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Programmer Trainee Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The Production Management Trainee's compensation for this CA-based position is competitive and ... Associate or Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Industrial Technology, or related ...

Have a Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical, Material or Manufacturing Engineering or related field. * Be an individual who is a self-starter, motivated and resourceful, in addition to being detail ...

CNC Setup Programmer II

Cerritos, CA

$27.50 - $37.75/hr

All the responsibilities listed below should be the standard for any future trainees. * Setup programmer II is responsible for the completion of all work orders in their area, whether it is delegated ...

CNC Setup Programmer II

Cerritos, CA · On-site

$27.50 - $37.75/hr

All the responsibilities listed below should be the standard for any future trainees. * Setup programmer II is responsible for the completion of all work orders in their area, whether it is delegated ...

During the Store Leadership Trainee Program (SLT Program), you will learn aspects of what it takes ... Participate in dedicated programming to strengthen development and gain exposure to Kohl's ...

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Programmer Trainee information

See California salary details

$11

$39

$67

How much do programmer trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for programmer trainee in California is $39.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.38 and $50.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Programmer Trainees?

Programmer Trainees are entry-level professionals who are learning the fundamentals of programming and software development, typically as part of a structured training program within a company. They work under the supervision of experienced developers, assisting with coding, debugging, testing, and documentation tasks while gaining practical experience. The role is designed to help them develop technical skills, understand software development processes, and prepare for more advanced programming positions.

What types of projects and tasks can I expect to work on as a Programmer Trainee?

As a Programmer Trainee, you will typically start by assisting with coding, debugging, and testing tasks under the guidance of more experienced developers. You'll often work on smaller modules or features within larger projects and may be tasked with maintaining documentation, fixing bugs, or writing unit tests. Collaboration with team members such as senior programmers, testers, and project managers is common, providing valuable exposure to the software development lifecycle. This hands-on involvement helps you build foundational technical skills and prepares you for more complex responsibilities as you grow in the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Programmer Trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Programmer Trainee, you need a basic understanding of programming languages (such as Java, Python, or C++), problem-solving abilities, and at least a relevant degree or coursework in computer science or IT. Familiarity with code editors, version control systems like Git, and debugging tools is typically expected. Strong communication, eagerness to learn, and teamwork skills help you adapt quickly and collaborate with mentors and peers. These skills and qualities are essential for building a solid programming foundation, contributing effectively to projects, and progressing in a technical career.

What is the difference between Programmer Trainee vs Software Developer?

AspectProgrammer TraineeSoftware Developer
Required CredentialsBasic programming knowledge, often a student or recent graduateFormal education in computer science or related field, experience preferred
Work EnvironmentTraining programs, internships, entry-level projectsFull-time employment, project development, team collaboration
Employer & Industry UsageInternship programs, training institutes, tech companiesTech firms, software companies, startups
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles, training opportunitiesCareer growth, job responsibilities, skill requirements

The main difference between a Programmer Trainee and a Software Developer lies in experience and responsibilities. Programmer Trainees are typically beginners undergoing training or internships, focusing on learning and assisting in projects. Software Developers are experienced professionals responsible for designing, coding, and maintaining software solutions. While Programmer Trainees aim to develop skills, Software Developers actively contribute to software development lifecycle.

What are the most commonly searched types of Programmer jobs in California? The most popular types of Programmer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Programmer Trainee jobs? Cities in California with the most Programmer Trainee job openings:
Infographic showing various Programmer Trainee job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 6% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,158 per year, or $39 per hour.

Quality Engineer Trainee

Western Precision Aero LLC

Garden Grove, CA

$72K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Responsibilities include, but no limited to:

  • QE support of Prime Customers for first articles and corrective action;
  • Reviewing contracts, specifications, purchase orders, and planning;
  • Planning and implementing quality initiatives throughout the organization;
  • Managing & tracking MRB & RMA’s;
  • Performing internal & external audits;
  • Participating in RCCA investigations as required;
  • Assist in supplier quality support and development.
  • Implement and Manage QMS software

Individual must have:

  • Have a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical, Material or Manufacturing Engineering or related field.
  • Be an individual who is a self-starter, motivated and resourceful, in addition to being detail oriented and possess a good work ethic.
  • Be able to communicate with all levels of the organization, both verbally and in writing.
  • Have a positive attitude and a desire to learn.

If interested, please submit resume to

Responsibilities include, but no limited to:

  • QE support of Prime Customers for first articles and corrective action;
  • Reviewing contracts, specifications, purchase orders, and planning;
  • Planning and implementing quality initiatives throughout the organization;
  • Managing & tracking MRB & RMA’s;
  • Performing internal & external audits;
  • Participating in RCCA investigations as required;
  • Assist in supplier quality support and development.
  • Implement and Manage QMS software

Individual must have:

  • Have a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical, Material or Manufacturing Engineering or related field.
  • Be an individual who is a self-starter, motivated and resourceful, in addition to being detail oriented and possess a good work ethic.
  • Be able to communicate with all levels of the organization, both verbally and in writing.
  • Have a positive attitude and a desire to learn.

If interested, please submit resume to www.rbcbearings.com/career-opportunities, We are a subsidiary of RBC Bearings, Inc. (”ROLL”). AAP/EEO.

Pay Range: $70k to $72k/ annual

Note: The salary range is applicable to employees working in California only. The pay range represents the low and high end of the salary range we reasonably expect to pay for this position at the time of posting. An employee’s pay within the salary range will be based on several factors contributing to the actual salary, including experience in a similar role or performing comparable job responsibilities, skills, education, training, and other qualifications.

Equal Opportunity Employer

RBC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

This role is subject to compliance with the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), which requires the incumbent to be either a US citizen, lawful permanent resident [“green card” holders] or have refugee or asylee status.

We are a subsidiary of RBC Bearings, Inc. (”ROLL”). AAP/EEO.

Pay Range: $72k to $75k/ annual

Note: The salary range is applicable to employees working in California only. The pay range represents the low and high end of the salary range we reasonably expect to pay for this position at the time of posting. An employee’s pay within the salary range will be based on several factors contributing to the actual salary, including experience in a similar role or performing comparable job responsibilities, skills, education, training, and other qualifications.

Equal Opportunity Employer

RBC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

This role is subject to compliance with the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), which requires the incumbent to be either a US citizen, lawful permanent resident [“green card” holders] or have refugee or asylee status.