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Software Developer Contract Jobs in Irvine, CA (NOW HIRING)

CACI is seeking a seasoned Front-End Software Developer experienced in Tableau and Python, to ... and contract wage rates, relevant prior work experience, specific skills and competencies ...

CACI is seeking a highly experienced Full Stack Software Developer to lead the design, development ... and contract wage rates, relevant prior work experience, specific skills and competencies ...

CACI is seeking a highly experienced Full Stack Software Developer to lead the design, development ... and contract wage rates, relevant prior work experience, specific skills and competencies ...

Are you an early-career software developer looking to build your skills while working on impactful ... Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Anaheim, CA. Pay and Benefits ...

Are you an early-career software developer looking to build your skills while working on impactful ... Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Anaheim, CA. Pay and Benefits ...

Showing results 21-40

Software Developer Contract information

See Irvine, CA salary details

$51.5K

$120.1K

$178.2K

How much do software developer contract jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for software developer contract in Irvine, CA is $120,054.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,600.00 and $139,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

Are software developers still in high demand?

Yes, software developers remain in high demand due to ongoing digital transformation across industries, the need for new applications, and the growth of cloud computing and cybersecurity. Strong programming skills in languages like Java, Python, or JavaScript, along with experience in agile environments, enhance job prospects for contract software developers.

How much do contract software developers make?

Contract software developers typically earn between $50 and $150 per hour, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Rates can vary based on skills such as proficiency in specific programming languages, frameworks, and the duration of the contract.

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Software Developer Contract job openings in Irvine, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, and 28% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $120,054 per year, or $57.7 per hour.

Senior Specialist, Software Engineering

L3Harris Technologies

Pomona, CA • On-site

$122K - $177K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

L3Harris is dedicated to recruiting and developing high-performing talent who are passionate about what they do. Our employees are unified in a shared dedication to our customers’ mission and quest for professional growth. L3Harris provides an inclusive, engaging environment designed to empower employees and promote work-life success. Fundamental to our culture is an unwavering focus on values, dedication to our communities, and commitment to excellence in everything we do.

L3Harris is the Trusted Disruptor in defense tech. With customers’ mission-critical needs always in mind, our employees deliver end-to-end technology solutions connecting the space, air, land, sea and cyber domains in the interest of national security.

Job Title:  Senior Specialist, Software Engineering
Job Code: 39185
Job Location: Anaheim, CA
Schedule: 9/80

JOB DESCRIPTION:

L3Harris Maritime Power & Energy Solutions (MPES) has an opening in the software engineering organization within its Maritime Systems sector site located in Anaheim, CA. Under general direction of the Management of Software Engineering, this position develops and applies advanced software engineering methods in the investigation and solution of complex and advanced technical problems power system architectures and power conversion equipment. The Senior Software Engineer shall lead software engineer team to support for all stages of product development from design through implementation and system integration under minimal supervision.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES 

  • Interpret customer specification to define requirements for software design.
  • Capture and document existing software product to meet qualification standards at highly regulated and safety critical government contracts.
  • Provide software technical leadership for the software developer team members.
  • Reviews project progress and helps in earned value reporting.  Recommends corrections in technical approach to maximize efficiency of engineering resources. 
  • Proactively seek performance improvement/enhancement for the SW team with DevSecOp assisted automation and streamlining.
  • Support new programs from conceptual design, through detail design to completion.
  • Responsible to lead and operate Agile sprint/Kanban team, sprint planning, Jira ticket-based workflow management, and tracking toward team deliverable objectives.

QUALIFICATIONS 

  • Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent from a four-year college or university; and minimum 6 years of experience in design and analysis of systems software for power conversion equipment. Master of Science or advanced degree preferred and a minimum of 4 years of prior related experience. Or in lieu of a degree, minimum of 10 years of prior related experience.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a secret/security clearance.
  • Expertise in embedded real-time systems software design.
  • Experienced in object and service-based software architectures, a plus.
  • Experienced in embedded C and C++ programming.
  • Expertise with communication protocols, such as RS-232, RS-485, and Ethernet.
  • Proven effective communication with Senior Project Management and customer representatives is essential.

Preferred Additional Skills:

  • Experience in development and releasing software products meeting highly regulated and safety critical standards, medical or military grade software product, preferred.
  • Design familiarity with control systems and power conversion concepts is highly preferred.
  • Knowledge of power electronics and analog circuits, a plus.
  • Must be able to work as a key member of the design team with Power Design Engineers, Digital and Analog Engineers, System Engineers, Control System Engineers and Mechanical Engineers
  • Knowledge of Python or C-Sharp is beneficial.

In compliance with pay transparency requirements, the salary range for this role for California is $122,500- 177,500. This is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as final offer amount may vary based on factors including but not limited to experience and geographic location. L3Harris also offers a variety of benefits, including health and disability insurance, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, EAP, education assistance, parental leave, paid time off, and company-paid holidays. The specific programs and options available to an employee may vary depending on date of hire, schedule type, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

#LI-RTC1

L3Harris Technologies is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. L3Harris is committed to treating all employees and applicants for employment with respect and dignity and maintaining a workplace that is free from unlawful discrimination. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or other related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, characteristic or membership in any other group protected by federal, state or local laws. L3Harris maintains a drug-free workplace and performs pre-employment substance abuse testing and background checks, where permitted by law.

Please be aware many of our positions require the ability to obtain a security clearance. Security clearances may only be granted to U.S. citizens. In addition, applicants who accept a conditional offer of employment may be subject to government security investigation(s) and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

By submitting your resume for this position, you understand and agree that L3Harris Technologies may share your resume, as well as any other related personal information or documentation you provide, with its subsidiaries and affiliated companies for the purpose of considering you for other available positions.

L3Harris Technologies is an E-Verify Employer. Please click here for the E-Verify Poster in English or Spanish. For information regarding your Right To Work, please click here for English or Spanish.