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Software Engineer Contract W2 Jobs in Washington, DC

NS2 Mission

Software Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$150 - $190/hr

Software Engineer Contract Professional Chantilly, VA, US Join NS2 Mission and help shape the software capabilities behind critical national security missions. As an Software Engineer in Chantilly ...

DP Professionals (DPP)

Software Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

DPP is seeking a Cyber Software Engineer III for an opportunity with our client in the Aerospace ... W2 Contract Work authorization: US Citizen; must hold an active/current Top Secret - SCI security ...

Ascent Placement Partners

Be Seen First

Remote Software Engineer - Technical Advisor

Washington, DC · Remote

$150/hr

W2 Contractor Contract Length: 6 months, with possibility of extension Pay: $150.00 USD/hour Location: United States (Remote) Schedule: 30-40 hrs/week, mostly async; must be reachable during US ...

Whitespace

The candidate must be a W2 employee of GeoDelphi, Inc. No 3rd party applications. Requirements RESPONSIBILITIES Software Engineering * Design, develop, test, deploy, and maintain scalable software ...

Whitespace

Software Engineer

Alexandria, VA · Remote

The candidate must be a W2 employee of GeoDelphi, Inc. No 3rd party applications. Requirements RESPONSIBILITIES Software Engineering * Design, develop, test, deploy, and maintain scalable software ...

Mondo

DevSecOps Engineer x2

Manassas, VA · On-site

DevSecOps Software Engineer - Mid Level and Senior Level Positions Location-Type: Onsite, Manassas, VA Start Date: ASAP Duration: 3 year contract Compensation Range: Mid Level - 55-65/hr W2 Senior ...

TecTammina

Java Developer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$51.50 - $66.75/hr

Permanent / Contract (W2 or 1099) Responsibilities: * Knowledge of professional software engineering practices & best practices for the full software development life cycle, including coding ...

Eliassen Group

C++ Software Engineer

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

For our w2 consultants, we offer a great benefits package that includes Medical, Dental, and Vision ... Experience Requirements: * 2+ years of relevant software engineering experience. Senior ...

LufCo

Software Engineer

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$100K - $220K/yr

As a Software Engineer for a recently awarded government contract, you are the architect of the highly complex systems that drive our mission forward. We are looking for a creative problem-solver who ...

Fuse Engineering LLC

Software Engineer

Annapolis, MD · On-site

Seven (7) years of experience as a SWE, in programs and contracts of similar scope, type, and complexity. Task Description The Software Engineer shall be responsible for software development ...

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All JobsSoftware Engineer Contract W2 JobsSoftware Engineer Contract W2 Jobs in Washington, DC

Software Engineer Contract W2 information

See Washington, DC salary details

$71.9K

$167.1K

$232.7K

How much do software engineer contract w2 jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for software engineer contract w2 in Washington, DC is $167,085.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $135,900.00 and $195,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a software engineer contract W2?

A Software Engineer Contract W2 is a software engineer who is hired on a contract basis but is paid through a W2 arrangement, meaning they are technically an employee of a staffing agency or third-party employer rather than an independent contractor. This setup typically provides some employee benefits such as tax withholding, health insurance, and sometimes paid time off, depending on the agency. The engineer works on a specific project or for a set period, usually at a client company, but payroll and HR functions are managed by the agency. This is different from a 1099 contractor, who is self-employed and responsible for their own taxes and benefits.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a software engineer contract W2?

To thrive as a Software Engineer Contract W2, you need strong programming skills, problem-solving abilities, and a relevant degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard development tools, source control systems like Git, and possibly certifications in specific technologies (such as AWS or Microsoft Azure) are typically expected. Excellent communication, adaptability, and time management skills help you collaborate effectively and deliver results on time in dynamic project environments. These capabilities ensure high-quality code delivery, smooth integration with client teams, and successful completion of contract objectives.

How does working as a software engineer on a W2 contract differ from permanent or 1099 contract positions in terms of team integration and project involvement?

As a Software Engineer on a W2 contract, you are typically treated as a temporary employee of the staffing agency, which means you often receive benefits (like health insurance) and have taxes withheld, similar to permanent staff. However, your project involvement may be more focused and time-bound, aligning with the terms of your contract. While you are integrated into the development team and collaborate closely with full-time engineers, you may not be included in long-term strategic planning or receive company equity. It's common to face the challenge of quickly adapting to new codebases and team cultures, but strong performance can sometimes open doors for contract extensions or permanent roles.

What is the difference between Software Engineer Contract W2 vs Software Engineer Contract 1099?

