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Software Developer Contract Jobs in Berkeley, CA

Mercor

Software Developer

San Francisco, CA · Remote

$50 - $65/hr

Software Engineer, Full Stack (Python, Java, Rust, C#, C++) Type ... Contract Compensation: $50-$65/hour Location: Remote Commitment: 40 hours/week Role ...

Mercor

AI Software Developer

San Francisco, CA · Remote

$90 - $110/hr

Senior Software Engineer, Full Stack (Python, Java, Rust, C#, C++) Type ... Contract Compensation: $90-$110/hour Location: Remote Commitment: 40 hours/week Role ...

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All JobsSoftware Developer Contract JobsSoftware Developer Contract Jobs in Berkeley, CA

Software Developer Contract information

See Berkeley, CA salary details

$58.8K

$136.9K

$203.3K

How much do software developer contract jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for software developer contract in Berkeley, CA is $136,948.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $110,200.00 and $159,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical work arrangements and expectations for contract software developers?

Contract Software Developers are usually hired for specific projects or defined timeframes, which can range from several weeks to multiple months, often working remotely or on-site depending on client needs. They are expected to quickly understand project requirements, deliver code efficiently, and collaborate with both in-house teams and other contractors, maintaining flexibility to adapt to different workflows and tools. Because contract roles may not include the same onboarding experience as permanent positions, self-motivation and strong independent work habits are important. This work arrangement provides valuable exposure to various industries and technologies, often expanding a developer’s professional network and enhancing career versatility.

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

A successful Software Developer Contract requires strong programming abilities, solid knowledge of software development methodologies, and relevant project or domain expertise, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with languages like Java, Python, or JavaScript, as well as tools such as Git, Agile frameworks, and certification in areas like AWS or Scrum, is highly valued. Excellent problem-solving skills, adaptability, effective communication, and an ability to quickly integrate into new teams are crucial soft skills. These competencies enable contract developers to deliver high-quality solutions while efficiently navigating diverse projects and rapidly changing work environments.

What is a software developer contract?

A Software Developer Contract job is a temporary or project-based position where a developer is hired for a specific duration, typically through a contract agreement. Contractors may work independently, for an agency, or directly with a company to develop, test, and maintain software applications. These roles often offer flexibility but may not include benefits like health insurance or paid time off. Contract developers are usually paid hourly or per project and may work remotely or on-site depending on the employer's needs.

What are the most commonly searched types of Software Developer jobs in Berkeley, CA?

The most popular types of Software Developer jobs in Berkeley, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Software Developer Contract jobs in Berkeley, CA?

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

What job categories do people searching Software Developer Contract jobs in Berkeley, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Software Developer Contract jobs in Berkeley, CA are:

What cities near Berkeley, CA are hiring for Software Developer Contract jobs?

Cities near Berkeley, CA with the most Software Developer Contract job openings:

Software Developer Contract jobs near you
Infographic showing various Software Developer Contract job openings in Berkeley, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 71% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $136,948 per year, or $65.8 per hour.

Software Developer

Mercor

San Francisco, CA • Remote

$50 - $65/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

About the job

Mercor connects elite creative and technical talent with leading AI research labs. Headquartered in San Francisco, our investors include Benchmark, General Catalyst, Peter Thiel, Adam D'Angelo, Larry Summers, and Jack Dorsey.

Position: Software Engineer, Full Stack (Python, Java, Rust, C#, C++)
Type: Contract
Compensation: $50–$65/hour
Location: Remote
Commitment: 40 hours/week

Role Responsibilities

  • Build and ship full-stack applications, services, and internal tools using Python, Java, Rust, C#, C++, or TypeScript to exercise frontier model capabilities end to end.
  • Integrate pre-release model APIs into working software, including tool interfaces, evaluation harnesses, and telemetry.
  • Diagnose and document model and integration failure modes, translating engineering observations into clear written feedback for the research team.
  • Prototype quickly against shifting requirements, delivering working increments with limited up-front specification.
  • Collaborate with the engineering manager and other engineers to maintain consistency in code quality, architecture, and technical documentation.

Qualifications

Must-Have

  • 3+ years of dedicated professional experience building and shipping production software at a recognized, top-tier organization.
  • Production experience in at least one of Python, Java, Rust, C#, or C++, plus working proficiency in a second language.
  • Hands-on experience across the stack: backend services and APIs, a modern front-end framework (React or equivalent), relational or document databases, and cloud deployment.
  • Demonstrated ability to onboard onto an unfamiliar codebase and deliver working code quickly with minimal ramp-up.
  • Ability to engage reliably for at least 40 hours/week during weekdays.
  • Strong written communication skills and the ability to explain complex technical decisions clearly.

Compensation & Legal

  • W-2 employment with Cincinnatus LLC.
  • Paid weekly via Stripe Connect.

Application Process (Takes 20–30 mins to complete)

  • Upload resume
  • AI interview based on your resume
  • Submit form

Resources & Support

  • For details about the interview process and platform information, please check: https://talent.docs.mercor.com/welcome
  • For any help or support, reach out to: support@mercor.com

PS: Our team reviews applications daily. Please complete your AI interview and application steps to be considered for this opportunity.


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