1

Java Software Engineer Contract Jobs in San Diego, CA

Software Engineer responsibilities include gathering user requirements, defining system functionality and writing code in various languages, like Java, Ruby on Rails or .NET programming languages (e ...

Extending our automated unit testing, integration testing frameworks, contract testing and tooling ... Java, Typescript * Docker and Kubernetes (EKS) experience * Frameworks: Spring Boot, React

Proficiency in Java, TypeScript and object-oriented programming * Familiarity with full-stack web ... Software Designs and Interface Design Descriptions) * Math background including Probability ...

Sr Embedded Software Engineer

Vista, CA · On-site

$126K - $166K/yr

Senior Software Engineer Position Summary This position leads the analysis, design, development ... quality Java applications and system architecture. · Evaluate hardware compatibility and ...

Writing and debugging code in languages such as C#, Java, Python, or C++ * Participating on an ... Software Engineering, Biomedical Engineering (with computational focus), or related field

... Java, TypeScript and object-oriented programming • Familiarity with full-stack web application development • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to clearly ...

Senior Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$130K - $171K/yr

Raising the quality bar by advancing automated unit, integration, contract, and end-to-end testing ... Languages: Java,Typescript * Docker and Kubernetes (EKS) experience * Frameworks: Spring Boot ...

Senior Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$130K - $171K/yr

Raising the quality bar by advancing automated unit, integration, contract, and end-to-end testing ... Languages: Java,Typescript * Docker and Kubernetes (EKS) experience * Frameworks: Spring Boot ...

Senior Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$130K - $171K/yr

Raising the quality bar by advancing automated unit, integration, contract, and end-to-end testing ... Languages: Java,Typescript * Docker and Kubernetes (EKS) experience * Frameworks: Spring Boot ...

Senior Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$130K - $171K/yr

Raising the quality bar by advancing automated unit, integration, contract, and end-to-end testing ... Languages: Java,Typescript * Docker and Kubernetes (EKS) experience * Frameworks: Spring Boot ...

Experience writing automated unit, e2e, integration and contract tests. * Experience working with ... Java,Typescript * Docker and Kubernetes (EKS) experience * Frameworks: Spring Boot, React * Version ...

Experience writing automated unit, e2e, integration and contract tests. * Experience working with ... Java,Typescript * Docker and Kubernetes (EKS) experience * Frameworks: Spring Boot, React * Version ...

Experience writing automated unit, e2e, integration and contract tests. * Experience working with ... Java,Typescript * Docker and Kubernetes (EKS) experience * Frameworks: Spring Boot, React * Version ...

Showing results 21-40

Java Software Engineer Contract information

See San Diego, CA salary details

$28

$64

$90

How much do java software engineer contract jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for java software engineer contract in San Diego, CA is $64.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52.84 and $72.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Java software engineers on contract assignments, and how can they be managed?

Contract Java Software Engineers often face challenges such as quickly adapting to new codebases, understanding project requirements with limited onboarding time, and integrating smoothly with established teams. To manage these challenges, it's important to proactively communicate with team members, ask clarifying questions early, and make use of available documentation. Contract roles also require strong time management and self-motivation, as deliverables and expectations may be clearly defined but support can be less hands-on compared to permanent positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Java software engineer contractor?

To thrive as a Java Software Engineer Contractor, you need strong proficiency in Java programming, experience with software development lifecycles, and typically a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools such as Spring Framework, Git, Maven, and cloud platforms, as well as knowledge of unit testing frameworks, is highly valued. Excellent problem-solving abilities, adaptability, and clear communication help you stand out, especially when collaborating remotely or integrating with diverse teams. These skills and qualities are crucial for delivering reliable, scalable solutions on time and ensuring smooth coordination in dynamic project environments.

What is a Java software engineer contract?

