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Software Engineer Contractor Jobs in Seattle, WA

Embedded Software Engineer Sr

Lynnwood, WA · On-site

$145K - $191K/yr

The Senior Embedded Software Engineer is a key contributor to the development of advanced sensing ... As a US Department of Defense contractor, we are bound by International Traffic in Arms Regulations ...

Software Engineer - Cerberus

Seattle, WA · On-site

$110K - $145K/yr

Software Engineer - Cerberus Truveta is the world's first health provider led data platform with a ... We believe that having employees, interns, and contractors with diverse backgrounds enables Truveta ...

Innovation Software Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

... professional contractors. American Home Shield, the category leader in home service plans with ... Responsibilities We are looking for a senior, curious, and hands‑on Software Engineer (L4) to ...

Software Engineer - Data Processing Truveta is the world's first health provider led data platform ... We believe that having employees, interns, and contractors with diverse backgrounds enables Truveta ...

Software Engineer - Cerberus

Seattle, WA · On-site +1

$110K - $145K/yr

Software Engineer - Cerberus Truveta is the world's first health provider led data platform with a ... We believe that having employees, interns, and contractors with diverse backgrounds enables Truveta ...

Software Engineer - Data Processing

Seattle, WA · On-site +1

$110K - $145K/yr

Software Engineer - Data Processing Truveta is the world's first health provider led data platform ... We believe that having employees, interns, and contractors with diverse backgrounds enables Truveta ...

Software Engineer - Data Processing Truveta is the world's first health provider led data platform ... We believe that having employees, interns, and contractors with diverse backgrounds enables Truveta ...

Software Engineer - Person Matching

Seattle, WA · On-site +1

$110K - $145K/yr

Software Engineer - Person Matching Truveta is the world's first health provider led data platform ... We believe that having employees, interns, and contractors with diverse backgrounds enables Truveta ...

Software Engineer - Person Matching Truveta is the world's first health provider led data platform ... We believe that having employees, interns, and contractors with diverse backgrounds enables Truveta ...

Showing results 21-40

Software Engineer Contractor information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$72.3K

$167.9K

$233.9K

How much do software engineer contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for software engineer contractor in Seattle, WA is $167,886.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $136,600.00 and $196,900.00 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 job categories do people searching Software Engineer Contractor jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Software Engineer Contractor jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Software Engineer Contractor jobs?

Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Software Engineer Contractor job openings:

Infographic showing various Software Engineer Contractor job openings in Seattle, WA as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 21% Contract. Highlights an 72% In-person, 7% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $167,886 per year, or $80.7 per hour.

Full Stack Software Engineer - Remote

Seattle, WA • Remote

$80 - $120/hr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Senior Software Engineer

Job Type: Contractor (~15 hours/week)
Location: Remote

Job Summary

We are seeking experienced Senior Software Engineers to support an AI training project by creating reinforcement learning environments that evaluate AI models on complex software engineering tasks using Model Context Protocol (MCP) tools.

You will design reproducible environments, deterministic verification, and reference solutions for tasks such as bug fixing, feature implementation, codebase refactoring, and performance optimization. No prior AI experience is required.

Key Responsibilities
  • Create reinforcement learning environments for software engineering tasks.
  • Design tasks involving bug fixing, feature development, refactoring, and performance optimization.
  • Build deterministic verification systems and golden reference solutions.
  • Evaluate AI agents' ability to reason through complex codebases and use MCP tools effectively.
  • Develop realistic, reproducible software engineering scenarios.
  • Ensure tasks accurately measure coding ability, problem-solving, and tool usage.
  • Document solutions and provide clear technical feedback.
Required Skills
  • Strong proficiency in Python 3, Java, Rust, C++, or TypeScript.
  • Strong understanding of algorithms and data structures.
  • Experience with bug fixing and debugging complex software issues.
  • Proven experience in feature implementation and codebase refactoring.
  • Strong knowledge of performance optimization and tuning.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication.
  • Strong attention to detail.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience working with large-scale or distributed codebases.
  • Familiarity with AI/ML systems is a plus but not required.
  • Experience with rigorous code reviews and software engineering best practices.
  • Experience working effectively in remote or cross-functional teams.
Hiring Process
  1. Submit an application and screening questions.
  2. Complete an AI interview (~30 minutes).
  3. Complete a technical assessment, if required.
  4. Hiring Manager review.
Compensation

Compensation is output-based, with payment provided per task that meets project specifications. Minimum weekly submission requirements may apply.

Availability

Selected experts should be prepared to begin their first tasks within 24–48 hours of completing onboarding.