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Software Engineer Contractor Jobs in Phoenix, AZ

... Contractor Payroll) Flextrack (Vendor Management System) As a Software Test Engineer, in the Test Development Engineering (TDE) team of the Non-Volatile Memory Solutions Group (NSG), you will develop ...

Mainframe Database Engineer

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$116K - $140K/yr

Perform software installation, version upgrades, and maintenance for IBM DB2 for z/OS and ... and contracted partners. Frequency varies for text messages. Message and data rates may apply.

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Overseas Contractor

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$56.75 - $72.50/hr

Job Title: Sr Java Backend Developer Work Location: Scottsdale, AZ (Onsite) PRINCIPAL DUTIES RESPONSIBILITIES * Design develop and maintain robust and scalable software applications using Java Spring ...

Senior Electrical Engineer

Phoenix, AZ

$106K - $139K/yr

Utilize CAD and Building Information Modeling (BIM) software to create and coordinate accurate 2D ... Collaborate with architects, engineers, contractors, and other project stakeholders to develop ...

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Software Engineer Contractor information

See Phoenix, AZ salary details

$57.9K

$134.4K

$187.3K

How much do software engineer contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for software engineer contractor in Phoenix, AZ is $134,438.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $109,400.00 and $157,700.00 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 job categories do people searching Software Engineer Contractor jobs in Phoenix, AZ look for? The top searched job categories for Software Engineer Contractor jobs in Phoenix, AZ are:
What cities near Phoenix, AZ are hiring for Software Engineer Contractor jobs? Cities near Phoenix, AZ with the most Software Engineer Contractor job openings:
Infographic showing various Software Engineer Contractor job openings in Phoenix, AZ as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $134,438 per year, or $64.6 per hour.
Real Time Software Engineer, Vehicle Management Systems (Experienced or Senior)

Real Time Software Engineer, Vehicle Management Systems (Experienced or Senior)

Boeing

Mesa, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago


Boeing rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 604 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 528 rated manufacturers


Job description

Real Time Software Engineer, Vehicle Management Systems (Experienced or Senior)

Company:

The Boeing Company

The Boeing Company is looking for several Real Time Software Engineers (Experienced or Senior) for a Phantom Works program located in Hazelwood, MO, Cambridge, MA or Mesa, AZ. This position will focus on developing Vehicle Management System (VMS) software to support the Boeing Defense, Space & Security (BDS) business organization. The Vehicle Management System provides flight and subsystem control for the platform.

Our teams are currently hiring for a broad range of experience levels including Experienced and Senior Level Software Engineers.

Boeing Phantom Works is the advanced research, rapid prototyping, and experimental division of Boeing Defense, Space & Security (BDS). Operating with the agility of a startup but the rigor of a prime aerospace contractor, it takes low-level technology concepts and develops them into functional prototypes for modern warfare and aerospace.

Within Phantom Works, the Vehicle Management System (VMS) serves as the central brain and critical nervous system for these advanced aerospace platforms. VMS provides flight and subsystem control for the platform.

Join Us. Build the Future.

Position Responsibilities:

  • Develops, documents and maintains architectures, requirements, algorithms, interfaces and designs for software systems

  • Develops and maintains code and integrates software components into a fully functional software system

  • Develops and maintains software development plans, verification plans, test procedures and test environments, executes test procedures and documents test results to ensure software system requirements are met

  • Provides technical leadership for software projects

  • Supports generation and maintenance of software processes, tools and metrics

  • Serves as a subject matter expert for software domains, system-specific issues, processes and regulations

  • Tracks and evaluates software team to ensure product and process conformance to project plans and industry standards

  • Trains and mentors' others

  • Works under general direction

This position requires ability to obtain Special Program Access, for which the U.S. Government requires U.S. Citizenship only.

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills/Experience):

  • Bachelor's degree

  • Ability to obtain a U.S. Secret Security Clearance for which the US Government requires US Citizenship

  • 5+ years of experience with C/C++

  • 5+ years of experience with the software development lifecycle (SDLC)

  • 3+ years of direct experience designing and developing software for a real time or non-real time system

  • 1+ years of experience in Safety or Flight Critical Software Development

Preferred Qualifications (Desired Skills/Experience):

  • 7 or more years' related work experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience

  • Experienced Level / Bachelor of Science degree from an accredited course of study in engineering, engineering technology (includes manufacturing engineering technology), chemistry, physics, mathematics, data science, or computer science and 5+ years of related work experience OR Bachelor's Degree and 9+ years of directly related work experience OR 13+ years of related, relevant experience

  • Senior Level / Bachelor of Science degree from an accredited course of study in engineering, engineering technology (includes manufacturing engineering technology), chemistry, physics, mathematics, data science, or computer science and 9+ years of related work experience OR Bachelor's Degree and 13+ years of directly related work experience OR 17+ years of related, relevant experience

  • Active U.S. Secret Security Clearance

  • Real-time embedded software experience

  • Agile Software development

  • Familiarity with MIL-HDBK-516C, MIL-STD-882E, JSSSEH, DO-178C

  • Python experience

  • Experience with VX Works or other Real Time Operating Systems

  • Experience with fault tolerance, signal processing or control system design

  • Experience with tools such as Git

Drug Free Workplace:

Boeing is a Drug Free Workplace (DFW) where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.

Travel:

Less than 10%

Conflict of Interest:

Successful candidates for this job must satisfy the Company's Conflict of Interest (COI) assessment process.

CodeVue Coding Challenge:

To be considered for this position you will be required to complete a technical assessment as part of the selection process. Failure to complete the assessment will remove you from consideration.

Pay & Benefits:

At Boeing, we strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage and retain the top talent. Elements of the Total Rewards package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.

The Boeing Company also provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work.

The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.

Summary pay range for Experienced Level: $126,650 - $182,850

Summary pay range for Senior Level: $160,650 - $232,300

Potential signing bonus for eligible/qualified external candidates.

Language Requirements:

Not Applicable

Education:

Bachelor's Degree or Equivalent

Relocation:

This position offers relocation based on candidate eligibility.

Export Control Requirement:

This position must meet U.S. export control compliance requirements. To meet U.S. export control compliance requirements, a "U.S. Person" as defined by 22 C.F.R. 120.62 is required. "U.S. Person" includes U.S. Citizen, U.S. National, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee.

Safety Sensitive:

This is not a Safety Sensitive Position.

Security Clearance:

This position requires the ability to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance for which the U.S. Government requires U.S. Citizenship. An interim U.S. Secret Clearance Pre-Start and final U.S. Secret Clearance Post-Start is required.

Visa Sponsorship:

Employer will not sponsor applicants for employment visa status.

Contingent Upon Award Program

This position is not contingent upon program award

Shift:

Shift 1 (United States of America)

Stay safe from recruitment fraud! The only way to apply for a position at Boeing is via our Careers website. Learn how to protect yourself from recruitment fraud - Recruitment Fraud Warning

Boeing is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

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