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Software Developer Contractor Jobs in Houston, TX

Golden Resources. Inc.

macOS Developer

Houston, TX · On-site

We are seeking a highly skilled Mac OS Storage Driver Developer contractor with expertise in ... You will work closely with hardware and software engineering teams to deliver secure, performant ...

BHI Energy

Developer

Houston, TX · On-site

Position Summary Westinghouse is searching for a Software Developer in Houston, Texas. Job ... BHI Energy is a federal contractor that requests priority referrals of protected veterans. BHI will ...

MRI Technologies

Research Software Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$195K/yr

You will work closely with partners and external contractors to meet their software requirements ... Experience programming in multiple programming languages, including compiled and interpreted ...

IGNITE

MID LEVEL SOFTWARE ENGINEER

Houston, TX · On-site

As a Mid-Level Software Engineer supporting NASA programs through a contractor organization, you will develop, maintain, and enhance web-based and low-code applications that support mission ...

Nauticus Robotics

Software Engineer

Webster, TX · On-site

JOB SUMMARY We are seeking a Software Engineer to join our team. The ideal candidate will have ... EXPORT CONTROL Nauticus Robotics is a federal contractor required to adhere to the Arms Export ...

Nauticus Robotics

Software Engineer

Webster, TX · On-site

JOB SUMMARY We are seeking a Software Engineer to join our team. The ideal candidate will have ... EXPORT CONTROL Nauticus Robotics is a federal contractor required to adhere to the Arms Export ...

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All JobsSoftware Developer Contractor JobsSoftware Developer Contractor Jobs in Houston, TX

Software Developer Contractor information

See Houston, TX salary details

$45.8K

$106.8K

$158.5K

How much do software developer contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for software developer contractor in Houston, TX is $106,759.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,900.00 and $124,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a software developer contractor?

Software Developer Contractors are professionals hired on a temporary or project basis to design, develop, and maintain software applications for clients or companies. Unlike full-time employees, contractors typically work under a contract for a specific period or for the duration of a project. They may work independently, through agencies, or as part of a consulting firm, and often have specialized skills to meet specific project needs. This arrangement offers flexibility for both the developer and the employer, allowing organizations to scale their technical resources as needed.

What are some common challenges software developer contractors face when integrating with existing teams?

Software developer contractors often join projects mid-stream and must quickly adapt to unfamiliar codebases, workflows, and team dynamics. A common challenge is building rapport with full-time staff and understanding company-specific coding standards or tools. Contractors are expected to be proactive in communicating, asking questions, and clarifying requirements to ensure smooth collaboration. Being flexible and open to feedback helps contractors deliver quality work while navigating these initial hurdles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a software developer contractor, and why are they important?

To excel as a Software Developer Contractor, you need strong programming abilities, problem-solving skills, and a solid understanding of software development methodologies, often backed by a relevant degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with version control systems (like Git), cloud platforms, and proficiency in languages such as Python, Java, or JavaScript are commonly required, along with certifications like AWS Certified Developer or Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer. Excellent communication, time management, and adaptability set top contractors apart, enabling them to quickly integrate with diverse teams and projects. These skills are essential for delivering high-quality, timely solutions in dynamic and varied client environments.

What is the difference between Software Developer Contractor vs Software Developer Employee?

AspectSoftware Developer ContractorSoftware Developer Employee
CredentialsTypically requires a relevant degree and technical skills; certifications optionalSame as contractor, often with additional company-specific training
Work EnvironmentContract-based, often remote or on-site for short-term projectsFull-time, usually on-site or hybrid
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in tech firms, startups, consulting agenciesStandard in large corporations, tech companies, and organizations

Software Developer Contractors work on short-term projects, often remotely, with flexible arrangements, while Software Developer Employees are full-time staff with ongoing responsibilities and benefits. Both roles require similar skills and credentials but differ mainly in employment status and work setup.

What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Software Developer Contractor jobs?

Cities near Houston, TX with the most Software Developer Contractor job openings:

Software Developer Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Software Developer Contractor job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,759 per year, or $51.3 per hour.

NASA Orion Spacecraft Flight Software Developer

CACI International, Inc.

