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Assistant Software Engineer Jobs in Irvine, CA (NOW HIRING)

RTX

Software Engineer I (Onsite)

Fullerton, CA · On-site

Raytheon is hiring a Software Development Engineer to support our Radar Product Line Team. We ... What You Will Do: * Assist and participate in the requirements, design, development and testing of ...

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Assistant Software Engineer information

See Irvine, CA salary details

$35.4K

$95.3K

$144.4K

How much do assistant software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant software engineer in Irvine, CA is $95,268.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,700.00 and $112,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Assistant Software Engineer vs Software Engineer?

AspectAssistant Software EngineerSoftware Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in CS or related field; some internshipsBachelor's or higher; more experience preferred
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supervised tasks, learning-focusedFull responsibility for projects, independent problem-solving
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in tech companies, startups, IT departmentsStandard role across tech, finance, healthcare, and more

The main difference is experience and responsibility. Assistant Software Engineers are entry-level, focusing on learning and supporting tasks, while Software Engineers handle full project development independently. The roles often overlap in credentials and work environment, but the Software Engineer position involves greater autonomy and technical expertise.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant software engineer?

To thrive as an Assistant Software Engineer, you need a solid understanding of programming languages (such as Java, Python, or C++), software development fundamentals, and typically a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, basic debugging tools, and common development frameworks is important. Strong problem-solving abilities, collaboration, and effective communication help you work efficiently within teams and adapt to evolving project requirements. These skills and qualities are essential for delivering quality code, learning quickly, and contributing to successful software projects.

What are some common challenges faced by assistant software engineers when joining a new development team?

Assistant Software Engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to unfamiliar codebases, learning new technologies or frameworks used by the team, and understanding the team's workflow and communication practices. It's common to spend initial weeks focusing on onboarding tasks, shadowing experienced developers, and gradually taking on more complex assignments. Collaboration with senior engineers is key, as they provide guidance and feedback to help you grow technically and integrate smoothly into the team's processes.
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Assistant Software Engineer jobs near you

Senior Flight Software Engineer I

Rocket Lab Corporation

Long Beach, CA • On-site

$128K - $169K/yr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

New

Rocket Lab rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

SPACE SYSTEMS

At Rocket Lab, we're not just launching rockets - we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more.

Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it's a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space - our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions. 

SENIOR FLIGHT SOFTWARE ENGINEER I

We are currently seeking a Senior Flight Software Engineer I for our team based out of headquarters in Long Beach, CA . In this role, you will play a key role in supporting the development of flight software for our Space Systems programs. You'll spend your days participating in all aspects of software design and development, from requirements definition through coding and testing. And when we say test, we mean your software will be on orbit within weeks and months, not years. Thanks to having our own rockets and launch sites, we have frequent opportunities to test and operate our software on orbit. To be successful in this role, you must want to see your software make a big impact on the way we explore space and use it as a platform for discovery and innovation. Join a driven team of pioneers relentlessly tackling challenging projects, delivering on the impossible, and making an impact on the future of space!

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO: 

  • Develop application software to run within a Real Time Operating System (RTOS) and/or embedded Linux
  • Develop hardware drivers to interface to Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs), Star Trackers, Reaction Wheels and other spacecraft sensors and actuators
  • Develop and maintain comprehensive unit tests to run within a Continuous Integration framework
  • Collaborate with hardware-in-the-loop test engineers to verify and validate combined software and hardware functionality
  • Collaborate with systems engineers and embedded systems engineers in developing, documenting and validating requirements
  • Participate in review of source code changes and ensure all changes meet company coding standards
  • Participate in design reviews such as a PDR and CDR
  • Assist with on-orbit (and interplanetary) flight operations

QUALIFICATIONS YOU'LL BRING AS SENIOR FLIGHT SOFTWARE ENGINEER I:

  • Bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, computer science, electrical engineering, or equivalent technical degree
  • 5+ years of demonstrated applicable experience in embedded software development
  • Proficiency in C and C++ languages 
  • Experience with Real Time Operating Systems (RTOS) or with Embedded Linux
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance
  • U.S. citizenship is required, due to program requirements

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

  • Active Secret or TS/SCI security clearance
  • Advanced Degree
  • Experience developing software and drivers with CAN/CAN-FD and/or UDP/TCP within an embedded system
  • Experience developing software for autonomous vehicles operating in harsh environments, such as satellites or autonomous vehicles

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.

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