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Independent Contractor Software Developer Jobs in California

Procede Software

Software Developer

Solana Beach, CA · On-site +1

$120K - $180K/yr

... independence while reporting to the Senior Director of Software Development. Why This Role This isn't a role where you'll simply maintain existing software. We're looking for a Software Developer who ...

Procede Software

Software Developer

Solana Beach, CA · On-site

... independence while reporting to the Senior Director of Software Development. Why This Role This isn't a role where you'll simply maintain existing software. We're looking for a Software Developer who ...

Procede Software LP

Software Developer

Solana Beach, CA · On-site

... independence while reporting to the Senior Director of Software Development. Why This Role This isn't a role where you'll simply maintain existing software. We're looking for a Software Developer who ...

G2 Software

Software Developer I, II

San Diego, CA · On-site

$120 - $150/hr

About the Role As a software developer at G2, you'll dive into exciting projects, harnessing your ... Ability to work independently as well as in a team setting, using effective communication and ...

Saalex

Software Developer

Ridgecrest, CA · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Saalex is seeking a Software Developer in Ridgecrest, CA. Saalex Corp., is an Engineering and ... independently. Essential Functions: Software Design, Lifecycle, & Deployment: * Full Lifecycle ...

Saalex

Software Developer

Ridgecrest, CA · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Saalex is seeking a Software Developer in Ridgecrest, CA. Saalex Corp., is an Engineering and ... independently. Essential Functions: Software Design, Lifecycle, & Deployment: * Full Lifecycle ...

Saalex

Software Developer

Ridgecrest, CA · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Saalex is seeking a Software Developer in Ridgecrest, CA. Saalex Corp., is an Engineering and ... independently. Essential Functions: Software Design, Lifecycle, & Deployment: * Full Lifecycle ...

Sapta Global Inc

Software Developer

Signal Hill, CA · Remote

The contractor shall provide services including (but not limited to) the following: · Application ... The management of the entire software development process, from conception to deployment.Updating ...

VSolvit

SOFTWARE DEVELOPER (C++)

Norco, CA · On-site

$100K - $160K/yr

Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment * US Citizenship is ... Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related ...

General Atomics

Software Developer IV

Poway, CA · On-site

General Atomics is seeking a seasoned Software Developer to join the team in Poway, CA. Your work ... Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a structured development environment.

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All JobsIndependent Contractor Software Developer JobsIndependent Contractor Software Developer Jobs in California

Independent Contractor Software Developer information

See California salary details

$47.4K

$110.4K

$163.8K

How much do independent contractor software developer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for independent contractor 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an independent contractor software developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Independent Contractor Software Developer, you need strong programming skills, a solid understanding of software development principles, and relevant experience or a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, cloud platforms, and proficiency in popular programming languages, along with certifications such as AWS Certified Developer or Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate, are often beneficial. Excellent communication, time management, and problem-solving abilities set standout contractors apart, enabling effective client interaction and project delivery. These skills and qualities are crucial for producing high-quality software, meeting client expectations, and managing projects independently.

What is an independent contractor software developer?

An Independent Contractor Software Developer is a professional who designs, develops, and maintains software applications while working independently rather than as a traditional employee. They are typically hired on a contractual basis to complete specific projects or provide specialized expertise for a set duration. Independent contractors manage their own schedules, handle multiple clients, and are responsible for their own taxes and business expenses. This arrangement offers flexibility but also requires strong self-management, business skills, and a clear understanding of project requirements.

How do independent contractor software developers typically manage client communication and project expectations?

As an Independent Contractor Software Developer, clear and consistent client communication is essential to ensure project requirements, timelines, and deliverables are well understood by all parties. Contractors often use project management tools, regular status updates, and well-defined contracts to set expectations from the outset. Proactively addressing questions, setting realistic deadlines, and documenting progress help prevent misunderstandings and foster strong client relationships, which can lead to repeat business and referrals.

What is the difference between Independent Contractor Software Developer vs Freelance Software Engineer?

AspectIndependent Contractor Software DeveloperFreelance Software Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires relevant coding certifications or degreesOften has similar credentials, but not always mandatory
Work EnvironmentWorks independently, often remotely or on client sitesOperates independently, managing multiple clients or projects
Employer/Industry UsageHired directly by companies or through agencies for specific projectsHired directly by clients or through platforms for project-based work
Search/Comparison IntentOften compared based on project scope, independence, and contractual termsCompared for flexibility, project variety, and client interaction

Both roles involve independent work in software development, requiring similar skills and credentials. The main difference lies in terminology and slight variations in work setup, but they are often used interchangeably in the industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Software Developer jobs in California? The most popular types of Software Developer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Independent Contractor Software Developer jobs? Cities in California with the most Independent Contractor Software Developer job openings:
Independent Contractor Software Developer jobs near you

Software Development Engineer in Test Contractor (SDET Contractor)

PlayStation Global

San Mateo, CA • On-site

$57 - $73.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Do you have strong technical abilities, and excellent communication skills and can be an inspiration to your team to achieve extraordinary results? Have a passion for automation? Want to work at a company where customers have real excitement for the products you help create? At PlayStation, we are seeking engineers to join a global initiative in robust test automation and Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment systems.

We are looking for a Software Development Engineer in Test Contractor (SDET Contractor) who can help ensure we're able to continue to grow our capabilities without negative impact to our passionate user base.

What You'll Do
  • Setup test frameworks, and help teams set up automation infrastructure
  • Automated testing of UI Frameworks, Background Services, Language runtimes, Browser technologies.
  • Develop and implement standard methodologies for automation, continuous build and deploy, automated testing, multi-functional end-to-end testing, including device testing, and performance testing
  • Work with globally distributed teams to engage early and provide continuous delivery of high quality software products that delight Sony customers
  • Manage, and monitor various Jenkins Jobs and report statuses
  • Identify and act on opportunities to improve the QA process
  • Expand testing and automation across teams to promote ownership of quality
  • Work with console developers to ensure that all features and bug fixes come with automated test coverage
  • Maintain and improve existing Python based automation framework
  • Report, track and verify defects
  • This Role Will Require Knowledge Of
  • Testing - the study and practice of a variety of test techniques and methodologies, and familiarity with prominent voices in the online testing community
  • Test automation - an interest in test automation to a level where you can discuss the pros and cons of various automation approaches. To support this, you also have working knowledge of a modern programming language
  • Agile software development - understanding of common methodologies and articulation of how a strong tester can best support their team in that context
  • Performance - passion for application performance and concern about application load time, perceived performance, and user retention
Qualifications
  • A Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or equivalent
  • Proven experience writing automated tests in C++, Python, JavaScript
  • Practical experience using development and deployment tools: Git, Docker, Conan, npm
  • Experience in developing CI pipelines using Jenkins / Github Actions,
  • Experience with Selenium or Appium
  • Experience with at least one modern web application framework, preferably React
  • Knowledge and experience testing APIs, Libraries, SDK / Application Frameworks, Native Applications
  • Strong technical, analytical, and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to estimate effort and size of features
  • Experience with agile development methodologies and TDD processes

Join us at PlayStation and help us build world-class experiences for our users!

Apply