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Program Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

You will serve as the product, program, engineering, and technical focal point for all ECD products in production and in the field, while leading new product development for the next generation ...

SENIOR PROGRAM ENGINEER

Inglewood, CA · On-site

$109K - $149K/yr

The role requires an Engineer that thrives in cross-functional environments, balancing technical rigor with program execution excellence. The successful candidate will be a motivated doer that ...

You will serve as the product, program, engineering, and technical focal point for all ECD products in production and in the field, while leading new product development for the next generation ...

You will serve as the product, program, engineering, and technical focal point for all ECD products in production and in the field, while leading new product development for the next generation ...

SENIOR PROGRAM ENGINEER

Inglewood, CA

$108K - $149K/yr

The role requires an Engineer that thrives in cross-functional environments, balancing technical rigor with program execution excellence. The successful candidate will be a motivated doer that ...

Showing results 21-40

Program Developer information

See California salary details

$26.2K

$59.2K

$97.2K

How much do program developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for program developer in California is $59,194.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,900.00 and $74,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a program developer do?

A program developer designs, writes, tests, and maintains software applications or systems. They use programming languages such as Java, Python, or C++ and often collaborate with teams to meet project requirements and deadlines.

Can I make 100k as a software developer?

Software developers can earn $100,000 or more annually, especially with experience, specialized skills, and working in high-demand industries or locations. Salaries vary based on factors such as location, education, certifications, and the complexity of projects handled.

What Is a Program Developer?

A program developer creates or enhances software to meet company needs. As a program developer, you make work on applications for different departments, such as human resources, sales, or data processing. Your job duties include designing software solutions that make the company procedures more efficient, programming the computer language, and troubleshooting the code to resolve bugs and errors. Program developers may work independently or on a team of software designers.

What are some common challenges faced by Program Developers when collaborating with cross-functional teams?

Program Developers often work closely with designers, product managers, and quality assurance teams. A common challenge is ensuring clear communication across these diverse groups, as each may have different priorities and technical backgrounds. Balancing feature requests with technical feasibility and project deadlines can also be demanding. Successful Program Developers proactively seek feedback, clarify requirements, and use collaborative tools to keep everyone aligned, which helps minimize misunderstandings and bottlenecks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Program Developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Program Developer, you need strong programming skills, knowledge of software development methodologies, and typically a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools like version control systems (e.g., Git), integrated development environments (IDEs), and frameworks relevant to the target platform is essential. Problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication are important soft skills that set top developers apart. These competencies enable the creation of robust, maintainable software solutions and efficient collaboration within development teams.

What is the difference between Program Developer vs Software Engineer?

AspectProgram DeveloperSoftware Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in computer science or related fieldUsually requires a bachelor's or master's degree in computer science or software engineering
Work EnvironmentOften works on specific projects, coding, and debuggingDesigns, develops, tests, and maintains software systems
Industry UsageCommon in software development firms, tech companies, and IT departmentsWidely used across tech, finance, healthcare, and other industries
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for coding roles and project workCompared for system design and software architecture roles

While both Program Developers and Software Engineers work in software creation, Program Developers typically focus on coding and implementing specific programs, whereas Software Engineers are involved in designing and architecting entire software systems. The roles often overlap, but Software Engineers usually have broader responsibilities in system design and integration.

What are Program Developers?

Program Developers are professionals who design, plan, and implement new software programs or systems. They analyze user needs, write code, test applications, and work collaboratively with other team members like designers and project managers. In addition to technical skills, Program Developers often manage project timelines and ensure that software solutions meet both user and business requirements. Their work is crucial in creating functional, efficient, and user-friendly software products.

Is AI replacing coders?

Program developers use AI tools to automate certain coding tasks, but AI currently cannot fully replace human coders due to the need for creativity, problem-solving, and understanding complex requirements. AI serves as a complement to coding skills, enhancing productivity rather than replacing the role entirely.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior software engineers, especially those in high-demand fields like AI, machine learning, or working at major tech companies, can earn $500,000 or more annually through base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and often leadership roles or specialized expertise in the industry.
What are popular job titles related to Program Developer jobs in California? For Program Developer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in California are hiring for Program Developer jobs? Cities in California with the most Program Developer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Program Developer jobs in CA? For Program Developer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Program Developer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,194 per year, or $28.5 per hour.
INTERDISCIPLINARY ENGINEER (PROGRAM MANAGER)

INTERDISCIPLINARY ENGINEER (PROGRAM MANAGER)

US Department of the Navy

Point Mugu Nawc, CA • On-site

$104K/yr

Other

Posted 11 days ago


United States Navy rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 378 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 45 rated military and defense


Job description

You will serve as a Program Manager in the AIR WING I&I/EW EFFECTS PRD DIR
Next Generation Air Dominance of NAVAIRWARCENWPNDIV POINT MUGU.Qualifications:Your resume must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower pay band(DP-03) or equivalent grade level in the federal service or equivalent experience in the private or public sector as a professional Engineer or Scientist performing some or all of the following:
Integrating and managing business, financial, and operational functions (e.g., staffing, infrastructure, facilities, and IT/security requirements) to support technical or acquisition programs.
Monitoring, forecasting, and advising leadership on financial spend plans, contract execution, and resource constraints to ensure mission readiness.
Leading or coordinating cross-functional or matrixed teams (e.g., finance, contracts, administration) to resolve operational issues and meet program demands.
Engaging with senior stakeholders or program sponsors to translate mission needs into executable operational or resourcing plans.
Additional qualification information can be found from the following Office of Personnel Management website:
https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/#url=List-by-Occupational-Series AND https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/0800/files/all-professional-engineering-positions-0800.pdf
https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/1300/physics-series-1310/
https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/1500/operations-research-series-1515/
https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/1500/mathematics-series-1520/
https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/1500/computer-science-series-1550/
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.Education:Applicants must meet the following basic education requirements of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualifications Standards Manual:
https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/0800/files/all-professional-engineering-positions-0800.pdf
https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/1300/physics-series-1310/
https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/1500/operations-research-series-1515/
https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/1500/mathematics-series-1520/
https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/1500/computer-science-series-1550/
If you are using education to meet all or part of the qualification requirements, you must submit a copy of your transcripts or an itemized list of college courses which includes equivalent information from the transcript (course title, semester/quarter hours, and grade/degree earned) in your resume. See OPM's General Policies for information on crediting education.
Foreign Education: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the qualification requirements if the applicant can provide documentation indicating that the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States. It is the responsibility of the applicant to provide such evidence when applying for further information, visit: http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ous/international/usnei/us/edlite-visitus-forrecog.htmlEmployment Type: OTHER

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About US Navy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

National security, national security and international affairs, public safety statistics centers and offices, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

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