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Software Test Engineer Contract Jobs in California

Eliassen Group

Software Test Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$55 - $64.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Hybrid in San Diego, CA Our client seeks a Software Test Engineer to lead and execute advanced software testing for web applications and instrument systems with a focus on C# and TypeScript solutions.

Kitu Systems

Software Test Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

We are seeking a test engineer that has a strong background and belief in software testing and can drive the deployment and adoption of testing activities within a team. The ideal candidate is highly ...

Arista Networks

Software Test Engineer

Santa Clara, CA

$110K - $185K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

Who You'll Work With Arista Networks is looking for world-class Software Test Engineers to help us in building the highest quality networking products you can buy. At Arista, you'll spend your time ...

Eliassen Group

Software Test Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$55 - $64.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Hybrid in San Diego, CA Our client seeks a Software Test Engineer to lead and execute advanced software testing for web applications and instrument systems with a focus on C# and TypeScript solutions.

Compal

Software Test Engineer

Goleta, CA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... contract,workbasedon-siteinGoleta,California.TheTestEquipmentSoftware ... Integrate test software with test station hardware * DevelopCode in C/C++, MFC (Microsoft ...

Arista Networks

Software Test Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$110K - $185K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

Who You'll Work With Arista Networks is looking for world-class Software Test Engineers to help us in building the highest quality networking products you can buy. At Arista, you'll spend your time ...

Eliassen Group

Software Test Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$55 - $64.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Hybrid in San Diego, CA Our client seeks a Software Test Engineer to lead and execute advanced software testing for web applications and instrument systems with a focus on C# and TypeScript solutions.

Abbott

Staff Software Test Engineer

Alameda, CA

$114K - $228K/yr

The Staff Software Test Engineer will evaluate processes and tools to facilitate testing and successful coverage. Position must be able to formulate and execute a strategic approach to testing to ...

Abbott

Staff Software Test Engineer

Milpitas, CA

$114K - $228K/yr

The Staff Software Test Engineer will evaluate processes and tools to facilitate testing and successful coverage. Position must be able to formulate and execute a strategic approach to testing to ...

Abbott

Staff Software Test Engineer

Alameda, CA

$114K - $228K/yr

The Staff Software Test Engineer will evaluate processes and tools to facilitate testing and successful coverage. Position must be able to formulate and execute a strategic approach to testing to ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsSoftware Test Engineer Contract JobsSoftware Test Engineer Contract Jobs in California

Software Test Engineer Contract information

See California salary details

$43.6K

$107.8K

$168.6K

How much do software test engineer contract jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for software test engineer contract in California is $107,836.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,000.00 and $124,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a software test engineer contract?

To thrive as a Software Test Engineer on contract, you need a solid understanding of software testing methodologies, test case development, and a relevant technical background, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with automated testing tools (e.g., Selenium, JUnit), bug tracking systems, and knowledge of scripting languages are typically required, and certifications like ISTQB can be advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with development teams and ensuring product quality. These skills and qualifications enable contract engineers to quickly adapt, identify defects efficiently, and deliver reliable software within tight project timelines.

What does a software test engineer contract do?

A Software Test Engineer on a contract basis is responsible for evaluating software applications to ensure they meet required standards and function correctly. They create and execute test plans, identify bugs or issues, and document their findings for the development team. Contract Software Test Engineers often work on specific projects for a set period, providing flexibility for both employers and professionals. Their work helps improve product quality before software is released to users.

What are some common challenges faced by software test engineers contract, and how can they be addressed?

As a contract Software Test Engineer, one common challenge is quickly adapting to new teams, tools, and product domains, since contracts are often project-based and time-limited. Building effective communication with developers and understanding the existing testing frameworks can take time, but proactively seeking documentation and scheduling introductory meetings helps smooth the transition. Additionally, balancing workload expectations and maintaining high-quality standards under tight deadlines is essential. Staying organized, clarifying deliverables, and leveraging industry-standard testing tools can help contract engineers succeed in these dynamic environments.

What is the difference between Software Test Engineer Contract vs Software Test Engineer?

AspectSoftware Test Engineer ContractSoftware Test Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a relevant degree and testing certifications (e.g., ISTQB)Same as contract; often the same certifications and experience needed
Work EnvironmentTemporary, project-based roles often with consulting firms or as freelancersPermanent or long-term employment within a company
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in tech, consulting, and software development firmsWidely used across industries with dedicated testing teams
Search & Comparison IntentFocuses on short-term contracts, flexibility, and project scopeEmphasizes stability, career growth, and long-term roles

In summary, Software Test Engineer Contract roles are temporary, project-based positions suitable for those seeking flexibility, while Software Test Engineer roles are permanent, offering stability and ongoing career development within organizations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Software Test Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Software Test Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Software Test Engineer Contract jobs?

Cities in California with the most Software Test Engineer Contract job openings:

Software Test Engineer Contract jobs near you
Infographic showing various Software Test Engineer Contract job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,836 per year, or $51.8 per hour.

Staff Systems Test Engineer (Contract)

CSG

Fremont, CA • On-site

Contractor

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Staff Systems Test Engineer (Contract) Location: California - Onsite Contract: 12 months, with potential to convert to Full-Time Travel: Occasional travel to nearby test facilities The Opportunity We're partnering with an innovative aerospace company developing next-generation electric aircraft technology. They're looking for a Staff Systems Test Engineer to lead system-level testing, integration, and verification across complex aircraft systems. This is a hands-on role offering the opportunity to work with advanced test environments and play a key part in bringing new aerospace technology through development and validation. What You'll Do Lead operation and commissioning of complex integrated test systems. Develop test plans, procedures, specifications, and automated test scripts. Execute manual and automated system-level testing. Develop and improve data acquisition, reporting, and post-processing tools. Select and integrate test and data acquisition hardware. Review electrical drawings and support hardware/software integration. Troubleshoot electrical, mechanical, and software issues. Support verification, certification, and test safety activities. What We're Looking For Strong experience in systems test engineering within aerospace, automotive, or another complex engineering environment. Hands-on experience with HIL (Hardware-in-the-Loop) systems and integrated test environments. Experience operating and troubleshooting complex test equipment. Strong understanding of electrical, avionics, aircraft, or high-voltage systems. Excellent troubleshooting, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills. Ability to work onsite in California . Desirable Experience Experience with National Instruments (NI), VeriStand, LabVIEW, PXI, Python, C++, Linux , or aerospace verification and certification standards would be advantageous. Why Apply? Join a highly innovative aerospace program working on next-generation electric aircraft technology . You'll have ownership of complex testing activities, solve challenging engineering problems, and directly contribute to the development of advanced aircraft systems. Interested? We'd love to hear from you! Apply now or reach out to learn more.

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