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Software Applications Developer Jobs in California

Senior Applications Developer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$113K - $155K/yr

Individual must have a strong technical foundation in both traditional software engineering and ... enterprise applications. A full understanding of common coding standards, design patterns ...

Conduct code reviews and promote consistent software engineering, testing, version-control, and ... Review applications, automations, scripts, and integrations created by citizen developers or ...

Senior Applications Developer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$103K - $142K/yr

Individual must have a strong technical foundation in both traditional software engineering and ... enterprise applications. A full understanding of common coding standards, design patterns ...

$112K - $155K/yr

Individual must have a strong technical foundation in both traditional software engineering and ... enterprise applications. A full understanding of common coding standards, design patterns ...

Showing results 21-40

Software Applications Developer information

See California salary details

$16

$51

$83

How much do software applications developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for software applications developer in California is $51.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41.73 and $59.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a software applications developer?

Software applications developers are professionals who design, build, test, and maintain computer programs that help users perform specific tasks on computers or other devices. They work closely with clients or end-users to understand requirements and translate them into functional, user-friendly software solutions. Applications developers may work on a wide range of projects, from mobile apps to enterprise software systems. Their job often involves writing code, debugging, updating applications, and collaborating with other IT professionals.

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

To thrive as a Software Applications Developer, you need strong programming skills (such as in Java, Python, or C#), problem-solving abilities, and typically a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with development frameworks, version control systems (like Git), and software development methodologies (such as Agile) is essential, and certifications like Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate can be beneficial. Excellent communication, teamwork, and a proactive attitude are important soft skills that help in understanding user needs and collaborating with cross-functional teams. These competencies ensure the creation of robust, efficient applications that meet user requirements and adapt to evolving technology landscapes.

How do software applications developers typically collaborate with other teams during the development lifecycle?

Software Applications Developers often work closely with cross-functional teams such as UX/UI designers, quality assurance testers, product managers, and sometimes clients. Collaboration is essential throughout various stages, from gathering requirements and designing solutions to testing and deployment. Effective communication and teamwork help ensure that the final product meets user needs, functions as intended, and is delivered on schedule. Developers may participate in daily stand-up meetings, code reviews, and sprint planning sessions to align efforts and address any challenges promptly.

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

AspectSoftware Applications DeveloperSoftware Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in CS or related field; coding certificationsBachelor's or higher in CS or related; often more theoretical knowledge
Work EnvironmentDevelops, tests, and maintains software applicationsDesigns and develops software systems; may oversee entire projects
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, startups, software firmsTech firms, large corporations, consulting
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Software Applications Developers focus on creating and maintaining specific software applications, while Software Engineers often work on designing entire systems and architectures. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and are prevalent in tech industries, but their scope and responsibilities differ slightly.

Are software applications developers still in demand?

Software applications developers continue to be in high demand due to ongoing digital transformation across industries. Skills in programming languages, app development, and familiarity with platforms like cloud services increase employability and job stability in this field.

What are popular job titles related to Software Applications Developer jobs in CA?

For Software Applications Developer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Software Applications Developer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,056 per year, or $52 per hour.

Lead Applications Developer-Full Stack (Onsite)

Irvine, CA • On-site

West Coast University, Inc.
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


