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Software Engineer Independent Contractor Jobs in Houston, TX

Mclaurin Aerospace

Research Software Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$195K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

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.

Atec, Inc.

Software Engineer II

Stafford, TX · On-site

The Software Engineer II will lead development activities, mentor junior engineers, and solve ... independently and collaboratively. Preferred : • Experience with embedded systems, real-time ...

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 ...

Apex Systems

Senior Software Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$117K - $154K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Job#: 3040283 Senior Software Engineer Location: Houston, Texas (Hybrid, potential for Remote) Role ... and contracted partners. Frequency varies for text messages. Message and data rates may apply.

Sycamore Life Sciences, LLC

Be Seen First

Software Engineer Intern

Houston, TX · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Ability to work independently and in a collaborative team environment Highly Desired Experience ... Exposure to real-world software engineering in a growing life sciences organization * Experience ...

Amentum

Research Software Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$195K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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.

Danaher

Software Engineer Internships

Houston, TX · On-site

About Software Engineering Roles at Danaher Are you passionate about building real-world ... Comfortable working independently and in cross-functional teams Bonus : * Familiarity with Git or ...

NOV, Inc.

Software Engineer - Front End

Houston, TX · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

The ideal candidate should be able to independently solve complex problems and be able to work under a limited direction in a fast-paced environment. Also, software engineers should be able to ...

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Showing results 21-40

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

Software Engineer Independent Contractor information

See Houston, TX salary details

$60.6K

$140.9K

$196.2K

How much do software engineer independent contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for software engineer independent 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 is a software engineer independent contractor?

A Software Engineer Independent Contractor is a self-employed professional who provides software development services to clients on a contractual basis. Unlike full-time employees, independent contractors work on specific projects, often for multiple clients, and handle their own taxes, benefits, and work schedules. They may be responsible for designing, coding, testing, and maintaining software solutions based on client requirements. This role offers flexibility and autonomy but requires strong time management and business skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a software engineer independent contractor?

To thrive as a Software Engineer Independent Contractor, you need proficient coding abilities, problem-solving skills, and a solid understanding of software development methodologies, often supported by a degree in computer science or related experience. Familiarity with popular programming languages, project management tools, code repositories like Git, and relevant certifications such as AWS Certified Developer or Scrum Master are commonly expected. Excellent self-management, communication, and client relationship skills help you stand out in this position. These abilities are crucial for delivering high-quality solutions, maintaining professionalism, and ensuring client satisfaction while working independently.

What are the typical challenges faced by software engineer independent contractors, and how can they be addressed?

As a Software Engineer Independent Contractor, common challenges include managing multiple projects simultaneously, adapting to different client expectations, and ensuring consistent communication across remote teams. Successful contractors often establish clear project scopes, set realistic timelines, and utilize productivity tools to stay organized. Building strong client relationships and proactively addressing feedback can help mitigate misunderstandings and foster repeat business. Additionally, investing in ongoing learning and networking can open opportunities for higher-value projects and career growth. Embracing flexibility and self-discipline is key to thriving in this dynamic, self-driven work environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Software Engineer jobs in Houston, TX?

The most popular types of Software Engineer jobs in Houston, TX are:

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The top searched job categories for Software Engineer Independent Contractor jobs in Houston, TX are:

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Software Engineer Independent Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Software Engineer Independent Contractor job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $140,881 per year, or $67.7 per hour.

Research Software Engineer

Mclaurin Aerospace

Houston, TX • On-site

$195K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Are you passionate about human space exploration, understanding the origins of the universe, and working with a passionate and diverse team to make a difference? If you are, we need you!
We need your talent, teamwork, and energy to help us achieve great things that inspire people all over the globe. We need you to bring creative ideas and diverse backgrounds to help us envision, shape, and deliver systems that will enable the exploration of space while benefiting people here on Earth. We are excited about what we do, and we need you on our team as we take on exciting challenges for NASA's pursuits in deep space exploration.
We have an exciting opportunity for a Research Software Engineer to join our JETS II contract team at NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston, TX.
If selected you will:
  • Partner with FSL Users to evaluate and optimize the software development practices of the group, and ensure success of the project.
  • Participate in the planning and major development efforts on software engineering projects for flight software, Guidance and Navigation, and analysis.
  • 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.

Qualifications:
This position has been posted at multiple levels. Depending on the candidate's experience, requirements, and business needs, we reserve the right to consider candidates at any level for which this position has been advertised.
  • Typically requires a minimum of a bachelor's degree in Engineering and normally possess 5- 10 years of related experience. License and certification may be required.
  • A minimum of a BS degree in computer science or engineering and 4+ years of software engineering experience outside of degree.
  • Experience programming in multiple programming languages, including compiled and interpreted languages, and the use of build systems like GNU Make.
  • Demonstrated Experience with version control (Git), containers, and continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD).
  • The ability to work on a team in a dynamic group environment.
  • Experience helping other users in HPC services.
  • Demonstrated problem-solving experience.
  • Demonstrated task planning, and effective communication skills.
  • Demonstrated experience working daily in a Linux OS, including using a command line interface (CLI).

Preferred Qualifications:
  • 6+ years of experience in addition to the degree.
  • Experience developing software for use in HPC environments.
  • Experience with Monte Carlo type workflows and optimizing them for use in HPC environments.
  • Experience with Trick based simulation workflows, and related toolsets.
  • Experience with modern software practices such as test-driven development, Agile software development practices, [RI1] the use of generative AI coding assistants, and a firm, proven knowledge of software development lifecycles.
  • Experience integrating C++, Fortran, Python, and shell-based workflows in HPC or simulation environments.
  • Demonstrated Experience with MPI based workflows.
  • Activity within the broader open-source software community.
  • Demonstrated Experience with Podman and HPC environments
  • Demonstrated Experience with Gitlab and Jenkins tools.

Benefits
  • Competitive pay
  • Positive work-life balance
  • 100% Employer paid insurance including: Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, accidental death and dismemberment, short-term disability, and long-term disability
  • 11 paid holidays annually
  • Generous PTO
  • 401k after 12 months of service with employer match
  • Education assistance
  • Relocation assistance (if applicable)

Mclaurin is a unique organization with a special focus on combining the best features of research and industry in order to foster innovation. Our organization strongly supports research, publication, and engagement with the academic community. We encourage our employees to remain on the cutting edge of new developments in their respective disciplines.
US Citizenship and the ability to pass a comprehensive security background investigation is required.
Mclaurin is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

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