1

Scientific Software Developer Intern Jobs in California

AI Developer Intern

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$22.75 - $29.75/hr

Design, build, test, and deploy AI software components including vision models, LLM integrations ... Currently pursuing a bachelor's or master's degree in Computer Science or a related field, with a ...

As an intern, you won't spend your summer fixing minor bugs or working on isolated projects--you'll ... degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field. * Strong programming ...

New

Our team consists of machine learning and data science experts and recruiting veterans from leading edge companies such as Facebook, LinkedIn, and Microsoft. As a software engineering intern, you ...

As an AI/ML Software Engineer Intern, you will define and implement the AI/ML infrastructure ... Bachelor's or Master's degree student in Computer Science or a related field. * Focus on machine ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Scientific Software Developer Intern information

See California salary details

$11

$22

$38

How much do scientific software developer intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for scientific software developer intern in California is $22.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $23.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a scientific software developer intern?

To thrive as a Scientific Software Developer Intern, you need a solid background in computer science or a related field, strong programming skills (often in Python, C++, or Java), and familiarity with scientific computing concepts. Experience with version control systems (like Git), scientific libraries (such as NumPy or SciPy), and sometimes knowledge of Linux environments or HPC systems is typically required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills that set candidates apart. These competencies ensure you can efficiently contribute to research-driven software projects, collaborate with scientists, and develop robust scientific applications.

How does a scientific software developer intern typically collaborate with researchers and other developers during a project?

As a Scientific Software Developer Intern, you will often work closely with research scientists to understand their computational needs and translate those requirements into software solutions. Collaboration usually involves participating in team meetings, clarifying project specifications, and regularly updating progress through code reviews or documentation. You may also pair with experienced developers to learn best practices, troubleshoot issues, and integrate your work with larger codebases. This collaborative environment helps you build both technical and communication skills while ensuring the software meets scientific objectives.

What is the difference between Scientific Software Developer Intern vs Data Scientist Intern?

AspectScientific Software Developer Intern

The Scientific Software Developer Intern typically focuses on developing and maintaining scientific applications, often requiring programming skills in languages like Python, C++, or Fortran, and a background in science or engineering. They work in research labs, academia, or industry settings on data analysis, simulation, or modeling projects.

In contrast, a Data Scientist Intern primarily analyzes large datasets, builds predictive models, and uses statistical tools and machine learning techniques. They often have expertise in Python, R, SQL, and data visualization tools, working in tech companies, finance, or consulting firms.

While both roles involve programming and data handling, the Scientific Software Developer Intern emphasizes scientific computing and simulation, whereas the Data Scientist Intern focuses on data analysis and insights.

What does a scientific software developer intern do?

A Scientific Software Developer Intern assists in designing, developing, and maintaining software applications used for scientific research and data analysis. They typically work under the guidance of senior developers or scientists, contributing to coding, debugging, and testing software tools. The role often involves collaborating with researchers to understand their computational needs and implementing features that facilitate scientific experiments or simulations. Interns may also be involved in documentation and optimizing existing code for better performance. This position is ideal for students or recent graduates interested in combining software development skills with scientific problem-solving.
What are the most commonly searched types of Scientific Software Developer jobs in California? The most popular types of Scientific Software Developer jobs in California are:
What job categories do people searching Scientific Software Developer Intern jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Scientific Software Developer Intern jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Scientific Software Developer Intern jobs? Cities in California with the most Scientific Software Developer Intern job openings:
Infographic showing various Scientific Software Developer Intern job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,997 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

Scientific Software Developer/Data Systems

Stanford University

Menlo Park, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Stanford University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

229th of 617 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Job Summary:
Stanford University is a leading research institution, and they are seeking a Scientific Software Developer/Data Systems to join the Experimental Data Systems division. The role involves collaborating with scientists and software developers to optimize computational workflows and integrate new data processing algorithms into facility operations.
Responsibilities:
• Analyze, develop, implement, modify, and maintain algorithms and pipelines to analyze scientific data generated by LCLS.
• Develop, optimize, and maintain data analysis workflows and optimize them for their use in day-to-day facility operations.
• Interface with external collaborators and users and provide technical support to facilitate their use of LCLS software and hardware resources.
• Support the development of new machine learning data analysis approaches with explicit focus on usability by beamline scientists and scientific users.
• Support users of the scientific instruments in running self-developed data analysis software within the LCLS software framework, consulting with external software developers and designing integrated solutions.
• Debug and document computer application programs to meet users' needs.
• Observe, analyze and optimize software resource usage patterns, including training current and future users.
• Ensure effective communication and information flow to various audiences.
• Build and maintain relationships to foster trust, collaboration, and a positive climate to achieve common goals.
• Promote a culture of safety and compliance with all applicable university policies and procedures.
Qualifications:
Required:
• Bachelor’s degree in physics, chemistry, biology, engineering, science, or related field and five years of relevant experience; or a combination of education and relevant experience.
• Thorough understanding of all aspects of software development life cycle and quality control practices.
• Strong knowledge of at least one programming language.
• Ability to select, adapt, and effectively use a variety of programming methods.
• Expertise in developing, testing, and deploying applications.
• Operational experience with scientific AI-based algorithms and frameworks, including LLMs.
• Ability to define and solve logical problems for highly technical applications.
• Effective communication skills with both technical and non-technical clients.
• Demonstrated experience leading activities on structured team development projects.
• Ability to recognize and recommend needed changes in user and/or operations procedures.
Preferred:
• Background in x-ray or material science.
• Previous experience in roles related to operations at a scientific facility
Company:
Stanford University is a teaching and research university that focuses on graduate programs in law, medicine, education, and business. Founded in 1885, the company is headquartered in Stanford, USA, with a team of 10001+ employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

What Stanford University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom