Junior Software Engineer

Job Title: Software Engineer

Job Description

This Junior Software Engineer role supports a manufacturing facility in Ashland, VA by maintaining, configuring, and ensuring the reliable operation of computer systems, networks, and production-related applications. You will work closely with both office staff and production floor teams to manage infrastructure, develop and maintain tools and scripts, and enhance system performance in a dynamic manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Install, configure, maintain, and troubleshoot computer systems, including hardware, software, and related infrastructure for both office and production line environments.
• Develop, refine, and maintain scripts and tools to support daily operations in the office and on the production floor, improving efficiency and system reliability.
• Administer and support operating systems, primarily Windows (from Windows 7 to current) and Linux, ensuring stable and secure environments.
• Manage SQL databases and work within Microsoft SQL Server Management Studio to support applications and manufacturing systems.
• Support and develop ASP-based applications, including front-end and back-end components, Web Forms, and Web Designer tools used in a manufacturing context.
• Ensure network security by configuring and managing firewalls and monitoring systems for potential threats and vulnerabilities.
• Troubleshoot compatibility issues for tools and applications originally built for Internet Explorer, adapting them for use in newer browsers.
• Maintain clear documentation of system configurations, procedures, and policies to support continuity, compliance, and future reference.
• Diagnose and resolve issues related to dated hardware and legacy software critical to manufacturing and production operations.
• Perform network and server maintenance and troubleshooting to minimize downtime and ensure reliable access to systems and data.
• Administer and support Office 365 in an office environment, including user management and application configuration.
• Collaborate with stakeholders in manufacturing and office settings to understand system requirements and provide proactive IT support.
• Support ERP systems used in the manufacturing environment, particularly in-house or company-developed ERP solutions.
• Work independently to identify, analyze, and resolve technical issues, escalating as appropriate while maintaining clear communication with users.

Essential Skills

• Proven experience as a Systems Administrator or in a similar IT support role, ideally with exposure to manufacturing environments.
• Strong knowledge of Windows and Linux operating systems and their administration.
• Experience with SQL databases and Microsoft SQL Server Management Studio, preferably with at least 1 year of hands-on work (internships or less formal experience considered).
• Proficiency with ASP and related web technologies, including front-end and back-end development, Web Forms, and Web Designer tools.
• Ability to develop and maintain scripts and tools to support daily operations in office and production settings.
• Understanding of firewall configurations and network security protocols, with experience monitoring for potential threats.
• Excellent troubleshooting skills and the ability to work independently to resolve complex technical issues.
• Experience troubleshooting compatibility of tools and applications built for Internet Explorer to function correctly in modern browsers.
• Experience with Windows operating systems from Windows 7 to current versions.
• Systems administration experience in environments that include production lines, manufacturing operations, and ERP systems.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or a related field is preferred; an associate degree, relevant certifications, or an equivalent combination of education and experience is also considered.
• Experience working with SQL databases, Microsoft SQL Server Management Studio, and ASP specifically in a manufacturing environment preferred.
• Experience working with ERP systems is preferred, with strong preference for experience supporting in-house or custom-built ERP solutions.
• Front-end and back-end development experience is required, particularly for internal tools and manufacturing-related applications.
• Experience troubleshooting dated hardware and legacy software used in production and office environments.

Work Environment

This role is based onsite at a manufacturing facility in Ashland, VA, supporting both office operations and production floor activities. The standard schedule is Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. In some cases, limited hybrid flexibility may be available for highly experienced candidates.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Ashland, VA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $75000.00 - $95000.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Ashland,VA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 15, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.