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Software Engineer Contractor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Nava

Software Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

We ask the right questions to help civil servants and other contractors work effectively on complex ... This is a great opportunity for engineers who enjoy software archaeology. If you care deeply about ...

Nava

Software Engineer

San Francisco, CA

We ask the right questions to help civil servants and other contractors work effectively on complex ... This is a great opportunity for engineers who enjoy software archaeology. If you care deeply about ...

Broccoli AI

Software Engineer, Growth

San Francisco, CA · On-site

We work with plumbing, HVAC, and electrical contractors, the people who keep homes running, and we ... We've raised $25M+ from Khosla Ventures and YC We're looking for a Software Engineer, Growth to ...

804 Technology

Embedded Software Engineer

Simi Valley, CA

$135K - $178K/yr

The Embedded Software Engineer 2 designs, develops and debugs software, working in small teams to ... Perform, track and control internal project activities and manage external sub-contractors ...

TAD PGS, Inc

Software Engineer

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$48 - $55/hr

Pay Rate: $48 - $55 The Software & Controls Engineer II designs, develops, supports, and enhances ... VEVRAA Federal Contractor / Request Priority Protected Veteran Referrals / Equal Opportunity ...

RealDefense

Software Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

No agencies or contractors. Key Responsibilities: · Develop, test, and maintain applications using ... engineering, or a related field. · At least 5 years of experience in software development, with a ...

Broccoli AI

Senior Software Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$180K - $300K/yr

We work with plumbing, HVAC, and electrical contractors - the people who keep homes running - and ... Raised $25M+ from Khosla Ventures and YC Senior Software Engineer @ Broccoli We're looking for a ...

Caltech

Software Engineer

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$85K - $135K/yr

Job Summary We are seeking a Software Engineer to develop, implement, and integrate components of ... Caltech is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. To read more Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) go to eeoc ...

Belcan

Embedded Software Engineer

Simi Valley, CA · On-site

$105K - $110K/yr

Perform, track and control internal project activities and manage external sub-contractors ... Works as part of a software engineering team using source control concepts * Consistent exercise of ...

Belcan

Embedded Software Engineer

Simi Valley, CA

$105K - $110K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer Salary Range: $105K - $110K | ACIP Bonus 10% Location: Simi Valley, CA ... Perform, track and control internal project activities and manage external sub-contractors ...

The Walt Disney Company

Sr Software Engineer

Glendale, CA · On-site

$135K - $181K/yr

Job Posting Title: Sr Software Engineer Req ID: 10149383 At Disney "We Power the Magic!" That's our ... Mentor junior or contracted engineers and foster a culture of innovation, inclusion, and technical ...

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All JobsSoftware Engineer Contractor JobsSoftware Engineer Contractor Jobs in California

Software Engineer Contractor information

See California salary details

$62.7K

$145.6K

$202.8K

How much do software engineer contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for software engineer contractor in California is $145,592.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,400.00 and $170,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Software Engineer Contractor, and why are they important?

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 are Software Engineer Contractors?

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.
What are popular job titles related to Software Engineer Contractor jobs in California? For Software Engineer Contractor jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Software Engineer Contractor jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Software Engineer Contractor jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Software Engineer Contractor jobs? Cities in California with the most Software Engineer Contractor job openings:
Software Engineer Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Software Engineer Contractor job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $145,592 per year, or $70 per hour.
Software Engineer

Software Engineer

Metron

San Diego, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

About Metron

Metron is an employee-owned company dedicated to delivering innovative solutions for the most challenging national security problems. For over 40 years, our principled approach to problem-solving has yielded creative solutions at the intersection of advanced mathematics, computer science, physics, and engineering. Our people are leaders in their technical fields and are passionate about solving challenging problems. We look for individuals who share this same passion and can apply their experience in real-world settings.  

We are seeking a talented software engineer with a strong computer science background to assist in design, development, integration, testing, and QA of a complex cloud-based software planning system. You will be responsible for writing backend infrastructure and frontend web applications, including the development of APIs and software documentation. You will be part of a distributed development team working primarily on-site in a government lab alongside external development partners and other stakeholders. The ideal candidate has experience writing well-designed, maintainable, and extensible code.  

Required Qualifications  

  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Applied Math, or related field  
  • At least 3 years of experience as a Software Engineer or Developer 
  • Active Secret Clearance 
  • Experience designing and implementing APIs and integrating software systems
  • Proficiency in Java, TypeScript and object-oriented programming
  • Familiarity with full-stack web application development  
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to clearly convey design concepts 
  • Ability to work in a collaborative team environment alongside partner organizations
  • US CITIZENSHIP REQUIRED; Successful candidates will be subject to a security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information  

Desired Qualifications 

  • Experience with MongoDB, RabbitMQ, Spring Boot, React, Redux, WebGL and/or OpenGL  
  • Familiarity with AWS, Docker, Kubernetes, Git, and CI/CD processes 
  • Experience developing formal software documentation (e.g. Software Designs and Interface Design Descriptions)
  • Math background including Probability/Statistics, Linear Algebra, Multivariate Calculus  
  • Experience designing and implementing user interfaces  
  • Experience in DevSecOps
  • Experience with troubleshooting
  • Prior experience working with US Navy or other Department of Defense services/agencies 
  • Active TS/SCI Clearance 

Position Location: onsite, in office in San Diego, CA 

Metron is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. It is the policy of the company to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religious, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.

VEVRAA Federal Contractor 

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