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Independent Contractor Software Developer Jobs in California

General Atomics

Software Developer VII

Poway, CA · On-site

$140K - $252K/yr

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. is a defense contractor leading the way in unmanned ... Experience with model-based software engineering. * Broad understanding of software design patterns ...

ConsumerDirect, Inc.

Software Developer II

Irvine, CA · On-site

$135K - $170K/yr

Software Engineer Team Lead Location : Onsite, Irvine, CA ***This position is full-time and in ... Ability to follow established designs while independently implementing solutions * Strong problem ...

ConsumerDirect, Inc.

Software Developer II

Irvine, CA

$135K - $170K/yr

Software Engineer Team Lead Location : Onsite, Irvine, CA ***This position is full-time and in ... Ability to follow established designs while independently implementing solutions * Strong problem ...

General Atomics

Software Developer III

Poway, CA · On-site

$98K - $171K/yr

Under general supervision with limited review, this position independently determines approaches ... Communicate with software developer groups, users, management, and the wider community through ...

General Atomics

Software Developer II

Poway, CA · On-site

$87K - $132K/yr

Communicate with the software developer group, with users, and with management as well as with the ... work independently and as part of a team; and lead a team of less experienced professional ...

General Atomics

Software Developer IV

Poway, CA · On-site

$105K - $189K/yr

With only general direction and limited review, this position independently determines approaches ... 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

Under general supervision with limited review, this position independently determines approaches ... Apply robust software engineering best practices to machine learning ecosystem, including CI/CD ...

Aveva

Experienced Software Developer

San Leandro, CA · Hybrid

$141K - $235K/yr

Experienced Software Developer Qualifications: Experience designing and developing in C#/.NET ... Previous experience leading a few, medium scale, medium impact initiatives with independent follow ...

AVEVA

Experienced Software Developer

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$141K - $235K/yr

Experienced Software Developer Qualifications: Experience designing and developing in C#/.NET ... Previous experience leading a few, medium scale, medium impact initiatives with independent follow ...

General Atomics

Software Developer II

Poway, CA · On-site

$87K - $132K/yr

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

General Atomics

Software Developer III

Poway, CA · On-site

$98K - $171K/yr

Independently design, develop, test, and maintain software for flight-critical real-time embedded systems in accordance with appropriate development processes and standards * Independently track ...

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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 Developer VII

General Atomics

Poway, CA • On-site

$140K - $252K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 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 Aeronautical Systems Inc. is a defense contractor leading the way in unmanned aerial systems. We invent and pioneer modern solutions for military, security, governance, environmental operations and more. We support our customers with the greatest medium-altitude and small unmanned aircraft systems, and cutting-edge mission payload and exploitation technologies. Our vision is to enable information dominance by providing our customers with around-the-clock and around-the-world situational awareness and effects delivery. Our mission is to provide persistent, versatile, affordable airborne surveillance and effects, and turn surveillance data into actionable intelligence. Our corporate culture focuses on delivering innovative solutions to our global customers and we lean forward with internal research investments to anticipate our customers' needs.
As a Software Architect, you will be responsible for working with program managers, customers, and system architects across the company to understand their software needs and architect software solutions to accomplish those goals.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Analyzing customer requirements and developing original architectures.
  • Reviewing architecture and software solutions across the product portfolio.
  • Establishing and maintaining productive working relationships with managers across the organization.
  • Recommending software approaches and tools based on best practices in the industry.
  • Contributing to department of defense standards groups on behalf of the company.
  • Briefing upper management and customers on software.
  • Managing original research activities and budgets.
  • Estimating software development efforts.
  • Optimizing the software development life cycle activities.
  • Standing up new development teams and setting the course of their development approach.
  • Trouble shooting existing software systems and recommending improvements.
  • Training software personnel and reviewing their work.
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; fifteen or more years of experience with a bachelors degree, thirteen or more years of experience with a masters degree, or ten or more years with a PhD. May substitute equivalent experience in lieu of education.
  • General understanding of aviation and department of defense standards of airworthiness.
  • Broad understanding of coding and programming languages.
  • Experience with model-based software engineering.
  • Broad understanding of software design patterns and architectural styles.
  • Strong written and oral communication skills.
  • Ability to accurately brief complex concepts to audiences of varied technical backgrounds.
  • Ability to multi-task between multiple projects and teams.
  • Ability to mediate between conflicting positions and ideas.
  • A mentorship mindset that increases the productivity of those around you.
  • Ability to get to the simplest solution to a problem and maintain focus on the end goal.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain DoD Security Clearance is required.

What General Atomics employees say

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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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