A Java Software Engineer Contract is a temporary or fixed-term role where a software engineer is hired to develop, test, and maintain software applications using the Java programming language. Contractors typically work on specific projects or for a set period, rather than as permanent employees. These roles often require expertise in Java frameworks, object-oriented programming, and collaboration with other developers or teams. Contract positions can offer flexibility, competitive pay, and opportunities to work on diverse projects.

What is the difference between Java Software Engineer Contract vs Java Software Engineer?

AspectJava Software Engineer ContractJava Software Engineer
Employment TypeTemporary/Project-basedFull-time/permanent
DurationFixed-termIndefinite
Work EnvironmentClient sites, consulting firms, or remoteCompany offices or remote
CertificationsTypically no specific certifications requiredOften prefers Java certifications or related credentials

Java Software Engineer Contract roles are temporary positions focused on specific projects, offering flexibility but less job security. Full-time Java Software Engineers work permanently within organizations, with benefits and career growth opportunities. Both roles require strong Java skills, but contracts may have less emphasis on certifications. Choose based on your career goals and desired work environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Java Software Engineer jobs in San Diego, CA? The most popular types of Java Software Engineer jobs in San Diego, CA are:
What cities near San Diego, CA are hiring for Java Software Engineer Contract jobs? Cities near San Diego, CA with the most Java Software Engineer Contract job openings:
Infographic showing various Java Software Engineer Contract job openings in San Diego, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $133,437 per year, or $64.2 per hour.

Principal Software Engineer - Java Middle Layer

Northrop Grumman Corporation

San Diego, CA • On-site

$114K - $171K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 360 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 537 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes
CLEARANCE TYPE: Top Secret
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescription
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems is looking to add a Principal Software Engineer - Java Middle Layer to join our team of qualified, diverse individuals within our Software organization. This position will be filled out of our Software Engineering organization and will support the team on site in San Diego, CA.
The selected candidate should thrive in a fast-paced work environment with high expectations, significantly diverse assignments, and collaborative/team settings across all levels.
Duties and Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
• Collaborate and work in a team environment with Systems Engineering, Cloud & Application, Test Automation, DevSecOps and Systems Test, in an Agile software development environment.
• Participate in the software development cycle including prototype and graphic user interface design, implementation and delivery of build/test/release.
• Work with object-oriented programming, design patterns, JMS, Web Services, XML and related technologies (i.e., XPath, XSLT, XSD)
• Develop enterprise solutions for Java Enterprise Edition (JEE) in a SOA environment
• Work in a process-oriented software development environment across the software lifecycle
• Collaborate with team members on a regular basis.
The selected candidate will be required to work full-time, on-site at our facility. There is no remote / hybrid / telework available for this position. An occasional travel requirement up to 10% may be needed.
Basic Qualifications:
• Bachelor's Degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics) discipline and 5 years of related engineering experience; OR a Master's degree in a STEM discipline and 3 years of related engineering experience.
• Experience with the full SW Development Life Cycle (SDLC).
• Experience with Agile SW development, SW integration and testing.
• Experience with the following programming and scripting languages: Java, C, C++, and Python.
• Experience with two of the following tools: Jira, GitLab, Docker, Fortify, Coverity, or Black Duck.
• Active U.S. Government Top Secret clearance (with a background investigation within the past 5 years or enrolled into Continuous Evaluation).
• Ability to obtain and maintain initial Special Access Program (SAP) access via a Program Access Request (PAR). This SAP/PAR must be obtained prior to commencement of employment and must be obtained within a reasonable amount of time as determined by the company to meet its business needs.
• Ability to obtain and maintain subsequent SAP PARs following commencement of employment to be able to completely support statement of work.
Preferred Qualifications:
• Able to document, capture, and present software architectural components in modeling or diagramming tools.
• Current applicable Special Access Program (SAP) access.
Primary Level Salary Range: $114,000.00 - $171,000.00
The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.
Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.
The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

What Northrop Grumman employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Northrop Grumman logo

About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939