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Senior Software Development Engineer Jobs in Pasadena, CA

SpaceX

Sr. Software Engineer (Starfall)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$165K - $230K/yr

... SR. SOFTWARE ENGINEER (STARFALL) As a Sr. Software Engineer on the Starfall Engineering ... Development experience with microcontrollers * Strong software engineering fundamentals in C+

SpaceX

Sr. Software Engineer, C++ (Dragon)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$165K - $230K/yr

... SR. SOFTWARE ENGINEER, C++ (DRAGON) As a Sr. Software Engineer on the Dragon team, you will ... software development experience in C/C++ PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE: * Knowledge of ...

RAVE Aerospace LLC

Senior Software Engineer

Brea, CA · Hybrid

$130K - $146K/yr

Description The Senior Software Engineer will participate in the architecture, design, development ... Contribute to the design, creation, development and improvement of software features, packaging ...

RAVE Aerospace LLC

Senior Software Engineer

Brea, CA · Hybrid

$130K - $146K/yr

The Senior Software Engineer will participate in the architecture, design, development, test and integration of software features for, or in support of, RAVE In-flight Entertainment (IFE). Core ...

RAVE Aerospace LLC

Senior Software Engineer

Brea, CA · On-site

$130K - $146K/yr

The Senior Software Engineer will participate in the architecture, design, development, test and integration of software features for, or in support of, RAVE In-flight Entertainment (IFE). Core ...

RAVE Aerospace LLC

Senior Software Engineer

Brea, CA · On-site

$130K - $146K/yr

The Senior Software Engineer will participate in the architecture, design, development, test and integration of software features for, or in support of, RAVE In-flight Entertainment (IFE). Core ...

J. Paul Getty Trust, The

Software Engineer Sr

Los Angeles, CA · Hybrid

$132K - $174K/yr

We are seeking an experienced Senior Software Engineer with a passion for crafting exceptional ... Development of performant, scalable front-end applications using modern JavaScript frameworks (Vue ...

J. Paul Getty Trust, The

Software Engineer Sr

Los Angeles, CA · Hybrid

$132K - $174K/yr

Job Summary The Getty Digital Interpretive Development Team is the primary steward of Getty.edu and a growing suite of rich media experiences. We are seeking an experienced Senior Software Engineer ...

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Senior Software Development Engineer information

See Pasadena, CA salary details

$82.4K

$156.3K

$209.4K

How much do senior software development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior software development engineer in Pasadena, CA is $156,303.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $133,600.00 and $176,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Senior Software Development Engineer, you need deep expertise in software engineering principles, advanced programming skills in languages such as Java, Python, or C++, and a bachelor's or higher degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, cloud platforms such as AWS or Azure, and experience with CI/CD pipelines are typically required, and certifications in these technologies can be advantageous. Strong problem-solving, leadership, and communication skills help you mentor junior engineers and collaborate effectively across teams. These competencies are critical for delivering robust solutions, driving technical innovation, and ensuring project success in complex engineering environments.

What are some common challenges senior software development engineers face when leading cross-functional projects?

Senior Software Development Engineers often encounter challenges such as aligning priorities across diverse teams, managing technical debt while delivering new features, and ensuring effective communication among stakeholders. Balancing hands-on coding with mentorship responsibilities and architectural decision-making can also be demanding. Success in this role typically requires strong interpersonal skills, proactive problem-solving, and the ability to adapt to shifting project requirements while maintaining high code quality.

What is a senior software development engineer?

Senior Software Development Engineers are experienced professionals who design, develop, and maintain complex software systems. They often lead technical projects, mentor junior developers, and ensure software quality and best practices within a team. Their responsibilities include writing code, conducting code reviews, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and solving challenging technical problems. Senior Software Development Engineers typically have several years of industry experience and a deep understanding of software engineering principles.

What is the difference between Senior Software Development Engineer vs Software Development Engineer?

AspectSenior Software Development EngineerSoftware Development Engineer
ExperienceTypically 5+ years, with leadership responsibilitiesEntry to mid-level, 1-3 years of experience
ResponsibilitiesDesigning complex systems, mentoring juniors, leading projectsImplementing features, fixing bugs, collaborating on code
Skills & CertificationsProficiency in multiple programming languages, system design, often with certificationsStrong coding skills, foundational knowledge, less emphasis on certifications
Work EnvironmentOften leads teams, involved in architecture decisionsFocused on individual contributions, team collaboration

The main difference between a Senior Software Development Engineer and a Software Development Engineer lies in experience, responsibilities, and leadership. Seniors typically lead projects and mentor others, while juniors focus on coding and task completion. Both roles are vital in software development teams, with seniors bringing more strategic input and mentorship.

What cities near Pasadena, CA are hiring for Senior Software Development Engineer jobs? Cities near Pasadena, CA with the most Senior Software Development Engineer job openings:

Sr. Software Engineer (Starfall)

SpaceX

Hawthorne, CA • On-site

$165K - $230K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

SpaceX rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.
SR. SOFTWARE ENGINEER (STARFALL)
As a Sr. Software Engineer on the Starfall Engineering organization, you will design and implement software and firmware for the next generation of avionics systems at SpaceX. You will be responsible for ensuring your system behaves as expected and troubleshoot when necessary. You will have a direct impact on our ability to launch SpaceX systems frequently, safely, and reliably.
Aerospace experience is not required to be successful here - we want our engineers to bring fresh ideas from all areas. We look for engineers who love solving problems and seek to make an impact on an inspiring mission. As we expand this team, we're looking for versatile, motivated, and collaborative engineers. Our team is involved in designing the vehicle systems at every phase of development. Our software engineers are responsible for the life cycle of the software they create, including development, testing, and operational support.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Design and deliver high-quality software and firmware for common processors and micro-controllers
  • Support launch operations
  • Collaborate with peers and customers
  • Bring up and validate devices that communicate-to and fly-in space
  • Analyze test results and bugs which require in-depth investigations
  • Hands-on integration and troubleshooting of flight hardware/software systems
  • Work in a dynamic environment with changing needs, requirements, and challenges

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in computer science, data science, engineering, math, physics, or scientific discipline; OR 2+ years of professional experience in writing software in lieu of a degree
  • 5+ years of experience in software development with C++ or C languages

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Development experience with microcontrollers
  • Strong software engineering fundamentals in C++
  • Solid fundamental knowledge of computer architecture and networks
  • Familiarity with NXP microcontrollers
  • Commitment to high standard of software development, including adherence to software process and best practices
  • Linux and bash shell scripting
  • Understanding of verification methodologies
  • Excellent communication & documentation skills, and ability to collaborate in multidisciplinary environments

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Must be available to work extended hours and weekends when needed to meet critical deadlines

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay Range:
$165,000.00 - $230,000.00/per year
Your actual 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 part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.
ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
    Learn more about the ITAR here.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX's Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to

What SpaceX employees say

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About SpaceX

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing, data services, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and satellite telecommunications

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hawthorne, CA, US

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