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Software Engineer Contract Jobs in Riverside, CA

Principal Embedded Software Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$180K - $250K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

S. government contracts. * All employment is contingent upon the successful clearance of a ... engineering fields. * 8+ years of relevant embedded system software development experience.

Cloud Software Engineer II

Ontario, CA

$61 - $79.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are seeking an experienced high-performing software engineer for a contract position in our core software group. The successful candidate will join a highly skilled development team delivering key ...

Data Engineer - Contract ($65 - $95)

Irvine, CA · On-site

$121K - $145K/yr

They are seeking a Data Engineer to develop dimensional models, ensure data quality, and maintain data delivery for analytics on a Snowflake platform. Responsibilities : • Design and develop dbt ...

Software Engineering Manager

Irvine, CA · On-site

$140 - $190/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Foster sound handling of regulated data (PHI, partner contracts) and a culture of security and ... senior engineer. * A track record of shipping software and developing the people on your team.

Showing results 21-40

Software Engineer Contract information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$66.2K

$153.9K

$214.4K

How much do software engineer contract jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for software engineer contract in Riverside, CA is $153,907.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $125,200.00 and $180,500.00 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 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 Riverside, CA?

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

What are popular job titles related to Software Engineer Contract jobs in Riverside, CA?

For Software Engineer Contract jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Software Engineer Contract job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $153,907 per year, or $74 per hour.

Senior Embedded Software Engineer - Irvine

Motorola

Irvine, CA

$140K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Re-posted 12 days ago


Motorola Solutions rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

19th of 157 rated electronics manufacturers


Job description

Company Overview

At Motorola Solutions, we believe that everything starts with our people. We're a global close-knit community, united by the relentless pursuit to help keep people safer everywhere. We build and connect technologies to help protect people, property and places. Our solutions foster the collaboration that's critical for safer communities, safer schools, safer hospitals, safer businesses, and ultimately, safer nations. Connect with a career that matters, and help us build a safer future.


Department OverviewSilvus Technologies was acquired by Motorola Solutions in 2025, and is now part of its ecosystem of safety and security technologies.
With deep roots in DARPA research, Silvus Technologies develops world-class advanced communications technologies that are reshaping the tactical communications landscape. From pure line-of-sight to extreme non-line-of-sight, Silvus radios form a self-healing, self-forming mesh network, enabling secure and reliable connectivity, including video and high-bandwidth data.
Job Description

THE OPPORTUNITY

Silvus is seeking a Senior Embedded Software Engineer to join our Engineering Group, reporting to the Senior Engineering Director for Irvine with dotted-line reporting to the Director of Software Engineering. The successful individual in this role will participate in the development of Silvus' MANET radios and advanced research projects. This is an opportunity to work on all aspects of the system including device drivers, networking functions and services, encryption, and security features.

This position is 100% onsite, Monday through Friday, at Silvus Technologies' Engineering and R&D Office in Irvine, CA, near the vibrant Irvine Spectrum.

The following is a list of at least some of the current essential job functions of the position. Management may assign or reassign duties and responsibilities at any time at its discretion.

ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Implementation of software portion of MAC (Medium Access Control) and mobile ad-hoc networking routing protocols.
  • Network management software and web interface implementation.
  • Implementation of different security protocols and encryption algorithms.
  • Audio streaming and push to talk voice application implementation.
  • Analyze and improve product security and robustness to meet certain regulatory requirements such as NIST FIPS 140-3 and NIAP Common Criteria.
  • Implementation of testing software for product performance and reliability testing.
  • Device drivers and board support package development and maintenance for both ARM and RISC-V based systems.
  • Linux system customization and scripting.
  • Perform other related duties of which the above are representative.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer or Communications Engineering, Computer Science, or relevant engineering field.
  • Minimum 5 years of relevant embedded system software development experience; 3 years of relevant embedded system software development experience with an advanced STEM degree.
  • Expertise in C programming and experience in Linux kernel drive development.
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen due to clients under U.S. government contracts.
  • All employment is contingent upon the successful clearance of a background check and drug test.

PREFERRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

  • Master of Science degree in Electrical, Computer, or Communications Engineering, or Computer Science.
  • Knowledge and experience of different security protocols and encryption algorithms such as the CNSA (Commercial National Security Algorithm) suite.
  • Demonstrated experience with socket programming and various Internet/Ethernet protocols.
  • Understanding of MAC and Networking layer of a communication system.
  • Experience in AMD UltraScale+, MPSoC, Microchip Polarfire SoC, or BSP (Board Support Package) development.
  • Deep understanding of Internet Protocol Security (IPsec), network protocols, data authentication and encryption.
  • Linux Interrupt Service Routine development.

COMPENSATION: $140,000-$200,000USD

The pay range is NOT a guarantee. It is based on market research and peer data, and will vary depending on the candidate's experience and qualifications.

#silvuscareers


Basic Requirements
  • Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer or Communications Engineering, Computer Science, or relevant engineering field.
  • Minimum 5 years of relevant embedded system software development experience; 3 years of relevant embedded system software development experience with an advanced STEM degree.
  • Expertise in C programming and experience in Linux kernel drive development.
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen due to clients under U.S. government contracts.
  • All employment is contingent upon the successful clearance of a background check and drug test.

Travel RequirementsUnder 10%
Relocation ProvidedDomestic
Position TypeExperienced
Referral Payment PlanYes

Our U.S.Benefitsinclude:

  • Incentive Bonus Plans

  • Medical, Dental, Visionbenefits

  • 401K with Company Match

  • 10 Paid Holidays

  • GenerousPaidTime Off Packages

  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan

  • PaidParental & Family Leave

  • and more!


EEO Statement

Motorola Solutions is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status or any other legally-protected characteristic.

We are proud of our people-first and community-focused culture, empowering every Motorolan to be their most authentic self and to do their best work to deliver on the promise of a safer world. If you'd like to join our team but feel that you don't quite meet all of the preferred skills, we'd still love to hear why you think you'd be a great addition to our team.

We're committed to providing an inclusive and accessible recruiting experience for candidates with disabilities, or other physical or mental health conditions. To request an accommodation, please complete thisReasonable Accommodations Formso we can assist you.


What Motorola Solutions employees say

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About Motorola Solutions

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Motorola Solutions, we believe that everything starts with safety. It's the constant that empowers people to confidently move forward. It can fill a flight or sell out a stadium. It can care for a patient or graduate a class. As a global leader in public safety and enterprise security, we create and connect the technologies that help to keep people safe where they live, learn, work and play. Our integrated technology ecosystem unifies critical communications, video security and access control, and command center software, enabling collaboration in more powerful ways. At Motorola Solutions, we're ushering in a new era in public safety and security. Bring your passion, potential and talents to a career that matters.

Industry

Technology, communication and media

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1928