ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Contract Computer Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

University of Dayton

Senior Computer Engineer

Dayton, OH · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

The Senior Computer Engineer will lead the design, development, and optimization of advanced ... Due to the requirements of our research contracts with the U.S. federal government, candidates for ...

The University of Dayton

Senior Computer Engineer

Dayton, OH · On-site

$101K - $139K/yr

Senior Computer Engineer Apply now Job No: 503830 Work Type: Staff Full Time (1500 hours or greater ... contracts with the U.S. federal government, candidates for this position must be a U.S. citizen ...

Goldbelt, Inc.

Computer Engineer IV

Charleston, SC · On-site

$70 - $90/hr

Overview Please note that this position is contingent upon the successful award of a contract ... Develop technical documentation, procedures, and engineering recommendations. Qualifications ...

smp

CAD Drafter / PDM - Contract

Greenville, SC · On-site

$21.25 - $28.50/hr

The Contract CAD Drafter / PDM Support role is responsible for providing drafting and data ... Experience working with engineering drawings, BOMs, revision control, and change management ...

University of Dayton

Senior Computer Engineer

Dayton, OH · On-site

$101K - $139K/yr

... research contracts with the U.S. federal government, candidates for this position must be a U.S ... Computer Engineering, or Computer Science 2. Demonstrated experience developing or maintaining ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All Jobsfreelance JobsTechnology JobsDesktop Support JobsDesktop Engineer JobsContract Computer Engineer Jobs

Contract Computer Engineer information

See salary details

$48.5K

$121.5K

$137.5K

How much do contract computer engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract computer engineer in the United States is $121,515.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $111,500.00 and $131,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract computer engineer?

A Contract Computer Engineer is a professional who is hired on a temporary or project basis to design, develop, test, and maintain computer systems or software. Unlike full-time employees, contract engineers typically work for a set period or until a specific project is completed. They may work independently or through staffing agencies and often bring specialized skills for short-term technical needs. This flexibility allows companies to address complex projects without long-term commitments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract computer engineer?

To thrive as a Contract Computer Engineer, you need a solid background in computer engineering principles, programming languages (such as C++, Python, or Java), and a relevant degree or certifications. Familiarity with industry-standard development tools, version control systems like Git, and possibly certifications such as CompTIA or Cisco are commonly expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and self-management are vital soft skills for success in contract-based roles. These skills and qualifications are crucial for delivering high-quality solutions independently and efficiently within varied client environments.

What are the common challenges faced by contract computer engineers when integrating into new teams or projects?

Contract computer engineers often need to quickly adapt to new work environments and team dynamics, which can be challenging given varying coding standards, project management tools, and company cultures. They may be expected to deliver results on tight timelines with less onboarding than permanent staff. Building effective communication with permanent team members and understanding project requirements rapidly is crucial for success. However, these challenges also provide opportunities to develop adaptability, broaden technical expertise, and expand professional networks.

What is the difference between Contract Computer Engineer vs Contract Software Developer?

AspectContract Computer EngineerContract Software Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Engineering or related field, certifications like Cisco or CompTIABachelor's in Computer Science or Software Engineering, coding certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentHardware-focused settings, network infrastructure, embedded systemsApplication development, coding, software testing
Employer & Industry UsageTech firms, manufacturing, telecommunicationsIT companies, software firms, startups
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles involving hardware and network systemsRoles focused on software development and coding

Contract Computer Engineers typically work on hardware, networking, and embedded systems, requiring specific engineering credentials. In contrast, Contract Software Developers focus on coding and application development. Both roles are contract-based, but they serve different technical needs within the tech industry.

Are contract computer engineers still in demand?

Contract computer engineers remain in demand due to ongoing technology development, project-based work, and the need for specialized skills such as programming, systems design, and cybersecurity. Many organizations seek flexible staffing solutions, making contract roles a common option in the tech industry.

