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Software Developer Engineer Jobs in Santa Clara, CA

Principal Software Developer Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$157K - $211K/yr

Fortinet is a cybersecurity pioneer with over two decades of excellence, seeking a Principal Software Developer Engineer for their FortiSwitch team. The role involves developing and maintaining ...

We are looking for SW engineers who wish to be a part of developing and evolving the current and next generation of routers that form the core of anything internet. In this role, you will have the ...

Software Developer Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$131K - $200K/yr

We are looking for SW engineers who wish to be a part of developing and evolving the current and next generation of routers that form the core of anything internet. In this role, you will have the ...

We realize that new ideas can come from everywhere in the organization, and we know the next big idea could be yours! We're looking for a highly motivated Software Developer Engineer to join the team ...

Microsoft Azure, Microsoft Dynamics, Databricks, SnapLogic, Middleware Position Overview We are seeking a highly skilled Software Development Engineer to design, develop, and scale solutions within ...

Software Developer - II

Pescadero, CA · On-site

$164K - $185K/yr

Software Developer II (Python API & Enterprise Integration) Role Overview We are seeking an enthusiastic and results-driven Software Developer II to support the development, integration, and ...

We are looking for a highly skilled Senior Software Developer to join our engineering team and help design, build, and maintain scalable software solutions. The ideal candidate has strong technical ...

Android Developer / Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$65.50 - $86/hr

Android Developer / Engineer Location: Sunnyvale / San Bruno, CA Description: Multiple Levels ... Maps, Location, and Cloud Messaging · Experience with software debugging techniques (debuggers ...

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Software Developer Engineer information

See Santa Clara, CA salary details

$34.6K

$117.8K

$283.6K

How much do software developer engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for software developer engineer in Santa Clara, CA is $117,756.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,600.00 and $124,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a software developer engineer?

Software Developer Engineers are professionals who design, develop, test, and maintain software applications or systems. They use programming languages like Java, Python, or C++ to write code that solves problems or fulfills specific needs. In addition to coding, they collaborate with other team members, troubleshoot issues, and ensure the software meets user requirements and quality standards. Their work is essential for creating everything from mobile apps to enterprise software solutions.

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

To thrive as a Software Developer Engineer, you need a solid understanding of programming languages, software development principles, and a relevant degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with development frameworks, version control systems like Git, and cloud platforms such as AWS or Azure is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective collaboration set exceptional engineers apart. These competencies are crucial for building reliable, scalable software and contributing effectively to dynamic, cross-functional teams.

How do software developer engineers typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a project?

Software Developer Engineers regularly work alongside product managers, designers, and quality assurance professionals to deliver high-quality software. Collaboration often involves participating in agile ceremonies such as daily stand-ups, sprint planning, and code reviews, where they discuss requirements, share progress, and address technical challenges. Effective communication and teamwork are crucial, as developers must ensure their code aligns with project goals and integrates smoothly with work from other team members. This collaborative environment not only helps deliver better products but also fosters professional growth through exposure to diverse perspectives.

What is the difference between Software Developer Engineer vs Software Engineer?

AspectSoftware Developer EngineerSoftware Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in CS or related field; coding certificationsBachelor's or higher in CS or related field; certifications optional
Work EnvironmentDevelopment teams, coding, testing, debuggingDesign, development, system analysis, collaboration
Industry UsageCommon in tech companies, startups, software firmsWidespread across tech, finance, healthcare, and more

Both roles involve coding and software development, but Software Developer Engineers often focus more on building and implementing software solutions, while Software Engineers may have broader responsibilities including system design and architecture. The titles are frequently used interchangeably, but understanding their nuances helps in job searches and career planning.

What are the most commonly searched types of Software Developer Engineer jobs in Santa Clara, CA?

The most popular types of Software Developer Engineer jobs in Santa Clara, CA are:

What cities near Santa Clara, CA are hiring for Software Developer Engineer jobs?

Cities near Santa Clara, CA with the most Software Developer Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Software Developer Engineer job openings in Santa Clara, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,756 per year, or $56.6 per hour.

Principal Software Developer Engineer

Fortinet

Sunnyvale, CA • On-site

$157K - $211K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Job Summary:
Fortinet is a cybersecurity pioneer with over two decades of excellence, seeking a Principal Software Developer Engineer for their FortiSwitch team. The role involves developing and maintaining software components for networking-related features, ensuring high-quality implementations, and collaborating closely with hardware teams.
Responsibilities:
• Develop and maintain software components on current and future products
• Take responsibility for developing networking-related features for the FortiSwitch Virtual Machine (FSW-VM) product line and the Marvell CPSS SDK work for both VM and hardware.
• Be hands on in bug fixing in current products
• Implement software features of high quality and on schedule
• Communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Work closely with hardware teams for features which directly translate to hardware platforms
Qualifications:
Required:
• A minimum of 12 years of experience in Networking related software development
• B.S. in Computer Science or Electrical Engineering; M.S. preferred
• Strong C/C++ experience in Unix/Linux environment is essential
• Strong knowledge of Linux kernel programming, including system calls and custom device drivers
• Experience with Marvell switching ASICs and SDKs in Ethernet switches/routers.
• Experience in developing applications running in a Virtualization environment (KVM & VMware)
• Experience with multi process/thread programming environment
• Experience in implementing L2/L3 features such as STP, RSTP, RIP, OSPF, IS-IS, BGP, LACP, LLDP, QOS, Private VLAN, LAG
• Knowledge of TCP/IP networking, firewalls, switching and routing
• Familiarity with system installations, configurations, and troubleshooting.
• Knowledge of general QA procedures and methodologies as well as software development fundamentals
• Knowledge of scripting languages: Shell and Python a plus
• Experience with firewalls and embedded systems is a plus
• Knowledge of Linux kernel and driver development is plus
• US citizenship is required.
Company:
Fortinet is a provider of network security appliances that include firewalls, security gateways, and complementary products. It is a sub-organization of Fortinet Federal. Founded in 2000, the company is headquartered in Sunnyvale, USA, with a team of 10001+ employees. The company is currently Late Stage.