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Computer Software Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

SME Computer Software Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$97K - $150K/yr

Job Title SME Computer Software Engineer Location San Diego, CA 22400 US (Primary) Category Research, Development, and Engineering Job Type Full-Time Career Level Staff Education Bachelor's Degree ...

Essential Functions: * Assist adult and youth residents in using computer software, digital tools, and online resources. Develop and deliver training sessions or one-on-one support to promote digital ...

Flight computer and/or vehicle management computer software development, test, and integration * Agile Software Development methodologies * Experience with VxWorks operating systems * Experience with ...

Software QA Intern

Merced, CA ยท On-site

$20.50 - $26.75/hr

We are looking for a Software QA Intern to join Vista Robotics, a leading company in the field of computer software and engineering. As a Software AQ Intern, you will play a crucial role in ensuring ...

Software QA Intern

Sacramento, CA ยท On-site

$20.50 - $27/hr

We are looking for a Software QA Intern to join Vista Robotics, a leading company in the field of computer software and engineering. As a Software AQ Intern, you will play a crucial role in ensuring ...

Software QA Intern

Arcata, CA ยท On-site

$20.75 - $27.25/hr

We are looking for a Software QA Intern to join Vista Robotics, a leading company in the field of computer software and engineering. As a Software AQ Intern, you will play a crucial role in ensuring ...

Software QA Intern

Bakersfield, CA ยท On-site

$21 - $27.50/hr

We are looking for a Software QA Intern to join Vista Robotics, a leading company in the field of computer software and engineering. As a Software AQ Intern, you will play a crucial role in ensuring ...

Software QA Intern

Fresno, CA ยท On-site

$19 - $25/hr

We are looking for a Software QA Intern to join Vista Robotics, a leading company in the field of computer software and engineering. As a Software AQ Intern, you will play a crucial role in ensuring ...

Software QA Intern

Chico, CA ยท On-site

$19.50 - $25.75/hr

We are looking for a Software QA Intern to join Vista Robotics, a leading company in the field of computer software and engineering. As a Software AQ Intern, you will play a crucial role in ensuring ...

Software QA Intern

Northridge, CA ยท On-site

$20.75 - $27.25/hr

We are looking for a Software QA Intern to join Vista Robotics, a leading company in the field of computer software and engineering. As a Software AQ Intern, you will play a crucial role in ensuring ...

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Showing results 1-20

Computer Software information

See California salary details

$47.4K

$110.4K

$163.8K

How much do computer software jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer software in California is $110,380.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,800.00 and $128,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Computer Software vs Software Developer?

AspectComputer SoftwareSoftware Developer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in computer science or related fieldRequires a degree in computer science, software engineering, or related field; coding certifications are common
Work EnvironmentDeveloped and maintained across various industries, often in office or remote settingsPrimarily works in office or remote environments, focusing on coding, testing, and debugging
Industry UsageRefers to the actual programs and applications used by end-users or businessesRefers to the role of creating, designing, and maintaining software applications

Computer Software encompasses the actual programs and applications used in various industries, while Software Developers are professionals who create and maintain these programs. The roles overlap significantly, but the software refers to the product, and the developer is the person building it.

What are computer software jobs?

Computer software jobs refer to careers focused on designing, developing, testing, and maintaining software applications or systems. These roles can include software engineers, developers, testers, quality assurance analysts, and system architects. Professionals in this field work with programming languages and software tools to create solutions for computers, mobile devices, or web platforms. Computer software jobs exist across various industries, including technology, finance, healthcare, and entertainment. These roles often require strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of coding languages.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior software engineers, especially those in specialized fields like machine learning, data science, or working at large tech companies, can earn $500,000 or more annually through base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and often working in high-cost-of-living regions or at companies with competitive compensation packages.

Which software job is the highest paid?

Software engineering roles such as software architects, machine learning engineers, and solutions architects tend to be among the highest paid in the industry. These positions often require advanced skills in programming, system design, and experience with cloud platforms, and they typically offer higher salaries compared to other software-related roles.

What types of software jobs are there?

Software jobs include roles such as software developer, software engineer, quality assurance tester, systems analyst, and technical support specialist. These positions often require knowledge of programming languages, development tools, and sometimes certifications like CompTIA or Microsoft certifications. They can involve working in teams, remote or on-site, and may focus on areas like web development, mobile apps, or enterprise systems.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in computer software development teams?

One common challenge in computer software development is effectively collaborating across multidisciplinary teams, especially when team members have varying technical backgrounds or are distributed across different locations. Managing project timelines and adapting to rapidly changing requirements can also be demanding, requiring strong communication and agile problem-solving skills. Additionally, keeping up with fast-evolving technologies and best practices is essential for continued success and can be a source of both challenge and opportunity for professional growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in computer software roles, and why are they important?

To thrive in computer software roles, you need strong programming skills, problem-solving abilities, and typically a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with development tools, software frameworks, version control systems like Git, and relevant certifications such as AWS Certified Developer or Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate are highly beneficial. Excellent teamwork, communication skills, and adaptability set top professionals apart in collaborative and fast-evolving environments. These skills are crucial for creating reliable software solutions, staying current with technology trends, and contributing effectively to project goals.

