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Software Engineer Contractor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Software Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

JustFab is looking for a Software Engineer with strong Shopify development experience to support ... S. business teams, China-based technical teams, and external technical contractors. The core ...

Software Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

JustFab is looking for a Software Engineer with strong Shopify development experience to support ... S. business teams, China-based technical teams, and external technical contractors. The core ...

Senior Software Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site +1

$130K - $172K/yr

Software Subcategory: SW Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes - 25% of the time ... Contracting Officers, and external/partner organizations to ensure mission alignment and ...

New

Senior Software Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$130K - $172K/yr

Software Subcategory: SW Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes - 25% of the time ... Contracting Officers, and external/partner organizations to ensure mission alignment and ...

New

Software Engineer

Petaluma, CA · Remote

$125K - $150K/hr

We're looking for a Software Engineer who thrives across the full stack--from Linux-based device ... Background working with inherited or contractor-built codebases * Experience in healthcare, medical ...

Building reliable, high-performing systems and features that empower paving contractors to run ... software engineering experience in a high velocity environment * Familiarity with NodeJS, React ...

Software Engineer

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$125K - $150K/yr

We're looking for a Software Engineer who thrives across the full stack-from Linux-based device ... Background working with inherited or contractor-built codebases * Experience in healthcare, medical ...

Software Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$150K - $175K/yr

Build internal tools and infrastructure to help contractors create tasks faster and at higher ... Strong software engineering fundamentals alongside the specialization * Palo Alto/SF in-person ...

New

TIAG is now hiring a Software Engineer to join our team full time in San Diego, CA. In this role ... TIAG is an equal opportunity employer and federal contractor or subcontractor. Consequently, the ...

Staff Software Engineer

San Francisco, CA · Hybrid

$240K - $270K/yr

Engineering @ Ironclad Ironclad is the leading AI contracting platform that transforms agreements ... As a Staff+ Software Engineer at Ironclad, you'll work cross‑functionally to identify business ...

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Showing results 1-20

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 13, 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 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:
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

TechStyle, Inc.

El Segundo, CA • On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


Job description


JustFab is looking for a Software Engineer with strong Shopify development experience to support our DTC e-commerce business. This role will focus on Shopify store development, website performance, API integrations, third-party app management, and technical support for our online business.
The ideal candidate should be hands-on, business-oriented, and able to work closely with U.S. business teams, China-based technical teams, and external technical contractors. The core requirements are Shopify/Liquid, React, API integration, contractor coordination, and basic understanding of PII/privacy compliance.
Key Responsibilities
  • Develop, maintain, and optimize JF's Shopify-based DTC website.
  • Customize Shopify themes and build new features, landing pages, modules, and site functions.
  • Work with Liquid, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, React, and Shopify APIs.
  • Integrate and manage third-party Shopify apps, tools, and external systems.
  • Improve website performance, page speed, mobile experience, and overall user experience.
  • Troubleshoot production issues and support website stability for daily operations and key campaigns.
  • Coordinate with external technical contractors, including task assignment, timeline follow-up, and quality review.
  • Support proper handling of customer PII data and work with internal teams on privacy and compliance-related requirements.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in computer science, Software Engineering, Information Systems, or a related field.
  • 2+ years of web development experience with HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and React.
  • 2+ years of hands-on Shopify development experience.
  • Strong knowledge of Liquid templating language and Shopify APIs.
  • Experience with Shopify theme customization, third-party app integration, and website troubleshooting.
  • Understanding of DTC e-commerce operations, customer experience, product pages, checkout flow, and promotional campaigns.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment.
  • Fluent English communication skills.
  • Mandarin Chinese is strongly preferred for cross-region collaboration.
  • Must have valid U.S. work authorization.
  • Must be able to work from the Los Angeles office under a hybrid work model.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with Shopify Plus or high-traffic e-commerce websites.
  • Experience with API integrations, CRM tools, analytics tools, tracking pixels, or order management systems.
  • Experience managing offshore or external technical contractors.
  • Familiarity with PII data handling, privacy compliance, CCPA, CPRA, or GDPR.
  • Experience in fashion, footwear, retail, DTC, or cross-border e-commerce is a plus.
  • Ideal candidate brings foundational AI literacy, including experience using generative AI tools, and a proactive mindset to experiment with new technologies to drive productivity and innovation.

Where we are:
  • This role will be based in our El Segundo Headquarters

The annual base salary range for this position is from $100,000-$130,000. The range provided includes the base salary that JustFab expects to pay for the role. Offered base salary will be dependent on factors including the scope and complexity of the role, candidate's related work experience, subject matter expertise and work location.
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Security Alert: Protect yourself from scams
At JustFab, we're dedicated to recruiting top talent who share our drive for innovation. To safeguard candidates, JustFab emphasizes legitimate recruitment practices. Initial communication is primarily via official email addresses and LinkedIn; beware of deviations. Personal data and sensitive information will not be solicited during the application phase. Interviews are conducted via phone, in person, or through the approved platforms Teams or Zoom-never via messaging apps or other calling services. Offers are merit-based, communicated verbally, and followed up in writing. If personal information is requested to initiate the hiring process, rest assured it will be through secure and protected means.
JustFab LLC, ShoeDazzle, LLC, Personal Retailing Inc. (d/b/a FabKids) is an equal opportunity employer. We recruit, employ, compensate, develop, and promote regardless of race, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and other protected status as required by applicable. At JustFab LLC, ShoeDazzle, LLC, Personal Retailing Inc. (d/b/a FabKids), we champion a vibrant workplace culture that thrives on diversity law and do not tolerate discrimination or harassment. We are one team from many backgrounds, innovating through diversity of individuals, who are driven by passion for creating an inclusive space for all. JustFab LLC, ShoeDazzle, LLC, Personal Retailing Inc. (d/b/a FabKids) will continue to champion a workplace culture that prizes diversity and inclusivity.
We encourage you to apply regardless of meeting all qualifications and/or requirements.