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Software System Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Raytheon

Software / System Safety Engineer II

San Jose, CA · On-site

$202K - $240K/yr

What You Will Do As a Software / System Safety Engineer II, your responsibilities will include: * Participating in the execution of the Software System Safety Program. * Performing MIL-STD-882 System ...

Raytheon

Software / System Safety Engineer II

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$186K - $220K/yr

What You Will Do As a Software / System Safety Engineer II, your responsibilities will include: * Participating in the execution of the Software System Safety Program. * Performing MIL-STD-882 System ...

Raytheon

Software / System Safety Engineer II

San Diego, CA · On-site

$183K - $217K/yr

What You Will Do As a Software / System Safety Engineer II, your responsibilities will include: * Participating in the execution of the Software System Safety Program. * Performing MIL-STD-882 System ...

Apple

Sr. System Software Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

We are seeking a versatile Sr. Software System Engineer with end-to-end expertise to accelerate the exploration of new concepts. In this role, you will be responsible for the entire lifecycle of ...

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Software System Developer information

What is a software system developer?

Software system developers are professionals who design, build, test, and maintain the underlying software and systems that power computers and networks. They focus on developing operating systems, network distribution software, and other system-level applications that support the functionality of user-facing programs and hardware. Their work ensures that various software components integrate smoothly and operate efficiently, often collaborating with hardware engineers, programmers, and IT specialists. This role requires strong problem-solving skills, knowledge of programming languages, and an understanding of computer architecture and system design.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a software system developer?

To thrive as a Software System Developer, you need strong programming skills, problem-solving abilities, and a solid background in computer science or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with programming languages (such as Java, C++, or Python), version control systems like Git, and knowledge of software development methodologies are essential, and certifications in areas like cloud computing or security can be advantageous. Outstanding analytical thinking, teamwork, and effective communication skills will set you apart in collaborative and fast-paced environments. These skills and qualities are vital for building robust, efficient software solutions and ensuring successful project delivery.

What are some common challenges faced by software system developers when integrating new technologies into existing systems?

Software System Developers often encounter challenges when integrating new technologies, such as ensuring compatibility with legacy systems, managing data migration, and minimizing downtime during transitions. They must thoroughly assess existing infrastructure and plan for potential bottlenecks or conflicts that may arise. Effective collaboration with cross-functional teams, detailed documentation, and thorough testing are crucial for a smooth integration process. Staying adaptable and proactive in learning new frameworks or tools also helps address these challenges efficiently.

What is the difference between Software System Developer vs Software Engineer?

AspectSoftware System DeveloperSoftware Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in CS or related field, certifications like Microsoft or AWSBachelor's or higher in CS or related, certifications vary
Work EnvironmentDevelops and maintains software systems, often in teams or projectsDesigns, develops, tests, and maintains software solutions, often across projects
Industry UsageCommon in IT, enterprise, and software development companiesWidely used across tech, finance, healthcare, and other industries

Software System Developers focus on creating and maintaining specific software systems, while Software Engineers design and develop broader software solutions. Both roles require similar credentials and often work in similar environments, but their scope and responsibilities can differ based on project needs.

Software System Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Software System Developer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution.

Software System Engineer

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

The Exploration Company
Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about The Exploration Companyexternal

$186K - $220K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Contribute to verification and validation activities to ensure flight software meets functional, performance, and safety requirements

  • Support requirements management and tracing from system-level requirements to software implementation, test, and verification artifacts

  • Develop and maintain the software functional design baseline and plan software testing of the integrated mission

Job description

Here at The Exploration Company, we are building innovative aerospace technologies that advance the future of space transportation.

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Software System Engineer to support the certification activities of the flight software for the Nyx program. You will work in a dedicated team focused on verification & validation (V&V), software certification, requirements tracing, test planning and system engineering interfacing. In this role, you will collaborate closely with software development teams, system engineering, certification bodies, and safety authorities. You will work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment where cross-functional integration is essential.

Key Responsibilities

  • Contribute to V&V and IV&V activities to ensure that flight software meets functional, performance, and safety requirements

  • Support requirements management and tracing, ensuring full traceability from system-level requirements to software implementation, test and verification artifacts

  • Prepare and review documentation required for software certification and NASA Safety Reviews

  • Interpret, tailor, and apply formal standards

  • Interface with internal Product Assurance

  • Collaborate daily with system engineers and software development teams to resolve technical issues and clarify requirements

  • Develop and maintain software functional design baseline

  • Plan software testing of the integrated mission

  • Use your understanding of C++ and Python to meaningfully engage in software design and test discussions

What we would love to see from you

  • Experience working on safety-critical or highly regulated software systems (preferably in aerospace)

  • Solid understanding of requirements management, V&V, test and certification processes

  • Strong technical background in software engineering, with practical experience in flight software frameworks and modern C++

  • Experience with real-time systems, embedded development, or spacecraft software

  • Familiarity with software testing methodologies and simulation tools

  • Excellent cross-disciplinary communication and collaboration skills

  • Focus on detail, quality, and testing

  • Familiarity with agile and modern development practices

Nice to have

  • Familiarity with standards such as SSP 50808, NASA-NPR-7150.2, NASA-STD-8739.8B, RCC319, ECSS-Q-ST-80C

  • Prior work on human-rated spaceflight programs

  • Experience with model-based system engineering

  • Experience with CI/CD systems and build systems

Why you should join us!

What makes us special here at The Exploration Company and why we think you will enjoy working here is:  

  • We’re Agile - we make decisions fast whilst keeping our goals and systems in mind 

  • We’re Open and Collaborative - we are transparent about risks and obstacles, so that we can cooperate to overcome them  

  • We have a lot of Fun - we refuel our energy knowing we are democratising space. It’s a wonderful and rare opportunity, are YOU up for the challenge?  

We'd love to hear from you if you wish to be a part of our journey. Please submit your CV now for immediate consideration and we will be in touch shortly. 
 
The Exploration Company is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, colour, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status or disability status. Relocation assistance is provided for those willing to relocate including visa sponsorship where applicable.  

All offers are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check, which will be subject to the country, role, and project you applied for. By submitting your application, you acknowledge and agree that any offer of employment may be conditional upon successful condition of this check. The Exploration Company partners with Zinc Work Limited located in the UK (Zinc), a third-party provider, to ensure this process as efficient and transparent as possible.
If applicable, you will receive an email from Zinc upon acceptance of your offer with a link to a secure portal where you can provide the required information to Zinc.