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Software Applications Engineer Jobs in California

... Software Engineer who is excited to build at the intersection of enterprise systems and AI . Responsibilities * Design and build scalable, cloud-native enterprise applications for supply chain and ...

... Software Engineer who is excited to build at the intersection of enterprise systems and AI . Responsibilities * Design and build scalable, cloud-native enterprise applications for supply chain and ...

Experience with RF, software, and interface design for multi-circuit-card assemblies. Logistics ... Applications Engineer, GPS, Aviation, Systems Engineering, Embedded Systems, Aerospace, DO-178 ...

Experience with RF, software, and interface design for multi-circuit-card assemblies. Logistics ... Applications Engineer, GPS, Aviation, Systems Engineering, Embedded Systems, Aerospace, DO-178 ...

By combining advanced software, robotics, and full-stack manufacturing, we are reinventing how ... The Role Hadrian's Applications Engineering team develops 0-1 machining solutions to supercharge ...

By combining advanced software, robotics, and full-stack manufacturing, we are reinventing how ... The Role Hadrian's Applications Engineering team develops 0-1 machining solutions to supercharge ...

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Software Applications Engineer information

See California salary details

$23

$58

$92

How much do software applications engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for software applications engineer in California is $58.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46.01 and $65.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do Software Applications Engineers typically collaborate with product managers and end-users during the software development lifecycle?

Software Applications Engineers frequently work alongside product managers to clarify requirements and ensure that application features align with business goals. They also interact with end-users through feedback sessions, usability testing, or support channels to gather insights that inform future development. This collaborative approach helps engineers create more user-friendly and effective software solutions, and fosters an environment where communication and adaptability are highly valued. Effective teamwork and cross-functional communication are essential components of success in this role.

What are Software Applications Engineers?

Software Applications Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain software applications tailored to meet user or business needs. They often work closely with clients or internal teams to understand requirements, build solutions, and troubleshoot issues. Their role may involve writing code, integrating software systems, optimizing application performance, and providing technical support. Software Applications Engineers may specialize in specific programming languages or platforms and are essential in ensuring software products function effectively and efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Software Applications Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Software Applications Engineer, you need strong programming skills, problem-solving abilities, and a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with development frameworks, integrated development environments (IDEs), and experience with version control systems like Git are typically required, along with certifications such as Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate or AWS Certified Developer. Excellent communication, teamwork, and adaptability help you collaborate with cross-functional teams and address user needs effectively. These skills are essential for developing robust software solutions that meet client requirements and ensuring successful project delivery.

What engineers make $500,000?

Software Applications Engineers in senior or specialized roles, especially in high-demand industries like finance, technology, or cybersecurity, can earn $500,000 or more annually. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and often includes bonuses, stock options, or other incentives.

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

AspectSoftware Applications EngineerSoftware Developer
CredentialsBachelor's in CS or related field, possibly certifications in specific technologiesBachelor's in CS or related field, coding certifications optional
Work EnvironmentCollaborates with cross-functional teams, focuses on application deployment and integrationPrimarily writes, tests, and maintains code for software products
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in tech companies, software firms, and enterprises developing or deploying applicationsCommon across startups, tech firms, and freelance work

The Software Applications Engineer typically focuses on deploying, integrating, and supporting software applications within an organization, often working closely with clients and other teams. In contrast, a Software Developer primarily concentrates on designing, coding, and testing software products. While both roles require similar technical skills and educational backgrounds, their daily tasks and focus areas differ, making each role suited to different career interests within the software industry.

What does an application software engineer do?

An application software engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains software applications for users or organizations. They work with programming languages, development tools, and frameworks to create functional and efficient software solutions, often collaborating with cross-functional teams and following software development lifecycle practices.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Software Applications Engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in areas like cloud computing, machine learning, or cybersecurity, and often working in high-demand industries or at large tech companies can earn $300,000 or more annually. Senior roles, leadership positions, or those with stock options and bonuses are more likely to reach this compensation level.

Can I make 200k a year as a software engineer?

Software applications engineers can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with experience, specialized skills, and working in high-paying industries or locations. Senior roles, expertise in areas like cloud computing or AI, and working at large tech companies often contribute to reaching this salary level.
What are popular job titles related to Software Applications Engineer jobs in California? For Software Applications Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Software Applications Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Software Applications Engineer jobs in California are:
Staff Software Applications Engineer

Staff Software Applications Engineer

Rivian

Irvine, CA • On-site

$156K - $195K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Rivian rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 155 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

21st of 44 rated automakers


Job description

About Rivian

Rivian is on a mission to keep the world adventurous forever. This goes for the emissions-free Electric Adventure Vehicles we build, and the curious, courageous souls we seek to attract. 

As a company, we constantly challenge what’s possible, never simply accepting what has always been done. We reframe old problems, seek new solutions and operate comfortably in areas that are unknown. Our backgrounds are diverse, but our team shares a love of the outdoors and a desire to protect it for future generations. 


Role Summary

Our Enterprise Software team powers the digital backbone behind Rivian’s supply chain, manufacturing, and operations. We build the systems that keep our factories running, parts flowing, and vehicles delivered on time  from planning and production to logistics and supplier ecosystems. We’re looking for a Staff Software Engineer who is excited to build at the intersection of enterprise systems and AI.


