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Professional Software Engineer Jobs in California

Apple

Software Engineer, Evaluation

Cupertino, CA · On-site

Minimum Qualifications 3+ years of professional software engineering experience building and operating production systems Ability to tackle complex challenges, think critically, and deliver ...

Mintex Technology

Software Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$185K/yr

Deploy and monitor services in production environments Required Qualifications: * 1+ years of professional Software Engineering experience * Strong backend engineering skills with Python * Experience ...

Rocket Lab

Software Engineer II - MES

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$106K - $145K/yr

Required : • A degree or diploma in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or other technical discipline • 2+ years of professional software development experience • ...

Intelliswift Software

Software Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$226K - $227K/yr

Job ID: 25-11020 Software Engineer - SWE2501 Intelliswift Software, Inc. is seeking a qualified professional to fill the position of Software Engineer based in Santa Clara, CA. Job duties • Design ...

Rundoo, Inc.

Software Engineer

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$100 - $130/hr

Qualifications * 1-3 years of professional software engineering experience. * Solid command of computer-science fundamentals and fluency in at least one production language. * Comfort shipping ...

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All JobsProfessional Software Engineer JobsProfessional Software Engineer Jobs in California

Professional Software Engineer information

See California salary details

$62.7K

$145.6K

$202.8K

How much do professional software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for professional software engineer in California is $145,592.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,400.00 and $170,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a professional software engineer?

Professional software engineers are trained experts who design, develop, test, and maintain software applications or systems to solve problems or meet user needs. They use programming languages, tools, and engineering principles to create reliable and efficient software. In addition to coding, software engineers often collaborate with other team members, participate in code reviews, and follow industry best practices to ensure high-quality software delivery.

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

To thrive as a Professional Software Engineer, you need strong programming skills, problem-solving abilities, and a relevant degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with version control systems (like Git), software development frameworks, and cloud platforms is typically required, and certifications such as AWS Certified Developer or Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate can be beneficial. Excellent communication, teamwork, and adaptability are soft skills that help you collaborate effectively and navigate changing project requirements. These skills ensure you can build robust, scalable solutions while working efficiently within diverse technical teams.

What are some common challenges faced by professional software engineers when working on large-scale projects?

Professional software engineers working on large-scale projects often encounter challenges such as managing complex codebases, ensuring effective communication across multidisciplinary teams, and maintaining high code quality under tight deadlines. Coordinating with other engineers, testers, and product managers can be demanding, especially when handling dependencies or integrating new features. Staying updated with evolving technologies and adhering to best practices in version control and documentation are also crucial for successful project delivery.

What is the difference between Professional Software Engineer vs Software Developer?

AspectProfessional Software EngineerSoftware Developer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in CS or related field, certifications optionalSimilar educational background, certifications less common
Work EnvironmentOften in teams, involved in full project lifecycle, may work in corporate or enterprise settingsTypically focused on coding, testing, and implementation, in various settings including startups and freelance
Industry UsageWidely used in corporate, enterprise, and government sectorsCommon in startups, freelance, and smaller companies

The main difference lies in scope and responsibilities. Professional Software Engineers often have a broader role, including design, architecture, and project management, while Software Developers primarily focus on coding and implementation. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds, but the Professional Software Engineer may be expected to handle more complex projects and collaborate across teams.

What do professional software engineers do?

Professional software engineers design, develop, test, and maintain software applications and systems. They analyze user requirements, write code using programming languages, and collaborate with teams to ensure functionality, performance, and security. They often use tools like version control systems and follow industry best practices to deliver reliable software solutions.

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

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

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

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

Professional Software Engineer jobs near you

Software Engineer I/II

Rocket Lab Corporation

Pasadena, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

Rocket Lab rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access to space. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations.

Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

SPACE SYSTEMS

At Rocket Lab, we're not just launching rockets — we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more.

Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it's a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space — our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions.

SOFTWARE ENGINEER I/II - ROBOTICS

Based onsite at Rocket Lab Robotics in Pasadena, CA, the Software Engineer I/II - Robotics will develop software for robotic platforms, motion-control systems, sensing systems, machine interfaces, test systems, and production support tools. This role is hands-on and works closely with mechanical, electrical, controls, manufacturing, test, quality, and operations teams to turn robotics concepts into reliable working systems.

The ideal candidate is a hands-on software engineer with strong robotics or hardware-integrated software experience, sound software engineering fundamentals, and the ability to develop reliable software in a fast-paced hardware development environment. You will support design, implementation, simulation, hardware bring-up, integration, test, deployment, troubleshooting, and production support for robotic systems.

