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Software Developer Contractor Jobs in Houston, TX

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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 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 Artemis Next Generation Space Suit Embedded Software Engineer

NASA Artemis Next Generation Space Suit Embedded Software Engineer

CACI International, Inc.

Houston, TX • On-site

$125K - $165K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Job Title: NASA Artemis Next Generation Space Suit Embedded Software Engineer
Job Category: Engineering
Time Type: Full time
Minimum Clearance Required to Start: None
Employee Type: Regular
Percentage of Travel Required: Up to 10%
Type of Travel: Continental US
* * *
The Opportunity:
CACI is seeking Embedded Software Engineers to support the Artemis Next Generation Space Suit program at NASA Johnson Space Center. This exciting position includes design and development of safety-critical embedded flight software and supporting software tools for the embedded space suit control, caution and warning system, and embedded microcontroller software used in future human spaceflight missions including return to the lunar surface. The Artemis Next Generation Space Suit is NASA's space suit for lunar surface operations and serves as a test bed for advancing exploration technologies.
This position requires a self-motivated engineer with strong technical depth, communication skills, problem-solving ability, and a collaborative, customer-focused mindset. The strongest candidates will be flexible, team-oriented, and able to explain complex technical ideas clearly and convincingly while sharing our passion for the nation's space program and the development of the next generation of human-rated space vehicles. This work is performed onsite at NASA/JSC in Houston, Texas, in a highly dynamic environment that is central to human spaceflight and space exploration.
Responsibilities:
  • Design and develop embedded flight software and supporting software tools for the embedded space suit control, caution and warning system, and embedded microcontroller software.
  • Develop and maintain software using the NASA Core Flight Software (cFS) framework.
  • Design and develop software tools to support Artemis Next Generation Space Suit software development.
  • Perform systems engineering in support of software requirements, interface definitions, and performance analysis.
  • Interface with software and simulation systems to understand behavior and design.
  • Perform software integration, test, and verification.
  • Integrate and test software/hardware in avionics test bed and flight certification environments.
  • Use custom and commercial tools to access and maintain artifacts. Interface with NASA and space suit designer engineering teams.
  • Collaborate with engineering teams and contractors across multiple NASA programs and projects.
  • Provide creative solutions for constrained schedules and resources in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ensure adherence to JSC standard software process practices.

Qualifications:
Required:
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident to facilitate access to USG facilities.
  • B.S. in Electrical, Mechanical, Aerospace, Software, Computer or Systems Engineering, Computer Science, or related disciplines.
  • Three or more years of experience in safety-critical embedded software development, more experience is highly valued.
  • Strong C programming skills.
  • Experience developing software in a Linux environment.
  • Experience with one or more software scripting languages, e.g., Python.
  • Evidence of success in highly collaborative projects and environments.
  • Ability to succeed in fast-paced environments.
  • Must be flexible, open to new challenges in a dynamic environment.
  • Possess technical expertise combined with verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities with some supervision.
  • Must be a responsible, team-oriented individual with strong work ethic.
  • Must have well-developed coordination and organization skills.
  • Ability to take initiative and work independently.

Desired:
  • M.S. in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical, Mechanical, Aerospace, Computer or Systems Engineering, or related discipline.
  • Five or more years of experience in embedded software development for safety-critical software.
  • Experience with Agile software development environments and methodologies.
  • Experience with Real-time Operating Systems, e.g., VxWorks.
  • Experience developing software using bus communication protocols, e.g., RS-485, RS-422, RS-232, LVDS, 1553, USB, or Ethernet.
  • Experience with NASA's Core Flight Software (cFS) framework.
  • Experience using version control systems.
  • Experience with United Electronic Industries (UEI) Racktangle I/O Platform or PowerDNA software suite.
  • Experience in automated testing, including development of unit, integration, and verification test.
  • Experience in software and systems integration.
  • Experience in the full life cycle of human-rated space vehicle flight software projects, e.g., Space Shuttle, International Space Station, Commercial Crew vehicles, Orion, or Artemis-related systems.
  • Familiarity with CMMI Level 3 (or above) process areas.

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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