Responsibilities
  • Design and build scalable, cloud-native enterprise applications for supply chain and manufacturing operations.
  • Lead complex technical initiatives from initial concept through to production.
  • Build, test, and release mission-critical applications for both internal and external users.
  • Design workflows, automation, and decision-support systems with an "AI-first" mindset.
  • Partner with cross-functional teams, including Product, Operations, UX/UI design, and QA, to define features and roadmaps.
  • Maintain high standards for architecture, testing, security, and performance through code and architecture reviews.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or equivalent practical experience.
  • 5+ years of professional software engineering experience.
  • Proficiency in modern languages such as Python, Go, or TypeScript.
  • Experience with modern web frameworks like React, Angular, or Next.js.
  • Experience working with relational databases like Postgres, MYSQL and NoSQL solutions for managing complex data at scale.
  • Experience with AWS, Azure, or GCP alongside Docker and Kubernetes.
  • Strong understanding of distributed architecture, event-driven systems, streaming platforms, and data pipelines.
  • Skilled in using AI-powered coding tools (e.g., Copilot, Cursor, Claude Code).
  • Experience with observability stacks like Grafana (LGTM), DataDog, Splunk.
  • Proven ability to build mission-critical enterprise systems and communicate complex technical documentation across teams.
 

Pay Disclosure

The salary range for this role is $156,200 - $195,300 for Georgia based applicants and $186,000 - $232,500 for Palo Alto based applicants. This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. An employee’s position within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but not limited to, specific competencies, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, geographic location, shift, and organizational needs.
The successful candidate may be eligible for annual performance bonus and equity awards.
We offer a comprehensive package of benefits for full-time and part-time employees, their spouse or domestic partner, and children up to age 26, including but not limited to paid vacation, paid sick leave, and a competitive portfolio of insurance benefits including life, medical, dental, vision, short-term disability insurance, and long-term disability insurance to eligible employees. You may also have the opportunity to participate in Rivian’s 401(k) Plan and Employee Stock Purchase Program if you meet certain eligibility requirements. Full-time employee coverage is effective on their first day of employment. Part-time employee coverage is effective the first of the month following 90 days of employment. More information about benefits is available at rivianbenefits.com. 



Equal Opportunity

Rivian is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local fair employment practices laws. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information or characteristics, physical or mental disability, marital/domestic partner status, age, military/veteran status, medical condition, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Rivian is committed to ensuring that our hiring process is accessible for persons with disabilities. If you have a disability or limitation, such as those covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act, that requires accommodations to assist you in the search and application process, please email us at candidateaccommodations@rivian.com.

Candidate Data Privacy

Rivian may collect, use and disclose your personal information or personal data (within the meaning of the applicable data protection laws) when you apply for employment and/or participate in our recruitment processes (“Candidate Personal Data”). This data includes contact, demographic, communications, educational, professional, employment, social media/website, network/device, recruiting system usage/interaction, security and preference information. Rivian may use your Candidate Personal Data for the purposes of (i) tracking interactions with our recruiting system; (ii) carrying out, analyzing and improving our application and recruitment process, including assessing you and your application and conducting employment, background and reference checks; (iii) establishing an employment relationship or entering into an employment contract with you; (iv) complying with our legal, regulatory and corporate governance obligations; (v) recordkeeping; (vi) ensuring network and information security and preventing fraud; and (vii) as otherwise required or permitted by applicable law. 

Rivian may share your Candidate Personal Data with (i) internal personnel who have a need to know such information in order to perform their duties, including individuals on our People Team, Finance, Legal, and the team(s) with the position(s) for which you are applying; (ii) Rivian affiliates; and (iii) Rivian’s service providers, including providers of background checks, staffing services, and cloud services. 

Rivian may transfer or store internationally your Candidate Personal Data, including to or in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the European Union and in the cloud, and this data may be subject to the laws and accessible to the courts, law enforcement and national security authorities of such jurisdictions.  

Please note that we are currently not accepting applications from third party application services.

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or equivalent practical experience.
  • 5+ years of professional software engineering experience.
  • Proficiency in modern languages such as Python, Go, or TypeScript.
  • Experience with modern web frameworks like React, Angular, or Next.js.
  • Experience working with relational databases like Postgres, MYSQL and NoSQL solutions for managing complex data at scale.
  • Experience with AWS, Azure, or GCP alongside Docker and Kubernetes.
  • Strong understanding of distributed architecture, event-driven systems, streaming platforms, and data pipelines.
  • Skilled in using AI-powered coding tools (e.g., Copilot, Cursor, Claude Code).
  • Experience with observability stacks like Grafana (LGTM), DataDog, Splunk.
  • Proven ability to build mission-critical enterprise systems and communicate complex technical documentation across teams.
 
Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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About Rivian

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Rivian is a pioneering automotive industry player headquartered in Irvine, California. Established in 2009, the company has made notable advancements in developing sustainable transportation solutions. It is widely recognized for its electric adventure vehicles: the R1T pickup and the R1S SUV. Rivian is dedicated to creating a positive shift in societal mobility and emphasizes sustainability, innovation, and adventure as part of its core values. Their mission is to keep the world adventurous forever - a testament to their commitment in transitioning the world to sustainable transportation. Rivian's achievements are numerous, with one of the most notable being securing a significant multi-billion dollar investment from Amazon for the production of electric delivery vans.

Industry

Automobile dealers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Irvine, CA, US

Year founded

2009