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Software Development Contractor Jobs in Massachusetts

Senior Software Engineer

Burlington, MA · On-site

$138K - $180K/yr

Participating in the full software product lifecycle: development, prototyping, integration ... Saab is a federal government contractor and adheres to policies and programs necessary for ...

Senior Software Engineer

Duxbury, MA · On-site

$138K - $180K/yr

Participating in the full software product lifecycle: development, prototyping, integration ... Saab is a federal government contractor and adheres to policies and programs necessary for ...

Senior Software Engineer

Rochester, MA · On-site

$138K - $180K/yr

Participating in the full software product lifecycle: development, prototyping, integration ... Saab is a federal government contractor and adheres to policies and programs necessary for ...

Senior Software Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$138K - $180K/yr

Participating in the full software product lifecycle: development, prototyping, integration ... Saab is a federal government contractor and adheres to policies and programs necessary for ...

Senior Software Engineer

Worcester, MA · On-site

$138K - $180K/yr

Participating in the full software product lifecycle: development, prototyping, integration ... Saab is a federal government contractor and adheres to policies and programs necessary for ...

Participating in the full software product lifecycle: development, prototyping, integration ... Saab is a federal government contractor and adheres to policies and programs necessary for ...

Senior Software Engineer

Waban, MA · On-site

$138K - $180K/yr

Participating in the full software product lifecycle: development, prototyping, integration ... Saab is a federal government contractor and adheres to policies and programs necessary for ...

Participating in the full software product lifecycle: development, prototyping, integration ... Saab is a federal government contractor and adheres to policies and programs necessary for ...

Senior Software Engineer

Canton, MA · On-site

$138K - $180K/yr

Participating in the full software product lifecycle: development, prototyping, integration ... Saab is a federal government contractor and adheres to policies and programs necessary for ...

Participating in the full software product lifecycle: development, prototyping, integration ... Saab is a federal government contractor and adheres to policies and programs necessary for ...

Senior Software Engineer

Arlington, MA · On-site

$138K - $180K/yr

Participating in the full software product lifecycle: development, prototyping, integration ... Saab is a federal government contractor and adheres to policies and programs necessary for ...

Participating in the full software product lifecycle: development, prototyping, integration ... Saab is a federal government contractor and adheres to policies and programs necessary for ...

Senior Software Engineer

Kingston, MA · On-site

$138K - $180K/yr

Participating in the full software product lifecycle: development, prototyping, integration ... Saab is a federal government contractor and adheres to policies and programs necessary for ...

Senior Software Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$138K - $180K/yr

Participating in the full software product lifecycle: development, prototyping, integration ... Saab is a federal government contractor and adheres to policies and programs necessary for ...

Senior Software Engineer

Millville, MA · On-site

$138K - $180K/yr

Participating in the full software product lifecycle: development, prototyping, integration ... Saab is a federal government contractor and adheres to policies and programs necessary for ...

Senior Software Engineer

Sandwich, MA · On-site

$138K - $180K/yr

Participating in the full software product lifecycle: development, prototyping, integration ... Saab is a federal government contractor and adheres to policies and programs necessary for ...

Senior Software Engineer

Somerville, MA · On-site

$138K - $180K/yr

Participating in the full software product lifecycle: development, prototyping, integration ... Saab is a federal government contractor and adheres to policies and programs necessary for ...

Senior Software Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$138K - $180K/yr

Participating in the full software product lifecycle: development, prototyping, integration ... Saab is a federal government contractor and adheres to policies and programs necessary for ...

Senior Software Engineer

Fall River, MA · On-site

$138K - $180K/yr

Participating in the full software product lifecycle: development, prototyping, integration ... Saab is a federal government contractor and adheres to policies and programs necessary for ...

Senior Software Engineer

Sagamore, MA · On-site

$138K - $180K/yr

Participating in the full software product lifecycle: development, prototyping, integration ... Saab is a federal government contractor and adheres to policies and programs necessary for ...

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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 Jun 9, 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.

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 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.

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 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 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:

Senior Software Engineer

Saab

Burlington, MA • On-site

$138K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Job Description:

Saab Inc.'s Autonomous and Undersea Systems (AUS) division is seeking an innovative and experienced Senior Software Engineer to participate on technical teams defining, architecting, implementing, integrating, verifying, delivering, and maintaining software products and solutions for autonomous Unmanned Surface/Underwater Vehicles (USVs/UUVs/AUVs) and Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs).

