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Software Engineering Jobs in Irvine, CA (NOW HIRING)

Director, Software Engineering

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$223K - $260K/yr

The Director of Software Engineering reports to Director of Product Development and leads Diality's Software Engineering and Software Verification & Validation organizations. This role serves as the ...

Director, Software Engineering

Irvine, CA ยท Hybrid

$223K - $260K/yr

The Director of Software Engineering reports to Director of Product Development and leads Diality's Software Engineering and Software Verification & Validation organizations. This role serves as the ...

Software Engineering Manager Company: The Boeing Company The Boeing Company is looking for a Software Engineering Manager to join our Space Mission Systems (SMS) team, on the ESS/Evolved Strategic ...

Software Engineering Manager Company: The Boeing Company The Boeing Company is looking for a Software Engineering Manager to join our Space Mission Systems (SMS) team, on the ESS/Evolved Strategic ...

Manager, Software Engineering

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$136 - $175/hr

Manager, Software Engineering - Dataplane Meet the Moment with Alteryx We're living through a once-in-a-generation shift in how work gets done. Data, automation, and AI are quickly becoming the ...

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Showing results 1-20

Software Engineering information

See Irvine, CA salary details

$68.2K

$158.4K

$220.6K

How much do software engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for software engineering in Irvine, CA is $158,351.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $128,800.00 and $185,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is software engineering a well paying job?

Software engineering is generally a well-paying profession, with median salaries often higher than many other fields, especially for those with strong programming skills and experience in popular languages like Java, Python, or C++. Salaries can vary based on location, experience, and industry, but the role typically offers competitive compensation and benefits. Continuous learning and certifications can further enhance earning potential.

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

To thrive as a Software Engineer, you need strong programming skills in languages such as Python, Java, or C++, along with a solid understanding of computer science fundamentals and a relevant degree. Familiarity with development tools like Git, cloud platforms, version control systems, and knowledge of software development methodologies are typically required. Problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and teamwork are valuable soft skills that help engineers collaborate and deliver high-quality solutions. These skills and qualities are essential to create efficient, maintainable software and to adapt to rapidly evolving technologies and project requirements.

What is the difference between Software Engineering vs Software Development?

AspectSoftware EngineeringSoftware Development
CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science or related, certifications like CSWA or AWSBachelor's in Computer Science or related, coding bootcamps
Work EnvironmentDesigning, planning, and managing software projectsWriting, testing, and debugging code
Industry UsageUsed across tech, finance, healthcare, and more for complex systemsCommon in startups, small teams, and for app development

Software engineering involves designing and managing software projects, focusing on architecture and lifecycle. Software development primarily centers on coding and building applications. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, software engineers often handle broader project planning, whereas developers focus on coding tasks.

What are some common challenges software engineers face when working on large-scale projects, and how can they be addressed?

Software engineers working on large-scale projects often encounter challenges such as managing codebase complexity, coordinating with distributed teams, and ensuring consistent coding standards. To address these issues, teams typically implement version control systems, conduct regular code reviews, and use agile methodologies to break tasks into manageable sprints. Effective communication tools and clear documentation also play a crucial role in keeping everyone aligned and minimizing misunderstandings.

What is software engineering?

Software engineering is the discipline of designing, developing, testing, and maintaining software applications and systems. It involves applying engineering principles and systematic methods to ensure software is reliable, efficient, and meets user requirements. Software engineers work with programming languages, frameworks, and tools to solve problems and build solutions for various industries. The field encompasses many specializations, including front-end development, back-end development, DevOps, and more.

What jobs can a software engineer do?

A software engineer can work in roles such as application developer, systems engineer, web developer, mobile app developer, or software architect. They often design, develop, test, and maintain software solutions using programming languages like Java, Python, or C++, and may work in various industries including technology, finance, healthcare, and gaming.
What are the most commonly searched types of Software Engineering jobs in Irvine, CA? The most popular types of Software Engineering jobs in Irvine, CA are:
What cities near Irvine, CA are hiring for Software Engineering jobs? Cities near Irvine, CA with the most Software Engineering job openings:
Infographic showing various Software Engineering job openings in Irvine, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $158,351 per year, or $76.1 per hour.

Software Engineering Manager

Palomar Products, Inc.

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA โ€ข On-site

$200K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Palomar Products is a global leader in secure military communications technology, developing mission-critical communication systems used across fighter aircraft, helicopters, naval platforms, and next-generation defense programs worldwide.


Would you like to lead the development of next-generation secure communication systems deployed across military aircraft, naval platforms, and mission-critical defense programs worldwide?

Are you currently leading a small software team and looking for a genuine succession-planning opportunity that could ultimately lead to Director , VP Engineering, and executive leadership positions across a multi-billion-dollar aerospace group?


Position Summary :


Palomar is seeking a Software Engineering Manager to lead a team of skilled engineers developing safety critical software for secure communications systems. Youโ€™ll oversee a small team of highly experienced subject matter experts (SME) and manage third-party developers. Your time will be split between technical oversight, team leadership, process improvement, and occasional hands-on support. Youโ€™ll also collaborate on proposals, departmental planning, and tool/license management .


Reporting directly to the VP of Engineering, this role is ideal for experienced Software Engineering Managers, as well as Principal Engineers and Technical Leads looking to take the next step into formal engineering leadership.


As a Software Engineering Manager, you will:


  • Lead, mentor, and develop a team of 5 Software Engineers through coaching, career development, and regular 1-to-1s
  • Drive software architecture, development, integration, verification, certification, and SDLC activities
  • Guide daily engineering activities, remove blockers, and support successful project execution
  • Collaborate with Program and Project Engineering on proposals, estimates, staffing forecasts, and resource planning
  • Work closely with Systems, Hardware, FPGA, and Test Engineering teams to deliver mission-critical communications technology


The ideal Software Engineering Manager will bring:


  • Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related discipline
  • 8+ years of software development experience, including 2+ years in a formal management or leadership role.
  • Strong background in safety critical software development in aerospace or defense.
  • Experience with DO-178C, RTOS (e.g., VxWorks, Wind River), and real-time embedded environments.
  • Familiarity with open system architectures such as SOSA, MOSA, or FACE.
  • Experience across the software development lifecycle within aerospace, defense, communications, avionics


Desirable Experience of the Software Engineering Manager:


  • Secure Communications Architectures
  • Software Defined Radio (SDR) Systems
  • Tactical Data Links
  • Voice & Data Communication Systems
  • Airborne Communication Platforms


Why Join Palomar as a Software Engineering Manager?


  • Succession-planning opportunity with future growth into Director / VP Engineering leadership
  • Opportunity to influence software strategy, engineering processes, and future product roadmaps
  • Join a company backed by TransDigm, a multi-billion-dollar publicly traded aerospace group with an engineering legacy supporting Aerospace/defense & military platforms worldwide
  • Long-term career opportunities across 55 operating companies


Compensation: Truly flexible compensation starting at $200,000+ DOE

Benefits : Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, 401(k), and more

9/80 schedule with every other Friday off


This opportunity offers exposure to advanced secure communications technology, airborne mission systems, and next-generation defense programs while providing a genuine long-term leadership career path.


All suitable applicants will be contacted within one working day. Apply today to avoid missing out!