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Computer Software Engineering Jobs in California

Hermeus

Director, Software Engineering

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$272.60K/yr

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Engineering, or a related field. * 8+ years of experience in embedded flight software development, with at least 4year in a leadership or senior technical ...

Walmart

Director, Software Engineering

San Jose, CA · On-site +1

$169K - $338K/yr

Option 1: Bachelor's degree in computer science, computer engineering, computer information systems, software engineering, or related area and 6 years' experience in software engineering or related ...

Hermeus

Director, Software Engineering

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$218K - $296K/yr

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Engineering, or a related field. * 8+ years of experience in embedded flight software development, with at least 4year in a leadership or senior technical ...

Leidos

Software Engineering Lead

El Cajon, CA · Hybrid

$131.30K - $237.35K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, or a related technical discipline with 12+ years of relevant experience. * Deep hands-on experience ...

Leidos

Software Engineering Lead

San Diego, CA · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, or a related technical discipline with 12+ years of relevant experience. * Deep hands-on experience ...

Leidos

Software Engineering Lead

Cardiff By The Sea, CA · Hybrid

$131.30K - $237.35K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, or a related technical discipline with 12+ years of relevant experience. * Deep hands-on experience ...

Leidos

Software Engineering Lead

Rancho Santa Fe, CA · Hybrid

$131.30K - $237.35K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, or a related technical discipline with 12+ years of relevant experience. * Deep hands-on experience ...

Leidos

Software Engineering Lead

National City, CA · Hybrid

$131.30K - $237.35K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, or a related technical discipline with 12+ years of relevant experience. * Deep hands-on experience ...

Leidos

Software Engineering Lead

Chula Vista, CA · Hybrid

$131.30K - $237.35K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, or a related technical discipline with 12+ years of relevant experience. * Deep hands-on experience ...

IXL Learning

Software Engineering Manager

San Mateo, CA

$170K - $220K/yr

You will participate directly in software design and engineering, help develop the team by ... Bachelor's or advanced degree in computer science or a related discipline * Excellent programming ...

Leidos

Software Engineering Lead

La Jolla, CA · Hybrid

$131.30K - $237.35K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, or a related technical discipline with 12+ years of relevant experience. * Deep hands-on experience ...

Leidos

Software Engineering Lead

San Diego, CA · Hybrid

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, or a related technical discipline with 12+ years of relevant experience. * Deep hands-on experience ...

Leidos

Software Engineering Lead

San Diego, CA · Hybrid

$131.30K - $237.35K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, or a related technical discipline with 12+ years of relevant experience. * Deep hands-on experience ...

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Computer Software Engineering information

See California salary details

$62.7K

$145.6K

$202.8K

How much do computer software engineering jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer software engineering 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Computer Software Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Computer Software Engineer, you need strong programming skills, problem-solving abilities, and a solid foundation in computer science, typically supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with development tools, integrated development environments (IDEs), version control systems like Git, and sometimes certifications in specific languages or frameworks are important. Excellent teamwork, communication, and adaptability help engineers collaborate effectively and respond to evolving project needs. These skills ensure the successful design, implementation, and maintenance of reliable, efficient software solutions.

What are some common challenges computer software engineers face when working on large-scale projects?

Computer software engineers working on large-scale projects often encounter challenges such as coordinating with cross-functional teams, managing complex codebases, and ensuring consistent documentation. Navigating these challenges requires strong communication skills, effective use of version control systems, and familiarity with agile methodologies. Additionally, engineers must balance meeting project deadlines with maintaining code quality and adapting to evolving requirements, making time management and adaptability crucial skills in this role.

What is computer software engineering?

Computer software engineering is a branch of engineering focused on designing, developing, testing, and maintaining software applications and systems. Software engineers use programming languages, engineering principles, and problem-solving skills to create software that meets user needs. They often work on everything from mobile apps to large-scale enterprise systems, collaborating with other engineers, designers, and stakeholders. The field requires continuous learning due to rapidly evolving technologies and methodologies.

What is the difference between Computer Software Engineering vs Computer Software Development?

