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Software Developers Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Unchained Labs

Software Engineer

Pleasanton, CA

$175K - $200K/yr

They will work with other software developers, engineers, and scientists to develop and test custom software and scripting to run new and existing instruments. Responsibilities * Responsible for ...

ETAP Software

Software Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

The Software Engineer will develop and maintain electrical systems applications that deliver interactive visualization capabilities and support real-time data acquisition and analysis.

Beacon Software

Software Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Software Engineer We're looking for a versatile Software Engineer to drive technical innovation and accelerate growth across our portfolio of software companies. You'll collaborate closely with ...

Leidos

Software Engineer

National City, CA

$87K - $157K/yr

Collaborate with software developers, system engineers, cybersecurity personnel, and training system stakeholders to ensure successful implementation and sustainment. * Develop and maintain technical ...

Leidos

Software Engineer

San Diego, CA

$87K - $157K/yr

Collaborate with software developers, system engineers, cybersecurity personnel, and training system stakeholders to ensure successful implementation and sustainment. * Develop and maintain technical ...

Leidos

Software Engineer

La Jolla, CA

$87K - $157K/yr

Collaborate with software developers, system engineers, cybersecurity personnel, and training system stakeholders to ensure successful implementation and sustainment. * Develop and maintain technical ...

Leidos

Software Engineer

Chula Vista, CA

$87K - $157K/yr

Collaborate with software developers, system engineers, cybersecurity personnel, and training system stakeholders to ensure successful implementation and sustainment. * Develop and maintain technical ...

Leidos

Software Engineer

Rancho Santa Fe, CA

$87K - $157K/yr

Collaborate with software developers, system engineers, cybersecurity personnel, and training system stakeholders to ensure successful implementation and sustainment. * Develop and maintain technical ...

Leidos

Software Engineer

San Diego, CA

Collaborate with software developers, system engineers, cybersecurity personnel, and training system stakeholders to ensure successful implementation and sustainment. * Develop and maintain technical ...

Leidos

Software Engineer

El Cajon, CA

$87K - $157K/yr

Collaborate with software developers, system engineers, cybersecurity personnel, and training system stakeholders to ensure successful implementation and sustainment. * Develop and maintain technical ...

Leidos

Software Engineer

Cardiff By The Sea, CA

$87K - $157K/yr

Collaborate with software developers, system engineers, cybersecurity personnel, and training system stakeholders to ensure successful implementation and sustainment. * Develop and maintain technical ...

Guidewire Software

Software Engineer I

San Mateo, CA · On-site

As an early-career Software Engineer - Cloud, you will help design, build, and support components of the Guidewire Cloud Platform on Kubernetes and AWS, with guidance and mentorship from senior ...

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All JobsSoftware Developers JobsSoftware Developers Jobs in California

Software Developers information

See California salary details

$47.4K

$110.4K

$163.8K

How much do software developers jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for software developers in California is $110,380.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,800.00 and $128,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is it true that AI will replace software engineers?

AI technology is advancing and can automate certain coding tasks, but software engineers are essential for designing, developing, and maintaining complex systems. AI tools serve as aids to improve productivity, but human expertise remains critical for problem-solving, creativity, and decision-making in software development.

Is there still a demand for software developers?

Yes, software developers are in high demand across many industries due to ongoing digital transformation, the need for new applications, and updates to existing systems. Skills in programming languages like Java, Python, and experience with cloud platforms increase employability, and the job market remains strong with consistent growth projections.

What are software developers?

Software developers are professionals who design, create, test, and maintain computer programs and applications. They work with programming languages and development tools to build software solutions that meet users’ needs. Software developers may specialize in areas such as web development, mobile applications, or systems software. Their work often involves collaborating with other tech professionals, understanding user requirements, and solving complex problems through code.

How do software developers typically collaborate with other teams during a project?

Software developers often work closely with cross-functional teams such as product managers, designers, quality assurance engineers, and sometimes clients. Collaboration usually involves regular meetings, code reviews, and using project management tools to track progress and share feedback. Clear communication is essential to align on requirements, resolve issues quickly, and ensure that the final product meets user needs. Developers also participate in sprint planning and retrospectives as part of an Agile workflow, which fosters continuous improvement and strong teamwork.