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Job Title: NASA Orion Spacecraft Flight Software Developer
Job Category: Engineering
Time Type: Full time
Minimum Clearance Required to Start: NACI
Employee Type: Regular
Percentage of Travel Required: Up to 10%
Type of Travel: Continental US
* * *
The Opportunity:
  • CACI is looking for experienced Spacecraft Flight Software (FSW) Developers to provide NASA's Orion FSW team at the Johnson Space Center with software skills in the development of flight software for NASA's next generation crewed spacecraft, Orion, which will carry astronauts to the Moon.
  • Orion will dock with a lunar lander which will transport astronauts to and from the lunar surface.
  • This exciting position involves software development for software upgrades and new development of Orion flight software capabilities.
  • This position requires a self-motivated, capable person with strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • In addition to outstanding technical expertise, the individual must be very people savvy, have strong customer relationship skills, possess a positive team-player attitude, be flexible and willing to take on new assignments and responsibilities as they arise.
  • Finally, the most qualified candidate will be an articulate speaker able to communicate complex technical ideas in a convincing manner, must share our passion for our Nation's Space Program, and share in the excitement of developing future human-rated space vehicles.

Responsibilities:
  • Design and develop Orion embedded FSW.
  • Perform FSW refactoring and testing.
  • Integrate software units within a flight software domain and ensure the units properly function together.
  • Evaluate software defects.
  • Implement and test software code changes to correct defects.
  • Create and execute thorough C/C++ unit tests.
  • Perform troubleshooting of software issues.
  • Integrate software and build FSW loads for testing.
  • Ensure adherence to JSC standard software process practices.
  • Perform C/C++ code reviews to spot errors in the code logic.
  • Collaborate with NASA and prime contractor SMEs for resolving flight software issues.
  • Develop software tools and scripts as needed.
  • This work takes place at NASA/JSC in Houston, TX, a highly stimulating and dynamic environment that is critical in human space flight and the space exploration initiative.

Qualifications:
Required:
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident.
  • B.S. in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, Computer or Software Engineering, Computer Science, or related disciplines required.
  • At least three to five years of experience in aerospace vehicle embedded software development for safety-critical flight software. Greater experience is highly valued.
  • Strong C/C++ programming skills.
  • Must be flexible, open to new challenges in a dynamic environment, and possess strong technical expertise combined with strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities with little supervision.
  • Must be a highly responsible, team-oriented individual with strong work ethic.
  • Must have highly developed coordination and organization skills.

Desired:
  • M.S. in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, Computer or Software Engineering, Computer Science, or related disciplines.
  • Experience in flight software development for human-rated space vehicles, e.g., Space Shuttle, International Space Station, SpaceX Crew Dragon, Boeing Starliner, Orion, or Gateway.
  • Experience troubleshooting software issues.
  • Experience integrating and building FSW loads.
  • Experience performing software unit testing.
  • Experience with Google Test and gMock is highly valued.
  • Experience in full life cycle of real-time safety-critical software for aerospace vehicles.
  • Familiarity with the NASA Spacecraft Software Engineering Team (SSET) standards and processes for class A safety-critical flight software.
  • Experience developing software scripts and tools in Python.
  • Experience with software configuration management tools such as Gitlab/Git and Perforce.
  • Vehicle-wide knowledge of space vehicle systems, e.g., command and telemetry; displays; power; propulsion; thermal; environmental control and life support system; guidance, navigation and control; communications and tracking, etc. Experience in FSW verification. Familiarity with NASA's Orion Spacecraft.

This position is contingent on funding and may not be filled immediately. However, this position is representative of positions within CACI that are consistently available. Individuals who apply may also be considered for other positions at CACI.
What You Can Expect:
A culture of integrity.
At CACI, we place character and innovation at the center of everything we do. As a valued team member, you'll be part of a high-performing group dedicated to our customer's missions and driven by a higher purpose - to ensure the safety of our nation.
An environment of trust.
CACI values the unique contributions that every employee brings to our company and our customers - every day. You'll have the autonomy to take the time you need through a unique flexible time off benefit and have access to robust learning resources to make your ambitions a reality.
A focus on continuous growth.
Together, we will advance our nation's most critical missions, build on our lengthy track record of business success, and find opportunities to break new ground - in your career and in our legacy.
Pay Range:
There are a host of factors that can influence final salary including, but not limited to, geographic location, Federal Government contract labor categories and contract wage rates, relevant prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, education, and certifications. Our employees value the flexibility at CACI that allows them to balance quality work and their personal lives. We offer competitive compensation, benefits and learning and development opportunities. Our broad and competitive mix of benefits options is designed to support and protect employees and their families. At CACI, you will receive comprehensive benefits such as; healthcare, wellness, financial, retirement, family support, continuing education, and time off benefits.
The proposed salary range for this position is:
$76,000 - 155,700 USD
CACI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected characteristic.

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