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Software Engineer Contractor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

BP

Software Engineer (Contractor)

Houston, TX · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or a related technical field (e.g., Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, Physics). * Fluent English knowledge and ability to communicate ...

Apex Informatics

Software Engineer III

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$67.75 - $91.25/hr

Mountain View , CA, US, 2 days a week hybrid SDG Tuesday/Wed Top Skill Software Engineer Contractor, Python Qualifications: - A minimum of 5 years of professional experience specifically in Python ...

Donan

Forensic Engineer Contractor

Atlanta, GA · On-site

We are currently seeking a 1099 Independent Contractor professional Civil or Structural Engineer ... Must have or obtain a laptop with Microsoft Word and PDF editing software for report completion.

Zeno Power

Electrical Engineer (Contractor)

Seattle, WA · On-site

$65 - $75/hr

Electrical Engineer (Contractor) Zeno is seeking a highly motivated Electrical Enginee r ... Experience with PLC hardware and software environments is preferred. * Experience in the aerospace ...

Zeno Power

Electrical Engineer (Contractor)

Seattle, WA · On-site

$65 - $75/hr

Electrical Engineer (Contractor) Zeno is seeking a highly motivated Electrical Enginee r ... Experience with PLC hardware and software environments is preferred. * Experience in the aerospace ...

Zeno Power

Electrical Engineer (Contractor)

Seattle, WA · On-site

$65 - $75/hr

Electrical Engineer (Contractor) Zeno is seeking a highly motivated Electrical Enginee r ... Experience with PLC hardware and software environments is preferred. * Experience in the aerospace ...

INSPYR Solutions

Embedded Software Engineer

Redmond, WA · On-site

$70 - $80/hr

US Citizen or Green Card Holders Position Summary We are seeking an Embedded Software Engineer Contractor with experience developing and supporting embedded software systems, over-the-air (OTA ...

Donan

Forensic Engineer Contractor

Choctaw, OK · On-site

We are currently seeking a 1099 Independent Contractor professional Civil or Structural Engineer ... Must have or obtain a laptop with Microsoft Word and PDF editing software for report completion.

Donan

Forensic Engineer Contractor

Columbus, OH · On-site

We are currently seeking a 1099 Independent Contractor professional Civil or Structural Engineer in ... Must have or obtain a laptop with Microsoft Word and PDF editing software for report completion.

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All JobsSoftware Engineer Contractor Jobs

Software Engineer Contractor information

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$63.5K

$147.5K

$205.5K

How much do software engineer contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for software engineer contractor 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a software engineer contractor?

To thrive as a Software Engineer Contractor, you need advanced programming skills, problem-solving abilities, and a solid understanding of software development lifecycles, often backed by a relevant degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with source control systems (like Git), cloud platforms, and project management tools, as well as proficiency in key programming languages, is typically required. Strong communication, adaptability, and self-motivation are essential soft skills for collaborating with diverse teams and managing project-based workloads. These skills ensure high-quality deliverables, effective client communication, and successful navigation of varied contract environments.

How does the work structure and team integration typically differ for software engineer contractors compared to full-time employees?

As a Software Engineer Contractor, you will often work on specific projects or deliverables within a defined contract period, which may mean less involvement in long-term planning or company-wide initiatives. Contractors are usually integrated into existing development teams, collaborating closely with full-time engineers, project managers, and QA staff, but may have less access to certain internal resources or benefits. While you can expect to contribute to daily stand-ups, code reviews, and agile sprints, the onboarding process and access to proprietary tools or systems may be streamlined for contractors. This role offers valuable exposure to diverse tech stacks and industries, and successful contracts can lead to extended engagements or full-time offers.

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

AspectSoftware Engineer ContractorSoftware Engineer Full-Time Employee
CredentialsTypically requires a relevant degree and technical skills; certifications optionalSame as contractor; often prefers ongoing professional development
Work EnvironmentProject-based, flexible hours, often remote or on-siteSteady, long-term employment, usually on-site or hybrid
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in tech, startups, consulting firmsStandard in large corporations, tech companies, and enterprises
Search & Comparison IntentLooking for short-term or project-based rolesSeeking stable, long-term employment

In summary, Software Engineer Contractors typically work on short-term projects with flexible schedules, while full-time employees enjoy ongoing employment and benefits. Both roles require similar skills and credentials but differ mainly in work arrangement and job stability.

What is a software engineer contractor?

