Sigh. When will employers (even good ones?) realize that the value of a developer is primarily in their approach and talent rather than years of experience?
If you're not opposed to relocating to the DC area and working primarily on the JVM, send your resume my way (gmail, luke dot vanderhart). We're a consulting company hiring junior developers. You'll have the chance to work on some pretty high-end government projects, and if you're worth it you will advance nicely in the company.
If you were 18, fresh to the industry and able to relocate, why wouldn't you relocate to the Bay Area - where anyone that can code will probably be able to pull $70k straight out the door.
If you're not opposed to relocating to the DC area and working primarily on the JVM, send your resume my way (gmail, luke dot vanderhart). We're a consulting company hiring junior developers. You'll have the chance to work on some pretty high-end government projects, and if you're worth it you will advance nicely in the company.