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Software Engineer Level 3 Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Socket.dev

Software Engineer III/IV

Burbank, CA · On-site

$132 - $191/hr

Crane Aerospace and Electronics has an exciting opportunity for a Senior Software Engineer (Level III or IV) at our Burbank, CA location. About Crane Crane Aerospace & Electronics supplies critical ...

Crane Company

Software Engineer III/IV

Burbank, CA · On-site

$61.50 - $82.75/hr

Crane Aerospace and Electronics has an exciting opportunity for a Senior Software Engineer (Level III or IV) at our Burbank, CA location. About Crane: Crane Aerospace & Electronics supplies critical ...

Crane Company

Software Engineer III/IV

Burbank, CA · On-site

$61.50 - $82.75/hr

Crane Aerospace and Electronics has an exciting opportunity fora Senior Software Engineer (Level III or IV) at our Burbank, CA location. About Crane: Crane Aerospace & Electronicssupplies critical ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsSoftware Engineer Level 3 JobsSoftware Engineer Level 3 Jobs in California

Software Engineer Level 3 information

See California salary details

$62.7K

$145.6K

$202.8K

How much do software engineer level 3 jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for software engineer level 3 in California is $145,592.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,400.00 and $170,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a software engineer level 3?

A Software Engineer Level 3 is typically a mid-to-senior level role responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining complex software systems. They often work independently or as part of a team, mentor junior engineers, and contribute to architectural decisions. Level 3 engineers are expected to demonstrate strong technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication. They may also participate in code reviews, project planning, and collaborate with cross-functional teams.

What is the difference between Software Engineer Level 3 vs Software Engineer Level 2?

AspectSoftware Engineer Level 3Software Engineer Level 2
Experience3-5 years1-3 years
ResponsibilitiesDesigns complex features, mentors junior staffDevelops features, fixes bugs
SkillsAdvanced coding, system designProficient coding, basic system understanding
CertificationsOptional, but often includes relevant certificationsOptional, entry-level certifications

Software Engineer Level 3 typically has more experience and handles complex tasks and mentorship compared to Level 2. Level 3 engineers are expected to design larger features and contribute to system architecture, whereas Level 2 focuses on developing and maintaining features under supervision.

What jobs can I get with a Software Engineer Level 3?

A Software Engineer Level 3 typically qualifies for senior or advanced software development roles such as Senior Software Engineer, Lead Developer, or Technical Architect. These positions often involve designing complex systems, mentoring junior staff, and working with advanced programming languages and tools. Additional certifications or expertise in specific technologies can expand job opportunities in areas like cloud computing, cybersecurity, or data engineering.

How does a software engineer level 3 typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a project?

As a Software Engineer Level 3, you will frequently work alongside product managers, designers, quality assurance specialists, and other engineers. Your role often involves clarifying technical requirements, participating in design and code reviews, and ensuring that your solutions align with the team's goals. Effective communication and proactive problem-solving are key, as you'll need to bridge the gap between technical and non-technical stakeholders. This collaborative environment not only enhances project outcomes but also provides opportunities to develop leadership and mentorship skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a software engineer level 3, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Software Engineer Level 3, you need advanced programming skills, a solid understanding of software architecture, and a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field. Experience with development frameworks, version control systems like Git, and familiarity with cloud platforms or CI/CD tools are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and leadership skills help you collaborate and mentor junior engineers. These competencies are crucial for delivering robust software solutions, driving technical projects, and supporting team growth.
What are popular job titles related to Software Engineer Level 3 jobs in California? For Software Engineer Level 3 jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Software Engineer Level 3 jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Software Engineer Level 3 jobs in California are:
Software Engineer Level 3 jobs near you
Infographic showing various Software Engineer Level 3 job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $145,592 per year, or $70 per hour.

Software Systems Engineer-Level 3/4 (AHT)

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$142K - $213K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 362 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 538 rated manufacturers

Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: YesCLEARANCE TYPE: SecretTRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescriptionAt Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

Northrop Grumman's Defense System's, Advanced Weapons Division is looking for aSoftware Systems Engineer-Level 3/4,locatedin Northridge, CA.This role will be100% on-sitewith no hybrid opportunities. A current government issued secret clearance is required to start.

This person will support the Stand in Attack Weapon (SiAW) Program. As a member of the Software team,you'llwork in a fast-paced environment as the go between for the Software Engineering functional group and the Systems Engineering functional group. Candidate shouldpossessSystems Engineering discipline knowledge with strong embedded software familiarity. Candidate willbe responsible foranalyzing,allocatingrequirements and specifications with various stakeholders.

Responsibilities:

Responsible for translating system/subsystem level software requirements into software level requirements for each CSCI. Work with System and Software engineers to develop software architecture models. Support Verification and Validation of software product to ensure all integrated CSCIs function as intended.Experience in systems engineering including requirements analysis, requirements allocation, system design, software design, software implementation, software testing, system integration, field integration testing, and requirements verification.Experience in software/systems architecture using Cameo Enterprise Architecture (behavioral, structural, analytical) to develop use cases, activitydiagramsand sequence diagrams.Familiarity in Writing Software Test Plans and Test Descriptions and running tests.

Basic Qualifications PrincipalSoftware Systems Engineer(Level 3):

  • Bachelor of Science in an Engineering discipline and a minimum offive(5) years of systems engineering experience with any exposure to requirements development and verification activities; or a Master's of Science with a minimum ofthree(3) years of systems engineering experience with any exposure to requirements development and verification activities.
  • Experience in systems engineering tools, such as DOORS, CAMEO.
  • Experience in Embedded Software, and ability to read code and verify the implementation per Software Requirements Specifications
  • Experience with system/subsystem/software/hardware integration, test, and verification
  • Experience in the defense industry and design in an aerospace environment
  • Current US Government Secret security clearance,adjudicatedwithin the past 5 years

Basic Qualifications Sr. PrincipalSoftware Systems Engineer(Level 4):

  • Bachelor of Science in an Engineering discipline and a minimum ofeight(8) years of systems engineering experience with any exposure to requirements development and verification activities; will consider Master of Science in an Engineering discipline and a minimum ofsix(6) years of systems engineering experience with any exposure to requirements development and verification activities.
  • Experience in systems engineering tools, such as DOORS, CAMEO.
  • Experience in Embedded Software, and ability to read code and verify the implementation per Software Requirements Specifications
  • Experience with system/subsystem/software/hardware integration, test, and verification
  • Experience in the defense industry and design in an aerospace environment
  • Current US Government Secret security clearance,adjudicatedwithin the past 5 years

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience in multiple aerospace and defense technologies (e.g., sensors, navigation aids, guidance electronics, controls, propulsion, structures, platforms).
  • Have technical knowledge in one or more military mission areas (e.g., Air, Land, Sea, Space, Cyber)
  • Experience in assessing legacy system architecture andinnovationfor future potential technology development.
Primary Level Salary Range: $114,000.00 - $171,000.00Secondary Level Salary Range: $142,200.00 - $213,400.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939

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