As the successful candidate for this role, you will be a key contributor to the Saab AUS team, helping to expand our portfolio of products, technologies, and capabilities, and in the process gaining tremendous experience with unmanned maritime software and systems.  You will be part of a world-class team recognized for its technical accomplishments and vision in maritime and defense sectors.   You will solve difficult problems and help deliver systems that provide needed capabilities to our customers.  Unlike many software positions, at Saab AUS you will see how your efforts contribute to the entire lifecycle and success of a delivered system, and you may even have the chance to witness that system operated at sea.

Responsibilities include:

  • Working with a team of engineers to design, implement, unit test, document, and maintain software in multiple programming languages on Linux, Windows, and embedded platforms

  • Appling fundamentals and best practices of software engineering to create innovative solutions and solve challenging problems

  • Supporting software modeling, simulation, integration, and test activities as needed

  • Developing and presenting technical concepts, tradeoffs, analyses, designs, and performance estimates

  • Participating in the full software product lifecycle: development, prototyping, integration, verification, delivery, and support, as required

  • Participating in technical reviews and status meetings

  • Collaborating and communicating with internal and possibly external stakeholders

  • Following company standard operating procedures and Quality System requirements

Compensation Range: 

  • Quincy, MA: $138,900 - $180,600

  • Cranston, RI: $127,300 - $165,500

The compensation range provided is a general guideline. When extending an offer, Saab, Inc. considers factors including (but not limited to) the role and associated responsibilities, location, and market and business considerations, as well as the candidate's work experience, key skills, and education/training.

Skills and Experience:
  • Bachelor's degree in Software Engineering, Computer Science or related discipline with 8+ years of relevant experience in advanced software product development, or a Master’s degree with 6+ years of similar experience

  • Programming languages including C/C++, Python

  • Scripting languages including Linux/Unix Shells, Matlab, etc.

  • Integrated Development Environments including Eclipse, various GNU, VS Code, Microsoft Visual Studio, Arduino

  • Version control systems including SVN, Git.

  • Issue tracking via Jira, or similar

  • MSOffice including Excel, Word, Visio, PowerPoint, Outlook

  • Experience with agile development methodologies including Scrum

  • Experience with virtual machines

  • Good understanding of industry accepted software design methods and practices, including configuration control, design spaces/tradeoffs, analyses, and requirement specification

  • Software product development background demonstrating a strong engineering aptitude and good problem-solving skills

  • Demonstrated ability to resolve issues during design, development, and execution of software engineering activities

  • Strong written and verbal interpersonal and communication skills

  • Effective contributor in a team environment

  • Ability to work independently to achieve technical and program requirements

  • Must hold or be able to obtain U.S. DoD SECRET security clearance

  • Ability to travel up to 25%, both international and domestic, depending on project needs

Desired Skills and Experience:

  • Prior experience with U.S. defense programs is highly desirable

  • Experience developing products/solutions for Naval and Marine applications (including robotic systems) is a plus

  • Experience with bare-metal embedded software development

Citizenship Requirements:

Must be a U.S. citizen. Applicants selected may be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

Drug-Free Workplaces:

Saab is a federal government contractor and adheres to policies and programs necessary for sustaining drug-free workplaces. As a condition of employment, candidates will be required to pass a pre-employment drug screen.

Benefits:

Saab provides an excellent working environment offering professional growth opportunities, competitive wages, work-life balance, a business casual atmosphere and comprehensive benefits.

Highlights include:

  • Medical, vision, and dental insurance for employees and dependents

  • Generous paid time off, including 8 designated holidays

  • 401(k) with employer contributions

  • Tuition assistance and student loan assistance

  • Wellness and employee assistance resources

  • Employee stock purchase opportunities

  • Short-term and long-term disability coverage

About Us:

Saab is a leading defense and security company with an enduring purpose, to help nations keep their people and society safe. Empowered by its 28,000 talented people, Saab constantly pushes the boundaries of technology to create a safer and more sustainable world. In the U.S., Saab delivers advanced technology and systems, supporting the U.S. Armed Forces and the Federal Aviation Administration, as well as international and commercial partners. Headquartered in Syracuse, New York, the company has business units and local employees in ten U.S. locations.

Saab is a company where we see diversity as an asset and offer unlimited opportunities for advancing in your career. We are also a company that respects each person’s needs and encourage employees to lead a balanced, rewarding life beyond work. Saab values diversity and is an Affirmative Action employer for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. Saab is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, all qualified individuals are encouraged to apply and will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran, disability status, or any other federal, state, or locally protected category.


About Saab

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

East Syracuse, NY, US