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Software Engineer Contract Jobs in Goleta, CA (NOW HIRING)

Senior Electrical Engineer

Goleta, CA · On-site

$107K - $144K/yr

May use computer-aided engineering or other design/analysis software in the performance of ... Federal contract labor categories and contract wage rates, collective bargaining agreements ...

Senior Electrical Engineer

Goleta, CA · On-site

$107K - $144K/yr

May use computer-aided engineering or other design/analysis software in the performance of ... Federal contract labor categories and contract wage rates, collective bargaining agreements ...

Mid-Level Mechanical Engineer

Ventura, CA · On-site

$150K - $170K/yr

Lead integration of mechanical systems with electrical, software, and payload components ... federal contract labor categories, wage rates, prior experience, skillsets, education, and ...

Lead integration of mechanical systems with electrical, software, and payload components ... federal contract labor categories, wage rates, prior experience, skillsets, education, and ...

Construction Project Engineer

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$76K - $98K/yr

... contracts, budget, schedule, and BIM coordination. • Providing technical support in construction ... similar management software is a plus. • TAKT planning experience is a plus. • Strong ...

Industrial Engineer

Goleta, CA

$75K - $102K/yr

S. citizens are authorized to access information under this program/contract. Security Clearance ... Collate data from various sources including ERP software, IoT devices, and data marts to create ...

... contracts, budget, schedule, and BIM coordination. Providing technical support in construction ... Experience with Procore or similar management software is a plus. TAKT planning experience is a ...

Industrial Engineer

Goleta, CA · On-site

$75K - $102K/yr

S. citizens are authorized to access information under this program/contract. Security Clearance ... Collate data from various sources including ERP software, IoT devices, and data marts to create ...

... software systems * Experience with integration and test processes, including test procedure ... federal contract labor categories, wage rates, prior experience, skillsets, education, and ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Ventura, CA · On-site

$190K - $210K/yr

... software systems * Experience with integration and test processes, including test procedure ... federal contract labor categories, wage rates, prior experience, skillsets, education, and ...

Industrial Engineer

Goleta, CA · On-site

$96 - $182/hr

S. citizens are authorized to access information under this program/contract. Security Clearance ... Collate data from various sources including ERP software, IoT devices, and data marts to create ...

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Software Engineer Contract information

See Goleta, CA salary details

$68.5K

$159.2K

$221.7K

How much do software engineer contract jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for software engineer contract in Goleta, CA is $159,173.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $129,500.00 and $186,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a software engineer contract?

Software engineer contracts are agreements where software engineers are hired on a temporary basis to work on specific projects or for a set period of time, rather than as permanent employees. Contractors often work for multiple clients, are paid hourly or per project, and may have more flexible schedules. These contracts outline the scope of work, compensation, deadlines, and other terms. Contract software engineers are responsible for delivering quality code and meeting the requirements set by the client or organization. This working arrangement can offer more autonomy, but also less job security and benefits compared to full-time employment.

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

To thrive as a Software Engineer Contract, you need strong programming skills, a solid understanding of software development methodologies, and a relevant degree or proven experience in computer science or related fields. Familiarity with source control systems (e.g., Git), cloud platforms, and proficiency in languages or frameworks required by the contract are crucial, as are any certifications in areas like AWS or Agile methodologies. Excellent problem-solving, adaptability, and communication skills help you quickly integrate with new teams and deliver results in diverse environments. These skills ensure you can efficiently contribute to projects, meet client expectations, and maintain professional flexibility across various assignments.

What are some common challenges faced by software engineers working on contract positions, and how can they be managed?

Software engineers on contract often face challenges such as quickly adapting to new codebases, understanding diverse team workflows, and managing changing project scopes. It's important to proactively communicate with team members, clarify project requirements early on, and stay organized to meet tight deadlines. Additionally, maintaining a strong personal workflow and being open to feedback can help contract engineers integrate more smoothly and deliver high-quality results within limited timeframes.

What is the difference between Software Engineer Contract vs Software Engineer Full-Time?

AspectSoftware Engineer ContractSoftware Engineer Full-Time
Employment TypeTemporary, project-basedPermanent, ongoing
Work EnvironmentTypically freelance or agency-basedCompany offices or remote
CredentialsUsually similar certifications and skillsSame as contract roles
BenefitsLimited or no benefitsHealth, retirement, paid leave

In summary, Software Engineer Contract roles are temporary positions focused on specific projects, often with fewer benefits, while Software Engineer Full-Time roles offer permanent employment with comprehensive benefits. Both roles require similar skills and credentials but differ mainly in employment stability and perks.

What are the most commonly searched types of Software Engineer jobs in Goleta, CA?

The most popular types of Software Engineer jobs in Goleta, CA are:

What cities near Goleta, CA are hiring for Software Engineer Contract jobs?

Cities near Goleta, CA with the most Software Engineer Contract job openings:

Infographic showing various Software Engineer Contract job openings in Goleta, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $159,173 per year, or $76.5 per hour.