Software Engineer Contractors are professionals hired on a temporary or project basis to design, develop, and maintain software applications. Unlike full-time employees, they typically work for a predetermined period or on specific projects for a company. Contractors may work independently or through contracting agencies and often have flexibility regarding work hours and location. Their expertise is sought after for specialized tasks, scaling development teams, or covering skill gaps within organizations.
More about Software Engineer Contractor jobs
What cities are hiring for Software Engineer Contractor jobs? Cities with the most Software Engineer Contractor job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Software Engineer Contractor jobs? The most popular types of Software Engineer Contractor jobs are:
What states have the most Software Engineer Contractor jobs? States with the most job openings for Software Engineer Contractor jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Software Engineer Contractor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Software Engineer Contractor jobs are:
Software Engineer Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Software Engineer Contractor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 74% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,524 per year, or $70.9 per hour.

Software Engineer (Contractor)

Dimensional Fund Advisors, L.P.

Remote

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Job Description:
Dimensional Fund Advisors applies academic research to the practical world of investing. Our objective is to help clients structure globally diversified portfolios and to add value through engineering and trading. Dimensional manages assets exclusively for institutional investors and the clients of registered financial advisors. From offices in Santa Monica, Austin, London, Sydney, Tokyo and Singapore, our professional staff supervises portfolios twenty-four hours a day.
This individual's primary role will be to deliver new technology capabilities for the Equity Portfolio Management team within Investments. Responsibilities will include design, development, upgrading, documenting and testing on multiple application services.
The successful candidate for this position will be tech savvy, analytical and detail oriented with the ability to multi-task and solve problems across multiple requests. Additionally, they must be highly skilled in working with business clients, external parties and other technology groups (developers, network administrators, senior management, etc.).
You may be a fit for this role if you:
  • Are open-minded, curious, and resourceful
  • Are passionate about/stay current with modern technologies
  • Solve problems systematically and transparently
  • Share ideas, solicit/integrate feedback, design and solve collaboratively
  • Take a software engineering approach and demonstrate automation and security mindsets

What you might work on:
  • Build or implement technologies to meet business needs utilizing industry standard tools and best practices.
  • Maintain high standards of software quality by establishing good practices and habits.
  • Identify and encourage areas for growth and improvement within the team.
  • Assist in the development of user stories, estimates and work plans.
  • Prepare reports, manuals and other documentation on the status, operation and maintenance of software.
  • Advise business clients and IT management of technology capabilities and recommend strategies to maximize benefits of new technologies.
  • Provide third-level support of local and remote investment business clients.

Qualifications:
  • Previous experience as a Software Developer.
  • Programming skills with proficiency in the following programming languages and frameworks: Python, Django, Angular, C# Microsoft .NET 3.5+ framework, PostgreSQL, Transact SQL, and Javascript.
  • Understanding of object-oriented and service-oriented application development techniques and theories.
  • Experience with automated acceptance testing.
  • Ability to write unit-tested, maintainable code.
  • Familiar with SOLID coding principles.
  • Internally motivated, able to work proficiently both independently and in a team environment.
  • Strong communication skills with both internal team members and external business stakeholders.
  • Ability to find ways to improve solutions, systems, and processes.

Preferred Competencies:
  • Knowledge of Domain Driven Design.
  • Experience with Agile development methodologies and practices (Scrum, Kanban or XP).
  • Experience with continuous integration/continuous deployment pipelines.
  • Experience developing using CQRS and Event Sourcing Architectures.
  • A background in financial systems design and development.

#LI-Remote
Dimensional offers a variety of programs to help take care of you, your family, and your career, including comprehensive benefits, educational initiatives, and special celebrations of our history, culture, and growth.
It is the policy of the Company to provide equal opportunity for all employees and applicants. The Company recruits, hires, trains, promotes, compensates, and administers all personnel actions without regard to actual or perceived race, color, religion, religious practice, creed, sex, sex stereotyping, pregnancy (which includes pregnancy, childbirth, and medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding), caregiver status, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender identity, national origin, age, mental or physical disability, ancestry, medical condition, marital status, familial status, domestic partnership status, military or veteran status or service, unemployment status, citizenship status or alienage, sexual orientation, status as a victim of domestic violence, status as a victim of stalking, status as a victim of sex offenses, genetic information, political activities or recreational activities, arrest or conviction record, salary history, natural hairstyle or any other status protected by applicable law except as otherwise required or permitted by law or regulation applicable to the Company or its affiliates.

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