions in the areas of Cyber Security, Instructional Design and Training, Software Engineering and IT Support Services to improve the security and well‑being of our clients. Our commitment to excellence and our “Mission First” orientation has resulted in steady growth and an expanding client base across government agencies. We have employees nationwide and for the past three consecutive years were named one of the fastest growing Veteran‑owned companies in the nation. Please take a moment to browse through our website and learn more about what it means to serve with MKS2.

Software Developer – Journeyman / Operations Research Software Engineer

Location: Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey, CA / Remote from contractor facilities, as appropriate
Clearance Required: U.S. Citizenship Required
Employment Type: Full-Time
Salary Range: $143,000-$160,000

Position Overview

MKS2 is seeking a highly skilled Software Developer – Journeyman / Operations Research Software Engineer to support modernization of the Naval Postgraduate School Replenishment at Sea Planner (RASP), a government‑owned software platform used for real‑world Navy logistics planning, budgeting, and operational decision support.

This position will develop, maintain, and enhance optimization code, web‑based interfaces, Excel/VBA tools, and Microsoft Office 365‑enabled capabilities that support Navy replenishment‑at‑sea operations, multi‑tier logistics modeling, consolidation event planning, and operational scenario development.

The ideal candidate will bring strong experience in Python, Pyomo, mathematical optimization, Navy logistics operations, and software engineering best practices, with the ability to translate complex operational requirements into professionally tested and executable software solutions.

Key Responsibilities
  • Develop, maintain, and enhance RASP software using Python, Pyomo, GAMS, and related open‑source or optimization environments.
  • Evaluate and support integration of advanced optimization tools, including NVIDIA cuOpt, where appropriate.
  • Develop and deploy an Excel/VBA front‑end to support local RASP installations.
  • Support transition of RASP capabilities into Microsoft Office 365 environments.
  • Design, develop, and deploy web‑based RASP user interfaces within Naval Postgraduate School‑hosted computing environments.
  • Enhance RASP to support multi‑tier logistics modeling, consolidation events, operational planning workflows, and replenishment‑at‑sea decision support.
  • Maintain and update interfaces between RASP and other funded Navy programs that align with RASP objectives.
  • Translate logistics, optimization, and user‑interface requirements into executable, documented, and professionally tested software solutions.
  • Produce fully documented code, comments, repositories, technical reports, test results, benchmark outputs, and open‑source component documentation.
  • Validate benchmarked outputs, minimize processing lag, identify defects, and troubleshoot software performance issues.
  • Support user acceptance testing, stakeholder feedback, and iterative software improvements.
  • Develop operational scenarios and provide technical support to NPS faculty and student research efforts.
  • Ensure all work complies with CUI, OPSEC, and government intellectual‑property requirements.
Required QualificationsEducation
  • Master of Science degree required.
  • Degree requirement may be waived for candidates with ten (10) years of at‑sea replenishment experience and strong evidence of advanced mathematical modeling skills.
Experience
  • Minimum five (5) years of experience with Python, Pyomo, and other open‑source software systems.
  • Minimum five (5) years supporting Department of the Navy logistics commands in replenishment‑at‑sea operations.
  • Experience supporting operational analysis, scheduling improvement recommendations, and participation in wargames, exercises, or operations.
  • Minimum five (5) years developing or supporting Python web‑server environments.
  • Demonstrated experience translating logistics, optimization, and user‑interface requirements into executable, professionally tested software solutions.
  • U.S. citizenship is required.
Desired Qualifications
  • Experience with GAMS, Python/Pyomo optimization models, and advanced optimization tools such as NVIDIA cuOpt.
  • Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office, Excel, Visual Basic for Applications (VBA), and Office 365 interface development.
  • Experience developing web‑based user interfaces and deploying software in hosted server environments.
  • Knowledge of mathematical optimization, multi‑tier logistics modeling, and consolidation event planning.
  • Strong software documentation, code repository management, testing, benchmarking, troubleshooting, and operational scenario‑development skills.
  • Experience supporting Navy logistics, operational research, maritime planning, or replenishment‑at‑sea mission areas.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Strong understanding of mathematical optimization, logistics modeling, and operational decision‑support tools.
  • Proficiency developing Python‑based software solutions in structured, professional software environments.
  • Ability to work with Pyomo, GAMS, and related optimization frameworks.
  • Strong understanding of Python web‑server environments and hosted application deployment.
  • Ability to develop intuitive user interfaces for technical and operational users.
  • Advanced Excel, VBA, and Office 365 development skills.
  • Strong technical documentation, software testing, benchmarking, and troubleshooting abilities.
  • Ability to collaborate with government stakeholders, faculty, researchers, students, and technical teams.
  • Strong analytical mindset with the ability to translate Navy logistics requirements into practical software capabilities.
  • Ability to work independently while supporting complex software modernization objectives.
  • Work may be performed at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, CA or remotely from contractor facilities, as appropriate.
  • Supports government‑owned software modernization efforts and Navy logistics decision‑support tools.
  • Requires close coordination with NPS faculty, student researchers, Navy stakeholders, and technical development teams.
  • Must comply with CUI, OPSEC, and applicable government intellectual‑property requirements.
Why Join MKS2

At MKS2, we support critical defense missions by delivering innovative technology, operational analysis, and software modernization solutions. Our teams work alongside government partners to improve mission readiness, operational planning, and decision‑support capabilities across the Department of Defense.

Diversity creates a healthier atmosphere: MKS2 Technologies is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity /Affirmative Action employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.

MKS2 Technologies, LLC, an award‑winning high growth small business, creates innovative and customer‑centric technology solutions in the areas of Cyber Security, Instructional Design and Training, Software Engineering and IT Support Services to improve the security...

MKS2 Technologies, LLC, an award‑winning high growth small business, creates innovative and customer‑centric technology solutions in the areas of Cyber Security, Instructional Design and Training, Software Engineering and IT Support Services to improve the security...

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