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Software Developer Contractor Jobs in Houston, TX

Workhint

Front-End Developer

Houston, TX · On-site

$99K - $115K/yr

Company Description Workhint is a software-as-a-service company that manages on-demand contractors ... We are looking for an experienced Front-End Developer with expertise in Tailwind , HTML5 ...

Workhint

Front-End Developer

Houston, TX · On-site

$99K - $115K/yr

Company Description Workhint is a software-as-a-service company that manages on-demand contractors ... We are looking for an experienced Front-End Developer with expertise in Tailwind , HTML5 ...

Chase

Lead Software Engineer - Data

Houston, TX

Senior Lead Software Engineer Be an integral part of an agile team that's constantly pushing the ... contractors, and vendors * Develops secure and high-quality production code, and reviews and debugs ...

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Software Developer Contractor information

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$45.8K

$106.8K

$158.5K

How much do software developer contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for software developer contractor in Houston, TX is $106,809.00, 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 are Software Developer Contractors?

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 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 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 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 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,809 per year, or $51.4 per hour.
NASA Lunar Extravehicular Activity Observation Camera Software Engineer

NASA Lunar Extravehicular Activity Observation Camera Software Engineer

Stellar Technology, LLC

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Stellar Technology is looking for an experienced Software Engineer to provide NASA Johnson Space Center with software skills in the development, testing, and flight certification of a digital wireless camera to be used for crew operations on the lunar surface. This work will include prototyping, requirements definition, design, development, test and verification, integration, and certification of embedded software.

This position requires a self-motivated, capable software engineer 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, and be an articulate speaker able to communicate complex technical ideas in a convincing manner. The individual must share our passion for our Nation's Space Program and share in the excitement of developing the next human-rated space vehicles.

Responsibilities:

  • Develop and maintain the Lunar Extravehicular Activity (EVA) Observation Camera (LEOC) flight software as needed.
  • Develop and maintain the LEOC Graphical User Interface (GUI) for commands and telemetry as needed.
  • Design, develop, and maintain the LEOC Command and Data Dictionary (CDD).
  • Develop test plans and procedures in support of unit, integration, and Verification and Validation (V&V) testing.
  • Develop automated test scripts in support of unit, integration, and V&V testing.
  • Develop, maintain, and run GitLab Continuous Integration (CI) / Continuous Development (CD) pipelines for test automation.
  • Perform systems engineering as needed in support of software requirements and interface definitions, design, integration, testing, flight certification, and user’s guides.
  • Perform integration, testing, and verification of the LEOC software/hardware with the Human Landing System (HLS), Next Generation Space Suits, and Flight Operations personnel in avionics test bed and flight certification environments.
  • Collaborate with engineering teams and contractors across multiple NASA programs and projects.
  • Ensure adherence to JSC standard software process practices.

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