(Please note: This position can be hired as a Software Engineer I or Software Engineer II)

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

  • Develop and maintain software for robotic systems, embedded interfaces, control applications, test systems, and operator-facing tools.
  • Implement software for robotic platforms, motion-control systems, sensing systems, machine interfaces, production support tools, and hardware test environments.
  • Support software development from concept through implementation, simulation, hardware bring-up, integration, test, deployment, troubleshooting, and production support.
  • Partner with mechanical, electrical, controls, systems, manufacturing, test, and quality teams to define requirements, interfaces, verification approaches, and release criteria.
  • Integrate software with motors, actuators, encoders, sensors, motion controllers, embedded systems, machine vision systems, industrial networks, and robotic equipment.
  • Troubleshoot issues across software, controls, electrical hardware, sensors, actuators, networks, robotic hardware, and production equipment.
  • Support software quality through code reviews, version control, CI/CD, automated testing, documentation, release practices, and production support practices.
  • Communicate software status, technical risks, trade studies, test results, and implementation plans to technical and cross-functional stakeholders.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A SOFTWARE ENGINEER I:

  • Degree in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Robotics, Mechatronics, Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent experience.
  • 0-2 years of professional software engineering experience, including software for robotics, motion control, embedded systems, hardware systems, or other complex technical products.
  • Strong proficiency in C++ and/or Python.
  • Experience with robotics frameworks such as ROS or ROS 2, including real-time variants or real-time robotics applications.
  • Hands-on experience integrating software with hardware such as motors, actuators, encoders, sensors, motion controllers, embedded systems, machine vision, or industrial networks.
  • Experience with real-time or embedded software, including an understanding of control loops, deterministic timing, and hardware bring-up.
  • Solid software engineering fundamentals, including architecture, Git-based workflows, code reviews, CI/CD, automated testing, release practices, documentation, and production support.
  • Experience developing in Linux environments.
  • Demonstrated ability to define requirements, evaluate alternatives, support stakeholder alignment, and deliver software solutions in a cross-functional hardware development environment.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A SOFTWARE ENGINEER II:

  • Degree in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Robotics, Mechatronics, Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent experience.
  • 2-5 years of professional software engineering experience, including software for robotics, motion control, embedded systems, hardware systems, or other complex technical products.
  • Strong proficiency in C++ and/or Python.
  • Experience with robotics frameworks such as ROS or ROS 2, including real-time variants or real-time robotics applications.
  • Hands-on experience integrating software with hardware such as motors, actuators, encoders, sensors, motion controllers, embedded systems, machine vision, or industrial networks.
  • Experience with real-time or embedded software, including an understanding of control loops, deterministic timing, and hardware bring-up.
  • Solid software engineering fundamentals, including architecture, Git-based workflows, code reviews, CI/CD, automated testing, release practices, documentation, and production support.
  • Experience developing in Linux environments.
  • Demonstrated ability to define requirements, evaluate alternatives, support stakeholder alignment, and deliver software solutions in a cross-functional hardware development environment.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

  • Experience with motion planning, kinematics and dynamics, trajectory generation, controls software, robot calibration, perception systems, state estimation, or sensor fusion.
  • Experience with real-time operating systems, bare-metal embedded development, hard real-time control, or safety-critical software.
  • Experience with spacecraft, embedded, or industrial communication interfaces such as CAN/CANopen, SpaceWire, MIL-STD-1553, EtherCAT, SPI/I2C, Ethernet, TCP/IP, Modbus, OPC UA, PLCs, safety controllers, or other fieldbus protocols.
  • Experience with simulation, digital twins, hardware-in-the-loop, software-in-the-loop, flatsat, testbed environments, automated test equipment, or production test systems.
  • Experience designing for fault tolerance, redundancy, cybersecurity, configuration control, or operation in radiation, thermal, vacuum, or other harsh environments.
  • Experience working in aerospace, defense, space, advanced manufacturing, industrial robotics, medical device, or other high-reliability hardware environments.
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to translate complex technical issues into clear plans, risks, and decisions for technical and non-technical stakeholders.

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.

Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Other perks include: Discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, and other discounts.

Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company's discretion.

Base Pay Range (CA Only)
$88,000—$135,000 USD

WHAT TO EXPECT

We're on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that's not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work, and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other's backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.

Important information:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:

For security reasons, background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.

Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.

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