ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Software Engineer Independent Contractor Jobs in Riverside, CA

Planet DDS

AI-First Software Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$150K - $250K/yr

We are looking for an AI-Powered Software Engineer who treats AI agents as a primary development ... Collaborative - Working independently and across teams, we create scalable solutions to enable ...

Consumer Portfolio Services

Be Seen First

Systems Analyst / Software Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

We are seeking a Systems Analyst / Software Engineer to become an integral part of our team! You ... Company Description Consumer Portfolio Services is an independent specialty finance company that ...

EBizCharge

Senior Software Engineer II

Irvine, CA · On-site

$129K - $171K/yr

They are seeking a talented Senior Software Engineer II to join their development team, where the ... independently, be proactive, goal-orientated, a quick learner, and a team player. • Database ...

VSolvit

SOFTWARE DEVELOPER (C++)

Norco, CA · On-site

$100K - $160K/yr

Navy. This position is ideal for a mid-to-senior level software engineer with strong C ... Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment * US Citizenship is ...

Turion Space

Software C++ Engineer

Irvine, CA

Our clients range from commercial companies licensing our software to large defense contractors ... Enabling product teams to deliver independently. * A deep understanding of revision control systems ...

Turion Space

Software C++ Engineer

Irvine, CA · Remote

$150K - $213K/yr

Our clients range from commercial companies licensing our software to large defense contractors ... Enabling product teams to deliver independently. * A deep understanding of revision control systems ...

FieldAI

Software Engineer, ROS Developer

Irvine, CA

$125K - $155K/yr

Strong software engineering skills, with proven experience building production-quality robotics ... Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail, able to work independently while managing ...

FieldAI

Software Engineer, ROS Developer

Irvine, CA

$125K - $155K/yr

Strong software engineering skills, with proven experience building production-quality robotics ... Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail, able to work independently while managing ...

FieldAI

Software Engineer, ROS Developer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$125K - $155K/yr

Strong software engineering skills, with proven experience building production-quality robotics ... Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail, able to work independently while managing ...

Cotality

Principal Software Engineer (Python)

Irvine, CA · On-site +1

$144K - $194K/yr

Independently plan and execute system optimizations to ensure the Semantic Layer remains performant ... of professional software engineering experience. * Expert Python/FastAPI Developer: Proven ...

Cotality

Principal Software Engineer (Python)

Irvine, CA · On-site

$144K - $194K/yr

Independently plan and execute system optimizations to ensure the Semantic Layer remains performant ... of professional software engineering experience. * Expert Python/FastAPI Developer: Proven ...

ConsumerDirect, Inc.

Software Developer II

Irvine, CA

$135K - $170K/yr

Software Engineer Team Lead Location : Onsite, Irvine, CA ***This position is full-time and in ... Ability to follow established designs while independently implementing solutions * Strong problem ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSoftware Engineer Independent Contractor JobsSoftware Engineer Independent Contractor Jobs in Riverside, CA

Software Engineer Independent Contractor information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$66.2K

$153.9K

$214.4K

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

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for software engineer independent contractor in Riverside, CA is $153,907.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $125,200.00 and $180,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Software Engineer Independent Contractor position, and why are they important?

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 is a Software Engineer Independent Contractor job?

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 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 Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Software Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Software Engineer Independent Contractor jobs in Riverside, CA? For Software Engineer Independent Contractor jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Software Engineer Independent Contractor jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Software Engineer Independent Contractor jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Software Engineer Independent Contractor jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Software Engineer Independent Contractor job openings:
Software Engineer Independent Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Software Engineer Independent Contractor job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 74% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $153,907 per year, or $74 per hour.
AI-First Software Engineer

AI-First Software Engineer

Planet DDS

Irvine, CA • On-site

$150K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Planet DDS is a dynamic and rapidly growing dental SaaS company transforming how dental practices run their businesses, serving over 13,000 practices across the United States with over 118,000 users.
Join our dynamic Innovation team, where we experiment with AI-first development to rethink how software is built. Our team is dedicated to exploring new ideas, developing innovative products, and driving technological advancements outside the constraints of traditional SDLC.
We are seeking a passionate and innovative AI-First Software Engineer to join our dynamic team. This role focuses on designing and developing cutting-edge software solutions using AI-First development tooling. We are looking for an AI-Powered Software Engineer who treats AI agents as a primary development tool - crafting prompts, orchestrating agentic workflows, and rapidly prototyping solutions that shape future products. The ideal candidate has previous Innovation team and/or start-up experience using AI development technologies.
This is a hybrid position in our Irvine, CA office (2-3 days per week).
Job Duties:
  • Application Development: AI-first development of applications using AI coding tools, AI agents and low-code platforms where they accelerate velocity.
  • Integration: Integrate AI-driven and low-code solutions with existing systems and databases, ensuring seamless functionality.
  • Customization: Use AI code generation to extend solutions when custom functionality is needed.
  • Collaboration: Work closely with product managers, and other stakeholders to gather requirements and deliver solutions, whereas prototypes help shape product strategy and leadership decisions.
  • Continuous Improvement: Stay updated with the latest advancements in AI and machine learning and continuously improve AI code generation processes and methodologies.
  • Communication: Effective communication skills to explain complex programming or AI concepts to technical and non-technical audiences.

Skills & Qualifications:
  • Education: A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, or a closely related discipline is required.
  • Experience: 3+ years of experience in AI and machine learning, with a focus on code generation and software development.
  • Skills: Hands-on with AI-powered tools (Claude Code, Cursor, Codex, Figma, MCP, v0.app, etc.). Strong understanding of software development principles. Proficiency with C#, .NET, OpenAPI, Python, PyTorch, Docker, Git, Microservices, Azure DevOps, CI/CD, data handling, and databases like Postgres, MS SQL Server.
  • Cloud Platform: Proficiency in at least one cloud platform like Azure, AWS or GCP.
  • Development principles and practices: Proficiency with datasets / databases and understanding of the SDLC cycle.
  • Attributes: Strong problem-solving skills, creativity, curiosity, and a passion for innovation. Comfortable working in fast-moving, ambiguous environments where experimentation is valued.
  • Cloud Platform: Proficiency in at least one cloud platform like Azure, AWS or GCP.

Benefits:
  • Medical, dental and vision insurance
  • Health Savings Account
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Telehealth
  • 401(k) and 401(k) match
  • Life and AD&D insurance
  • Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
  • FTO or Vacation
  • Sick Time
  • Employee Well-Being program
  • 11 paid holidays
  • Volunteer Time Off
  • Employee Referral program
  • Additional perk and voluntary benefit programs

Salary is based on a number of factors and may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. This position is also eligible for variable pay as part of the total compensation package.
PLANET DDS CORE IDEOLOGY:
To encourage measurable progress toward our vision and make the best decisions on behalf of employees and customers, we adopted a set of common values:
Collaborative - Working independently and across teams, we create scalable solutions to enable company growth
Empathetic - We are educated on the experience of our customers and feel vested in their success
Accountable - We feel ownership for the quality of our work and take pride in the positive outcomes
Trustworthy - We operate with integrity and honest, making promises we know that we can keep
Ambitious - We are driven by our ability to make a long-term, positive impact on the lives of dental market leaders
An Equal Opportunity Employer - Including Disability/Veterans

Apply