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Senior Software Engineer Jobs in Brainerd, MN (NOW HIRING)

Senior Software Engineer information

See Brainerd, MN salary details

$73.9K

$140.2K

$187.9K

How much do senior software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior software engineer in Brainerd, MN is $140,199.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $119,900.00 and $158,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a senior software engineer?

A senior software engineer designs, codes, tests, and maintains computer software. While these are your primary responsibilities as a senior software engineer, you may also have supervisory duties. These include overseeing a team of junior software engineers or developers. The senior software engineer title is sometimes used interchangeably with senior developer, and positions for both may share similar job duties and responsibilities. In general, software engineers are distinguished from developers in that software engineers apply engineering principles to software development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior software engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Software Engineer, you need advanced programming skills, deep understanding of software architecture, and several years of experience in software development, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with tools like Git, CI/CD pipelines, cloud platforms, and expertise in technologies such as Java, Python, or JavaScript are typically required. Leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for mentoring teams and collaborating across departments. These skills ensure the delivery of robust, scalable solutions and drive successful project outcomes in complex technical environments.

What are some common challenges senior software engineers face when mentoring junior team members?

Senior Software Engineers often mentor junior colleagues, which can be incredibly rewarding but also presents challenges. Balancing mentorship with project deadlines can be demanding, as it requires strong time management and communication skills. Additionally, adapting explanations to different learning styles and levels of experience can be tricky. However, effective mentorship helps build a stronger team and can lead to enhanced leadership opportunities for the senior engineer.

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

AspectSenior Software EngineerSoftware Developer
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in CS or related field; experience often 5+ yearsBachelor's in CS or related field; entry to mid-level experience
Work EnvironmentDesigning complex systems, leading projects, mentoringWriting code, developing features, debugging
Industry UsageUsed across tech companies, startups, enterpriseCommon in software firms, startups, freelance work
Search & ComparisonOften compared for experience level, responsibilitiesCompared for entry-level to mid-level roles

The main difference between a Senior Software Engineer and a Software Developer lies in experience, responsibilities, and scope. Senior Software Engineers typically have more experience, lead projects, and mentor others, while Software Developers focus on coding and feature development. Both roles are essential in tech companies, but the Senior Software Engineer position involves higher-level planning and leadership.

What does a senior software engineer do?

A senior software engineer designs, develops, and maintains software applications, often leading projects and mentoring junior team members. They analyze requirements, write code, perform testing, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure quality and efficiency. Proficiency in programming languages, problem-solving skills, and experience with development tools are essential for this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Software Engineer jobs in Brainerd, MN?

The most popular types of Software Engineer jobs in Brainerd, MN are:

What are popular job titles related to Senior Software Engineer jobs in Brainerd, MN?

For Senior Software Engineer jobs in Brainerd, MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Brainerd, MN are hiring for Senior Software Engineer jobs?

Cities near Brainerd, MN with the most Senior Software Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Senior Software Engineer job openings in Brainerd, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $140,199 per year, or $67.4 per hour.

Senior Estimator - Construction

Water Resources Group

Deerwood, MN โ€ข On-site

$70K - $120K/yr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Rice Lake is a self-performing general contractor looking for a well-rounded estimator to join the team.  


Estimator  

Primary Function:  Estimators are responsible for analyzing drawings and specifications in order to produce an estimate of the time and cost of the materials, labor, subcontractors, and equipment required to submit Lump Sum, Unit Price, and Construction Management proposals.


Educational Background:  Bachelor's Degree - or - Equivalent combination of technical training and experience.


Practical Knowledge:  Math and Complex Calculations, Construction Means & Methods, Critical Thinking as it applied to the breakdown and interpretation of specifications and plans and how this information impacts the overall estimate, Quantitative Take Offs, Data Analysis, Jurisdictional topics like climate, taxes, labor forces, and environmental regulations, Organizational Methods, Writing and Verbal Communication Skills.


Work Experience:  Bachelor's Degree in construction or engineering related field preferred - or Demonstrated knowledge of, or experience with, basic estimating and take-off principals.  Minimum 3 years experience preparing estimates for water treatment plant or wastewater treatment plant construction projects preferred.  


Computer Skills Applied:  Microsoft Office Products a must.  Cloud Based Applications, Construction Estimating Software, and Scheduling Software helpful.


Successful Personality Traits:  Even tempered, detail oriented, highly competitive, concise communicator, and analytical thinker with keen intuition in how to estimate and forecast the cost of building materials, labor, and the construction means and methods necessary to produce an accurate estimate for projects as described in specifications and plan sets prepared by an architect or engineer.


Travel:  None to light day time travel 


Direct Reports:  None


Compensation:  Competitive package commensurate with experience includes health insurance, 401(k), paid time off, and paid holidays


The culture at Rice Lake Construction Group focuses on safety, integrity, and quality.  Employees are the company's greatest asset, and every effort is made to cultivate a good work-life balance and family-focused atmosphere.


As an employee, you can expect:

  • Support from a company with over 30 years in business.
  • Employees hired for a career, not a job.
  • A harmonious atmosphere with people who like to work and solve problems.  The right people attract even better people!
  • Competitive benefits.
  • Work-life balance.