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Contract Software Tester Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

PlayStation Global

Software QA Engineer

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Software QA Engineer (Contract) Join PlayStation's global initiative to build innovative test ... Experience with contract testing frameworks such as Pact or similar consumer-driven contract ...

Actalent

Software Quality Engineer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$34 - $62/hr

Perform hands-on testing of instrument user interfaces and software applications. * Document test ... Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of Carlsbad, CA. Pay and Benefits The pay ...

New

Chipton Ross

Software Systems Engineer 3

Northridge, CA · On-site

$115.56/hr

Job #219060 Chipton-Ross is seeking a Software Systems Engineer 3 for a contract opportunity in ... software testing, system integration, field integration testing, and requirements verification.

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All JobsContract Software Tester JobsContract Software Tester Jobs in California

Contract Software Tester information

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How much do contract software tester jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract software tester in California is $42.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32.98 and $51.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges contract software testers face when integrating with new development teams?

As a contract software tester, one of the biggest challenges is quickly adapting to different team cultures, workflows, and tools. Since contracts are often short-term, you need to rapidly understand the project's context, the specific testing requirements, and communication protocols. Building trust and effective collaboration with permanent team members in a limited timeframe is essential, as is staying organized to manage multiple projects or shifting priorities. Proactively asking questions and leveraging documentation can help smooth the integration process.

What does a contract software tester do?

A Contract Software Tester is a professional who is hired on a temporary basis to evaluate and ensure the quality of software applications. They design and execute test cases, identify bugs or issues, and report their findings to the development team. Their main goal is to ensure that the software meets specified requirements and functions correctly before it is released. Contract testers are often brought in for specific projects or during peak development periods, providing flexibility and specialized expertise.

What is the difference between Contract Software Tester vs Contract QA Analyst?

AspectContract Software TesterContract QA Analyst
CertificationsISTQB, CSTEISTQB, CSTE
Work EnvironmentSoftware development teams, testing labsTesting teams, quality assurance departments
Industry UsageTech, finance, healthcareTech, manufacturing, retail

Contract Software Testers focus primarily on executing test cases, identifying bugs, and ensuring software quality through manual or automated testing. Contract QA Analysts often have broader responsibilities, including test planning, process improvement, and quality metrics analysis. While both roles require similar certifications and work environments, the Contract Software Tester is more hands-on with testing execution, whereas the Contract QA Analyst emphasizes overall quality strategy.

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

To thrive as a Contract Software Tester, you need a strong understanding of software testing methodologies, experience with test case design, and typically a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with automated testing tools (such as Selenium or JUnit), bug tracking systems (like Jira), and potentially ISTQB certification are commonly required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills help testers identify issues and collaborate with developers. These skills ensure reliable software delivery, minimize defects, and support project success in dynamic contract environments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Software Tester jobs in California? The most popular types of Software Tester jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Contract Software Tester jobs? Cities in California with the most Contract Software Tester job openings:
Contract Software Tester jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Software Tester job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,305 per year, or $42.9 per hour.

Software Test Engineer

Silvus Technologies

Los Angeles, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

THE OPPORTUNITY

The Software Test Engineer position reports to the Software Quality Assurance Manager within the Software Engineering team.  The successful individual in this role will help accelerate software quality by carrying out manual regression tests and driving exploratory and ad-hoc testing across StreamCaster products. This role works hand-in-hand with engineers to debug issues, triage defects, resolve reports, and build scripts to facilitate testing of features like PTT and network performance. Engineers will also champion the documentation of design requirements and decisions.

This position is 100% onsite, Monday through Friday, at Silvus Technologies' HQ in the heart of vibrant West Los Angeles, CA.

The following is a list of at least some of the current essential job functions of the position. Management may assign or reassign duties and responsibilities at any time at its discretion.

ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Execute manual regression tests.
  • Lead ad-hoc testing and debugging efforts for the software department.
  • Perform exploratory tests against defect reports, new features, and bug fixes.
  • Triage defect reports and collaborate with engineers on their resolution.
  • Develop scripts to aid testing for features like PTT and network performance.
  • Record tickets for detected software defects.
  • Document software product requirements and design decisions.
  • Adhere and contribute to upholding software usability and quality standards.
  • Perform other related duties of which the above are representative.
  • Travel Requirements - rare local travel, as required by Silvus.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering or other related technical field.
  • Strong foundational skills in software development with Python, C/C++, or related languages.
  • Experience developing for one or more of Windows, Linux, MacOS, Android, or Bare metal environments.
  • Demonstrated understanding of software testing practices (unit, integration, system testing) gained through academic projects, internships, or personal work.
  • Fundamental understanding of computer networking concepts.
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen due to clients under U.S. government contracts.
  • All employment is contingent upon the successful clearance of a background check and drug test.

PREFERRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

  • Familiarity and exposure to test tools like Wireshark, TCPDump, Putty/Minicom.
  • Proficient with web browser development tools for inspecting network requests.
  • Acquainted with mesh networking.
  • Trained in and understanding of Agile methodologies.
  • Experience with electrical or RF instrumentation and design.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Aptitude for problem-solving and troubleshooting technical challenges.

WORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Indoor air-conditioned facility.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to do the following:
    • Lift equipment, up to 50lbs., for set up of demonstrations and testing.
    • Walking/Moving in the lab.

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