What is the difference between Software Developers vs Software Engineers?

AspectSoftware DevelopersSoftware Engineers
CredentialsBachelor's in CS or related field, coding certificationsBachelor's or higher in CS or related, often with engineering certifications
Work EnvironmentDevelopment teams, startups, tech companiesLarge organizations, system design, architecture roles
Industry UsageCommonly used in tech, startups, freelance projectsUsed in enterprise, large-scale projects, system design
Job FocusWriting code, developing applicationsDesigning systems, architecture, integrating components

While both Software Developers and Software Engineers work with code and software projects, Software Developers primarily focus on coding and application development. Software Engineers often take a broader approach, involving system design and architecture. The roles overlap, but the key difference lies in scope and responsibilities, with Engineers typically involved in designing complex systems and Developers concentrating on implementation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Software Developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Software Developer, you need strong programming skills, problem-solving abilities, and a relevant degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with technical tools such as version control systems (e.g., Git), coding frameworks, and cloud platforms is typically required, and certifications in specific languages or technologies can be beneficial. Excellent teamwork, communication, and adaptability are soft skills that help developers collaborate effectively and respond to changing project needs. These skills and qualities ensure efficient development, maintainable code, and successful project outcomes in a fast-evolving tech environment.

What kind of work do software developers do?

Software developers design, write, test, and maintain computer programs and applications. They work with programming languages such as Java, Python, or C++, and often collaborate with teams to create software solutions that meet user needs and specifications.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior software engineers, especially those in high-demand fields like machine learning, AI, or with expertise in cloud computing, can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and working at large tech companies or startups with significant funding.
What cities in California are hiring for Software Developers jobs? Cities in California with the most Software Developers job openings:
Software Developers jobs near you
Infographic showing various Software Developers job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,380 per year, or $53.1 per hour.
Scientific Software Developer/Data Systems