Is it true that AI will replace software engineers?

AI is transforming software engineering by automating certain tasks like code generation and testing, but it is unlikely to fully replace software engineers. Instead, AI tools serve as complements that enhance productivity, requiring engineers to focus on complex problem-solving, system design, and oversight. Continuous learning and adapting to new technologies remain essential for software engineers in an evolving AI-driven environment.
What are popular job titles related to Computer Software jobs in California? For Computer Software jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in California are hiring for Computer Software jobs? Cities in California with the most Computer Software job openings:
SME Computer Software Engineer

SME Computer Software Engineer

Prescient Edge

San Diego, CA โ€ข On-site

$97K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Job Title
SME Computer Software Engineer
Location
San Diego, CA 22400 US (Primary)
Category
Research, Development, and Engineering
Job Type
Full-Time
Career Level
Staff
Education
Bachelor's Degree
Travel
Security Clearance Required
Secret
Job Description
Prescient Edge is seeking SME Computer Software Engineer to support a federal government client.
Benefits & Compensation:
At Prescient Edge, we believe that acting with integrity and serving our employees is the key to everyone's success. To that end, we provide employees with a best-in-class benefits package that includes:
  • A competitive salary with performance bonus opportunities.
  • Comprehensive healthcare benefits, including medical, vision, dental, and orthodontia coverage.
  • A substantial retirement plan with no vesting schedule. Career development opportunities, including on-the-job training, tuition reimbursement, and networking.
  • A positive work environment where employees are respected, supported, and engaged.
  • Salary range: $97,000 - $150,000. Salary to be determined by the education, experience, knowledge, skills and the abilities of the applicant, internal equity, and alignment with market data.

Description:
  • Software Engineering Subject Matter Expert (SME)/Engineer supporting mission-critical systems, providing technical leadership in the design, development, integration, and sustainment of operational software solutions.
  • Design, develop, and maintain software applications and services for tactical and enterprise environments, including real-time systems, data processing pipelines, and mission system interfaces.
  • Leverage prior military operational experience to translate mission requirements, CONOPS, and operator needs into practical software solutions that improve mission effectiveness, reliability, and usability.
  • Lead software integration, testing, and troubleshooting activities across development, lab, and operational environments, ensuring systems remain mission-ready and compliant with operational requirements.
  • Collaborate with government stakeholders, engineers, and operators to support system architecture design, capability enhancements, and technology insertion across existing mission platforms.
  • Support software lifecycle activities including requirements development, configuration management, version control, cybersecurity compliance, and documentation in accordance with government and DoD development standards.
  • Provide technical guidance and mentorship to development teams, helping bridge operational experience with modern software engineering practices to ensure mission-focused solutions.

Job Requirements
Requirements:
  • US Navy, USCG, Marine Corps, or SOCOM experience required.
  • Military unmanned or manned aircraft, ships, or equipment experience is required.
  • Petty Officers, Marines, or Coast Guard personnel with communications, network, system admin, engineering, or software experience.
  • Computer Software SME/Engineer with engineering, systems, technical degree and 4+ years military experience OR SME in technical field with some college and 12+ years military experience.
  • 10+ years military experience may substitute for degree (SME level).
  • Testing or hands-on experience with network, computer, and tactical systems (operations of GCCS, MSS, other common operating systems are a plus).
  • Understanding of System Engineering Life Cycle (SELC).
  • Proficiency with MS products (Excel, Word, PPT).
  • Proficiency with Visio, AutoCAD, or similar diagram tools.
  • Familiarity with AI model usage (LLMs).
  • Hands-on software engineering, integration, testing, troubleshooting, or tactical system experience within military operational environments.

Education:
  • Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Systems, or Technical discipline preferred but not required. Experience may substitute.
  • Degree preferred but not required, experience over degree.

Security Clearance:
  • Active Secret clearance or ability to obtain a Secret (or higher).

Location:
  • San Diego, CA
  • Travel: Up to 25%
  • Work Schedule: Hybrid - 3 days in Government facility and 2 days remote

Prescient Edge is a Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB) founded as a counterintelligence (CI) and Human Intelligence (HUMINT) company in 2008. We are a global operations and solutions integrator delivering full-spectrum intelligence analysis support, training, security, and RD&E support solutions to the Department of Defense and throughout the intelligence community. Prescient Edge is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO). All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic that is protected by law. We strive to foster equity and inclusion throughout our organization because we believe that diversity of thought is critical for creating a safe and engaging work environment while also enabling the organization's success.

Prescient Edge logo

About Prescient Edge

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Prescient Edge is a prominent name in the global security industry, based out of McLean, VA, US. Established with the primary mission of harnessing science and technology for safety and security purposes, the company specializes in providing a wide range of products and services. This includes research and development, consulting, global operations support, intelligence evaluation, and advanced data solutions. These offerings make Prescient Edge an integral factor in national defense and commercial innovations.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

McLean, VA, US

Year founded

2008

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