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Software Engineer Contract Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

... Engineer to join their Professional Technical Services Network. This six-month contract role ... OMS software vendors. (e.g., TT, NYFIX, Bloomberg, TradingScreen). • Experience in messaging ...

Research Software Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$120 - $190/hr

Research Software Engineer to join our JETS II contract team at NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston, TX . If selected you will: * Partner with FSL Users to evaluate and optimize the software ...

Research Software Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$195K/yr

MRI Technologies has an exciting opportunity for a Research Software Engineer on the JETS II contract at NASA Johnson Space Center. You will support the Flight Sciences Laboratory (FSL), one of JSC ...

Research Software Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$195K/yr

We have an exciting opportunity for a Research Software Engineer to join our JETS II contract team at NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston, TX . If selected you will: * Partner with FSL Users to ...

We have an exciting opportunity for a Simulation Software Engineer to join the JETSII Contract! As an individual ‑ contributor Simulation Software Engineer supporting a human spaceflight subsystem ...

New

Research Software Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$195K/yr

This position is working on the Amentum JETSII contract. This position will focus on developing ... Act as a mentor for good software development and engineering in HPC environments. Requisition ...

Senior Software Engineer - Remote

Texas City, TX · Remote

$104K - $138K/yr

Contract Location: Remote Job Summary: In this role, you'll apply your expertise to help train next-generation AI systems. Your work will shape how models learn, reason, and perform through high ...

Research Software Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$195K/yr

This position is working on the Amentum JETSII contract. This position will focus on developing ... Act as a mentor for good software development and engineering in HPC environments. Requisition ...

AI Platform & Agent Engineer Contract position Houston, TX -Hybrid Required Qualifications * Bachelor's degree in computer science, Data Science, Software Engineering, Information Systems, or related ...

We have an exciting opportunity for a CMSS Software Engineer to join our JETS II contract team at NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston, TX . If selected you will: * Support a team responsible for the ...

We have an exciting opportunity for a CMSS Software Engineer to join our JETS II contract team at NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston, TX. If selected you will: Support a team responsible for the ...

CMSS Software Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$110 - $160/hr

We have an exciting opportunity for a CMSS Software Engineer to join our JETS II contract team at NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston, TX. If selected you will: * Support a team responsible for the ...

We have an exciting opportunity for a CMSS Software Engineer to join our JETS II contract team at NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston, TX . If selected you will: * Support a team responsible for the ...

We have an exciting opportunity for a CMSS Software Engineer to join our JETS II contract team at NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston, TX . If selected you will: * Support a team responsible for the ...

Software Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$50 - $56/hr

Software Engineer Duration: 6 months contract (Possibility of Extension) Location: Houston TX 77079 (Hybrid) 3 days onsite Pay: $50-56/hr on W2 without any benefits/holiday/vacation *****Looking for ...

Job Title MID LEVEL SOFTWARE ENGINEER Location Houston, TX US (Primary) Category Engineering Job ... Citizen (required for NASA contract work) • Ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust or ...

Showing results 21-40

Software Engineer Contract information

See Houston, TX salary details

$60.6K

$140.9K

$196.2K

How much do software engineer contract jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for software engineer contract in Houston, TX is $140,881.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $114,600.00 and $165,200.00 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 Houston, TX?

The most popular types of Software Engineer jobs in Houston, TX are:

What are popular job titles related to Software Engineer Contract jobs in Houston, TX?

For Software Engineer Contract jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Software Engineer Contract jobs?

Cities near Houston, TX with the most Software Engineer Contract job openings:

Infographic showing various Software Engineer Contract job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $140,881 per year, or $67.7 per hour.

Flight Software Engineer

Barrios Technology

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 6 hours ago


Job description

Barrios Technology is an engineering solutions partner with more than 45 years of experience supporting NASA and the commercial space industry. We deliver innovative engineering, software, and technology integration services nationwide. Barrios fosters a people-focused culture that values creativity, diversity, professional growth, and a healthy work–life balance.

We are seeking Flight Software Engineers to help create next generation commercial space capabilities. Working alongside our commercial spaceflight partners, you will develop software for emerging spaceflight systems and their supporting infrastructure.


The Flight Software Engineer will:

  • Design, develop, and test flight software that will operate critical, cutting-edge spaceflight systems
  • Own the full software lifecycle, including design, implementation, testing, deployment, and operational support
  • Collaborate with hardware engineers and subsystem teams to support successful hardware/software integration, design trades, and integrated testing
  • Perform analysis and verification of software performance for integrated hardware/software systems, including hands-on debugging using lab equipment such as oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and signal measurement tools
  • Contribute to risk identification, fault analysis, and mitigation activities associated with flight software design
  • Conduct hardware-in-the-loop testing and interact directly with embedded systems in laboratory and test environments to validate system behavior and performance
  • Contribute to Agile development cycles, including planning, integration, and verification activities
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams to support system-level integration and troubleshooting
  • Provide technical input during major milestones and program reviews
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Required Education/Experience/Skills:

  • BS degree in Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, Technology, or Math, from an accredited school and five (5) years of related software development experience
  • Strong proficiency in object-oriented programming (e.g., C/C++)
  • Experience with firmware, embedded software, and hardware/software integration
  • Hands-on experience debugging embedded systems in lab environments using electronic test equipment (e.g., oscilloscopes, logic analyzers)
  • Experience with serial communication protocols (e.g., RS-232, RS-422, RS-485)
  • Experience with packet-based communication protocols (e.g., TCP/IP, UDP/IP)
  • Experience with Git-based platforms (e.g., GitLab, GitHub)
  • Experience independently collaborating on cross-disciplinary engineering teams
  • Strong communication, coordination, and presentation skills

Preferences:

  • Experience supporting human spaceflight or exploration programs
  • Experience with embedded software frameworks
  • Experience with device driver development
  • Experience with SpaceWire or similar space communication protocols
  • Experience with logging frameworks and software diagnostics architecture
  • Experience with unit testing frameworks (e.g., xUnit)
  • Experience with Windows and POSIX-based operating systems
  • Experience with containerization (e.g., Docker)
  • Experience in Agile/Scrum development environments
  • Familiarity with CMMI frameworks
  • MS degree in a STEM field

Essential Requirements 

  • Must be a U.S. Citizen and successfully complete a U.S. government background investigation.
  • Applicant selected may be subject to government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.
  • Work may involve sitting for extended periods.
  • May require lifting and carrying up to 25 lb.
  • Must have sufficient mobility to enter areas of test facilities where necessary.
  • Generally, an office environment but can involve inside or outside work depending on task.
  • Standard office equipment (PC, telephone, fax, etc.)
  • Regular attendance in accordance with established work schedule is critical.
  • Ability to work outside normal schedule and adjust schedule to meet peak periods and surge requirements when required.
  • Must be able to work in a team atmosphere.
  • Must put forward a professional behavior that enhances productivity and promotes teamwork and cooperation.
  • Grooming and dress must be appropriate for the position and must not impose a safety risk/hazard to the employee or others.
  • This position may require some commuting and traveling to other installations as needed.

 Don’t miss out on this great opportunity; for immediate consideration, apply now!

Barrios Technology is a drug-free workplace, which is imperative to the health and safety of all employees and is required as a condition of receiving contracts from federal agencies. Please remember that regardless of the legalization of marijuana in several states, possession and use continues to be illegal under the federal Controlled Substances Act. This includes the use of some CBD products. A post-offer, pre-employment drug test is a condition of employment.

Barrios Technology is an Equal Employment Employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.