AspectSoftware Engineer Contract W2Software Engineer Contract 1099
Tax & PayrollEmployer handles taxes, withholdings, and benefitsIndependent contractor manages own taxes and benefits
Work EnvironmentTypically employed through staffing agencies or directly by companiesWorks independently, often with multiple clients
Credentials & CertificationsUsually requires relevant technical skills; no specific certification neededSame as W2; certifications may enhance opportunities
Legal & ContractualStandard employment contract with employee rightsIndependent contractor agreement with more flexibility

In summary, Software Engineer Contract W2 roles involve employer-managed taxes and benefits, offering more stability and legal protections. Contract 1099 positions provide greater independence but require managing taxes and benefits independently. The choice depends on your preference for stability versus flexibility.

What are popular job titles related to Software Engineer Contract W2 jobs in Washington, DC?

For Software Engineer Contract W2 jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Software Engineer Contract W2 jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Software Engineer Contract W2 jobs in Washington, DC are:

Software Engineer Contract W2 jobs near you

Software Engineer

NS2 Mission

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$150 - $190/hr

Other

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Software Engineer

Contract Professional Chantilly, VA, US

Join NS2 Mission and help shape the software capabilities behind critical national security missions. As an Software Engineer in Chantilly, VA, you'll design, build, and evolve secure, scalable applications supporting Intelligence Community customers.

Key Responsibilities
  • Lead the design and development of scalable full-stack applications from initial requirements through deployment and sustainment.
  • Architect and implement backend services usingPython and modern application frameworks.
  • Develop and integrateRESTful APIs to support system interoperability, data exchange, and distributed application functionality.
  • Design and optimize relational database solutions with a focus on performance, scalability, and maintainability.
  • Partner with architects, engineers, and mission stakeholders to evaluate requirements, shape technical approaches, and deliver effective solutions.
  • Diagnose complex software defects, integration challenges, and performance issues, implementing solutions that improve system reliability.
  • Provide technical input through design reviews, peer code reviews, and engineering discussions while promoting sound development practices.
  • Contribute to technical planning, estimation, testing, deployment, and long-term application sustainment.
  • Support Agile delivery activities and help drive continuous improvement across development processes and engineering practices.
  • Ensure application solutions meet established security, performance, scalability, and maintainability objectives.
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Information Systems, or a related technical discipline (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
  • Approximately 10+ years of professional experience designing and delivering enterprise software solutions.
  • Advanced proficiency in Python for backend and application development.
  • Expertise with Angular or comparable modern front-end frameworks.
  • Demonstrated ability to design, develop, and integrate RESTful APIs within distributed applications.
  • Hands-on knowledge of Oracle databases, including SQL development, application integration, and data access.
  • Background working with relational database technologies such as PostgreSQL, SQL Server, or MySQL.
  • Proven ability to develop and maintain applications within Linux/Unix environments.
  • Solid understanding of software engineering practices, including version control, automated testing, peer reviews, and secure development principles.
  • Familiarity with Agile methodologies and experience contributing across the full software development lifecycle.
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and technical problem-solving capabilities.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Hands-on development of APIs using FastAPI.
  • Working knowledge of SQLAlchemy or comparable ORM technologies for application-to-database integration.
  • Background designing and deploying cloud-based applications, particularly within AWS environments.
  • Understanding of CI/CD pipelines, DevOps practices, and automated software delivery.
  • Exposure to Docker, Kubernetes, microservices, and other distributed application technologies.
  • Proficiency with development and infrastructure tools such as Git, Jenkins, Terraform, or similar platforms.
  • Knowledge of Elasticsearch, OpenSearch, or comparable search and analytics technologies.
  • Demonstrated ability to provide technical direction, mentor fellow engineers, or contribute to development standards.
  • Previous support of Intelligence Community or Department of Defense software development programs.

Position Clearance Requirement:

TS/SCI with an FSP

Please be aware many of our positions require the ability to obtain or maintain a U.S security clearance which requires U.S citizenship.

We win with inclusion

NS2 Mission's culture of inclusion, focus on health and well-being, and flexible working models help ensure that everyone - regardless of background - feels included and can run at their best. At NS2 Mission, we believe we are made stronger by the unique capabilities and qualities that each person brings to our company, and we invest in our employees to inspire confidence and help everyone realize their full potential. We ultimately believe in unleashing all talent and creating a better world.

NS2 Mission is committed to the values of Equal Employment Opportunity and provides accessibility accommodations to applicants with physical and/or mental disabilities.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their age, race, religion, national origin, ethnicity, age, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, et al), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, protected veteran status, or disability, in compliance with applicable federal, state, and local legal requirements.

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