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Software Engineer Contract W2 Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CEI

Sr. Software Engineer

Glendale, CA · On-site

$96.43 - $110.21/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Senior Software Engineer * Location: Glendale, CA (Onsite 4 days/week ... Contract: W2 only, 6-month contract with potential extension or conversion * Pay: $70-80/hour ...

New

Purview Services

AI Software Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

Contract We are seeking an experienced AI Software Engineer to help transform how software is built, tested, and delivered using Generative AI and agentic development tools. This role is ideal for a ...

Belcan

Avionics Software Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · Hybrid

$100K - $185K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The role can be supported as direct full-time or contract (W2) *Hybrid work schedule (2-3 days per ... Software Engineering, Computer Engineering or Electrical Engineering. · Minimum of 5+ years of ...

Judge Group, Inc.

Software Engineer

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$64 - $69/hr

Contract / Contingent Worker About the Role We are seeking an experienced Software Engineer to support complex, large-scale technology initiatives. In this role, you will collaborate with cross ...

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All Jobsfreelance JobsSoftware Engineer Contract W2 Jobs

Software Engineer Contract W2 information

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$63.5K

$147.5K

$205.5K

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

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for software engineer contract w2 in the United States is $147,524.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $120,000.00 and $173,000.00 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.

More about Software Engineer Contract W2 jobs

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Software Engineer Contract W2 jobs near you
Infographic showing various Software Engineer Contract W2 job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,524 per year, or $70.9 per hour.

Senior Embedded Software Engineer - Contract

Cytovale

South San Francisco, CA • Remote

$126K - $166K/yr

Temporary

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description


Senior Embedded Software Engineer - Contract
Cytovale |  Software & Data Systems
Department: Software & Data Systems
Reports To: Senior Engineering Manager, Software & Data
About Cytovale
Cytovale is a medical diagnostics company whose FDA-cleared IntelliSep® test enables rapid sepsis risk assessment in the emergency department. Our instrument combines microfluidic sample preparation, high-speed imaging, real-time image analysis, and advanced software to deliver clinically actionable results in minutes. We develop and maintain this technology under a regulated quality system compliant with FDA design controls, IEC 62304, ISO 13485, and modern cybersecurity expectations.
The Role
We are seeking a hands-on Senior Embedded Software Engineer to work on a contractual basis, contributing across the IntelliSep software platform, including the Sample Preparation Module (SPM), Cell Imaging Module (CIM), and Image Analysis Module (IAM). You will go beyond traditional embedded development by supporting Linux-based embedded platforms, software architecture, OS upgrades, and development infrastructure.
What You'll Do
  • Design, implement, and maintain embedded software in modern C++ across IntelliSep instrument platforms and Linux-based systems. 
  • Support platform modernization efforts, including embedded OS upgrades, toolchain updates, and software infrastructure improvements. 
  • Develop Python-based tools, build systems, and CI/CD pipelines to support verification and validation (V&V), manufacturing, service, and data workflows. 
  • Troubleshoot complex issues spanning software, firmware, operating systems, networking, and instrument hardware. 
  • Design and maintain interfaces between instrument subsystems, including imaging, motion control, sensing, and software services. 
  • Author and maintain software requirements, architecture/design specifications, and quality system lifecycle artifacts. 
  • Contribute to software V&V, cybersecurity maintenance, vulnerability remediation, risk management, and secure product development activities. 
  • Distribute engineering knowledge through documentation, architecture reviews, and mentorship.
Required Qualifications
  • BS or MS in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or equivalent industry experience. 
  • 8+ years of experience developing embedded software for complex electromechanical systems. 
  • Expert-level C++ programming on Linux-based systems, with strong multi-threading and performance-optimization experience. 
  • Experience integrating and debugging complex instrumentation (motion control, imaging, sensors, networking) using equipment like oscilloscopes and logic analyzers. 
  • Strong Python programming skills. 
  • Experience developing and maintaining CI/CD infrastructure, cross-compilation environments, and automated verification workflows. 
  • Experience authoring software requirements, architecture documents, and design specifications. 
  • Demonstrated ability to independently troubleshoot cross-disciplinary issues with excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience developing medical device software under FDA design controls, IEC 62304, ISO 13485, and risk management frameworks. 
  • Hands-on embedded Linux experience, including OS interfaces, deployment, debugging, and lifecycle maintenance.
  • Experience with Docker, containerized build environments, and infrastructure automation. 
  • Experience with distributed embedded systems architecture, configuration management, and regulated development processes. 
  • Experience supporting cybersecurity deliverables (SBOM generation, vulnerability management, penetration testing remediation). 
  • Experience with image acquisition, computer vision, image processing, or scientific instrumentation.

 

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