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Software Engineer Contractor Jobs in Berkeley, CA

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

Software Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$150K - $300K/yr

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

Test Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$90 - $93/hr

Lidar Software Test Engineer Contractor _Foster City, CA (on_site)_ Domestic travel will be required The Advanced Hardware Engineering Lidar Team is looking for a Software Test Engineer Contractor to ...

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 ...

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 ...

Software Engineer

San Francisco, CA · Remote

$160K - $200K/yr

... software: clunky, on-premise systems created in the 1980s and 1990s. That's where Miter comes in ... Using Miter, contractors like Marathon Electrical, W.J. O'Neil, and Truebeck Construction are ...

Senior Software Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$144K - $190K/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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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Showing results 1-20

Software Engineer Contractor information

See Berkeley, CA salary details

$77.8K

$180.6K

$251.6K

How much do software engineer contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for software engineer contractor in Berkeley, CA is $180,634.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $146,900.00 and $211,800.00 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 Berkeley, CA? For Software Engineer Contractor jobs in Berkeley, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Software Engineer Contractor jobs in Berkeley, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Software Engineer Contractor jobs in Berkeley, CA are:
What cities near Berkeley, CA are hiring for Software Engineer Contractor jobs? Cities near Berkeley, CA with the most Software Engineer Contractor job openings:
Lidar Software Test Engineer Contractor

Lidar Software Test Engineer Contractor

Comrise

Foster City, CA • On-site

Contractor

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Job description
In this role, you’ll build scalable software solutions that support hardware testing, automation, and large-scale data analysis workflows. You’ll work closely with engineering teams to develop robust tools, improve testing efficiency, and ensure high-quality sensor data across LiDAR systems and validation environments.
As a Lidar Software Test Engineer Contractor, you'll:
  • Develop and maintain software tools, scripts, and automation frameworks used for LiDAR hardware testing and validation.
  • Build scalable and maintainable codebases that support efficient testing workflows and large-scale data processing.
  • Develop tools for hardware control, data capture, packet decoding, and analysis of sensor data.
  • Create and maintain packet decoders, PCAP parsers, and related data processing utilities.
  • Support debugging, troubleshooting, and analysis activities related to LiDAR systems and test infrastructure.
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with hardware, software, and test engineering teams to improve testing efficiency and data quality.
  • Organize, structure, and document software systems to improve usability, maintainability, and scalability.
  • Contribute to continuous improvement efforts across testing infrastructure and engineering workflows.
  • Travel domestically as needed.
Ideal candidate profile
Preferred Qualifications: Familiarity with modern software development practices, including CI/CD and automated testing. Experience working with large-scale data
processing and analysis systems. Experience with Amazon Web Services (AWS). Previous experience in the autonomous vehicle or robotics industry.
 
Required skills
Required Qualifications: 5+ years of experience in software or computer engineering or a related field. Proficiency in scripting languages, particularly Python. Experience with software development for hardware control and mass data processing. Strong understanding of communication protocols such as TCP, UDP, and HTTP. Experience in developing software tools, packet decoders, and PCAP parsers. Experience organizing, structuring, optimizing, and maintaining a codebase, promoting scalability and usability for tool users. Excellent documentation and written communication skills.
Business driver of role
 
Preferred Qualifications: Familiarity with modern software development practices, including CI/CD and automated testing. Experience working with large-scale data processing and analysis systems. Experience with Amazon Web Services (AWS). Previous experience in the autonomous vehicle or robotics industry.
 

Comrise logo

About Comrise

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

With over 38 years of staffing and business experience, Comrise continues to lead by example. We provide personalized and customized business solutions for all your recruiting and talent. Headuartered in New Jersey since 1984, Comrise is a staffing, consulting and enhanced search technology company. For over 38 years, we have delighted our clients and consultants by focusing on customer satisfaction, innovation, and flexible workforce solutions! With locations in the U.S, China, and Southeast Asia, we provide high-quality executive search, temporary assignments, temporary to permanent opportunities and cross border placement services.

Industry

It services

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Woodbridge, NJ, US

Year founded

1984

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