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Software Engineering Jobs in Santa Clara, CA (NOW HIRING)

Cisco

Leader, Software Engineering

San Jose, CA · On-site

$214K - $309K/yr

Meet the Team Our software engineering team enables the engineering teams to improve and optimize the engineering processes and infrastructure to deliver great experiences to the engineering ...

Cisco

Leader, Software Engineering

San Jose, CA · On-site

$214K - $309K/yr

Meet the Team Our software engineering team enables the engineering teams to improve and optimize the engineering processes and infrastructure to deliver great experiences to the engineering ...

IXL Learning

Software Engineering Manager

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$170K - $220K/yr

IXL Learning, developer of personalized learning products used by millions of people globally, is seeking a Software Engineering Manager to manage a team of talented engineers and provide hands-on ...

Meta

Software Engineering Manager

Menlo Park, CA · On-site

$219K/yr

Meta is seeking a Software Engineering Manager to lead multiple engineering teams delivering large-scale software systems that power Meta's family of products and platforms. In this role, you will ...

New

Turing Labs

Software Engineering

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

... software to consistently exceed customer expectations • Support in defining engineering culture, standards, and roadmap with the CTO • Collaborate tightly with our ML team to make outputs ...

E-Space

Head of Software Engineering

Saratoga, CA · On-site

$279K/yr

The Head of Software Engineering will lead the software engineering organization for space vehicle programs, defining the technical vision and driving execution while building a high-performing team.

Ring Inc

Head of Software Engineering

Saratoga, CA · On-site

$100 - $185/hr

As Director or VP of Software Engineering, you will own the full software engineering organization for our space vehicle programs -- from architecture and embedded systems to communications software ...

E-Space

Head of Software Engineering

Saratoga, CA · On-site

$279K/yr

As Director or VP of Software Engineering, you will own the full software engineering organization for our space vehicle programs -- from architecture and embedded systems to communications software ...

E-Space

Head of Software Engineering

Saratoga, CA · On-site

$279K/yr

As Director or VP of Software Engineering, you will own the full software engineering organization for our space vehicle programs - from architecture and embedded systems to communications software ...

Intel

Software Engineering Leader

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$233K - $330K/yr

You will lead software engineering teams that deliver innovation, performance, engineering productivity, and quality at a predictable cadence. Plus, you have the opportunity to transform how ...

IXL Learning

Software Engineering Manager

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$170K - $220K/yr

IXL Learning, developer of personalized learning products used by millions of people globally, is seeking a Software Engineering Manager to manage a team of talented engineers and provide hands-on ...

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Software Engineering information

See Santa Clara, CA salary details

$74.6K

$173.3K

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How much do software engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for software engineering in Santa Clara, CA is $173,257.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $140,900.00 and $203,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

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 experience, specialized skills, or certifications. Salaries can vary based on location, industry, and level of expertise, but it is considered a lucrative career choice overall.

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 work will a software engineer do?

A software engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains software applications and systems. They write code using programming languages, collaborate with teams to solve technical problems, and often use tools like version control systems and development environments. Their work may also involve debugging, documentation, and ensuring software meets quality standards.

What are the most commonly searched types of Software Engineering jobs in Santa Clara, CA?

The most popular types of Software Engineering jobs in Santa Clara, CA are:

What cities near Santa Clara, CA are hiring for Software Engineering jobs?

Cities near Santa Clara, CA with the most Software Engineering job openings:

Software Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Software Engineering job openings in Santa Clara, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $171,912 per year, or $82.7 per hour.

Director, Software Engineering

Iridex Corporation

San Jose, CA

$230K - $240K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Iridex Corporation is a global medical technology company dedicated to advancing the treatment of glaucoma and retinal diseases through innovative laser-based solutions. Since 1989, our products have been used by ophthalmologists around the world to help preserve and improve vision.

We are looking for an experienced hands-on Software Engineering leader to head our R&D team and manage  our software activities.

At Iridex, you’ll have the opportunity to contribute to meaningful work that supports physicians and patients worldwide while being part of a company that values collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.

PURPOSE OF JOB:

The Director, Software Engineering is the senior software engineering leader responsible for the technical direction, architecture, development, and lifecycle management of software and firmware supporting Iridex's ophthalmic medical devices.

