1

Software Engineer Contractor Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

Sr Software Engineer

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$116K - $153K/yr

Job#: 3046691 Senior Software Engineer (Contract) Location: St. Louis, MO preferred (hybrid, 4 days ... and contracted partners. Frequency varies for text messages. Message and data rates may apply.

Senior Software Engineer

Columbia, MO · Remote

$116K - $153K/yr

We're on a mission to transform an industry that's been stuck in the past by empowering contractors ... We're hiring a Senior Software Engineer at our Corporate Headquarters in Columbia, MO , and we're ...

Senior Software Engineer

Columbia, MO · On-site

$116K - $153K/yr

We're on a mission to transform an industry that's been stuck in the past by empowering contractors ... We're hiring a Senior Software Engineer at our Corporate Headquarters in Columbia, MO , and we're ...

Provide technical leadership to engineers, contractors, and delivery teams. * Guide architecture, design, and implementation decisions related to AI and software engineering. * Present AI ...

Manage various Delivery of Service Providers (DOSP), including IT contractors, for productivity ... engineer for Digital and Cloud space or related occupation.Must possess at least two (2) years ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Software Engineer Contractor information

See Missouri salary details

$59.6K

$138.4K

$192.8K

How much do software engineer contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for software engineer contractor in Missouri is $138,378.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $112,600.00 and $162,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 cities in Missouri are hiring for Software Engineer Contractor jobs?

Cities in Missouri with the most Software Engineer Contractor job openings:

Infographic showing various Software Engineer Contractor job openings in Missouri as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $138,378 per year, or $66.5 per hour.

NAVAIR Software Engineer/Developer

American Systems Corporation

California, MO • On-site

$105 - $145/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Overview

AMERICAN SYSTEMS is an employee-owned federal government contractor supporting national priority programs through our strategic solutions in Information Technology, Test & Evaluation, Program Mission Support, Engineering & Analysis, and Training.

As our next Software Engineer/ developer forNAVAIR,you'll collaborate with talented professionals to create innovative, mission-critical solutions that empower naval aviation and defense operations. Your expertise will help shape cutting-edge systems, enhance national security, and drive technological advancement for our nation.

Responsibilities

The Software Systems Engineer will provide direct engineering, acquisition, and test & evaluation (T&E) support for the PMA-268 Stingray MQ-25A program. Serving as a key technical interface between NAVAIR, prime contractors, and other government activities, this role focuses on providing technical oversight for software development, system integration, and support Formal Qualification Testing (FQT). The successful candidate will deliver optimized technical solutions within cost, schedule, and technology constraints while ensuring compliance with stringent system requirements and airworthiness standards.

Key Responsibilities Software Development & Acquisition Support
  • Track software execution across Computer Software Configuration Items (CSCIs), analyze development metrics, and actively identify and elevate technical blockers to software development and test program leadership.
  • Assist Senior Leads with technical evaluations of vendor proposals and draft engineering inputs for future Statements of Work (SOWs) and contracts.
  • Provide technical oversight into the Program Increment (PI) priority workloads and evaluate contractor-proposed changes to processes and Software Development Plans (SDPs).
  • The incumbent serves as a representative for NAVAIR, interfacing with headquarters, contractors, and other government activities involved in the program.
Technical Documentation Review
  • Conduct deep-dive engineering reviews of vendor deliverables to ensure compliance with system requirements and Airworthiness standards.
  • Provide meaningful technical comments on complex artifacts, including Software Requirements Specifications (SRS), Software Design Descriptions (SDD), Software Architecture Descriptions (SAD), Software Development Plans (SDP), and Software Test Plans (STP).
Software Test Support
  • Serve as the designated Government witness and Quality Assurance (QA) representation for Formal Qualification Testing (FQT), requiring travel to contractor facilities.
  • Assess vendor readiness to execute FQT by verifying test procedure completion and tracking the resolution of Problem Reports (PRs).
Defect Analysis & Process Improvement
  • Provide technical analysis during multi-party Problem Report Review Boards (PRRBs), System Safety Working Groups, and Risk Boards. Support Software Safety Program Level of Rigor (LOR) assessments.
  • Evaluate engineering workflows to identify and implement technical process improvements within the software development lifecycle, test execution, and defect tracking processes.
General Day-to-Day tasks
  • Providing direct systems engineering/scientific support to and advise on engineering requirements, technical issues, and risks related to software development.
  • Providing technical oversight and support strategic software planning.
  • Serving as a hardware/software technical interface to Computer Scientist/engineering community on related software engineering activities and issues.
  • Providing real-time access to SMEs for problem assessment and resolution.
  • Providing software engineering technical support and representation at working groups.
  • Providing technical oversight into the Program Increment (PI) priority workloads.
  • Providing concurrence, if applicable, on contractor proposed changes to processes and Software (SW) development plans.
Qualifications
  • Must have an active DoD Secret clearance, must be a U.S. citizen.
  • Technical 4-yr degree and 1+ years of experience (see below).
  • Experience in engineering or computer science with an emphasis on software engineering/development of software systems.
  • Experience in software requirements allocation, design, software process management, open architecture principles, software integration and test.
  • Knowledge of processes for software system design, test and interoperability, planning and management.
  • Knowledge of military avionics systems, components and software and related design attributes. (highly desired)
  • Knowledge of systems engineering procedures, processes, practices and tools as related to Avionics and Weapons systems and technology. (highly desired)
  • Proven ability to effectively communicate at all levels within an organization, with effective interpersonal skills and an ability to resolve conflicting views and information.
Pay Transparency Statement

AMERICAN SYSTEMS is committed to pay transparency for our applicants and employee-owners. The salary range for this position is USD $105,000.00/Yr. - USD $145,000/Yr. Actual compensation will be determined based on several factors permitted by law. AMERICAN SYSTEMS provides for the welfare of its employees and their dependents through a comprehensive benefits program by offering healthcare benefits, paid leave, retirement plans, insurance programs, and education and training assistance.

EEO Statement

EEO Race/Sex/Disability Status/Veteran Status

#J-18808-Ljbffr