Do contract computer engineers make more money?

Contract computer engineers often earn higher hourly rates than full-time employees due to the temporary nature of their work and the need for specialized skills. However, they may have less job security and benefits, and total annual income can vary based on project availability and market demand.

What cities are hiring for Contract Computer Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Contract Computer Engineer job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Computer Engineer jobs?

The most popular types of Computer Engineer jobs are:

What states have the most Contract Computer Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Contract Computer Engineer jobs include:

Contract Computer Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Computer Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 80% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,515 per year, or $58.4 per hour.

Senior Computer Engineer

University of Dayton

Dayton, OH • On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Other

Re-posted 3 days ago

University Of Dayton rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

102nd of 630 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Job No: 503830
Work Type: Staff Full Time (1500 hours or greater)
Location: Dayton, OH
Category: Research Institute Staff
Department: Scalable Computing - 250642
Pay Grade: R3 - Exempt
Advertised: August 28, 2026
Applications close: September 11, 2026

Position Summary:

Lead the development of high-performance software and embedded systems using C++, Python, MATLAB, FPGAs, and GPUs to advance next-generation U.S. government research missions. Apply to our Senior Computer Engineer opening that the University of Dayton Research Institute today!

The Senior Computer Engineer will lead the design, development, and optimization of advanced software and embedded systems in support of U.S. government research programs. This role combines deep software engineering expertise with an understanding of digital signal processing, compression theory, computer architecture, and heterogeneous computing platforms. The engineer will develop high‑performance applications in C++, Python, and MATLAB, contribute to real‑time embedded solutions, and support hardware‑accelerated implementations using FPGAs and GPUs. The position requires strong technical judgment, the ability to work across multidisciplinary teams, and a commitment to delivering robust, well‑tested solutions. Candidates must be U.S. Citizens and capable of obtaining (or holding) a U.S. Government security clearance.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's Degree (or higher) in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or Computer Science
  • Eight years of professional experience developing software using C/C++, Python, or MATLAB
  • Software development experience with C++, Python, and MATLAB
  • Fundamental understanding of standard compression theory, including lossless and lossy compression, entropy coding, and transform coding
  • Experience utilizing source‑code version control systems such as Git
  • Experience working in both Windows and Linux environments
  • Due to the requirements of our research contracts with the U.S. federal government, candidates for this position must be a U.S. citizen
  • Eligibility to obtain and maintain a United States SECRET clearance (or higher)
Preferred Qualifications:

While not everyone may possess all of the preferred qualifications, the ideal candidate will bring many of the following:

  • Master’s Degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or Computer Science, or eight additional years of relevant experience
  • Experience with real‑time embedded systems and firmware development
  • Knowledge of digital signal processing (DSP) fundamentals and algorithm implementation
  • Understanding of computer architecture, memory systems, and processor pipelines
  • Experience with GPU programming or parallel computing (CUDA, OpenCL, OpenMP)
  • Familiarity with systems engineering practices and requirements development
  • Experience with Hardware Description Languages such as VHDL and Verilog
  • Experience with FPGA design tools such as Quartus and Vivado
  • Experience developing unit tests, automated test frameworks, and CI/CD pipelines
  • Experience with software performance optimization and profiling tools
  • Experience with Simulink
  • Experience with containerization technologies (Docker, Kubernetes) in development workflows
  • Experience integrating heterogeneous hardware systems (FPGAs, GPUs, CPUs, microcontrollers)
  • Active U.S. Government SECRET clearance (or higher)
Closing Statement:

Informed by its Catholic and Marianist mission, the University is committed to the dignity of every human being. Informed by this commitment, we seek to increase diversity in all of its forms, achieve fair outcomes, and model inclusion across our campus community. The University is committed to policies of affirmative action designed to increase the employment opportunities of individuals with disabilities and protected veterans in compliance with the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act of 1973.

#J-18808-Ljbffr

What University Of Dayton employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply