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Programmer Trainee Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

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Programmer Trainee information

See Boston, MA salary details

$13

$42

$74

How much do programmer trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for programmer trainee in Boston, MA is $42.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.93 and $55.87 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 Boston, MA? The most popular types of Programmer jobs in Boston, MA are:
Infographic showing various Programmer Trainee job openings in Boston, MA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,340 per year, or $43 per hour.

Locomotive Engineer Trainee

Keolis America

Somerville, MA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

At Keolis Commuter Services (KCS), we give every team member—and their ideas—a seat for the journey. We are a diverse team made up of different backgrounds, stories, and perspectives, which is our strength. If you’re looking for a career with a company that invests in your future, KCS is the place for you. We Imagine. We Care. We Commit!

Since 2014, Keolis Commuter Services has been entrusted with operating and maintaining the Commuter Rail network on behalf of the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA).  During this time, we have worked to deliver a safe and reliable service, thanks to the knowledge and dedication of our team, and our experience operating transit networks around the world. Today, we're proud of the progress we have made together to deliver a best-in-class service for the Greater Boston community.

We believe our people are what make us great. That is why we demonstrate a commitment to a safe, healthy, and inclusive culture that welcomes ideas, encourages innovation, and values belonging. Your future starts here.

At Keolis Commuter Services, LLC we provide a competitive compensation package that is designed to be flexible and comprehensive to meet the needs of our hard-working employees and their families.

Benefits Package Highlights:

  • Generous Medical & Rx plan
  • Dental & Vision Plan
  • Railroad Retirement Benefits – a federal program that administers retirement, survivor, unemployment, and sickness benefits to U.S. railroad workers and their families.
  • Fidelity 401K Program
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Transit and Parking Reimbursement Benefits
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Company Sponsored Life & Accidental Death and Dismemberment Benefits
  • Education Assistance
  • Short- & Long-term Disability Benefits
  • Voluntary Benefits Plan options including
    • Supplemental health plans for accidents, critical illness, hospital stays
    • Pet, Home, Auto insurance

Locomotive Engineer Trainee

The purpose of this role is to operate MBTA Commuter Rail trains safely and efficiently throughout the network.

***$5000.00 sign on bonus for certified Locomotive engineers with a current 49 CFR 240 certification with train service endorsement***

***May 2025 start date***

Skills:

  • Must possess excellent verbal and written skills and be able to communicate successfully with a variety of disciplines and levels including both internal and external staff.
  • Although a driver’s license is not required, applicants with a driver’s license must provide a certified copy of their motor vehicle driving record from the chief of the state driver’s licensing agency in which the applicant was last issued a license, and any license(s) issued or reissued from other state(s) within the preceding 60 months. Motor vehicle records must be void of any drug and alcohol violations within the previous 36 months.

Knowledge and Experience:

  • Must have high school diploma, GED, or equivalent. Some college or vocational training is preferred.
  • Prior railroad operating experience required.
  • Class 1 certification is strongly preferred.

Key Accountabilities:

  • Operate various equipment, such as throttle and airbrakes, while monitoring signals and other devices to safely and efficiently transport passengers.
  • Perform required tests and make inspections of equipment and air-brakes as required.
  • Must make timely and critical decisions under stressful situations to safeguard lives and property.
  • Must possess the ability to think and function independently while maintaining alertness, situational awareness, and vigilance.
  • Involves working alone and apart in physical isolation while integrating activities with others.
  • Ability to maintain alertness, awareness, vigilance, and responsibility.
  • Have effective verbal communication skills in the performance of work.
  • Satisfactory attendance, compliance, and safe work record.
  • Complete monthly vehicle reports as required by the MBTA.
  • Comply with all related safety rules and procedures and report all hazard as required.
  • Attend and participate in all assigned meetings and trainings, specifically safety and security related.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Other Requirements:

  • If selected, incumbent will be required to successfully complete Engineer Training as follows: Individuals not previously certified as Class 1 Train Service Engineers: 6-8 weeks classroom; followed by extensive qualifying and on-the-job training; paid at the student training rate until incumbent achieves certification as a Class 1 Train Service Engineer.
  • Incumbents are subject to periodic medical examinations including random drug alcohol screenings.
  • Must sign a release of records authorizing all previous railroad employers to provide KCS with background information, if applicable. In accordance with FRA regulations, previous railroad service records must be void of any drug and alcohol violations within the previous 60 months.
  • Employment contingent upon passing pre-employment physical to include drug screen, sleep apnea screening, audiogram & color vision screening.
  • Employment contingent upon receiving a favorable background check.
  • Current valid Driver's License is required.


EFFORT FACTORS:
1.   Physical/ Mental demands:

  • Work environment can be extremely hot or cold.
  • Largely a sedentary occupation.
  • Must be capable of operating hand and foot controls simultaneously.
  • Must be able to climb ladders and stairs to board and disembark from equipment.
  • Must be able to think independently and make timely and critical decisions under stressful situations.
  • Must meet the minimum standards for visual acuity:
    1. For distant viewing either:
      (i) Distant visual acuity of at least 20/40 (Snellen) in each eye without corrective lenses
      (ii) Distant visual acuity separately corrected to at least 20/40 (Snellen) with corrective lenses and distant binocular acuity of at least 20/40 (Snellen) in both eyes with or without corrective lenses;
    2. A field of vision of at least 70 degrees in the horizontal meridian in each eye; and,
    3. The ability to recognize and distinguish between the colors of railroad signals as demonstrated by successfully completing tests.
  • Ability to perform all duties mentioned above

2. Working conditions:

  • Noise Level: High – diesel engines, air brake equipment, horns and radios.
  • Shift work: Differing hours as required.
  • Travel: N/A
  • On-call: Yes
  • Team work: Work as part of the Transportation team.
  • Supervisory

Additional Statements:

Drug and alcohol screening: Employment contingent upon passing pre-employment drug and alcohol screen. Also, contingent upon receiving a favorable background check. Must pass a physical examination. 

Safety commitment: Safety is a way of life at Keolis. By placing safety first, we ensure the wellbeing of our employees, customers, and communities. Together we can become the most successful transportation company in the world.  

Environmental commitment: Keolis is committed to protecting the environment by minimizing the impact of operations to our people and the communities in which we operate. 

EEO statement: Our policy is to afford Equal Employment Opportunity to qualified individuals regardless of their race, color, sex, religion, age, creed, marital status, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, or gender identification. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing. 

Disclaimer and closing statement: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees assigned to this job, and Keolis retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position. Employees must be able to perform the essential job duties of this position satisfactorily.  If requested, reasonable accommodation will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.  Keolis is committed to offering our employees competitive compensation and benefits, opportunities for development and growth throughout an exciting and rewarding career, and the safest work environment possible.

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