This role serves as the organization's principal software engineering authority while providing direct leadership and management to three Principal Engineers. The Director balances hands-on technical leadership with people management, project prioritization, and cross-functional collaboration to ensure software solutions are reliable, maintainable, scalable, and aligned with product and business objectives.

The position works closely with Engineering, Quality, Regulatory, Manufacturing, Technical Service, and other functions within a regulated medical-device environment.

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Technical Leadership

  • Serve as the senior technical authority for software and embedded systems across Iridex products.
  • Establish software architecture, engineering standards, development practices, and technical direction.
  • Lead complex software and firmware development, troubleshooting, integration, and sustaining engineering activities.
  • Provide technical oversight of new product development and existing product platforms, including legacy systems.
  • Review and approve software architecture, designs, code, testing strategies, and technical solutions.
  • Identify and address technical risks, system-level issues, and opportunities to improve software reliability, maintainability, and development efficiency.
  • Ensure software engineering activities support applicable quality, regulatory, cybersecurity, and product requirements.
  • Provide hands-on technical expertise when required to resolve complex or high-priority issues.

People & Team Leadership

  • Directly manage and develop three Principal Software Engineers.
  • Establish team priorities, allocate resources, and balance competing technical and business requirements.
  • Set clear performance expectations and provide regular coaching, feedback, and development opportunities.
  • Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, technical excellence, and continuous improvement.
  • Build and maintain software engineering capabilities, processes, and technical talent to support current and future product needs.

Cross-Functional Leadership

  • Partner with Product Development, Quality, Regulatory, Manufacturing, Technical Service, Sales, and other functions to resolve technical issues and deliver product objectives.
  • Translate complex technical issues, risks, and recommendations into clear communication for technical and non-technical stakeholders.
  • Provide technical input to engineering leadership and senior management on product strategy, priorities, risks, and resource requirements.
  • Support regulatory submissions, verification and validation, cybersecurity, field issues, manufacturing activities, and other product lifecycle requirements as needed.

 Engineering Operations

  • Establish and maintain effective software development processes, tools, repositories, build environments, and documentation practices.
  • Drive consistent software development, testing, code review, configuration management, and change-control practices.
  • Ensure appropriate technical documentation and engineering records are maintained.
  • Identify opportunities to improve development efficiency, product quality, and engineering infrastructure.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education & Experience

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
  • 10+ years of progressive software and/or embedded systems engineering experience, with demonstrated technical leadership.
  • Experience leading software engineering teams and managing senior-level technical professionals.
  • Strong experience developing and troubleshooting embedded software and working at the hardware/software interface.
  • Experience working in a regulated environment; medical-device experience strongly preferred.

Technical Skills

  • Advanced proficiency in C and C++.
  • Strong experience with embedded systems, including ARM and/or TI C2000 processors.
  • Experience with bare-metal embedded development and Linux and/or Windows environments.
  • Strong understanding of software architecture, development methodologies, testing, debugging, and configuration management.
  • Experience troubleshooting complex software, firmware, hardware, and system-level issues.
  • Familiarity with embedded cybersecurity and software development practices applicable to medical devices.

Leadership & Communication

  • Demonstrated ability to lead through influence and make sound technical decisions.
  • Strong people-management, coaching, and team-development skills.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with engineers, executives, regulatory professionals, manufacturing personnel, and other stakeholders.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, prioritization, and decision-making skills.
  • Ability to operate effectively in a dynamic environment with changing technical, regulatory, manufacturing, and business priorities.

Medical Device / Regulatory Experience

  • Working knowledge of FDA requirements and medical-device quality systems strongly preferred.
  • Familiarity with FDA 21 CFR 820 and ISO 13485 is desirable.
  • Experience supporting software verification/validation, regulatory submissions, cybersecurity, or product certification is a plus.

KEY SUCCESS FACTORS

The successful candidate will:

  • Serve as the principal software engineering authority for Iridex.
  • Provide strong technical direction while remaining sufficiently hands-on to solve complex problems.
  • Build and lead a high-performing team of Principal Software Engineers.
  • Establish scalable, disciplined, and sustainable software engineering practices.
  • Successfully balance new product development, sustaining engineering, legacy systems, and urgent technical issues.
  • Partner effectively across Engineering, Quality, Regulatory, Manufacturing, Technical Service, and other functions.
  • Develop people while maintaining a high standard of technical excellence and accountability.
  • Anticipate technical risks and proactively recommend solutions.
  • Align software engineering priorities with product, customer, and business objectives.