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Experienced Software Engineer Jobs in California

Toyon

Senior Software Engineer

Goleta, CA

$130K - $190K/yr

The experienced software engineer will design, develop, and perform analysis utilizing GIS tools. This position is an opportunity to work on a development team with senior staff members guiding ...

Chipton Ross

Software Engineer

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$125/hr

Job #219003 Chipton-Ross is seeking a Software Engineer for a contract opportunity in Palmdale, CA ... Minimum 5+ years of recent experience with C preferred, 7+ years of embedded C++ is acceptable

Apple

Senior Software Engineer - CloudKit Client

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$151K - $199K/yr

Apple is seeking an experienced Software Engineer to help build the next generation of cloud services infrastructure. You'll design and implement key components of the iCloud platform, integrating ...

Intelliswift Software

Software Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$226K - $227K/yr

Education and Experience • Position requires a Master's degree or foreign equivalent degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering or a related field plus two (2) years of experience in a ...

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All JobsExperienced Software Engineer JobsExperienced Software Engineer Jobs in California

Experienced Software Engineer information

See California salary details

$62.7K

$145.6K

$202.8K

How much do experienced software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for experienced software engineer 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 is an experienced software engineer?

Experienced software engineers are professionals who design, develop, test, and maintain software applications and systems. They typically have several years of industry experience, which enables them to take on complex projects, mentor junior engineers, and contribute to architecture and strategic decisions. In addition to strong programming skills, experienced software engineers often possess expertise in software design patterns, system architecture, and project management. Their role is crucial for ensuring code quality, scalability, and the successful delivery of software products.

What is the difference between Experienced Software Engineer vs Software Developer?

AspectExperienced Software EngineerSoftware Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in CS or related field, relevant certificationsBachelor's degree often preferred, coding bootcamps accepted
Work EnvironmentCollaborative teams, project management, system designFocus on coding, application development, and implementation
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, startups, enterprise ITSoftware firms, tech startups, freelance projects

While both roles involve coding and software development, an Experienced Software Engineer typically has a broader scope, including system design and team leadership, whereas a Software Developer primarily focuses on writing code and building applications. The roles often overlap, but the engineer's experience usually encompasses more complex project responsibilities.

What opportunities for mentorship and leadership are available to experienced software engineers?

Experienced software engineers often have the chance to mentor junior team members, lead project teams, or take ownership of significant technical initiatives. Many companies encourage senior engineers to participate in code reviews, architecture discussions, and knowledge-sharing sessions, which can enhance leadership skills while contributing to the team's growth. Additionally, organizations frequently offer pathways into technical leadership roles, such as Tech Lead or Engineering Manager, enabling experienced engineers to expand their influence and impact across projects.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an experienced software engineer?

To thrive as an Experienced Software Engineer, you need strong proficiency in programming languages (such as Java, Python, or C++), problem-solving abilities, and a relevant degree in computer science or related fields. Familiarity with development frameworks, version control systems (like Git), cloud platforms, and often certifications in specific technologies are highly valuable. Effective communication, teamwork, and adaptability help engineers collaborate on complex projects and respond to evolving requirements. These skills and qualities are crucial to delivering reliable, efficient software solutions and excelling in dynamic engineering environments.

What are popular job titles related to Experienced Software Engineer jobs in California?

For Experienced Software Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Experienced Software Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Experienced Software Engineer jobs in California are:

Experienced Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Experienced Software Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $145,592 per year, or $70 per hour.

Senior Backend Software Engineer (Java)

OSI Engineering, Inc.

Menlo Park, CA • On-site

$175K - $190K/yr

Other

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Senior Backend Software Engineer (Java)
We’re looking for an experienced software engineer to be a key contributor in developing cloud-based services that will drive the future of the business. You will join our small and dynamic Cloud Services team, using the latest technology and tools to build high-quality, cross-platform solutions that delight our customers.
Responsibilities:

  • This is a technical hands-on role, with responsibilities ranging from being at the vanguard of solving technical problems to venturing into unchartered areas of technologies to solve complex problems.
  • Directly responsible for consistently delivering high-quality, scalable, production-ready backend/server code in Java by implementing best practices in software engineering, including coding standards, testing and deployment procedures.
  • Partner closely with a cross-functional team of key stakeholders (Engineers, Architects, Product Managers, QA, Operations, and Business Partners) to design and implement end-to-end solutions that meet user needs as well as engineering/operational/business goals.
  • Mentor junior developers using expertise in software development methodology and frameworks, in areas such as quality, security, and scalability.


Qualifications:

  • 8+ years of software engineering experience, including a successful track record developing customer-facing SaaS/PaaS products.
  • 5+ years working experience in core Java and Spring Framework.
  • 3+ years working experience within microservice architecture, specifically utilizing REST services and JSON.
  • Experience in developing applications that are deployed in AWS.
  • Excellent understanding of O/R mapping concepts and tools (Hibernate, JPA).
  • Fluent in Databases/SQL (MySQL experience preferred).
  • Excellent programming discipline: data structures, complexity analysis, object-oriented principles, design patterns, and unit testing.
  • Excellent knowledge of the development challenges inherent with highly scalable and available web/mobile applications.
  • Experience with API development and integration with 3rd-party services is preferred.
  • Experience mentoring junior engineers.
  • BS/MS in Computer Science/Engineering or equivalent.


Location: Menlo Park, CA
Type: Full Time
Salary Range: $175K – 190K (DOE)

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