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Programmer Trainee Jobs in Santa Maria, CA (NOW HIRING)

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Programmer Trainee information

See Santa Maria, CA salary details

$12

$40

$70

How much do programmer trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for programmer trainee in Santa Maria, CA is $40.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.35 and $52.74 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a programmer trainee?

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 Santa Maria, CA?

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

What are popular job titles related to Programmer Trainee jobs in Santa Maria, CA?

For Programmer Trainee jobs in Santa Maria, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Programmer Trainee jobs in Santa Maria, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Programmer Trainee jobs in Santa Maria, CA are:

What cities near Santa Maria, CA are hiring for Programmer Trainee jobs?

Cities near Santa Maria, CA with the most Programmer Trainee job openings:

Programmer Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Programmer Trainee job openings in Santa Maria, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,293 per year, or $40.5 per hour.

Youth Treatment Therapist Full-Time - Santa Maria

Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse

Santa Maria, CA • On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Dental insurance
  • Training & development

CADA (The Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse) is seeking a full-time Youth Treatment Therapist for our adolescent substance abuse program in Santa Maria.
Clinical Supervision Hours available for Trainees and AMFTs!
We are looking for a Youth Treatment Therapist to join our dynamic team at the Daniel Bryant Youth and Family Treatment Center where we are dedicated to helping adolescents on the road to recovery and health.  We are seeking a therapist with a desire to improve and expand the programming that we offer for youth.  The ideal candidate will have an enthusiasm for working with this population and be interested in implementing a variety of innovative interventions with our clients and their families.
As a part of the adolescent treatment team, you will gain valuable experience with youth and families and help in CADA’s mission to build a safer and healthier community. 
QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Master’s degree in helping profession (Counseling, Psychology, Sociology, etc.)  
  • Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (MFT), LCSW, Registered Associate, or equivalent, or trainee
  • Minimum one year experience in the field of alcohol/drug counseling and/or therapy (preferably with adolescents) 
  • Specific knowledge of individual counseling principles and techniques, substance abuse assessment and case planning, and therapeutic interventions for substance abuse 
  • Knowledge of resources for treatment, recovery, and rehabilitation in South Santa Barbara County 
  • Ability to communicate professionally in writing and orally 
  • Ability to communicate verbally with clients from a wide range of socio-economic backgrounds 
  • High standard of professional ethics 
  • Bi-lingual (English/Spanish) and bi-cultural preferred  
  • Familiarity with SB County Behavioral Wellness documentation preferred  
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Provide group counseling, individual therapy, and family therapy to assigned clients.
  • Work with clients/families to assess, establish medical necessity, determine appropriate groups/interventions, and create problem list or treatment plan for all clients assigned.
  • Communicate regularly with support persons (parents, probation, family) in support of client’s treatment as allowed

This is a full-time position, 32 hours per week (Monday-Thursday, 11:30am-6:30pm and Friday 12:00pm-6:30pm). This is an in-person position, and a successful candidate would be required onsite in Santa Maria.    
Compensation is dependent of the level of prior experience and qualifications, with a salary range of $22-$25 for Trainees and AMFTS and a rate increase potential for bilingual (Spanish/English).     
In compliance with the California Department of Health Care Services, staff require an up-to-date Tuberculosis test during the duration of employment.     
If you need assistance to accommodate a disability, you may request an accommodation at any time. Please contact HR via email at hr@cadasb.org or via phone at (805) 722-1313 with any questions.