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How much do application software engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for application software engineer in California is $58.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46.01 and $65.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical challenges faced by Application Software Engineers on the job?

Application Software Engineers often need to balance multiple priorities, including tight project deadlines, changing client requirements, and debugging complex software issues. They may face challenges integrating new features with existing systems, ensuring rigorous testing, and maintaining high code quality in collaborative team settings. Staying updated with the latest technologies and adapting to evolving industry standards is also an ongoing aspect of the role. Overcoming these challenges requires continuous learning, careful planning, and effective communication with cross-functional teams, making the role both demanding and highly rewarding for tech professionals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Application Software Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Application Software Engineer, you need a solid grasp of programming languages such as Java, C#, or Python, as well as a relevant computer science degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, integrated development environments (IDEs), and frameworks such as .NET or Spring is highly valued, and certifications in software development can be advantageous. Strong problem-solving skills, effective teamwork, and clear communication help candidates succeed in dynamic, cross-functional environments. These skills are critical to developing reliable applications, collaborating efficiently, and adapting to the evolving technology landscape.

What is an Application Software Engineer job?

An Application Software Engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains software applications for various platforms, ensuring functionality and user experience. They work with programming languages, frameworks, and development tools to build applications that meet business or user requirements. Responsibilities often include debugging software, optimizing performance, and collaborating with designers, analysts, and other engineers.

What are the most commonly searched types of Application Software Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Application Software Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Application Software Engineer jobs in California? For Application Software Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Application Software Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Application Software Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Application Software Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Application Software Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Application Software Engineer jobs in CA? For Application Software Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Application Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Application Software Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 33% In-person, and 67% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,323 per year, or $58.8 per hour.
Simulation Software Engineer (Application Software)

Simulation Software Engineer (Application Software)

SpaceX

Hawthorne, CA

$145K - $175K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 143 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 60 rated aerospace companies

Job description

SIMULATION SOFTWARE ENGINEER (APPLICATION SOFTWARE)

As a Software Engineer on the Simulations team, you will design, develop, and test our in-house simulation software supporting all SpaceX flight systems. You will program the core simulation infrastructure and collaborate on the building of models of fluids, electronics, and multi-body physics systems. This is a high impact role where you will work across the engineering groups to build high fidelity simulations used to develop cutting-edge software and hardware. Our simulation software is critical to current and future mission successes including Falcon, Falcon Heavy, Dragon, Starlink, and Starship. SpaceX is looking for smart, motivated software engineers who enjoy taking on complex challenges, work well in dynamic environments and care about software best practices.

Help us build world class software that is critical to SpaceX mission to Mars.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Develop and maintain the high-fidelity real-time simulation software used for all vehicles
  • Develop prototypes to prove out key design concepts and quantify technical constraints
  • Maintain the highest standards of excellence, never settle for the status quo
  • Improve reliability and performance of simulation software
  • Work with simulation software users to develop new features and improve user experiences

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, math, or STEM discipline; OR 2+ years of professional experience in software development in lieu of a degree 
  • 1+ years development experience in C++

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Strong software design and development skills in C++
  • Understanding of distributed computing systems, networking protocols, memory management, and CPU scheduling
  • Thorough knowledge of classical physics and math (algebra, calculus, Euclidean geometry)
  • Strong skills in debugging, performance optimization and unit testing
  • Creative approach to problem solving
  • Experience with open source C++ simulators such as ROS2 and Gazebo
  • Ability to work effectively in a dynamic environment with changing needs and requirements
  • Ability to work independently and in a team, take initiative, and communicate effectively

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Willing to work extended hours and weekends when needed

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS: 

Pay Range:    
Software Engineer/Level I: $125,000.00 - $145,000.00/per year  

Software Engineer/Level II: $145,000.00 - $175,000.00/per year

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short & long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation & will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.

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