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Independent Contractor Software Developer Jobs in California

General Atomics

Software Developer IV

Poway, CA · On-site

$105K - $189K/yr

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.

General Atomics

Software Developer IV

Poway, CA · On-site

$105K - $189K/yr

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.

SA Technologies Inc.

Software Developer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

Software Developer Location: Sunnyvale, CA Duration: 18 Months + Rate: Open ****This is an ... Primary job functions do not typically require exercising independent judgment. Typically reports ...

VSolvit

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 ... independently and collaboratively within a team environment • U.S. Citizenship required • ...

Boeing

Lead Software Developer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$171K - $232K/yr

Lead Software Developer Company: The Boeing Company The Boeing Company is looking for a Lead ... independently to uncover and resolve issues. * Lead software development, facilitate code reviews ...

B&B Manufacturing Co., Inc.

Be Seen First

Software Developer I

Valencia, CA · On-site

... Software Developers. Develops and maintains software applications, supports the company's ERP ... Performs assigned software development tasks independently once requirements and direction are ...

Boeing

Lead Software Developer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$171K - $232K/yr

Lead Software Developer Company: The Boeing Company The Boeing Company is looking for a Lead ... independently to uncover and resolve issues. * Lead software development, facilitate code reviews ...

General Atomics

Software Developer III

Poway, CA · On-site

$98K - $171K/yr

This position independently determines approaches/solutions for the design, development and/or ... Communicate with the software developer group, with users, and with management as well as with the ...

General Atomics

Software Developer III

Poway, CA · On-site

$98K - $171K/yr

This position independently determines approaches/solutions for the design, development and/or ... Communicate with the software developer group, with users, and with management as well as with the ...

General Atomics

Software Developer III

Poway, CA · On-site

This position independently determines approaches/solutions for the design, development and/or ... Communicate with the software developer group, with users, and with management as well as with the ...

General Atomics

Software Developer III

Poway, CA · On-site

$98K - $171K/yr

As a Software Engineer for GA-ASI, you will research, design, develop and/or modify enterprise-wide ... Ability to work independently and as part of a team. * Ability to work overtime as needed.

B&B Manufacturing

Software Developer I

Valencia, CA · On-site

$92K - $150K/yr

Performs assigned software development tasks independently once requirements and direction are ... P programming and support related to the company's ERP system and custom reporting tools. • ...

General Atomics

Software Developer II

Poway, CA · On-site

$87K - $132K/yr

As a Software Engineer for GA-ASI, you will research, design, develop and/or modify enterprise-wide ... Ability to work independently and as part of a team. * Ability to work overtime as needed.

General Atomics

Software Developer VI

Poway, CA · On-site

$128K - $229K/yr

Communicate routinely with the software developer group, with users, and with management as well as ... The ability to work both independently and as a frontline team leader is essential. * Able to work ...

VSolvit

SOFTWARE DEVELOPER (.NET/C#)

Norco, CA · On-site

$95K - $150K/yr

... effectively both independently and within a collaborative team environment. Primary ... Collaborate with software engineers, systems engineers, testers, and government stakeholders to ...

General Atomics

Software Developer VI

Poway, CA · On-site

Communicate routinely with the software developer group, with users, and with management as well as ... The ability to work both independently and as a frontline team leader is essential. * Able to work ...

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Showing results 21-40

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 Developer IV

General Atomics

Poway, CA • On-site

$105K - $189K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

General Atomics rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

Job Summary
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a world leader in proven, reliable remotely piloted aircraft and tactical reconnaissance radars, as well as advanced high-resolution surveillance systems.
General Atomics is seeking a seasoned Software Developer to join the team in Poway, CA. Your work will directly support flight and mission-critical capabilities deployed in complex operational environments, contributing to technologies that have meaningful real-world impact.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Determine user requirements and specifications and plan for software development within the broader organizational scope. Software development includes end-user, system level, and data management applications.
  • Coordinate development activities across all phases of the Software Development Lifecycle.
  • Support planning and execution of software releases across multiple system or customer configurations.
  • Ensure engineering work aligns with configuration management processes, release procedures, and quality standards.
  • Provide technical oversight of software architecture, implementation approaches, and integration strategies.
  • Coordinate cross-functional activities with systems engineering, test, integration labs, and program management.
  • Support software integration and troubleshooting within lab, simulation, and operational environments.
  • Participate in technical reviews including design reviews, code reviews, and test readiness reviews.
  • Evaluate and implement process improvements to enhance development efficiency, quality, and delivery reliability.
  • Act as the primary point of contact for external engineering teams, program management, and customers within assigned projects.
  • Support program execution needs, including schedule-driven integration or release activities.
We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.
Job Qualifications
  • Typically requires a bachelors degree, masters degree or PhD in computer science, information systems or related discipline and progressive software development experience as follows; six or more years of experience with a bachelors degree, four or more years of experience with a masters degree, or two or more years with a PhD. May substitute equivalent experience in lieu of education.
  • Strong understanding of software engineering principles including system architecture, modular design, integration, and lifecycle management.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead and mentor software engineers and coordinate technical work across a development team.
  • Experience developing software for complex integrated systems (e.g., distributed systems, real-time systems, embedded platforms, or hardware-software integrated environments).
  • Ability to organize, schedule, and manage technical work across multiple concurrent efforts with competing priorities.
  • Demonstrated ability to evaluate technical approaches, make sound engineering decisions, and resolve complex system-level problems.
  • Experience supporting software integration, verification, and test activities across lab, simulation, or operational environments.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, including technical documentation and formal engineering reviews.
  • Capability to serve as a primary technical point of contact for assigned software scope.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a structured development environment.
  • Experience supporting configuration-controlled software delivery within integrated lab or operational environments (e.g., simulation, hardware-in-the-loop, or fielded systems), including formal configuration management and traceable, baselined releases across multiple system configurations.
  • Willingness to support program execution needs, including extended hours during integration or release milestones when required.
  • Familiar with Agile software development principles.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain DoD security clearance required.

What General Atomics employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About General Atomics

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world's leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Diego, CA, US

Year founded

1955

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