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Software Contractor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Broccoli AI

Software Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$150K - $195K/yr

We partner with plumbing, HVAC, and electrical contractors, the hardworking businesses that keep homes and communities running, and replace fragmented software and repetitive manual work with AI that ...

KBR, Inc.

Software Solutions Architect

El Segundo, CA · On-site

You will interface and collaborate with SE&I team members, contractors, government civilians and ... The Software Solutions Architect provides systems engineering and integration leadership to the ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsSoftware Contractor JobsSoftware Contractor Jobs in California

Software Contractor information

See California salary details

$47.4K

$110.4K

$163.8K

How much do software contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for software contractor in California is $110,380.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,800.00 and $128,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a software contractor?

A Software Contractor is a self-employed or agency-hired professional who develops, maintains, or tests software for clients on a temporary or project basis. Unlike full-time employees, contractors typically work on short-term contracts and may serve multiple clients. They are responsible for delivering specific software solutions, often specializing in particular technologies or industries. Contractors must manage their own taxes, benefits, and job stability, but they have greater flexibility and earning potential.

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

To thrive as a Software Contractor, you need strong programming skills, proficiency in software development methodologies, and the ability to independently manage projects, typically supported by a relevant degree or extensive experience. Familiarity with tools such as version control systems (e.g., Git), project management platforms, and possibly certifications like AWS Certified Developer or PMP is often expected. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and time management skills set top contractors apart, as these enable effective client interaction and project delivery. These abilities are crucial because software contractors must efficiently deliver high-quality solutions on deadline while adapting to varying client requirements and work environments.

What are the typical challenges faced by software contractors, and how can they be managed?

Software contractors often face challenges such as rapidly learning new codebases, adapting to diverse client expectations, and managing multiple projects or contracts concurrently. Success in this role requires effective communication to clarify requirements, strong organizational skills to prioritize tasks, and adaptability to integrate into different team cultures or workflows. Building a reliable professional network can also help overcome periods of inconsistent work. By proactively managing time, staying updated with industry trends, and clearly setting expectations with clients, software contractors can navigate these challenges and maintain a steady, rewarding career.

What are the most commonly searched types of Software Contractor jobs in California?

The most popular types of Software Contractor jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Software Contractor jobs in California?

For Software Contractor jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Software Contractor jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Software Contractor jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Software Contractor jobs?

Cities in California with the most Software Contractor job openings:

Software Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Software Contractor job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $110,380 per year, or $53.1 per hour.

Staff Engineer, Controls and Software

InvestedintheMission

Milpitas, CA • On-site

$160 - $220/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Develop machine and operational concepts in collaboration with R&D staff and engineering peers.

  • Design, modify, and approve electrical schematics for industrial and test equipment, and create machine interactions with plant-wide SCADA systems.

  • Write, debug, and optimize PLC structured text code, and implement control reliable safety systems for safeguarding industrial equipment.

Job description

About Commonwealth Fusion Systems

Commonwealth Fusion Systems is on a mission to deliver the urgent transition to fusion energy. Combining decades of research, top talent, and new technologies, we’re designing and building commercially viable fusion power plants. We’re working with policymakers and suppliers to build the energy industry of the future. Since 2018, we’ve raised nearly $3 billion in capital, making us the largest and leading private fusion company in the world. We’re looking for more thinkers, doers, builders, and makers to join us.

Join the power movement as Staff Engineer, Controls and Software

As a Staff Controls and Software Engineer, you will be responsible for developing machine and operational concepts in collaboration with R&D staff and engineering peers. You will create a robust system architecture to support all controls components such as PLCs, safety devices, HMIs, servo drives, and more. For each project you will work from initial design through commissioning, operational fine-tuning, and validation to ensure that all systems function reliably and meet their design goals. You will work closely with cross-functional teams throughout the entire life cycle of the equipment and its operation. You will work with simulation and test engineers to integrate your designs into software testbeds, hardware testbeds, and the tools.

What you’ll do:
  • Work closely with R&D team to outline interfaces and requirements for equipment and software operation for equipment control
  • Participate in initial equipment conceptual development and balance product specifications, operational control requirements, layout complexity, cost, quality, and lead time limits
  • Design, modify, and approve electrical schematics for industrial and test equipment (compliant with NFPA79/NEC/UL508A standards)
  • Create machine interactions with plant-wide SCADA to communicate product acceptability, machine status, and operational variables
  • Write, and debug PLC structured text with an emphasis on generating code that is organized, structured, documented, maintainable, and reusable. PLC code will interact with subsystems and 3rd party equipment
  • Implement control reliable safety systems for safeguarding industrial equipment (ANSI/RIA15.06/OSHA compliant)
  • Generate aesthetically simple HMI screens for complex machinery while providing sufficient feedback for troubleshooting
  • Debug and optimize automated operations to maximize cycle time, improve availability, and yield
  • Work with external software contractors to develop the control systems for internal tools (Define requirements, manage priorities, drive testing and implementation plans)
What we’re looking for:
  • A bachelor’s degree in a relevant engineering field (e.g., EE, mechatronics, software)
  • 10+ years of experience as a controls engineer on complex mechanical systems — for example: design, construction, and operation of controls for industrial, large-scale equipment
  • Hands-on experience with industrial control system implementation, including specifying, building, and commissioning industrial control panels, experience with 480VAC power systems, configuring industrial fieldbus and components
  • Proficient in AutoCAD Electrical, for schematic and cable designs
  • Familiar with structured text programming and the TwinCAT IDE
  • Familiar with TwinSAFE safety PLC programming
  • PLC programming experience in IEC 61131-3 languages
  • Familiar with modern tools like GitHub and CI/CD release management
  • Familiarity with Python
  • HMI design, implementation and maintenance
  • Inductive Automation’s Ignition platform
Bonus points for:
  • Experience with Semiconductor Capital Equipment manufacturing
  • Experience with enclosure design compliant with NFPA79/NEC/UL508A standards
  • Experience developing and tuning control loops
Must-have requirements:
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs occasionally
  • Perform activities such as stooping, climbing, standing, sitting for extended periods of time
  • Willingness to travel or work required nights/weekends/on-call occasionally
  • Dedication to safety to mitigate industrial hazards that may include heat, cold, noise, fumes, strong magnets, lead, high voltage, high current, pressure systems, and cryogenics

The role is onsite in the specified locations and follows the company’s policies, including export control compliance. This description does not guarantee a job offer or continued employment.

Salary range: 160000 - 220000 USD per year + equity + benefits. The actual salary will depend on level, location, qualifications, and experience. Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance; 401(k) with employer matching; generous paid time off; and professional growth opportunities.

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