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Software Engineer Contractor Jobs in Roanoke, VA

Mid/Senior Drainage Engineer

Blacksburg, VA ยท On-site

$91K - $125K/yr

Coordinate with civil and transportation engineers, contractors, and VDOT personnel to integrate ... Proficiency in hydraulic modeling software, such as Ensoftec,HY-8 , MicroStation, and OpenRoads ...

Mid/Senior Drainage Engineer

Blacksburg, VA ยท On-site

$110K - $160K/yr

Coordinate with civil and transportation engineers, contractors, and VDOT personnel to integrate ... Proficiency in hydraulic modeling software, such as Ensoftec,HY-8 , MicroStation, and OpenRoads ...

Review shop drawings, material submittals, and contractor requests for information (RFIs) during ... Utilize engineering software to perform structural modeling and bridge analysis. Qualifications ...

Review shop drawings, material submittals, and contractor requests for information (RFIs) during ... Utilize engineering software to perform structural modeling and bridge analysis. Qualifications ...

Review shop drawings, material submittals, and contractor requests for information (RFIs) during ... Utilize engineering software to perform structural modeling and bridge analysis. Qualifications ...

... contractor job. Join a mission-focused engineering team developing next-generation RF ... Software Defined Radio solutions, including software, embedded processing, and integration with ...

... defense contractor job.Join a mission-focused engineering team developing next-generation RF ... Software Defined Radio solutions, including software, embedded processing, and integration with ...

Experience with structural analysis and design software such as RAM Structural System, ENERCALC ... Develop and maintain positive relationships with clients, consultants, contractors, and project ...

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Software Engineer Contractor information

See Roanoke, VA salary details

$62.3K

$144.8K

$201.7K

How much do software engineer contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for software engineer contractor in Roanoke, VA is $144,761.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $117,800.00 and $169,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 are popular job titles related to Software Engineer Contractor jobs in Roanoke, VA?

For Software Engineer Contractor jobs in Roanoke, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Software Engineer Contractor jobs in Roanoke, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Software Engineer Contractor jobs in Roanoke, VA are:

What cities near Roanoke, VA are hiring for Software Engineer Contractor jobs?

Cities near Roanoke, VA with the most Software Engineer Contractor job openings:

Infographic showing various Software Engineer Contractor job openings in Roanoke, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $144,761 per year, or $69.6 per hour.

Mid/Senior Drainage Engineer

Rinker Design Associates

Blacksburg, VA โ€ข On-site

$110K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Description
Rinker Design Associates, LLC (RDA) is seeking a skilled Drainage Engineer with 4+ years of experience to join our dynamic team.
The ideal candidate will be responsible for designing and performing supporting drainage analysis for stormwater conveyance systems on transportation projects, ensuring compliance with VDOT, State, Local and Federal design requirements or regulations specific to drainage design, stormwater management, and floodplains.
$10K Sign-On Bonus

What You'll Do:
  • Hydrologic and Hydraulic Design: Design stormwater management systems, culverts, storm drains, and other drainage structures for roadways, highways, and bridges, in compliance with to VDOT/Federal/State/Local design requirements.
  • Project Management-Discipline Specific: Hydraulics: Manage the overall hydraulic design related elements on a wide-range of Transportation-type projects for VDOT and Locality managed tasks. Projects will range from Interstate widening/Interchange projects, bridge replacement/widenings, and drainage improvement projects.
  • Environmental Compliance: Knowledgeable to assist the Design Team to navigate through applicable Federal, State, and Local Environmental Compliance regulations.  Including Stormwater Management, Floodplain Management, Streams/Wetlands, MS4, Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act, etc.  Holding an active and applicable Environmental Certifications would be a plus.
  • Erosion and Sediment Control: Knowledgeable  to perform review, design, and field construction inspection of Erosion and Sediment Control, in accordance with VDOT, State, and local requirements and regulations. Holding an active VDEQ Certification for Erosion and Sediment Control would be a plus.
  • Collaboration: Coordinate with civil and transportation engineers, contractors, and VDOT personnel to integrate drainage designs with overall project objectives.
  • Technical Reporting: Prepare detailed engineering reports, drainage calculations, and technical documents for VDOT project submission.

What You'll Need:
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or a related field.
  • 4+ years of experience in drainage design.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license or Engineer-In-Training (EIT) with the intent to obtain PE licensure within 1 years.
  • Proficiency in hydraulic modeling software, such as Ensoftec,HY-8, MicroStation, and OpenRoads Designer
  • Knowledge and experience using HEC-RAS, SWMM, HEC-HMS, TR-55, TR-20 would be a plus.
  • Solid understanding of VDOT drainage design standards, regulations, and construction.
  • Solid understanding of Virginia Stormwater Management and Erosion and Sediment Control design standards, regulations, and constructability.
  • Strong, proactive communication skills to collaborate and work with multidisciplinary teams.

Why Join RDA?
We offer a comprehensive benefits package which includes:   
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401K Retirement Plan; Roth Contributions
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
  • Life, AD&D, short-term and long-term disability
  • Paid time off, including 8 federal holidays + 1 floating holiday
  • Parental leave
  • Professional/career development tracks
  • Positive work/life balance
RDA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and maintains a drug-free workplace.
Applicants that require an employment visa sponsorship now or in the future will not be considered.