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Software Engineer Contractor Jobs in Pennsylvania

Donan

Forensic Engineer Contractor

Pittsburgh, PA · 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

Carnegie, PA

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.

Noblis

Software Engineer

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$105K - $164K/yr

Navy civilian software and systems engineers, support contractors, U.S. Navy ships force, OEMs, and engineering management, contributing to all aspects of the software life cycle. This requisition ...

The Pennsylvania State University

POSITION SPECIFICS We are searching for motivated, talented, and experienced Software Engineers to ... Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster PA State Labor Law Poster Penn State Policies Copyright ...

Noblis

Software Engineer

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

Navy civilian software and systems engineers, support contractors, U.S. Navy ships force, OEMs, and engineering management, contributing to all aspects of the software life cycle. Noblis MSD ...

GreenXT

Software Engineer

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

S. Navy civilian software and systems engineers, support contractors, U.S. Navy ship's force, OEMs and engineering management. Primary responsibility will be to contribute to all aspects of the ...

The Pennsylvania State University

$105K - $200K/yr

None If filled as Research and Development Engineer - Software (ARL) - Intermediate Professional ... Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster PA State Labor Law Poster Penn State Policies Copyright ...

Novovu

We are looking for a new Software Engineer to build the new Novovu workshop! Responsibilities ... CONTRACTOR

Cmu

Senior Embedded Software Engineer

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$120K - $157K/yr

Navy and government stakeholders, contractors, integrators, SEI staff, and leadership to assess ... Software/Applications Development/Engineering Position Type Staff - Regular Full time/Part time ...

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All JobsSoftware Engineer Contractor JobsSoftware Engineer Contractor Jobs in Pennsylvania

Software Engineer Contractor information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$63.7K

$147.9K

$206K

How much do software engineer contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for software engineer contractor in Pennsylvania is $147,878.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $120,300.00 and $173,400.00 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 are popular job titles related to Software Engineer Contractor jobs in Pennsylvania?

For Software Engineer Contractor jobs in Pennsylvania, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Software Engineer Contractor jobs in Pennsylvania look for?

The top searched job categories for Software Engineer Contractor jobs in Pennsylvania are:

What cities in Pennsylvania are hiring for Software Engineer Contractor jobs?

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

Software Engineer Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Software Engineer Contractor job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,878 per year, or $71.1 per hour.

Forensic Engineer Contractor

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

Donan
Civil Engineering Construction • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Donanexternal

Contractor

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Welcome to Donan Engineering (Powered by Alpine Intel), a leader in the property insurance intelligence industry. We are currently seeking a 1099 Independent Contractor professional Civil or Structural Engineer for work in the Pittsburgh area.
Key Responsibilities Include:
  • Site studies evaluating damages to materials or components for residential structures.
  • Write a technical report providing detailed and accurate information on completed projects.
  • Consistently communicate, document your communication, with clients to provide timelines and updates.
  • Provide excellent customer service to company internal and external customers.

Qualifications:
  • Registered as an active Professional Engineer (P.E.) in the state where work is assigned and accepted.
  • Minimum of a bachelor's degree in Civil or Structural Engineering or related engineering disciplines (Mechanical, Electrical, etc.)
  • Two plus years of experience in failure analysis, and knowledge of residential and construction, building codes, design, or related experience is highly preferred.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Required to have strong technical writing abilities with experience using Microsoft Word.
  • Proficient with general computer skills (Microsoft Word, Google Chrome, etc.).
  • Must have superior customer service skills, be team oriented and enjoy service-oriented work.
  • Must be able to work efficiently without supervision.
  • Must have access to high-speed internet service and reliable cellular reception.
  • Must have or obtain a laptop with Microsoft Word and PDF editing software for report completion.
  • Must have or obtain necessary equipment to perform assigned and accepted forensic projects.

Physical Requirements:
  • Frequently required to stand on one's feet for prolonged periods of time.
  • Frequently required to lift and/or move objects weighing 50-100 lbs.
  • Frequently required to climb onto first and second story roofs, ascend/descend ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, etc.
  • Frequently required to balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
  • Frequently required to reach with hands and arms.
  • Frequently required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel.
  • Frequently required to drive a vehicle for extended periods of time.

Related Experience: Forensic Engineer, Civil Engineer, Design Engineer, Structural Engineer, Construction Management, Residential Construction, Residential Design.
To learn more about us visit donan.com.

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