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Lead Software Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Lead Software Engineer

Foster City, CA

As a Lead Software Engineer, you will be responsible for delivering mission-critical services that support high transaction volumes, demanding availability requirements, and global-scale business ...

Pragmatike

Lead Software Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$200K - $400K/yr

We are seeking a Lead Software Engineer to lead engineering initiatives while remaining deeply hands-on. This role combines technical leadership, architecture, mentorship, and direct software ...

Cadence

Lead Software Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

They are looking for a highly motivated Lead Software Engineer to join the Protium Compiler team, responsible for designing, developing, and supporting FPGA prototyping compiler software.

Paramount

Lead Software Engineer

Burbank, CA

$156K - $235K/yr

Lead Software Engineer, AI Tooling & Quality Engineering Platforms Team: Global Quality Engineering (GQE) Overview Paramount Skydance Corp. is seeking a Lead Software Engineer to architect, lead, and ...

Paramount

Lead Software Engineer

Burbank, CA · On-site

$156K - $235K/yr

Lead Software Engineer, AI Tooling & Quality Engineering Platforms Team : Global Quality Engineering (GQE) Location: New York, Burbank, CA (Onsite) OVERVIEW Paramount Skydance Corp. is seeking a Lead ...

Paramount

Lead Software Engineer

Burbank, CA

$156K - $235K/yr

Lead Software Engineer, AI Tooling & Quality Engineering Platforms Team : Global Quality Engineering (GQE) Location: New York, Burbank, CA (Onsite) OVERVIEW Paramount Skydance Corp. is seeking a Lead ...

STR

Lead Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

STR is hiring experienced Lead Software Engineers to join their multidisciplinary cyber/networking team committed to developing cutting-edge technologies that impact national security. The role ...

Paramount

Lead Software Engineer

Burbank, CA · On-site

$156K - $235K/yr

Lead Software Engineer, AI Tooling & Quality Engineering Platforms Team : Global Quality Engineering (GQE) Location: New York, Burbank, CA (Onsite) OVERVIEW Paramount Skydance Corp. is seeking a Lead ...

Paramount

Lead Software Engineer

Burbank, CA

$156K - $235K/yr

Lead Software Engineer, AI Tooling & Quality Engineering Platforms Team : Global Quality Engineering (GQE) Location: New York, Burbank, CA (Onsite) OVERVIEW Paramount Skydance Corp. is seeking a Lead ...

Paramount

Lead Software Engineer

Burbank, CA · On-site

$156K - $235K/yr

Lead Software Engineer, AI Tooling & Quality Engineering Platforms Team: Global Quality Engineering (GQE) Overview Paramount Skydance Corp. is seeking a Lead Software Engineer to architect, lead, and ...

STR

Lead Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

They are seeking experienced Lead Software Engineers to design, implement, and test innovative software solutions that enhance real-time data communications and networking capabilities.

STR

Lead Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

STR is hiring experienced Lead Software Engineers to join their multidisciplinary cyber/networking team committed to developing cutting-edge technologies that significantly impact national security.

STR

Lead Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

Systemstechnologyresearch is hiring experienced Lead Software Engineers to join their multidisciplinary cyber/networking team committed to developing cutting-edge technologies that impact national ...

SirenOpt

Lead Software Engineer

San Leandro, CA · On-site

A Lead Software Engineer at SirenOpt is a technical and cultural leader with deep expertise across multiple systems. You will make strategic decisions about major components, serve as a subject ...

STR

Lead Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

STR is hiring experienced Lead Software Engineers to join our multidisciplinary cyber/networking team committed to developing cutting-edge technologies that have an immediate and significant impact ...

STR

Lead Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$157K - $224K/yr

STR is hiring experienced Lead Software Engineers to join our multidisciplinary cyber/networking team committed to developing cutting-edge technologies that have an immediate and significant impact ...

