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Junior Software Developer Jobs in Santa Maria, CA

Create and conduct in-house testing and development of equipment and software * Obtain and evaluate ... The ability to mentor junior engineers and technicians on electrical systems * Familiarity with ...

... junior administrators, coordinating with cybersecurity, engineering, CST, and mission teams, and ... lifecycles, and software license renewals to ensure accurate accountability and resource ...

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Junior Software Developer information

See Santa Maria, CA salary details

$24.6K

$91.2K

$140.9K

How much do junior software developer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior software developer in Santa Maria, CA is $91,203.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,700.00 and $89,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a junior software developer do?

A junior software developer works on a development team writing and maintaining code for computer applications. As a junior software developer, your primary responsibilities are to learn the codebase, work on small bug fixes, and participate in paired programming with mid-level and senior developers. Junior software developers are entry-level positions, but as you gain experience and build up your programming skills, you will start to take on larger projects. Your job duties include attending and contributing to development team meetings, troubleshooting, patching computer code, and collaborating with other developers to create applications.

What does a junior software developer do?

A Junior Software Developer is an entry-level professional who assists in designing, coding, testing, and maintaining software applications. They typically work under the supervision of more experienced developers and contribute to various stages of the software development lifecycle. Their responsibilities often include writing basic code, debugging, collaborating with team members, and learning new technologies to improve their skills. This role is a great starting point for individuals looking to build a career in software development.

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

To thrive as a Junior Software Developer, you need proficiency in programming languages (such as Python, Java, or JavaScript), algorithms, and problem-solving, often supported by a relevant degree or coding bootcamp experience. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, basic knowledge of databases, and experience with development frameworks are valuable technical assets. Strong communication, teamwork, and a willingness to learn help you adapt and contribute effectively in collaborative environments. These skills and qualities are essential for delivering reliable code, supporting team goals, and growing in a fast-evolving tech landscape.

What are some typical challenges a junior software developer might face when starting out, and how can they overcome them?

Junior Software Developers often encounter challenges such as understanding large codebases, managing their time effectively between learning and delivering tasks, and adapting to new development tools or frameworks. To overcome these hurdles, it's helpful to actively seek guidance from more experienced team members, participate in code reviews, and make consistent use of documentation. Regular communication within the team and a willingness to ask questions can significantly speed up the learning process and help build confidence in your role.

How much money do junior software developers make?

Junior software developers typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on location, industry, and skills. Entry-level roles often require knowledge of programming languages like Java, Python, or JavaScript, and familiarity with development tools and frameworks.

How to get a junior software developer job with no experience?

To secure a junior software developer position with no experience, focus on building a portfolio through personal projects, contribute to open-source code, and learn relevant programming languages like Python or JavaScript. Gaining familiarity with version control tools such as Git and completing online courses or certifications can also improve your chances. Internships or apprenticeships can provide practical experience and industry exposure.

What are the most commonly searched types of Software Developer jobs in Santa Maria, CA?

The most popular types of Software Developer jobs in Santa Maria, CA are:

What cities near Santa Maria, CA are hiring for Junior Software Developer jobs?

Cities near Santa Maria, CA with the most Junior Software Developer job openings:

Infographic showing various Junior Software Developer job openings in Santa Maria, 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 $91,203 per year, or $43.8 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Firefly Aerospace rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

65th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

ABOUT FIREFLY AEROSPACE

Firefly Aerospace is a space and defense technology company on a mission to reliably and repeatedly launch, land, and operate space systems from Earth to the Moon and beyond. As the partner of choice for critical space missions, Firefly is the first commercial company to launch a satellite to orbit with 24-hour notice and the first company to achieve a successful Moon landing. Headquartered in north Austin, Texas, Firefly is looking for passionate, hardworking innovators to join our team and help fuel our successful trajectory into space.

SUMMARY

Firefly Controls and Instrumentation Engineers on the Launch Team leverage their creative background and expertise to design data acquisition, controls, and automation systems used to support integration, test, and launch of Firefly vehicles. Controls and Instrumentation Engineers are responsible for the design, fabrication, installation, and maintenance of electrical systems for the Firefly launch team and must apply knowledge of electronic, mechanical, and fluid transport principles to ensure the communication of data is optimally configured. You will have full ownership of your project from the initial concept through all phases of project development. Additionally EGSE Launch Engineers function as a launch operators to support the testing and launch of the Alpha rocket, leveraging succinct communication skills in a fast paced team environment to achieve payload delivery to orbit.

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Design data and control systems for the launch site including data and control I/O diagrams, instrument and control cable schedules, instrument loop diagrams, junction box wiring diagrams, control panel layout and wiring diagrams.
  • Create and conduct in-house testing and development of equipment and software
  • Obtain and evaluate vendor quotations for all required instrumentation and electrical equipment
  • Work with launch personnel in performing check outs, commissioning, and calibration of pad electrical systems
  • Design, develop, and test controls, communications, human-machine interface, and PLC systems for equipment involving electrical, mechanical, and fluid systems
  • Work with operations team to ensure compliance with all regulatory and safety requirements, timely build of equipment, and cost efficiency
  • Manage all aspects of controls and data acquisition installation, including design, personnel training, engineering support to launch technicians, and equipment commissioning
  • Performs launch site checkouts and support launch day operations

QUALIFICATIONS

Required

  • Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, aerospace engineering or related engineering discipline
  • 1-3 years of professional experience with data acquisition and control systems for Aerospace ground systems, Aerospace vehicle systems, Food and Beverage, or Oil and Gas facilities
  • Ability to create process flow diagrams (P&IDs, schematics, cause & effect chart, control narrative, instrument index)
  • Familiarity with NFPA, NEC, UL and ISA codes and electrical codes and requirements
  • Ability to assist in building of panels and electrical harnessing based off drawings
  • Proficiency in programming/configuring PLCs and HMI systems across multiple platforms
  • Experience with National Instrument Measurement & Automation Explorer (MAX) for configuring and troubleshooting devices for use with LabView
  • Working knowledge of multiple bus architectures (PCI/PCIe, PXI/PXIe, GPIB, Serial, USB, etc.) and data communication technologies
  • Experience with hazard and risk analysis tools (i.e., FMEA, FMECA, FHA, HAZOP, etc.)

Desired

  • Master’s degree in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer engineering, aerospace engineering or related engineering discipline
  • 3+ years of professional experience with data acquisition and control systems for Aerospace ground systems, Aerospace vehicle systems, Food and Beverage, or Oil and Gas facilities
  • The ability to mentor junior engineers and technicians on electrical systems
  • Familiarity with Industrial Ethernet and control specific networking protocols (i.e., ModbusTCP/RTU, RS-485, RS-232, Analog Communication)
  • Working knowledge of AFSPCMAN 91-710, NASA- STD-5005, GSFC-STD-8009, RCC 319/324, etc.

Launch Engineer II - $110,151.00 - $130,304.00

Launch Engineer III - $127,823.00 - $160,000.00

Firefly offers outstanding benefits for our employees, including generous health, dental and vision plans with low plan deductibles, parental leave, educational reimbursement, short term disability, pet Insurance, and flexible PTO options.

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Firefly Aerospace, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Firefly is governed based on merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.


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