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Government Software Developer Jobs in California

$135 - $145/hr

Experience with commercial off-the-shelf software, government software, or configurable enterprise applications. * Experience with C#, .NET, SQL Server, Azure DevOps, or similar technologies.

SOFTWARE DEVELOPER (C++)

Norco, CA · On-site

$100K - $160K/yr

Experience working in DoD, government, or other regulated environments is highly desirable. As with ... Develop high-quality software solutions using C++ and modern software engineering practices

Company Description Nava partners with government to deliver mission-critical software that helps ... This work includes determining how to modernize legacy systems, implement DevOps best practices ...

Company Description Nava partners with government to deliver mission-critical software that helps ... This work includes determining how to modernize legacy systems, implement DevOps best practices ...

SOFTWARE DEVELOPER (C++)

Norco, CA · On-site

$52.75 - $71/hr

They are seeking a highly motivated Software Developer (C++) to support the development and ... S. Government, a post-employment ethics letter will be required if employment with VSolvit is ...

SOFTWARE DEVELOPER (.NET/C#)

Norco, CA · On-site

$95K - $150K/yr

Collaborate with software engineers, systems engineers, testers, and government stakeholders to deliver mission-focused solutions. Required Skills and Qualifications * 3-10+ years of professional ...

Work closely with software engineers, systems engineers, testers, and government stakeholders * Participate in sprint planning, daily standups, retrospectives, and other Agile ceremonies * Support ...

Software Developer V

San Diego, CA · On-site

$116K - $208K/yr

... government contracts and Internal Research and Development (IR&D) activities. With limited ... The Software Developer guides the successful completion of a program(s) and may function in a ...

... government contracts and Internal Research and Development (IR&D) activities. With limited ... The Software Developer guides the successful completion of a program(s) and may function in a ...

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Showing results 1-20

Government Software Developer information

See California salary details

$47.4K

$110.4K

$163.8K

How much do government software developer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for government software developer 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 are some unique challenges government software developers face compared to those in the private sector?

Government software developers often work within strict regulatory frameworks and security protocols, which can influence project timelines and the choice of technologies. Projects typically require thorough documentation and compliance with accessibility and data privacy standards. Collaboration with cross-functional teams—such as policy experts, procurement officers, and end-users—is common, and adapting to evolving government priorities can be both challenging and rewarding. These factors contribute to a work environment that values stability, public impact, and continuous learning.

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

To thrive as a Government Software Developer, you need strong programming skills, knowledge of secure software development practices, and often a degree in computer science or related fields. Familiarity with languages like Java, Python, and .NET, as well as experience with government-specific systems, cloud platforms, and relevant security certifications (e.g., Security+ or CISSP) is valuable. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and a collaborative mindset are important soft skills for working on complex, mission-critical projects. These competencies ensure reliable, secure, and compliant solutions for government operations and public services.

What does a government software developer do?

A Government Software Developer designs, creates, and maintains software applications specifically for government agencies. Their work often involves developing secure and reliable systems for data management, public services, or internal operations. They must adhere to strict security, privacy, and regulatory standards unique to the public sector. In addition to coding, they may also collaborate with policy makers, IT professionals, and end-users to ensure the software meets the needs of the agency and the public.
What are popular job titles related to Government Software Developer jobs in California? For Government Software Developer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Government Software Developer 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 $110,380 per year, or $53.1 per hour.

Director, Software Engineering

Socket.dev

On-site

$135 - $145/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Key Responsibilities
  • Lead and develop software engineering teams, including managers, technical leads, developers, and QA resources.
  • Own engineering delivery for assigned product lines, including enhancements, defects, customer commitments, and technical initiatives.
  • Partner with Product Management and Professional Services to understand priorities, clarify scope, and support customer implementations and go-lives.
  • Drive improvements in product quality, release readiness, supportability, and engineering predictability.
  • Guide technical direction and modernization efforts, including reducing technical debt and improving maintainability.
  • Support production issues and customer escalations when engineering leadership is needed.
  • Communicate status, risks, tradeoffs, and recommendations clearly to leadership and cross-functional teams.
  • Build a culture of ownership, accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
Required Qualifications
  • 8+ years of software engineering experience.
  • 5+ years of experience leading software engineering teams.
  • Strong understanding of enterprise software development, release management, quality practices, and production support.
  • Experience working with Product Management, Professional Services, Support, or other customer-facing teams.
  • Ability to balance delivery commitments, technical debt, product priorities, and customer needs.
  • Strong communication and leadership skills.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with commercial off-the-shelf software, government software, or configurable enterprise applications.
  • Experience with C#, .NET, SQL Server, Azure DevOps, or similar technologies.
  • Experience supporting legacy product modernization.
Position Focus

This role will primarily support our COTS product portfolio, including solutions used in property assessment and local government workflows. The focus is less on building a single new product from scratch and more on leading teams that maintain, enhance, modernize, and support established software products used by long-term customers.

Salary range

$135,000 - $145,000 USD per year.

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