AspectComputer Software EngineeringComputer Software Development
CredentialsBachelor's in Software Engineering, Computer Science, or related field; certifications like Certified Software Development Professional (CSDP)Bachelor's in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related; certifications less common
Work EnvironmentDesigning, analyzing, and managing software projects; often involved in system architectureWriting, testing, and debugging code; focused on creating software applications
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by tech companies, consulting firms, and large organizations for complex projectsCommon across startups, tech firms, and software companies for product development

While both roles involve software creation, Computer Software Engineering emphasizes designing and managing software systems, whereas Computer Software Development focuses on coding and implementing software solutions. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are popular job titles related to Computer Software Engineering jobs in California? For Computer Software Engineering jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Computer Software Engineering jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Computer Software Engineering jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Computer Software Engineering jobs? Cities in California with the most Computer Software Engineering job openings:
Computer Software Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Computer Software Engineering job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $145,592 per year, or $70 per hour.
Director, Software Engineering

Director, Software Engineering

Hermeus

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$272.60K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Hermeus is a venture-backed defense aviation company reclaiming the lost art of rapid iterative prototyping to build the fastest aircraft in the world today. By prioritizing relentless hardware iteration, we deliver high-speed systems at the pace of the modern battlefield. We work with the Department of War to provide the high-speed capabilities our nation and its allies need to maintain a durable, asymmetric advantage.

As the Director of Software Engineering at Hermeus, you will be responsible for overseeing the software engineering function for our high-speed vehicles.
Your primary focus will be on leading the design, development, and integration of software systems that enable safe and efficient operation of our high-speed aircraft.
You will manage a talented team of software engineers and collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including avionics, vehicle engineering, and systems integration, to ensure seamless software integration throughout the aircraft.
Responsibilities:
  • Lead, mentor, and manage the flight software engineering team, fostering a collaborative and high-performance culture. 
  • Drive the technical strategy and execution for the development, integration, and testing of flight software for advanced hypersonic vehicles. 
  • Oversee the architecture and design of flight control systems and ensure their alignment with mission requirements and safety standards. 
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including hardware engineering, systems engineering, GNC, and flight test, to deliver integrated software solutions. 
  • Define software development processes and best practices, ensuring timely delivery of software that meets stringent quality and safety requirements. 
  • Spearhead the software verification and validation efforts, including simulation-based testing, hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing, and flight tests. 
  • Establish and manage performance metrics for software quality, productivity, and innovation. 
  • Represent the flight software engineering team in meetings with executives, stakeholders, and external partners to ensure alignment with program objectives. 
  • Stay up-to-date with emerging technologies, trends, and advancements in flight software development and aerospace engineering. 
  • Drive continuous improvement in team processes and capabilities, advocating for a culture of innovation and technical excellence. 
Minimum Requirements:
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Engineering, or a related field. 
  • 8+ years of experience in embedded flight software development, with at least 4year in a leadership or senior technical role. 
  • Professional experience with real-time embedded systems, flight control software, or mission-critical software development. 
  • Professional experience in recruiting, developing, and scaling engineering teams, including coaching and mentoring engineers at all levels. 
Preferred Skills and Requirements:
  • Experience working in a startup environment is a plus 
  • Master's or PhD degree in a relevant technical field (e.g., Aerospace Engineering, Software Engineering, Robotics). 
  • Experience working with aerospace safety standards and regulations (e.g., DO-178C, MIL-STD-498, etc.) 
  • Experience with avionics systems, flight simulation environments, and autonomous vehicle software development. 
  • Prior experience working in the hypersonic or commercial space sectors. 
  • Active participation in industry standards committees or working groups related to aerospace software.  
The salary information provided is a general guideline only. Hermeus takes various factors into account, including, but not limited to, the position's scope and responsibilities, the candidate's professional background, education and training, essential skills, and market and business considerations, when presenting a job offer.
 
Salary is only one part of our total compensation and benefits package. Hermeus offers competitive salary and equity, unlimited PTO policy, paid parental leave, potential for year-end bonuses, and more!
 
100% employer-paid health care
401k & Retirement Plans
Unlimited PTO
Weekly Paid Office Lunches
End of Year Bonuses
Fully stocked breakrooms
Stock Options  
Paid Parental Leave
U.S. EXPORT CONTROL COMPLIANCE STATUS 
The person hired will have access to information and items subject to U.S. export controls, and therefore, must either be a “U.S. person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.62 or otherwise eligible for deemed export licensing. US persons include U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, lawful permanent residents (green card holders), and asylees and refugees with such status granted, not pending. 
 
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
Hermeus is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions at Hermeus are based solely on merit, competence, and qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.
 

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.