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Software Engineer Contractor Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Cymertek

Level Software Engineer

Tysons, VA · On-site

Level Software Engineer LOCATION Tysons, VA 22182 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this ... We are a growing small business and a trusted federal contractor offering full scope consulting ...

Cymertek

Level Software Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Level Software Engineer LOCATION Chantilly, VA 20151 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this ... We are a growing small business and a trusted federal contractor offering full scope consulting ...

Cymertek

Level Software Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

Level Software Engineer LOCATION Reston, VA 20190 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this ... We are a growing small business and a trusted federal contractor offering full scope consulting ...

Catapult Consultants, LLC

Senior Software Engineer

Henrico, VA · On-site

$111K - $146K/yr

Company Description We are a fast growing government contractor specializing in custom analytics ... This software engineering position focuses on software development and goes beyond programming to ...

Catapult Consultants, LLC

Senior Software Engineer

Henrico, VA · On-site

$111K - $146K/yr

Company Description We are a fast growing government contractor specializing in custom analytics ... This software engineering position focuses on software development and goes beyond programming to ...

Cymertek

Level Software Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

Level Software Engineer LOCATIONReston, VA 20190 CLEARANCETS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this ... We are a growing small business and a trusted federal contractor offering full scope consulting ...

Cymertek

Level Software Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Level Software Engineer LOCATIONChantilly, VA 20151 CLEARANCETS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this ... We are a growing small business and a trusted federal contractor offering full scope consulting ...

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All JobsSoftware Engineer Contractor JobsSoftware Engineer Contractor Jobs in Virginia

Software Engineer Contractor information

See Virginia salary details

$63K

$146.3K

$203.7K

How much do software engineer contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for software engineer contractor in Virginia is $146,258.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $119,000.00 and $171,500.00 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 the most commonly searched types of Software Engineer Contractor jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Software Engineer Contractor jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Software Engineer Contractor jobs in Virginia? For Software Engineer Contractor jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Software Engineer Contractor jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Software Engineer Contractor jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Software Engineer Contractor jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Software Engineer Contractor job openings:
Software Engineer Contractor jobs near you
Software Engineer

Software Engineer

SkyBridge Tactical

Virginia Beach, VA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Location: Dam Neck Annex, Virginia Beach, VA
Start Date: 31 August 2026, contingent on award
Clearance: Active SECRET Clearance Required; TS/SCI Eligible
About SkyBridge Tactical
SkyBridge Tactical is a Prime Contractor for MSOFS and a Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) headquartered in Tampa, FL, founded in 2008 to support our customers' global security, operational and training needs, focusing on mission success in the most challenging environments. SBT current contracts address U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) and U.S. Department of State (DoS) demand for highly skilled professionals to solve problems in the interest of national security.
Job Description
SkyBridge Tactical is seeking a Software Engineer to support USSOCOM's Rapid Operational Capability (ROC) Engineering Lab at Dam Neck Annex, Virginia Beach, VA. The Software Engineer will develop mobile and fixed software solutions to support the embedment of systems onto unmanned platforms, integrate operational systems enabling flight, command and control, and ISR capabilities, and support end-users in administering operating systems loaded onto locally manufactured printed circuit boards.
Key Responsibilities
  • Develop mobile and fixed software solutions supporting embedment of systems onto unmanned platforms.
  • Integrate operational systems onto unmanned platforms enabling flight, command and control, and intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance.
  • Support end-users' ability to administer operating systems loaded onto locally manufactured PCBs and manage transport paths for such devices.
  • Implement autonomous navigation and path planning techniques including waypoint navigation, geofencing, dynamic routing, obstacle avoidance, and collision detection algorithms.
  • Apply sensor fusion techniques combining data from IMUs, GPS, cameras, and LiDAR to enhance situational awareness and navigation accuracy.
  • Work with ground control software such as QGroundControl for mission planning, execution, and monitoring.
  • Develop user-friendly graphical interfaces using the Qt/QML framework.
  • Utilize MAVLink protocol for UAV-to-ground station communication.
  • Parse and reverse-engineer complex C++/Python codebases to identify subtle errors in data communications.
  • Develop software in agile environments, delivering working production code iteratively.
  • Support technical reports, briefings, innovation reports, and cybersecurity assessments as required.
Mandatory Qualifications
  • Active SECRET clearance with TS/SCI eligibility.
  • B.S. in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, or applicable engineering/science field; OR minimum of 7 years of hands-on professional experience without degree.
  • Minimum of 3 years of hands-on professional experience with degree.
Level II Qualifications
  • Proficiency in C, C++ and object-oriented software development methodologies.
  • Demonstrated ability to deliver working production software in an agile development environment.
  • 5+ years of extensive knowledge in BetaFlight, ArduPilot, and PX4.
  • Experience with sensor fusion (IMUs, GPS, cameras, LiDAR) for navigation accuracy.
  • Proficiency in Python scripting for automation, data analysis, and prototyping.
  • Strong understanding of TCP/IP networking protocols and proven ability to troubleshoot network communication issues.
  • Familiarity with MAVLink protocol for UAV communications.
  • Experience with Qt/QML framework for GUI development.
  • Skilled in parsing and reverse engineering complex codebases to identify data communication errors.
  • Demonstrated ability to fully build target software from source files.
  • Experience with CAD software.
Benefits Overview
SkyBridge Tactical LLC provides a comprehensive fringe benefits package designed to promote employee well-being, financial stability, and professional growth. Employees receive Paid Time Off (PTO), federal holidays, and additional leave options, including bereavement, jury duty, and parental leave. SkyBridge also offers a range of medical insurance options, including plans with Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and access to wellness resources, as well as global medical insurance options for OCONUS employees. Additional benefits include Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance, and coverage under Workers' Compensation or Defense Base Act (DBA) insurance for eligible employees. To support income protection and financial security, SkyBridge Tactical offers Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, Life Insurance, and Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD amp;D) coverage, with options for Dependent Coverage. Employees are also eligible to participate in a 401(k) Retirement Plan. SBT recognizes employee contributions through performance-based bonuses, recognition programs, and referral bonuses and supports career growth through professional development opportunities, including training and certification programs. Family leave options further support employees in balancing professional and family responsibilities.
Disclaimer: The above information on this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification.

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