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Software Engineer Contractor Jobs in Houston, TX

Nauticus Robotics

Software Engineer

Webster, TX · On-site

JOB SUMMARY We are seeking a Software Engineer to join our team. The ideal candidate will have ... EXPORT CONTROL Nauticus Robotics is a federal contractor required to adhere to the Arms Export ...

MRI Technologies

Research Software Engineer

Houston, TX

$195K/yr

You will work closely with partners and external contractors to meet their software requirements ... Experience programming in multiple programming languages, including compiled and interpreted ...

Nauticus Robotics

Software Engineer

Webster, TX · On-site

JOB SUMMARY We are seeking a Software Engineer to join our team. The ideal candidate will have ... EXPORT CONTROL Nauticus Robotics is a federal contractor required to adhere to the Arms Export ...

MRI Technologies

Research Software Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$195K/yr

You will work closely with partners and external contractors to meet their software requirements ... Experience programming in multiple programming languages, including compiled and interpreted ...

MRI Technologies

Research Software Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$195K/yr

MRI Technologies has an exciting opportunity for a Research Software Engineer on the JETS II ... You will work closely with partners and external contractors to meet their software requirements ...

1647

Senior React Software Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site +1

$117K - $154K/yr

Direct Hire or Contractor? In this role, you will be a full-time W2 employee at 1647 serving as a ... of developers and be responsible for the products software quality Developing new user-facing ...

1647

Senior React Software Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site +1

$117K - $154K/yr

Direct Hire or Contractor? In this role, you will be a full-time W2 employee at 1647 serving as a ... of developers and be responsible for the products software quality Developing new user-facing ...

HX5 LLC

Research Software Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$195K/yr

Work closely with partners and external contractors to meet their software requirements and address bugs. * Act as a mentor for good software development and engineering in HPC environments.

HX5, LLC

Research Software Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$195K/yr

... contractors to meet their software requirements and address bugs. • Act as a mentor for good software development and engineering in HPC environments. Qualifications : Required : • BS in computer ...

MICROVAST INC

BMS Software Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

BMS Software Engineer Are you ready to be part of a company that's not just talking about the ... contractors, and the communities in which we live and work. All qualified applicants will receive ...

Mclaurin Aerospace

Research Software Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$195K/yr

Work closely with partners and external contractors to meet their software requirements and address bugs. * Act as a mentor for good software development and engineering in HPC environments.

Mclaurin Aerospace

Research Software Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$195K/yr

Work closely with partners and external contractors to meet their software requirements and address bugs. * Act as a mentor for good software development and engineering in HPC environments.

IGNITE

MID LEVEL SOFTWARE ENGINEER

Houston, TX · On-site

As a Mid-Level Software Engineer supporting NASA programs through a contractor organization, you will develop, maintain, and enhance web-based and low-code applications that support mission ...

Amentum

Research Software Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$195K/yr

Work closely with partners and external contractors to meet their software requirements and address bugs. * Act as a mentor for good software development and engineering in HPC environments.

Pae

Research Software Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$195K/yr

Work closely with partners and external contractors to meet their software requirements and address bugs. * Act as a mentor for good software development and engineering in HPC environments.

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsSoftware Engineer Contractor JobsSoftware Engineer Contractor Jobs in Houston, TX

Software Engineer Contractor information

See Houston, TX salary details

$60.6K

$140.9K

$196.2K

How much do software engineer contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for software engineer contractor in Houston, TX is $140,881.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $114,600.00 and $165,200.00 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 Houston, TX? For Software Engineer Contractor jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Software Engineer Contractor jobs in Houston, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Software Engineer Contractor jobs in Houston, TX are:
What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Software Engineer Contractor jobs? Cities near Houston, TX with the most Software Engineer Contractor job openings:
Software Engineer Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Software Engineer Contractor job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $140,881 per year, or $67.7 per hour.

Project Engineer (Contractor Position)

Axens North America

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description


Job Summary

The Project Engineer is responsible for planning, developing and managing the engineering activities for projects. This person in addition they are responsible for compliance of specification, scheduling, and cost control of the project based on the sales release. This position is currently a contractor role, but has the potential to be a full-time role in 2026.

JOB DUTIES/Responsibilities
  • Attend Client kick-off and internal kick-off meeting (If applicable)
  • Manage project engineering and related personnel functions and activities.
  • Ensure project engineering activities comply with company and contract requirements and support the overall schedule.
  • Develop, implement and administer project engineering procedures and other work controlling documents.
  • Interface with all departments as required to resolve problems, ensure quality of efforts in support of the overall project schedule.
  • Assist in the establishment of the overall schedule
  • Review scope of supply with his supervisor.
  • Acknowledge Purchase Order as authorized by his supervisor
  • Acknowledge Change Order as authorized by his supervisor
  • Prepare requisitions and coordinate with the Purchasing Department.
  • Issue drawings/documents as directed by his supervisor
  • Resolve technical issues with engineers as guided by his supervisor.
  • Assist in controlling project cost and change orders
  • Prepare Inspection & Test Plans as directed
  • Conduct site and shop visits as directed
  • Monitor material, documents, fabrication and erection status and report to his supervisor
Education
  • Bachelor’s degree in engineering or related field,
  • Professional certification preferred
Work Experience
  • 5 years’ technical experience required
  • 7 Years of technical experience in a related position in lieu of a bachelor's in engineering
Required SKILLS/ABILITIES:
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Apply innovative and effective engineering techniques
QHSE REQUIREMENTS

Quality:

  • Take responsibility for the sustainability of Axens and ensuring quality performance
  • Report any and all quality related issues or non-conformities to your manager
  • Maintain awareness, proactively participate and support all Axens policies for quality management
  • Assist in the continual improvement of an effective Integrated Management System complying with the requirements of ISO 9001:2015
  • Assist in achieving Site, Department, Regional and Global Quality Management Program goals and objectives.

Health and Safety:

  • Take responsibility for the health and safety of self and others
  • Report any and all health and safety incidents to your manager
  • Maintain awareness, proactively participate and support all Axens policies and objectives regarding health and safety
  • Assist in the continual improvement of an effective Integrated Management System complying with the requirements of ISO 45001:2018
  • Assist in achieving Site, Departmental, Regional and Global Health and Safety goals and objectives

Environmental:

  • Take responsibility for the sustainability of Axens and protecting the environment
  • Report any and all environmental concerns or incidents to your manager
  • Maintain awareness, proactively participate and support all Axens policies regarding environmental protection
  • Assist in the continual improvement of an effective Integrated Management System complying with the requirements of ISO 14001:2015
  • Assist in achieving Site, Departmental, Regional and Global Environmental Management Program goals and objectives