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Software Engineer Level 1 Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

ENGINEER LEVEL 1

Fresno, CA · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

The Engineer 1 position ensures maximum operating efficiency, minimal down time and conformity with ... level of professionalism that supports collaboration and problem solving while building strong ...

ENGINEER LEVEL 1

Fresno, CA · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

The Engineer 1 position ensures maximum operating efficiency, minimal down time and conformity with ... level of professionalism that supports collaboration and problem solving while building strong ...

ENGINEER LEVEL 1

Fresno, CA · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

The Engineer 1 position ensures maximum operating efficiency, minimal down time and conformity with ... level of professionalism that supports collaboration and problem solving while building strong ...

ENGINEER LEVEL 1

Fresno, CA · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

The Engineer 1 position ensures maximum operating efficiency, minimal down time and conformity with ... level of professionalism that supports collaboration and problem solving while building strong ...

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Showing results 1-20

Software Engineer Level 1 information

See California salary details

$62.7K

$145.6K

$202.8K

How much do software engineer level 1 jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for software engineer level 1 in California is $145,592.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,400.00 and $170,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a software engineer level 1?

Software Engineer Level 1 jobs are entry-level positions in the software development field, typically for recent graduates or those with limited professional experience. These engineers work under the supervision of more experienced developers, assisting with coding, debugging, testing, and maintaining software applications. They are expected to have a foundational knowledge of programming languages, software development principles, and problem-solving skills. Level 1 software engineers often participate in team meetings, contribute to project documentation, and learn industry best practices. The role serves as a stepping stone to more advanced engineering positions.

What types of projects and technologies does a software engineer level 1 typically work on, and how are tasks assigned within the team?

As a Software Engineer Level 1, you will usually work on foundational components of larger projects, such as coding specific features, fixing bugs, or writing unit tests under the guidance of more experienced engineers. Tasks are often assigned by a team lead or project manager, with regular check-ins to ensure alignment and offer mentorship. The technologies you work with depend on the company's stack but commonly include languages like Python, Java, or JavaScript, and tools such as Git for version control. Collaboration is key, and you'll regularly participate in code reviews, daily stand-ups, and pair programming sessions to build both your technical skills and teamwork abilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a software engineer level 1, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Software Engineer Level 1, you need a solid understanding of programming fundamentals, problem-solving skills, and a relevant degree or coding bootcamp experience. Familiarity with languages like Python, Java, or JavaScript, version control systems such as Git, and basic software development tools is typically expected. Strong communication, teamwork, and a willingness to learn help you collaborate effectively and adapt to new challenges. These skills and qualities are essential for contributing to projects, growing professionally, and ensuring successful software delivery in a team environment.

What is the difference between Software Engineer Level 1 vs Software Engineer Level 2?

CriteriaSoftware Engineer Level 1Software Engineer Level 2
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in CS or related field; entry-level experienceSame as Level 1, often with 1-3 years of experience
Work EnvironmentJunior team member, supervised tasks, learning-focusedMore independent, handles complex tasks, mentorship roles
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in tech companies, startups, and corporate IT teamsProgression within same environments, increased responsibilities

Software Engineer Level 1 typically involves entry-level tasks with supervision, while Software Engineer Level 2 requires more experience and independence, handling more complex projects and mentoring junior staff. The transition reflects increased skills and responsibilities within the same industry and work environment.

What job categories do people searching Software Engineer Level 1 jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Software Engineer Level 1 jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Software Engineer Level 1 jobs?

Cities in California with the most Software Engineer Level 1 job openings:

Infographic showing various Software Engineer Level 1 job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $145,592 per year, or $70 per hour.

Resource Control Team Software Engineer (Level 1 or 2) - AHT

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Manhattan Beach, CA • On-site

$91K - $137K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 365 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

85th of 544 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes
CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescription
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
Northrop Grumman's Space Sector is seeking a Software Engineer (Level 1 or 2) to join our team of highly qualified, diverse professionals within the Western Region Software Engineering Directorate. This position is located onsite in Manhattan Beach, CA, supporting the Resource Control (RC) team for an operational Military Satellite Communications (MILSATCOM) payload system.
The Western Region Software Engineering organization comprises over 800 skilled professionals-including Software Engineers, DevOps Engineers, Database Administrators, and Network Engineers-at every career stage, from early-career engineers to senior chief engineers and architects. The organization supports numerous programs and offers ample opportunities for advancement into higher-level technical roles or leadership positions. Our culture promotes cross-program collaboration, continuous professional development, and a strong sense of community.
Job responsibilities of the Software Engineer (Level 1 or 2) include, but are not limited to, the following:
• Help maintain and enhance embedded flight software that controls onboard payload functions, and develop and improve ground support tools.
• Contribute across the full software lifecycle-design, implementation, test, integration, and operational support - as well as support on-orbit anomaly investigations and root cause analysis in collaboration with operations and systems engineering teams.
• Collaborate effectively within a multi-disciplinary engineering team.
If you enjoy digging into data, building tools that make complex systems understandable, and seeing your work directly contribute to mission success on orbit, this role is an excellent fit. This position is full-time onsite.
This requisition may be filled at a higher grade based on the qualifications listed below.
Basic Qualifications - Associate Software Engineer (Level 1):
  • Bachelor's degree in a STEM discipline with 0 years of experience
  • Proficiency in C++ and object-oriented programming principles, with hands-on experience working on production or large-scale laboratory codebases
  • Experience developing software on Unix/Linux (coursework or project experience acceptable).
  • Active U.S. Government Secret clearance required at the time of application.

Basic Qualifications - Software Engineer (Level 2):
  • Bachelor's degree in a STEM discipline with 2+ years of relevant software engineering experience or a Master's degree in a STEM discipline with 0 years of experience.
  • Proficiency in C++ and object-oriented programming principles, with hands-on experience working on production or large-scale laboratory codebases
  • Experience developing software on Unix/Linux.
  • Active U.S. Government Secret clearance required at the time of application.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Knowledge of Perl, Python, or Java.
  • Experience with Agile/Scrum processes and the Atlassian suite (Confluence, Jira, Bitbucket, Bamboo).
  • Knowledge of real-time operating systems such as VxWorks.
  • Experience with system simulation environments such as Simics or similar.
  • Background in software integration, system level testing, and regression testing for medium to large code bases.
  • Demonstrated curiosity and persistence in investigating complex technical issues and driving them to resolution.

Primary Level Salary Range: $76,200.00 - $114,400.00
Secondary Level Salary Range: $91,800.00 - $137,600.00
The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.
Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.
The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939