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Software Engineer Contractor Jobs in Berkeley, CA

Broccoli AI

Staff Software Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Broccoli AI is developing an AI operating system for home service businesses, particularly in plumbing, HVAC, and electrical contracting. The Staff Software Engineer will define and build the ...

DutchTech

Senior Software Platform Engineer

Emeryville, CA · On-site

$160 - $210/hr

As a foundational Software Engineer within the organization, you will have substantial influence ... Experience leading technical projects involving external vendors, contractors, or distributed ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsSoftware Engineer Contractor JobsSoftware Engineer Contractor Jobs in Berkeley, CA

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 Aug 8, 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?

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 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 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:
Software Engineer Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Software Engineer Contractor job openings in Berkeley, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $180,634 per year, or $86.8 per hour.

Staff Software Engineer

Broccoli AI

San Francisco, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
Broccoli AI is developing an AI operating system for home service businesses, particularly in plumbing, HVAC, and electrical contracting. The Staff Software Engineer will define and build the technical foundation of this system, tackling complex problems in system architecture and reliability while leading the engineering team through mentorship and design reviews.
Responsibilities:
• Own architecture across critical systems (AI agents, real-time voice, integrations, workflows)
• Define technical strategy that enables speed today and scale tomorrow
• Solve high-leverage problems across the stack—performance, reliability, correctness
• Partner closely with product and leadership to shape long-term direction
• Uplevel the entire engineering team through design reviews, mentorship, and standards
Qualifications:
Required:
• 8+ years of experience building and scaling complex systems
• Strong track record of solving ambiguous, high-impact technical problems
• Deep understanding of system design, tradeoffs, and scalability
• Ability to balance long-term architecture with short-term execution
• High standards for quality, but pragmatic about speed
Company:
Broccoli helps home service businesses turn missed calls and lost leads into booked jobs. Founded in 2021, the company is headquartered in San Francisco, USA, with a team of 51-200 employees. The company is currently Early Stage.

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