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Programmer Trainee Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Workforce Job Developer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$55K - $75K/yr

This role of the Job Developer will serve as a key connector between trainees, employers, workforce partners, and industry collaborators, helping amplify GRID Alternatives' workforce impact and ...

Workforce Job Developer

Oakland, CA · On-site

$55K - $75K/yr

This role of the Job Developer will serve as a key connector between trainees, employers, workforce partners, and industry collaborators, helping amplify GRID Alternatives' workforce impact and ...

Workforce Job Developer

Oakland, CA · On-site

$55K - $75K/yr

This role of the Job Developer will serve as a key connector between trainees, employers, workforce partners, and industry collaborators, helping amplify GRID Alternatives' workforce impact and ...

Workforce Job Developer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$55K - $75K/yr

This role of the Job Developer will serve as a key connector between trainees, employers, workforce partners, and industry collaborators, helping amplify GRID Alternatives' workforce impact and ...

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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.
FIREFIGHTER TRAINEE / PARAMEDIC

FIREFIGHTER TRAINEE / PARAMEDIC

City of Stockton

Stockton, CA

$73K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


City Of Stockton (California) rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

207th of 700 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

DEFINITION The City of Stockton is partnering with the Firefighter Candidate Testing Center (FCTC) to select the best qualified candidates for the position of FIREFIGHTER TRAINEE / PARAMEDIC ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS MUST POSSESS A VALID PARAMEDIC LICENSE ISSUED BY THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA OR NATIONAL REGISTRY AT TIME OF APPLICATION AND BE ACTIVE ON THE FCTC STATEWIDE ELIGIBILITY LIST (SEL) ON 7/31/2026.   Click here to see the Stockton Regional Fire Academy 23-1 The City of Stockton Fire Department is seeking career-minded individuals whose performance is reflective of a very high level of dedication and commitment to public service. Stockton firefighters are trained professionals who provide a wide range of services to include: fire suppression, fire prevention, and emergency services to protect the lives and property of a diverse community.

The Fire Department's goal is to develop staffing that reflects the rich make-up of the diverse population residing within the City of Stockton. The ideal candidate will possess excellent interpersonal and communication skills, be committed to fostering respect, dignity, and fairness, and is driven by a strong commitment to providing quality service. SALARY During the Fire Academy, Trainees receive the annual salary below.

After successful completion of the Fire Academy, trainees achieve the sworn status of Firefighter and the salary steps are reflected below: FIREFIGHTER TRAINEE $73,438.47 annually (while attending the academy) CURRENT ANNUAL SALARY STEPS :(after successful completion of the academy) Step 2: $77,772.14 annually after successful completion of the academy Step 3: $81,660.75 annually after six (6) months at step 2 Step 4: $85,743.79 annually after six (6) months at step 3 Step 5: $90,030.98 annually after six (6) months at step 4 Step 6: $94,532.53 annually after six (6) months at step 5 Step 7: $101,622.47annually after six (6) months at step 6 Step 8: $109,244.15 annually after one (1) year at step 7 Step 9 (Top Step): $117,437.46 annually after one (1) year at step 8 Longevity Pay - Additional Pay Opportunity for 2% for 5 years of service Opportunity for 4% for 10 years of service Opportunity for 6% for 15 years of service Opportunity for 8% for 20 years of service Paramedic Certification - Additional Pay 12% of top step Firefighter Engineer added to their base pay ($547.04 per bi-weekly pay period) HAZ/MAT Assignment - Additional Pay The City shall pay 5% of the top step of rank for sworn Fire Unit employees actively assigned to the HAZ/MAT response team Education Incentive - Additional Pay Employees that satisfy the educational and service requirements shall receive: Intermediate Education Certification receives 3% above the top step of rank for sworn Fire Unit employees Advanced Education Certification receives 5% above top step of rank for sworn Fire Unit employees Continuing Education for Paramedics. Upon prior approval of the Fire Chief the City will compensate members of the Fire Unit at their straight time rate for time spent, in an off-duty status, in continuing education necessary to maintain their certification, up to twenty-four (24) hours or less in a two (2) year certification period. BENEFITS Vacation - 120 hours per year Holidays - 13 fixed and 1 floating per year Sick Leave - 12 hours per month of service Health Benefits - Choice of plans for medical and hospitalization, dental and orthodontia, vision, and prescription coverage for employees and dependents Life Insurance - $50,000 policy value Retirement - California Public Employees' Retirement Systems (CalPERS) = 2.7% at 57 Section 125 (Flexible Spending Account) - available at employee's option Education Assistance Program - up to $1,500 per fiscal year Uniform allowance - $950.00 yearly allowance FLSA STATUS: Non-exempt Veteran's Preference: Pending approval by the Civil Service Commission, this position is eligible to receive five (5) Veteran's Preference Points for entrance into the Civil Service

