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Software Development Contractor Jobs in Washington

OASYS, INC.

Cloud Software Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Act as Program Integrator Liaison to the Ground Segment development contractor * Monitor key interface development, testing, and software deployment and advise the T3PI team and Government Systems ...

OASYS

Cloud Software Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Act as Program Integrator Liaison to the Ground Segment development contractor * Monitor key interface development, testing, and software deployment and advise the T3PI team and Government Systems ...

KBR, Inc.

Ground Software Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $205K/yr

Title: Ground Software Systems Engineer Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security ... Develop productive relationships with development contractor counterparts, functional counterparts ...

KBR, Inc

Ground Software Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$177K - $209K/yr

Ground Systems Software Engineer***Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR!***KBR's National Security ... Develop productive relationships with development contractor counterparts, functional counterparts ...

KBR

Ground Software Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $205K/yr

Title: Ground Software Systems Engineer Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security ... Develop productive relationships with development contractor counterparts, functional counterparts ...

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Software Development Contractor information

See Washington salary details

$90K

$160.9K

$202.2K

How much do software development contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for software development contractor in Washington is $160,944.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $139,900.00 and $184,600.00 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 Washington?

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

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

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

Software Development Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Software Development Contractor job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $160,944 per year, or $77.4 per hour.

Software Development SME

Washington, DC • On-site

Agelix Consulting
IT Services • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Agelix Consultingexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Software Development SME: System & Database Design

Washington D.C.

The Contractor drives functional and efficient system and database operations by designing, developing, testing, and maintaining robust application code:

  • Develops and maintains highly functional user interfaces.
  • Defines and documents critical system interfaces and architectural components.
  • Ensures rigorous traceability by mapping design specifications directly to defined requirements.
  • Leads design reviews to validate and clarify core technical drivers.
  • Evaluates and weighs portability, future capacity planning, and long-term performance implications.
  • Designs the logical and physical database structure utilizing advanced data modeling and normalization techniques.
  • Assesses existing assets for potential reuse and integration.
  • Proactively addresses integration complexities with legacy systems and documents all pertinent design dependencies.