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Software Engineer Contract Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

ExistX Software Engineer ExistX was founded in 2023 with the goal to combine cutting edge invention ... Hybrid or onsite presence will be determined based on contract expectations and security ...

Worker Type Regular Summary We are looking for a Software Engineer (Apps) to join the Learning ... Must be willing to work on government contracts and be able to obtain a DoD security clearance; an ...

Level Software Engineer LOCATIONReston, VA 20190 CLEARANCETS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this ... Most contracts allow additional experience (4-5 years) in lieu of a Bachelor's Degree. Some ...

Level Software Engineer LOCATIONChantilly, VA 20151 CLEARANCETS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this ... Most contracts allow additional experience (4-5 years) in lieu of a Bachelor's Degree. Some ...

Software Engineer As a Software Engineer, you will be part of a team developing and supporting Real ... and contract wage rates, relevant prior work experience, specific skills and competencies ...

Level Software Engineer LOCATIONTysons, VA 22182 CLEARANCETS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this ... Most contracts allow additional experience (4-5 years) in lieu of a Bachelor's Degree. Some ...

Space Systems Software Engineer

Reston, VA

$180K - $213K/yr

Space Systems Software Engineer LOCATION Reston, VA 20190 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note ... Most contracts allow additional experience (4-5 years) in lieu of a Bachelor's Degree. Some ...

Worker Type Regular Summary We are looking for a Software Engineer (Apps) to join the Learning ... Must be willing to work on government contracts and be able to obtain a DoD security clearance; an ...

MANTECH seeks a motivated, career, and customer-oriented Software Engineer for a new initiative ... Contract Wage Determination, relevant work experience, skills and competencies that align to the ...

Space Systems Software Engineer

Tysons, VA · On-site

$173K - $205K/yr

Space Systems Software Engineer LOCATION Tysons, VA 22182 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note ... Most contracts allow additional experience (4-5 years) in lieu of a Bachelor's Degree. Some ...

Space Systems Software Engineer LOCATION Chantilly, VA 20151 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please ... Most contracts allow additional experience (4-5 years) in lieu of a Bachelor's Degree. Some ...

Space Systems Software Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$180K - $213K/yr

Space Systems Software Engineer LOCATION Reston, VA 20190 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note ... Most contracts allow additional experience (4-5 years) in lieu of a Bachelor's Degree. Some ...

About the Role As a Software Engineer, you will be responsible for working on projects that support ... S. Citizenship essential to comply with government contract/agency or department of Federal ...

As a Software Engineer, you will be responsible for research, design, development and testing of ... level is dependent upon qualifications and contract vacancy requirements. Key Duties ...

Software Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$79K - $162K/yr

Software Engineer Job Category: Engineering Time Type: Full time Minimum Clearance Required to ... and contract wage rates, relevant prior work experience, specific skills and competencies ...

Space Systems Software Engineer

Vienna, VA

$173K - $205K/yr

Space Systems Software Engineer LOCATION Tysons, VA 22182 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note ... Most contracts allow additional experience (4-5 years) in lieu of a Bachelor's Degree. Some ...

About the Role As a Software Engineer, you will be responsible for working on projects that support ... S. Citizenship essential to comply with government contract/agency or department of Federal ...

The ideal candidate will have a BS in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Information Systems ... and contract wage rates, relevant prior work experience, specific skills and competencies ...

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Software Engineer Contract information

See Reston, VA salary details

$66.1K

$153.5K

$213.8K

How much do software engineer contract jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for software engineer contract in Reston, VA is $153,477.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $124,800.00 and $180,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are software engineer contracts?

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, and why are they important?

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 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Software Engineer jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Software Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Software Engineer Contract jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Software Engineer Contract job openings:

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Posted 13 days ago


Job description

ExistX Software Engineer

ExistX was founded in 2023 with the goal to combine cutting edge invention with practical implementation in the unique environments our customers demand to solve national security problems in the real world.

Our team of software and systems engineers bring experience working with cutting-edge advancements in cryptography, cyber-physical systems, MBSE, and formal methods for both government and commercial applications. We leverage a unique suite of capabilities—incubated through our sister R&D firm, Galois, and other key research partnerships—to rapidly prototype and deliver impactful solutions to the warfighter.

There exists a solution X that satisfies problem P. The solution exists. Let's build it together.

About This Role

In this role, you will rapidly prototype new capabilities, create performant backend services, and collaborate to translate complex, cutting edge software designs into software solutions for mission-critical systems. Engineers collaborate with cross functional teams of clients, partners, ExistX employees, and domain experts to design, develop, implement, and deploy advanced algorithms and software systems.

Responsibilities
  • Translate complex research designs into seamless, high-performance software applications
  • Design and implement mission-critical software components and services
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams of experts to implement modern software engineering best practices
  • Mentor developers and provide hands-on technical guidance
  • Develop system architectures and help drive the technical roadmap
  • Create and maintain technical documentation
Qualifications

Required

  • BS in Computer Science or related field
  • 5+ years professional software development experience developing enterprise software applications
  • Expertise with multiple backend programming languages such as Java, C/C++, Rust, Python, or similar languages
  • Experience developing scalable systems capable of handling large data sets
  • Passion for writing high quality, high performance code
  • Strong technical writing skills and experience with developing and maintaining documentation
Preferred Qualifications
  • Knowledge of cryptographic algorithms or cybersecurity concepts
  • Experience with programming languages such as Cryptol, Haskell, or similar domain specific languages
  • Experience with microservices and cloud-native platforms such as Docker, Kubernetes, AWS or Azure
  • Experience leading technical initiatives and mentoring developers

ExistX is headquartered in Arlington, Virginia with additional locations in Dayton, Ohio and Portland, Oregon. We have some remote employees distributed across the U.S.

This position will require on-site presence at client locations in and around Baltimore, Maryland and Annapolis, Maryland. This position requires eligibility to work with cleared programs (active clearance required). Hybrid or onsite presence will be determined based on contract expectations and security requirements.

ExistX offers a highly competitive benefits program to support employees and their families, including:

  • Competitive salaries
  • Employer paid medical insurance plan
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) with employer contributions
  • Employer paid dental and vision insurance plans
  • 401(k) retirement plan with employer match
  • Flexible work location with a remote friendly culture
  • Generous paid time off (25 days per year)

The employee must be a U.S. Citizen with an active TS/SCI + full-scope Poly.