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All JobsLead Software Engineer JobsLead Software Engineer Jobs in California

Lead Software Engineer information

See California salary details

$81.9K

$144K

$195.4K

How much do lead software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead software engineer in California is $143,980.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $119,400.00 and $166,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Lead Software Engineer, you need advanced programming expertise, software architecture knowledge, and a degree in computer science or a related field, often supplemented by experience in leading development teams. Familiarity with version control systems (like Git), cloud platforms (such as AWS or Azure), and methodologies like Agile or Scrum is typically expected. Exceptional communication, leadership, and problem-solving abilities are crucial soft skills for mentoring developers and managing projects. These skills ensure efficient project delivery, high-quality code, and effective team collaboration in complex technical environments.

How does a lead software engineer typically balance hands-on coding with leadership and mentoring responsibilities?

As a Lead Software Engineer, you'll find that your role involves a dynamic mix of technical work and team leadership. While you'll still contribute directly to codebases—often tackling complex or critical components—you'll also spend significant time guiding junior engineers, conducting code reviews, and facilitating technical discussions. Balancing these responsibilities requires strong time management and communication skills, as well as the ability to delegate effectively. The role offers the opportunity to shape technical direction while fostering team growth and collaboration.

What does a lead software engineer do?

A lead software engineer oversees the development team, designs technical solutions, and ensures project deadlines are met. They often coordinate with stakeholders, review code, and mentor junior developers, using tools like version control systems and project management software. Strong technical skills and leadership abilities are essential for this role.

What does a lead software engineer earn?

A lead software engineer's salary typically ranges from $100,000 to $160,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and company size. They often have advanced skills in programming, system design, and team management, and may receive bonuses or stock options as part of compensation.

What is the average salary of a lead software engineer?

The average salary of a lead software engineer typically ranges from $110,000 to $160,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior roles often include additional benefits such as bonuses, stock options, and flexible work arrangements.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lead Software Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Lead Software Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Lead Software Engineer jobs in California?

For Lead Software Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Lead Software Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Lead Software Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Lead Software Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Lead Software Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Lead Software Engineer jobs in CA?

For Lead Software Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Lead Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Software Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,980 per year, or $69.2 per hour.

Lead Software Engineer

San Diego, CA • On-site

Data Intelligence LLC
Internet Websites and Web Search Portals • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Data Intelligence LLCexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Data Intelligence LLC
Job Openings >> Lead Software Engineer
Lead Software Engineer
Summary
Title: Lead Software Engineer ID: 1581 Location: San Diego, CA
More about this job >
Description

Data Intelligence, LLC is seeking a Lead Software Engineer to support one of our premier clients in the defense industry. This role is located in San Diego, CA, and will focus on developing and sustaining mission-critical applications within a secure DoD environment. The ideal candidate will bring strong technical leadership, hands-on development expertise, and experience working on large-scale, secure systems.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead the design, development, and maintenance of large-scale DoD desktop and web-based distributed applications
  • Collaborate with system engineers, business analysts, developers, testers, and end-users to gather requirements and develop technical solutions
  • Develop and implement proof-of-concepts based on user and mission needs
  • Architect and document system designs, ensuring alignment with project requirements and DoD standards
  • Oversee full Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) processes using Agile and incremental development methodologies
  • Ensure compliance with DoD Application Security Development STIGs (ASD STIGs) and cybersecurity best practices
  • Troubleshoot and resolve complex software, database, and network issues; perform root cause analysis and implement fixes
  • Provide technical leadership, mentorship, and code reviews for development teams
  • Interface directly with government stakeholders and provide regular progress updates
  • Maintain detailed documentation of system architecture, code changes, and development processes

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's Degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field
  • 10+ years of experience developing and supporting software application suites in a DoD environment
  • 5+ years of experience developing large-scale distributed applications using Microsoft technologies, including:
    • .NET
    • C#
    • SQL Server
  • Experience with web-based application development using JavaScript frameworks such as Angular, Node.js, or Backbone
  • Strong knowledge of web technologies including Web API, HTML, and CSS
  • Experience troubleshooting application code and resolving bugs across complex systems
  • Hands-on experience with Agile development methodologies in enterprise environments
  • Knowledge of object-oriented programming languages such as Java and C#
  • Experience developing software in compliance with DoD security requirements (STIGs)
  • Ability to define system requirements, develop architecture documentation, and lead project execution

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with TORIS platform or similar DoD information systems
  • Strong background supporting classified or mission-critical systems
  • Proven ability to lead technical teams and manage multiple priorities
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