Senior Electrical Engineer

Leonardo DRS

Goleta, CA • On-site

$107K - $144K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Leonardo DRS rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

115th of 543 rated manufacturers


Job description

Job ID: 114594
The Leonardo DRS Land Systems business is a recognized leader in the design and integration of complex technologies into new and legacy systems and platforms for global military and commercial customers. We are a 5 year running Top Workplace in the Greater St. Louis area.
Job Summary
Leonardo DRS Land Systems is seeking a Senior Electrical Engineer. This position is based out of our Goleta, CA facility and will have the option to work an in person or hybrid schedule. Responsible for participating with or leading a group of engineers, on various system integration programs/technical activities and completion of these activities on time and within budget. Design, develop, analyze, document and support testing of leading-edge products, systems, or subsystems in our modern facilities.
We are looking for individuals who are team-oriented, creative, and interested in advancing technology in support of our customers. If you are looking to be part of a team of talented, passionate thinkers that want to solve complex challenges, you have come to the right place. You will have the opportunity to work on advanced technologies, in a culture focused on continuous improvement, where creativity and innovation are valued.
Job Responsibilities
  • Involved with the design, development, modification and analysis of various electronics systems. May include Hardware, Power Engineering, Power Electronic Engineering, Electromagnetic Engineering, Integrated Circuit Engineering, Components or others. Troubleshoot and diagnose malfunctions in existing products or systems and makes modifications as needed. Compile and evaluate design and test data. Analyze, develop and recommend design approaches.
  • Responsible for leading group of engineers on a technical activity and completion of activity on time and budget
  • Design, develop, analyze, document and support testing of products, systems or subsystems
  • May use computer-aided engineering or other design/analysis software in the performance of assignments. Review customer specifications and requirements, and under direction, develop designs to best support them, including cost as a key design variable
  • Provide budget, cost and schedule input for design assignments
  • Specify and evaluate supplier components, subsystems and services
  • Drive the program design to cost and design for manufacture requirements
  • Develop prototypes to retire key development risks
  • Communicate clearly (written and oral) with other company personnel and the customer as required
  • Participate in preparation of proposals
  • Provide technical knowledge and assistance to other engineers and support personnel
  • Lead and direct the work of others as assigned
  • Support, communicate, reinforce and defend the mission, values and culture of the organization
  • Attend appropriate engineering, customer or business meetings
  • Lead less-experienced engineers

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related technical field
  • 5+ years of relevant experience
  • Experience designing and maintaining system Interface Control Documents (ICD)
  • Must be able to determine the hardware compatibility of a system
  • Knowledge on and experience with engineering drawing applications (experience with CANVAS a plus)
  • Knowledge on and experience with circuit simulation applications
  • Knowledge on and experience with Circuit Card CAD applications (experience with ALTIUM a plus)
  • Experience with electrical systems design experience and strong mechanical aptitude is a plus
  • Ability to lead a technical group independently

U.S. Citizenship required. This position requires an active DOD security clearance or the ability to obtain such clearance within a reasonable time after commencement of employment.
The salary range for this position is $107,089.00/year- $144,570.00.year for the state of California. This range reflects the good faith estimate of pay the employer is willing to offer at the time of posting. Several factors can influence the pay scale, including but not limited to: Federal contract labor categories and contract wage rates, collective bargaining agreements, geographic location, business considerations, scope, and responsibilities of the position, local or other applicable market conditions, and internal equity. Other factors include the candidate's qualifications such as prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, education/training, and certifications. In addition to base pay, employees may be eligible for: annual performance-based bonuses, equity awards, and overtime pay (for non-exempt employees as applicable. Our benefits package includes comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision), employer matching 401(k) retirement plan, paid time off including vacation, holidays, and sick leave (including ant state-mandated paid sick leave), parental leave benefits, tuition reimbursement, professional development support, and life and disability insurance coverage.
Taking care of our people is a top priority at Leonardo DRS. We are proud to offer competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, a company contribution to a health savings account, telemedicine, life and disability insurance, legal insurance, and a 401(k) savings plan. We champion wellness programs that focus on physical, emotional, and financial well-being. We develop our talent by offering programs and activities to support career-growth, professional development, and skill enhancement. And we understand there is more to life than work, and the importance of offering flexible work schedules with our 9/80 program, competitive vacation, health/emergency leave, paid parental leave, and community service hours.
*Some employees are eligible for limited benefits only
Leonardo DRS, Inc. and its subsidiaries provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. #LSY
Our Vision. To be the leading mid-tier defense technology company in the U.S.
Our Values. The Leonardo DRS culture is defined by our Core Values and Principles:
- Integrity
- Agility
- Excellence
- Customer Focus
- Community & Respect
- Innovation
We strive to uphold them in all aspects of our business practices to inspire our employees and provide outstanding support for our customers.

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