Veteran's Preference Points will not be granted on the promotional list. If you believe you may qualify for Veteran's Preference Points, please attach a DD-214 Member-4 copy indicating at least 181 consecutive days of service with honorable discharge with your application (see supplemental questions for details). CLASS CHARACTERISTICS This position is an apprentice-level, non-sworn position in the Fire Department.

Incumbents are assigned to the Fire Academy and must satisfactorily pass all the requirements of the Academy before becoming candidates for the sworn position of Fire Fighter. Assignment to this classification is temporary. If incumbents do not successfully complete a fire academy, they will be terminated.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES (Illustrative Only) For Firefighter Trainee full Job Description, click here. QUALIFICATIONS Education/Experience: Possession of a high school diploma or GED. College-level fire science course work and/or previous experience fighting fires in a volunteer or paid capacity is desirable.

(Note: For this specific recruitment, applicants are required to be active on the FCTC SEL on 7/31/2026.) To view upcoming Cal-JAC CPAT and FCTC Written Test dates, click here (https://www.fctconline.org/candidates/upcoming-test-schedule/). Candidates experiencing financial hardship may qualify for financial aid to pay for their FCTC testing fees. (https://www.fctconline.org/grants/) Other Requirements: Must possess and maintain a valid California Class C driver's license

If driver's license is not issued in the State of California, must be able to obtain prior to the completion of the Fire Academy as a condition of continued employment. Must possess a valid CAL-JAC Candidate Physical Ability Card (CPAT) issued by the Firefighter Candidate Testing Center (FCTC). CPAT must be issued between 7/31/2025 - 7/31/2026.

Must obtain a Firefighter endorsement from the California Department of Motor Vehicles within seventeen (17) months of appointment. Must meet the physical standards and successfully complete a background investigation, which shall include a polygraph and psychological examination, a medical examination, and obtain a California Department of Justice fingerprint clearance. Must possess a valid Paramedic license issued by the State of California or National Registry at the time of application.

(Note: For this specific recruitment, applicants must possess a valid Paramedic license at time of application) Required licenses and certifications must be maintained as a condition of continued employment. The Examination: Applicants who qualify in terms of relevant work experience, license, education, and are active on the FCTC SEL on 7/31/2026, will be eligible to move forward in the hiring process. The examination process will include The successful completion of a written exam administered by FCTC (this is a requirement in order to be active on the SEL.) Applicants that are active on the SEL and have obtained a written exam score of 75% or better will be invited to participate in the Oral Panel Interview

Oral panel interviews will be scheduled for the week of August 10, 2026 (tentative). Successful candidates must receive a minimum passing score of 70%, as determined by the relative performance of all candidates. Scores from the written exam will be combined with scores from the oral panel to create the overall score and establish the eligible list.

In the event of identical ratings, candidates' names will be arranged in order of application date/time, and, if the same, then arranged alphabetically. Notes: After on-line submittal, immediate notification will appear on your screen indicating your application has been received. Please print this notice as proof of filing.

Notices and correspondence will be sent via email only. No paper notices will be mailed to applicants. It is the applicant's responsibility to ensure a correct email address is provided and that correspondence is received.

NeoGov.com: You will receive correspondence via the e-mail address you placed on your application. Some e-mail accounts have been known to place these e-mails in the spam/junk file. Please check your e-mail folders or accept e-mails ending with neogov.com

The City of Stockton requires employees in this position to reasonably respond to emergencies at all times. Employees will be required to maintain primary residence within 45 minutes of City Hall in order to timely respond to emergencies and meet the health, safety, and welfare needs of the City. New employees have up to three (3) months from date of hire to comply with the requirement.

Any interested candidates must be willing to adhere to this requirement throughout the duration of employment. Still have questions. Email: recruitment@stocktonca.gov


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