1

Software Developers Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Software Engineer

La Jolla, CA · On-site

$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 ...

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

Software Engineer

Chula Vista, CA · On-site

$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 ...

Software Engineer

Cardiff By The Sea, CA · On-site

$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 ...

Software Engineer

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$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 ...

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

Software Engineer

National City, CA · On-site

$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 ...

Software Engineer

Rancho Santa Fe, CA · On-site

$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 ...

Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$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 ...

... software developers. Education A master's degree in computer science or electrical engineering with 5+ years of programming experience will be considered. Salary Range: $104,500.00 -$174,500.00 This ...

Senior Software Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$104K - $174K/yr

... software developers. Education A master's degree in computer science or electrical engineering with 5+ years of programming experience will be considered. Salary Range: $104,500.00 -$174,500.00 This ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Software Developers information

See California salary details

$47.4K

$110.4K

$163.8K

How much do software developers jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 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 software developer still in demand?

Software developers continue to be in high demand due to ongoing digital transformation across industries, with strong job growth projected in the coming years. Skills in programming languages, such as Java, Python, and experience with cloud platforms, enhance employability in this field.

What is the job of a software developer?

A software developer designs, writes, tests, and maintains computer programs and applications using programming languages such as Java, Python, or C++. They analyze user needs, create technical specifications, and collaborate with teams to develop software solutions. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of development tools are essential for this role.

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 engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior software engineers, especially those in high-demand fields like machine learning, AI, or working at major tech companies, can earn $500,000 or more annually through base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, specialized skills, and often leadership roles or equity compensation.

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 jobs do software developers get?

Software developers can work in various roles such as front-end, back-end, full-stack, mobile app, and embedded systems development. They often find employment in industries like technology, finance, healthcare, and gaming, and may work for companies or as freelancers. Skills in programming languages, version control, and software development methodologies are essential for these roles.
What cities in California are hiring for Software Developers jobs? Cities in California with the most Software Developers job openings:
Infographic showing various Software Developers job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,380 per year, or $53.1 per hour.
Controls Software Engineer

$55.50 - $70.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory is hiring a Controls Software Engineer within the Engineering division. This position will support the development, deployment, maintenance, and enhancement of software systems that enable operations of the Advanced Light Source (ALS), a world-class synchrotron user facility. Working within a collaborative team of software engineers, scientists, and technical staff, the incumbent assists in the design and implementation of EPICS-based control system applications, Physics Higher Level Applications, graphical user interfaces, and data management tools that support accelerator and beamline operations. Under general supervision, the Associate Software Developer applies established software engineering principles and development methodologies to complete assigned tasks and contribute to project objectives.
The position participates in software development, testing, documentation, commissioning, and operational support activities while gaining experience with accelerator control systems and scientific computing environments. Occasional off-hours support may be required to help maintain reliable operation of this 24/7 user facility.
We're here for the same mission, to bring science solutions to the world. Join our team and YOU will play a supporting role in our goal to address global challenges! Have a high level of impact and work for an organization associated with 17 Nobel Prizes!
You will:
  • Develop, test, deploy, and maintain control system software using EPICS and associated software development tools.
  • Assist in the development and enhancement of graphical user interfaces, operator displays, data logging applications, and other software tools used for accelerator and beamline operations.
  • Develop and support Physics Higher Level Applications for the ALS accelerator complex using
  • Python, MATLAB, and related scientific computing tools under the guidance of senior staff.
  • Participate in software integration, testing, troubleshooting, and validation activities to support

operational and project objectives.
  • Assist with commissioning new controls and software applications in collaboration with engineers,

scientists, and technical personnel.
  • Diagnose and resolve routine software issues, escalating complex problems as appropriate.
  • Create and maintain technical documentation, user guides, software specifications, and

development records related to assigned work.
  • Present work progress, technical findings, and project updates during team meetings and technical discussions.
  • Follow established software development methodologies, coding standards, and quality assurance practices.
  • Participate in team activities related to source control, code review, issue tracking, testing, and

continuous improvement of development processes.
  • Collaborate effectively with software developers, accelerator physicists, engineers, and operations staff to support ALS scientific and operational goals.

We are looking for:
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Computational Biology, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
  • 2 years of experience in software development or related technical work (including internships,

academic projects, or research experience).
  • Experience through coursework, internships, research projects, or employment developing software applications using one or more modern programming languages such as Python, C++, Java, or similar languages.
  • Experience using software development tools and practices, including version control systems such as Git.
  • Demonstrated ability to learn new technologies and technical concepts in a collaborative

environment.
  • Effective written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Foundational knowledge of software engineering principles, programming concepts, and software

development life cycle methodologies.
  • Understanding of object-oriented programming, data structures, algorithms, and software design practices.
  • Development experience with Matlab, Python and C/C++ programming languages.
  • ML/LLM models knowledge and implementation experience on software code.
  • Basic understanding of Linux/UNIX environments and software development tools.
  • Ability to develop, test, debug, and maintain software applications under guidance from senior
  • developers.
  • Ability to use version control systems and collaborative development tools.
  • Technical writing skills sufficient to prepare clear documentation and reports.
  • Analytical and problem-solving skills for identifying and resolving routine software issues.
  • Ability to learn complex scientific and technical systems and apply new knowledge effectively.
  • Ability to work both independently on assigned tasks and collaboratively within multidisciplinary

teams.
  • Ability to communicate technical information clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Desired skills/knowledge:
  • Experience with Linux or UNIX-based operating systems.
  • Familiarity with scientific computing, data analysis, or engineering software environments.
  • Exposure to control systems, instrumentation, automation systems, or distributed software architectures.
  • Experience with EPICS, MATLAB, or similar scientific and engineering software frameworks.
  • Experience developing graphical user interfaces, web-based applications, or data visualization tools.
  • Knowledge of software testing and quality assurance methodologies.

Additional information:
  • Appointment type: This is a full-time 2 year, term appointment with the possibility of extension or conversion to Career appointment based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds and ongoing operational needs.
  • Salary range: The expected salary for this position is $105,000 - $128,000, which fits into the full salary of $92,964 - $156,876 depending upon the candidate's skills, knowledge, and abilities. This includes education, certifications, and years of experience.
  • Background check: This position is subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
  • Work modality: Work will be primarily performed at: Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA. A REAL ID or other acceptable form of identification is required to access Berkeley Lab sites (for more information click here).
  • Work authorization: Candidates must be eligible to work in the U.S. at the time of hire. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Want to learn more about working at Berkeley Lab? Please visit: careers.lbl.gov
Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: The foundation of Berkeley Lab is our Stewardship Values: Team Science, Service, Trust, Innovation, and Respect; and we strive to build community with these shared values and commitments. Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We heartily welcome applications from all who could contribute to the Lab's mission of leading scientific discovery, excellence, and professionalism. In support of our rich global community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories under State and Federal law.
Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts an offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of substantiated misconduct with a previous employer. For additional information, click here.