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Software Development Contractor Jobs in Massachusetts

Java/Python Software Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$56.25 - $77/hr

... The Software Engineer Contractor supports the technology team by maintaining, upgrading, and ... Key Responsibilities Application Development & Engineering * Design, develop, and maintain clean ...

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Showing results 1-20

Software Development Contractor information

See Massachusetts salary details

$86.8K

$155.2K

$194.9K

How much do software development contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for software development contractor in Massachusetts is $155,193.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $134,900.00 and $178,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a software development contractor do?

A Software Development Contractor is an independent professional hired to design, develop, and implement software solutions for clients on a project or temporary basis. They may work with various programming languages, frameworks, and technologies depending on the client's needs. Contractors are responsible for delivering specific project outcomes, often collaborating with in-house teams, and may also provide ongoing support or maintenance. Their work arrangement typically allows for greater flexibility compared to full-time employees, but they are usually responsible for their own business operations, such as taxes and contracts.

How does the workflow and communication process typically differ for software development contractors compared to full-time employees?

As a software development contractor, you’ll likely experience more autonomy in your workflow but will need to be proactive in communication since you may not be embedded within the core team. Contractors often attend regular check-ins or stand-ups virtually and coordinate with project managers or technical leads to track deliverables. You may work across multiple projects or teams, so adapting quickly to different coding standards and collaboration tools is essential. Clear documentation and timely progress updates are important for ensuring alignment and meeting client expectations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a software development contractor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Software Development Contractor, you need strong programming skills, experience with software design and development methodologies, and typically a relevant degree or proven work history. Familiarity with version control systems (like Git), cloud platforms, and frameworks relevant to client needs is crucial, along with knowledge of Agile or Scrum methodologies. Excellent problem-solving, time management, and communication skills help you adapt to diverse client environments and deliver quality solutions independently. These competencies ensure you can efficiently meet client expectations, deliver robust software, and maintain professional relationships in a contract-based role.

What is the difference between Software Development Contractor vs Software Developer?

AspectSoftware Development ContractorSoftware Developer
CredentialsTypically no formal certification required; focus on experience and skillsOften holds a degree in computer science or related field; certifications like Scrum or Agile may be common
Work EnvironmentContract-based, often freelance or temporary projectsFull-time or part-time employment within a company or organization
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by companies hiring for specific projects or short-term needsEmployed by organizations as ongoing team members
Search & Comparison IntentPeople compare to understand contract work vs permanent rolesPeople look to distinguish between employment types

In summary, a Software Development Contractor typically works on short-term, project-based assignments without formal employment benefits, while a Software Developer is usually a full-time employee with ongoing responsibilities within a company. Both roles require technical skills, but their work arrangements and employment status differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Software Development Contractor jobs in Massachusetts?

For Software Development Contractor jobs in Massachusetts, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Software Development Contractor jobs in Massachusetts look for?

The top searched job categories for Software Development Contractor jobs in Massachusetts are:

Infographic showing various Software Development Contractor job openings in Massachusetts as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $155,193 per year, or $74.6 per hour.

Software Development Engineer

Curtisswright

Tewksbury, MA

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Curtiss-Wright rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

99th of 490 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Software Development Engineer

Our team at TCG is looking for a Software Development Engineer to join our application development team.

This is a tremendous opportunity to be a part of an innovative organization that is truly making a difference in the world. As a Software Engineer, you will plan, design, develop and test software systems or applications for software enhancements and new products.

Location:Tewksbury, MA - Onsite

Salary Range: $ 83,800 - 105,000 per year plus bonus

Please note that the salary range information provided is a general guideline only, reflecting a position based in Massachusetts. Criteria such as the candidate's qualifications and relevant experience, the scope of the specific position, as well as market and business considerations will be evaluated when extending an offer.

Benefits

We Take Care of Our People

Paid Time Off I 401K with Employer Match and Profit Sharing I Health and Wellness Benefits I Learning and Development Opportunities I Referral Program I Competitive Pay I Recognition I Employee Stock Purchase PlanI Inclusive & Supportive Culture *

Your Challenge

  • Design development, code, test, and debug new software or complex enhancements to existing software

  • Work with technical staff to understand and develop resolution of software problems

  • Resolve customer complaints with software and responds to suggestions for software modifications or enhancements

  • Assist in the development of software user manuals

  • Interface with hardware development teams as needed

  • Other duties as assigned

What You Bring

  • Bachelor's degree in computer science/engineering or software engineering

  • Demonstrated knowledge of software data structures and programming methodology, computer architecture and operating systems

  • 2-4 years of demonstrated experience programming in C++ and Java.

  • Working knowledge of SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol)

  • Strong communication skills and a collaborative spirit

  • Demonstrated problem solving skills and proficient with MS Office suite of tools

Who We Are

Our Values

Environmental, Social and Governance

Join the WRIGHT Team!

Tactical Communications Group (TCG) is a world-class leader in delivering Tactical Data Link (TDL) network solutions that allow military operating and training units, government testing organizations and prime defense contractors to quickly achieve better connectivity and capability at the tactical edge. By creating cost effective, integrated tactical communications solutions, warfighters in the air and on the ground can now exchange real-time tactical information and share a common operating picture for improved operational coordination, situation awareness and mission effectiveness.

#LI-YH1

No unsolicited agency submittals please. Agency partners must be invited to participate in a search by our Talent Acquisition Team and have signed terms in place prior to any submittal. Resumes submitted directly to any Curtiss-Wright employee or affiliate will not qualify for fee payment, and therefore become the property of Curtiss-Wright.

Compliance Statement

This position may require exposure to export-controlled information and subject to additional security screening. In the event information provided during the security screening reveals ineligibility to access export-controlled information, any offer of employment may be reconsidered or withdrawn.

Curtiss-Wright is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, color, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical or mental disability, age, ancestry, legally protected medical condition, family care status, marital status, religion, veteran status, national origin, or any other legally protected status. If you require accommodation during the recruitment process, please contactTalent Acquisition.

For US Applicants:EEO is The Law - click here for more information.

If you require accommodation due to a disability at any time during the recruitment and/or assessment process, please contact Talent Acquisition and we will make all reasonable efforts to accommodate your request.


What Curtiss-Wright employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About Curtiss-Wright

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Curtiss-Wright Actuation Division designs, manufactures and supports electro-mechanical actuation products and systems for use in demanding applications in Aerospace, Defense and Industrial Automation markets. Our market leading solutions help improve the reliability, efficiency and performance of our customers' operations and platforms, as well as reducing their environmental impact with energy efficient electro-mechanical designs and technology. For the Aerospace market, we supply actuation systems for flight control, landing gear, utility and other applications on both commercial and military aircraft. In Ground & Naval Defense markets, we support a wide array of applications ranging from door assist, ramp and hatch actuation, weapons handling systems, radar and launch platform actuation, and robotic (AUV/ROV) actuation. In Industrial Automation, our Exlar® actuators are globally recognized as a leading brand offering high power density, precision and reliability for machine/process applications in automotive, food & beverage, oil & gas, robotics, entertainment and many other industries.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Davidson, NC, US

Year founded

1929

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