West Coast University rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Choose To Make A Difference
Summary
Reporting to the Director, Applications Development in a multi-faceted, multi-location academic setting, the Senior Applications developer designs, modifies, develops, writes and implements software programming applications and components; supports and/or installs software applications and components; works from written specifications and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job and maintains documentation of process flow.
Essential Functions & Responsibilities
  • Gathers and analyzes the requirements from various users.
  • Utilizes established development tools, guidelines and conventions including but not limited to ASP.NET, SQL Server, HTML, XML, CSS, JavaScript, and C#/VB.NET.
  • Designs, codes, and tests web software applications in both on-prem and Cloud Native environments.
  • Enhances existing systems by analyzing business objectives, preparing an action plan and identifying areas for modification and improvement.
  • Maintains existing software systems by identifying and correcting software defects.
  • Investigates and develops skills in new technologies and staying updated with the trends.
  • Leverage LLM-based coding agents (e.g., Claude, OpenCode) to accelerate the software development lifecycle, focusing on prompt engineering for complex refactoring, boilerplate generation, and rapid prototyping.
  • Apply agentic coding practices, utilizing AI to navigate large-scale codebases, perform root-cause analysis, and synthesize optimal architectural patterns through iterative human-in-the-loop collaboration.
  • Creates problem prevention strategies for the project, or any other aspect of the work in the office.
  • Creates project documents such as project definition documents, business requirements, functional specifications, requirements and deliverable plans.
  • Analyzes and designs solutions to meet the requirements, writes the technical specification, develops the applications, and works with quality assurance teams throughout delivery of the features, patches, and final releases. Designs, codes, tests, debugs and documents solutions throughout the entire process.
  • Provides system training for administrative, professional and staff on the applicable system and procedures including software, components of the system, how to integrate and use software applications and overall processes.
  • Assists business areas in identifying and determining the business direction and potential areas of improvement.
  • Works with business users on the design, testing, and implementation of solutions; works with third-party vendors.
  • Manages implementation of business solutions such as the release of software/enhancements, process changes, and end-user training and documentation.
  • Conducts job responsibilities in accordance with the standards set out in the Company's Code of Ethical Conduct, Compliance Agreement, Sexual Harassment Policy or any of its policies and procedures, applicable federal and states laws, and applicable professional standards.
  • Maintains regular and timely attendance, reports to work as scheduled and assures time worked and/or time-off is recorded properly.
  • Maintains established department policies, procedures and attends in-services and other required meetings.
  • Maintains confidentiality of all student, associate, and/or company information as required.
  • Exercises care, proper use and maintenance of department equipment and supplies and identifies unsafe conditions and makes appropriate adjustments.
  • Maintains order, cleanliness and safety at work.
  • May perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum and Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or Information Systems or equivalent experience.

Experience & Skills
  • 5+ years of hands-on web application and microservices development using C#/.Net, Javascript/Typescript, SQL Server and React or Angular UI frameworks.
  • 5+ years of technical leadership in design, architecture, implementation, and deployment of application solution platforms in both on-prem and cloud native environments.
  • Expert level skill with C#, Javascript/Typescript, SQL languages and associated development tools.
  • Extensive experience working with business analysts to develop software requirements meeting concrete business needs.
  • Solid experience using LLM-based coding agents (e.g., Claude, OpenCode).
  • Demonstrated proficiency in agentic coding practices, utilizing AI to accelerate the software development lifecycle and perform complex refactoring, boilerplate generation, and rapid prototyping through iterative human-in-the-loop collaboration.
  • Ability to facilitate discussions; willingness to ask questions, challenge the process and seek out answers.
  • Solid knowledge of project management and the software development life cycle.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Strong time management skills, ability to multi-task, ability to work with minimal supervision.
  • Must possess ability to effectively work up, down and across the organization.
  • Very strong written and verbal communication skills in technical and business domains.
  • Ability to self-direct, self-pace, multi-task and function well under pressure of deadlines and conflicting priorities.
  • Ability to work with individuals at all levels of the organization.
  • Willingness to work a flexible schedule.
  • Ability to exercise good judgment.

#LI-MR1
CA Salary Range
USD $133,827.90 - USD $187,359.06 /Yr.
Bonus Eligible
Yes
WCU Company Overview
Do you want a career that allows you to make a difference in other people's lives? Discover what it means to truly believe in the work that you do at West Coast University.
At West Coast University, we have the privilege of educating students seeking careers in healthcare and guide them through their transformational journey from student to caregiver. Our associates are united behind that purpose and share a deep commitment to our values of teamwork, collegiality, transparency, and a student-centric approach to all we do. This focus creates an aligned, nimble, and consensus-driven culture that is solution-oriented and supports our associates' professional growth.
WCU EEO Statement
West Coast University is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We embrace diversity and are dedicated to creating an inclusive environment for all associates.

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