Scientific Software Developer/Data Systems

SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory

Menlo Park, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

SLAC Job Postings
Position overview:
Do you enjoy collaborating with groups of scientists and software developers to solve complex challenges? Does contributing to breakthrough discoveries in science and working with unique experimental instruments in a world-leading scientific research environment excite you? The Experimental Data Systems (EDS) division within the Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS) Directorate at SLAC is seeking a Computational Beamline Scientist to work on the deployment and optimization of complex computational workflows, and on their integration in day-to-day facility operations
LCLS is the world's premier X-ray free electron laser (XFEL), with unprecedented capabilities in photon energy range, peak power, and pulse lengths. LCLS instruments are specifically designed to utilize the exceptional beam characteristics of the X-ray laser to elucidate atomic structures and dynamics at the femtosecond timescale. The evolution of science and experimental techniques on these instruments, along with upgrades in the x-ray FEL source and optical lasers (LCLS-II and LCLS-II-HE), require significant modifications to user analysis workflows and the supporting software and hardware platforms.
The position will focus on the integration of new data processing algorithms and workflows, including AI and LLM-based ones, into current scientific operation procedures, with a specific focus on final user experience and effective interaction with the available EDS hardware and software platforms. A significant aspect of the role will be to interface with collaborators, users, and their teams/students to design and support efficient and straightforward usage patterns.
Job Purpose:
As a Software Developer in the LCLS Data Management Department, you will work within an interdisciplinary team of software developers, scientists, and engineers. Responsibilities include adapting and optimizing codes for beamline deployment and user interaction, including designing user interfaces and discovering and implementing efficient usage patterns and practices. The successful candidate should be comfortable in designing and writing efficient and documented code in the Python programming language. Knowledge of the C/C++ programming language is preferred but not required. The candidate should in addition have operational and programming experience with machine learning algorithms and frameworks for science, and operational knowledge of LLM models. The candidate should ideally also have experience with scientific facility operation procedures and work patterns. Proven experience in collaborative coding and scientific programming is required.
Your specific responsibilities include:
  • Analyze, develop, implement, modify, and maintain algorithms and pipelines to analyze scientific data generated by LCLS.
  • Develop, optimize, and maintain data analysis workflows and optimize them for their use in day-to-day facility operations.
  • Interface with external collaborators and users and provide technical support to facilitate their use of LCLS software and hardware resources.
  • Support the development of new machine learning data analysis approaches with explicit focus on usability by beamline scientists and scientific users.
  • Support users of the scientific instruments in running self-developed data analysis software within the LCLS software framework, consulting with external software developers and designing integrated solutions.
  • Debug and document computer application programs to meet users' needs.
  • Observe, analyze and optimize software resource usage patterns, including training current and future users.
  • Ensure effective communication and information flow to various audiences.
  • Build and maintain relationships to foster trust, collaboration, and a positive climate to achieve common goals.
  • Promote a culture of safety and compliance with all applicable university policies and procedures.
Additional opportunities include:
  • Participate in and contribute to general group research activities.
  • Represent your research results at seminars, scientific conferences, and workshops.
To be successful in this position you will bring:
  • Bachelor's degree in physics, chemistry, biology, engineering, science, or related field and five years of relevant experience; or a combination of education and relevant experience.
  • Thorough understanding of all aspects of software development life cycle and quality control practices.
  • Strong knowledge of at least one programming language.
  • Ability to select, adapt, and effectively use a variety of programming methods.
  • Expertise in developing, testing, and deploying applications.
  • Operational experience with scientific AI-based algorithms and frameworks, including LLMs
  • Ability to define and solve logical problems for highly technical applications.
  • Effective communication skills with both technical and non-technical clients.
  • Demonstrated experience leading activities on structured team development projects.
  • Ability to recognize and recommend needed changes in user and/or operations procedures.
In addition, preferred requirements include:
  • Background in x-ray or material science.
  • Previous experience in roles related to operations at a scientific facility
SLAC Employee Competencies:
  • Effective Decisions: Uses job knowledge and solid judgment to make quality decisions in a timely manner.
  • Self-Development: Pursues a variety of venues and opportunities to continue learning and developing.
  • Dependability: Can be counted on to deliver results with a sense of personal responsibility for expected outcomes.
  • Initiative: Pursues work and interactions proactively with optimism, positive energy, and motivation to move things forward.
  • Adaptability: Flexes as needed when change occurs, maintains an open outlook while adjusting and accommodating changes.
  • Communication: Ensures effective information flow to various audiences and creates and delivers clear, appropriate written, spoken, presented messages.
  • Relationships: Builds relationships to foster trust, collaboration, and a positive climate to achieve common goals.
Physical requirements and Working conditions:
  • Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job.
Work Standard:
  • Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations.
  • Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for environment, safety and security; communicates related concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors based on training and lessons learned. Meets the applicable roles and responsibilities as described in the ESH Manual, Chapter 1¿General Policy and Responsibilities: http://www.group.slac.stanford.edu/esh/eshmanual/pdfs/ESHch01.pdf
  • Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University's Administrative Guide, http://adminguide.stanford.edu
  • As a national laboratory, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory is responsible for adhering to the Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which require employees to obtain and maintain a HSPD-12 Personal Identity Verification (PIV) Credential. To obtain this credential, employees must successfully complete the applicable tier of federal background investigation post hire and receive a favorable federal adjudication. The tier of federal background investigation will be determined by job duties and national security or public trust responsibilities associated with the job. All tiers of investigation include a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last 1 to 7 years (depending on the applicable tier of investigation). Illegal drug activities include marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.
  • Classification Title: Software Developer 2
  • Grade: J Job Code : 4822
  • Duration : Regular Continuing
The expected pay range for this position is $138,402 - $163,985 per annum.
SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory/Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of the salary or hourly wage the university reasonably expects to pay for a position upon hire. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location, and external market pay for comparable jobs.
At SLAC/Stanford, base pay represents only one aspect of the comprehensive rewards package.

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