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Contract Programmer Jobs in Plano, TX (NOW HIRING)

Mueller Industries

Contract Engineer

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

Contract Engineer - Heat Transfer Test Apparatus Design & Build Contract position for one hands-on individual engineer using ATCO facility and shop resources Position Summary We are seeking a solo ...

Indian Health Service

Contract Specialist

Dallas, TX · On-site +1

$115K - $155K/yr

... Engineering, Division of Engineering Services, Dallas, TX or Seattle, WA. A REAL ID will be ... Contract Specialist Total Compensation | Pay (ihs.gov) DUTIES: * Performs the full range of senior ...

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All JobsContract Programmer JobsContract Programmer Jobs in Plano, TX

Contract Programmer information

What is a contract programmer?

A contract programmer is a software developer who is hired on a temporary basis to work on specific projects or tasks for a company. Unlike full-time employees, contract programmers typically work for a set period or until the completion of a particular project. They may work independently or through an agency, and their expertise is often sought for specialized or short-term needs. Contract programmers can work on-site or remotely, and they usually have flexible arrangements regarding hours and workflow.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Programmer, you need strong programming skills in relevant languages, a solid understanding of software development methodologies, and typically a degree in computer science or related field. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, integrated development environments (IDEs), and knowledge of frameworks or cloud platforms are commonly required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, self-motivation, and clear communication with clients set top contract programmers apart. These skills ensure the delivery of high-quality, maintainable code that meets client needs and project deadlines in a dynamic work environment.

How do contract programmers typically manage communication and collaboration with client teams while working remotely?

Contract programmers often work off-site, which makes effective communication and collaboration essential for project success. Most clients use project management tools like Jira, Trello, or Asana, and require regular check-ins via video calls, chat platforms, or emails. It’s important for contract programmers to proactively share progress, clarify requirements, and ask questions as needed to stay aligned with the client’s expectations. Building strong communication habits helps ensure timely delivery and fosters a positive working relationship with diverse team members, even when working remotely.

What is the difference between Contract Programmer vs Software Developer?

AspectContract ProgrammerSoftware Developer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in computer science or related field, with experience in specific programming languagesUsually holds a degree in computer science or software engineering, with similar certifications
Work EnvironmentWorks on short-term projects, often remotely, with flexible schedulesMay work full-time in an office or remotely, involved in ongoing development
Employer & Industry UsageHired by companies for specific projects or freelance work across various industriesEmployed by companies or as freelancers, involved in software creation and maintenance

In summary, Contract Programmers focus on short-term, project-based work, often freelance or temporary, while Software Developers typically work on ongoing development within a company or as full-time employees. Both roles require similar skills and credentials but differ mainly in work scope and employment type.

What are the most commonly searched types of Programmer jobs in Plano, TX?

The most popular types of Programmer jobs in Plano, TX are:

What cities near Plano, TX are hiring for Contract Programmer jobs?

Cities near Plano, TX with the most Contract Programmer job openings:

Contract Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Programmer job openings in Plano, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 7% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution.

Contract Engineer

Mueller Industries

Fort Worth, TX • On-site

Contractor

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Mueller Industries rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Contract Engineer - Heat Transfer Test Apparatus Design & Build
Contract position for one hands-on individual engineer using ATCO facility and shop resources
Position Summary
We are seeking a solo contract engineer to design, build, commission, and validate a functional heat-transfer test apparatus for internal product testing and material evaluation. This is a hands-on engineer who can work directly with our facility, maintenance resources, fabrication shop, and available plant equipment to turn technical test requirements into a reliable physical test system.
The selected engineer must be able to lead the practical build of the apparatus, including the mechanical structure, airflow system, thermal control, instrumentation, data acquisition, calibration approach, safety controls, and validation documentation. This role requires someone comfortable working in a shop environment, coordination with internal resources, and solving build issues as they come up.
Required Engineering Capabilities
Thermal System Design:Ability to design controlled heat-transfer environments, manage heat loss, understand insulation effects, perform energy balances, and troubleshoot temperature stability issues.
Airflow and Duct-System Knowledge:Experience with HVAC airflow, duct testing, pressure measurement, flow measurement, leakage control, fan/blower selection, and repeatable air-handling setups.
Mechanical Design and Fabrication: Ability to design chambers, frames, duct fixtures, access panels, supports, seals, insulation systems, sample mounts, and serviceable mechanical assemblies that can be built using shop resources.
Hands-On Shop Execution:Comfort working around fabrication equipment, maintenance personnel, electricians, welders, machinists, and plant technicians to move the apparatus from concept to physical build.
Controls and Automation:Experience with PID loops, temperature control, airflow control, heater control electrical control panels, safety interlocks, alarms, and stable operating logic.
Instrumentation and Calibration:Strong understanding of RTDs, thermocouples, pressure sensors, airflow measurement devices, power meters, signal wiring, sensor placement, calibration intervals, and traceable measurement practices.
Data Acquisition and Reporting:Ability to specify and integrate a data acquisition system capable of logging raw data, averaging test data, recording steady-state conditions, storing test history, and exporting usable reports.
Test Validation and Measurement Accuracy: Ability to validate the apparatus through baseline runs, repeatability checks, energy-balance review, measurement uncertainty analysis, and documented commissioning procedures.
Standards-Based Engineering:Ability to interpret technical test requirements and convert them into practical equipment requirements without overcomplicating the system. Experience with ASTM, UL, HVAC, insulation, or flexible duct test environments is preferred.
Scope of Work
That contract engineer will review the test requirements, identify the equipment and measurement needs, design the test unit select instrumentation, develop the controls concept, coordinate with ATCO shop and facility resources, support fabrication, assemble or oversee assembly of the system, commission the equipment, and prove that the apparatus produces stable and repeatable results.
The work should include:
• Mechanical layout and design of the test apparatus
• Selection of heaters, fans/blowers, sensors, controls, and data acquisition hardware
• Electrical and controls design, including schematics and safety devices
• Sensor placement plan and calibration requirements
• Fabrication drawings, sketches, bill of materials, and detailed build documentation
• Direct coordination with in-house shop, maintenance, and facility resources
• Assembly support, troubleshooting, and field modifications during the build
• Commissioning and functional testing
• Repeatability and baseline validation runs
• Operator procedure and maintenance documentation
Required Deliverables
The final deliverable must be a fully operational test apparatus, not only drawings or recommendations. Required deliverables include:
• Complete working test unit
• Mechanical drawings, sketches, or build documentation
• Electrical and control schematics
• Instrument list with calibration requirements
• Data acquisition/logging setup and data output format
• Operating procedure
• Calibration and verification procedure
• Validation report showing repeatability and system stability
• Maintenance and troubleshooting guide
Mueller Industries Companies provide equal opportunity in employment to all employees and applicants for employment. No person is to be discriminated against in employment because of race, sex, age, national origin, color, religion, disability, handicap or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, and any other basis as may be specified by applicable federal, state, or local laws.

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