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Python Developer Contract Jobs in Santa Maria, CA

Python Developer Contract information

See Santa Maria, CA salary details

$13

$60

$88

How much do python developer contract jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for python developer contract in Santa Maria, CA is $60.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49.52 and $68.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Python Developer Contract vs Python Developer Full-Time?

AspectPython Developer ContractPython Developer Full-Time
CredentialsTypically requires proficiency in Python, relevant certifications optionalSame as contract, often with additional experience or certifications preferred
Work EnvironmentProject-based, flexible hours, remote or onsitePermanent employment, regular hours, often onsite or hybrid
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across startups, agencies, and tech firms for specific projectsCommon in established companies, tech firms, and enterprises
Search & Comparison IntentOften searched for project-based roles, freelance opportunitiesTypically searched for stable, long-term employment

In summary, Python Developer Contract roles focus on short-term, project-specific work with flexible arrangements, while Python Developer Full-Time positions offer stability, benefits, and long-term employment within organizations.

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

To thrive as a Python Developer on contract, you need strong skills in Python programming, software development best practices, and often a relevant degree or proven project experience. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, frameworks such as Django or Flask, and knowledge of cloud platforms or CI/CD tools are typically required. Effective communication, time management, and adaptability are crucial for collaborating remotely and meeting project deadlines. These skills ensure high-quality, efficient code delivery and seamless integration with project teams in dynamic contract environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Python developers working on contract, and how can they be addressed?

Python developers working on contract often encounter challenges such as integrating with existing codebases, rapidly understanding project requirements, and adapting to varying team workflows. To address these, contractors should prioritize clear communication with project stakeholders, actively seek documentation, and utilize version control systems like Git. Being proactive in asking questions and participating in team meetings can help contractors quickly align with project goals and deliverables, ensuring smooth collaboration and successful project outcomes.

What is a Python Developer Contract?

A Python Developer Contract is a temporary work agreement where a developer is hired specifically to work on projects or tasks that require expertise in the Python programming language. Contract roles typically have a set duration and may be project-based, allowing businesses to scale their development teams flexibly. Contractors are usually responsible for writing code, debugging, and deploying Python applications, and may work independently or as part of a larger team. This arrangement benefits both employers seeking specialized skills for a limited time and developers looking for varied project experiences.
What are the most commonly searched types of Python Developer jobs in Santa Maria, CA? The most popular types of Python Developer jobs in Santa Maria, CA are:
What cities near Santa Maria, CA are hiring for Python Developer Contract jobs? Cities near Santa Maria, CA with the most Python Developer Contract job openings:
Infographic showing various Python Developer Contract job openings in Santa Maria, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 68% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 29% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,985 per year, or $60.1 per hour.

Transmission Planning Engineer

Pacific Gas and Electric Company

San Luis Obispo, CA • Hybrid

$115K - $175K/yr

Other

Posted 21 days ago


Pacific Gas and Electric Company rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 53 rated energy and utility


Job description

Requisition ID # 170555 

Job Category: Engineering / Science 

Job Level: Individual Contributor

Business Unit: Strategy & Growth

Work Type: Hybrid

Job Location: San Luis Obispo

Department Overview

The Transmission System Planning (TSP) department performs Interconnection studies, multi-year assessments and develops a portfolio of transmission expansion plans and projects to meet the company's transmission needs for delivery of safe and reliable electric service to our customers while adhering to North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and Western Electricity Coordinating Council (WECC) planning standards. The members of TSP actively participate in the NERC and WECC standard development process for electric transmission reliability. The department is also involved in developing transmission expansion policy and strategy to meet the company's renewal portfolio standards (RPS) goals. In addition, the department provides support to project implementation groups, operations, law, contract, and other internal departments.

Position Summary

This position is represented by the Engineers and Scientists of California (ESC) subject to collective bargaining.

This position is responsible for providing technical support and transmission system reliability analysis that supports the development of transmission solutions for generation interconnection studies to meet California's RPS goals, CPUC's mandates and policy initiatives for generation, distributed generation and energy storage while meeting NERC compliance requirements. The Journey level engineer resolves problems and typically may require direction from more senior engineers and the supervisor. As experience increases the responsibility level increases as well as greater independence of judgment is expected with respect to standard solution problems. The position requires interfacing and coordination with both internal and external customers of PG&E Transmission Planning Department.

This position is hybrid, working from your remote office and your assigned work location based on business need. The assigned work location will be within the PG&E Service Territory

PG&E is providing the salary range that the company in good faith believes it might pay for this position at the time of the job posting. This compensation range is specific to the locality of the job.  The actual salary paid to an individual will be based on multiple factors, including, but not limited to, specific skills, education, licenses or certifications, experience, market value, geographic location, collective bargaining agreements, and internal equity.

The annual salary range is:

CA Minimum: $115,128

CA Maximum: $175,080

Job Responsibilities

  • Plan, develop, and recommend to management and to the California Independent System Operator (CAISO), innovative, comprehensive, and environmentally acceptable transmission plans to ensure safe, reliable, economic and efficient operation of the electric transmission system.
  • Participate in CAISO Generation Interconnection and Deliverability Allocation Procedure Studies (GIDAP), and perform technical computer power flow and transient stability simulation analysis to meet all CAISO, NERC, WECC, and FERC compliance requirements
  • Support/Lead the generation interconnection study deliverables supporting basecase creation, powerflow and transient analysis, mitigation development including coordinating of the schedule and deliverables with CAISO and Interconnection Customers
  • Perform long-term studies that develop strategy and comprehensive plan to ensure safe, reliable, economic, and efficient operation of the electric transmission system.
  • Develop basecase assumptions and transmission system steady state and dynamic models for WDT and Rule 21 Tariff connected generation projects.
  • Perform transmission planning studies for retail load interconnection and develop comprehensive plan to ensure safe, reliable, economic and efficient operation of the electric transmission system.
  • Work with entities such as the CAISO and the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) on electric transmission planning projects and issues.
  • Review and develop electrical computer simulation models of transmission lines and substations for transmission planning databases
  • Develop Engineering Programming Computer Language (EPCL) , Python scripts enabled programs for computer simulation tools.
  • Review electrical single line and operational diagrams for development of future plans
  • Actively foster a safe working environment for self and for fellow employees. Look for and act to resolve any unsafe situations.
  • As required, actively participate in initiatives, workgroups, studies or industry forums that could impact the PG&E transmission system and support the inclusion of PG&E's interests.
  • Represent PG&E transmission planning at internal and external meetings and provide technical guidance on transmission planning issues.
  • Participate in complex studies such as RAS design related studies.
  • Mentor Associate and Entry level planning engineers.

Qualifications

Minimum:

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related technical discipline from an accredited curriculum in the US or the equivalent from outside the US
  • 3 years of experience in electric engineering, planning and/or operations

Desired:

  • Experience in electric transmission planning studies
  • Experience in power flow analysis and simulation tools
  • Knowledge of NERC and WECC reliability standards
  • Previous experience with GE PSLF Program or similar load flow program
  • Experience in programming languages such as Matlab, Python, VBA, EPCL
  • EIT/PE Certification, registered Electrical Engineer in California
  • Master's degree in Electrical Engineering

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