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Software Development Contractor Jobs in Washington

Software System Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$100K - $215K/yr

Support coordination between government stakeholders and development contractors Software Expert II * Analyze and assess software requirements, architectures, and design approaches * Review ...

Software System Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$100K - $215K/yr

Support coordination between government stakeholders and development contractors Software Expert II * Analyze and assess software requirements, architectures, and design approaches * Review ...

Ground Segment Integration Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$107K - $144K/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 ...

Ground Segment Integration Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$107K - $144K/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 ...

Ground Segment Integration Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$107K - $144K/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 ...

Apply Early

If you have prior military service or government contracting experience, are proud to serve and ... Utilizes software development and software design methodologies appropriate to the development ...

If you have prior military service or government contracting experience, are proud to serve and ... Utilizes software development and software design methodologies appropriate to the development ...

If you have prior military service or government contracting experience, are proud to serve and ... Utilizes software development and software design methodologies appropriate to the development ...

Apply Early

Software Engineer II

Annapolis Junction, MD · On-site

$99K - $136K/yr

If you have prior military service or government contracting experience, are proud to serve and ... Utilizes software development and software design methodologies appropriate to the development ...

Software Engineer III

Annapolis Junction, MD · On-site

$63.25 - $84.75/hr

If you have prior military service or government contracting experience, are proud to serve and ... Utilizes software development and software design methodologies appropriate to the development ...

Software Engineer III

Annapolis Junction, MD

$63.25 - $84.75/hr

If you have prior military service or government contracting experience, are proud to serve and ... Utilizes software development and software design methodologies appropriate to the development ...

Software Engineer II

Annapolis Junction, MD · On-site

$99K - $136K/yr

If you have prior military service or government contracting experience, are proud to serve and ... Utilizes software development and software design methodologies appropriate to the development ...

Apply Early

Software Engineer III

Annapolis Junction, MD · On-site

$58.75 - $79/hr

If you have prior military service or government contracting experience, are proud to serve and ... Utilizes software development and software design methodologies appropriate to the development ...

Apply Early

Software Engineer II

Annapolis Junction, MD · On-site

$99K - $136K/yr

If you have prior military service or government contracting experience, are proud to serve and ... Utilizes software development and software design methodologies appropriate to the development ...

Apply Early

Software Engineer III

Annapolis Junction, MD · On-site

$63.25 - $84.75/hr

If you have prior military service or government contracting experience, are proud to serve and ... Utilizes software development and software design methodologies appropriate to the development ...

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Showing results 1-20

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 Jul 4, 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.

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 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 SME

Software Development SME

Agelix Consulting

Washington, DC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Be an early applicant


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.