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Software Test Engineer Contract Jobs in California

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 · On-site

$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

Senior Software Test Engineer

Alameda, CA · On-site

$128K - $166K/yr

They are seeking a Software Test Engineer to lead verification and validation efforts across cloud and mobile platforms within a regulated medical device environment, ensuring product quality and ...

Collabera

Software Test Engineer

San Jose, CA

Automate test cases. Verify fixes. 5 years of experience are required. Qualifications Minimum Requirements: Bachelor degree in Computer Science or Electrical Engineering Experience with CNAenic/fnic ...

Abbott

Staff Software Test Engineer

Alameda, CA · On-site

We are seeking a Senior Software Test Engineer to lead verification and validation efforts across our cloud, and mobile platforms within a regulated medical device environment. This role is based in ...

Danaher

Senior Software Test Engineer

Vista, CA

$130K - $140K/yr

The Senior Software Test Engineer is responsible for ensuring the quality, reliability, and performance of AI-driven digital pathology solutions. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams ...

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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 Software Test Engineer

Abbott

Milpitas, CA

$114K - $228K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Abbott rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 138 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

178th of 540 rated manufacturers

Job description

Abbott is a global healthcare leader that helps people live more fully at all stages of life. Our portfolio of life-changing technologies spans the spectrum of healthcare, with leading businesses and products in diagnostics, medical devices, nutritionals and branded generic medicines. Our 115,000 colleagues serve people in more than 160 countries.JOB DESCRIPTION:

The Opportunity:

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 ensure software quality and compliance. This position is located in Alameda, California.

What you will do:

  • Review deliverables/activities as identified in the test plans for accuracy, consistency, completeness and compliance. Ensure adequate test coverage for every release. May be covering multiple projects.
  • Mentor and provide day to day guidance to the junior members of the software test team. Review work to ensure compliance and quality. May be covering multiple projects.
  • Provide feedback and suggest improvements to the Agile SDLC process
  • Strategically incorporate automated testing into the SDLC
  • Evaluate new tools and processes for adoption within the organization
  • Complete software testing and activities for development user stories within an Agile SDLC process
  • Review System Specifications/Requirements documents, user stories and create verification test cases (based on those requirements), and execute test cases
  • Investigate and report unexpected events, issues or software bugs. Verify fixes.
  • Perform exploratory testing, system level end to end testing, develop test datasets and execute automation scripts (to ensure application software releases are of high quality)
  • Create verification and validation test plans, test reports, trace matrices and review with relevant stakeholders (dev and quality)
  • Review code diff analysis and develop robust regression test strategy

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in computer science or related engineering field
  • Minimum 8+ years with Embedded software testing. At least 4+ years of Software Quality Assurance in a regulated industry is required.
  • 1+ years of scripting/automating tests (familiarity with automation) is required.
  • At least 3 years of coding preferable with (C, C++)
  • Knowledge of software verification and validation methodologies.
  • Understanding test-driven methodologies.
  • Demonstrated success in technical proficiency, creativity, and independent thought.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Strong analytical & problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to multi-task and prioritize responsibilities

The base pay for this position is

$114,000.00 - $228,000.00

In specific locations, the pay range may vary from the range posted.

JOB FAMILY:Product DevelopmentDIVISION:ADC Diabetes CareLOCATION:United States > Alameda : 1360-1380 South Loop RoadADDITIONAL LOCATIONS:United States > Milpitas : 1820 McCarthy BlvdWORK SHIFT:StandardTRAVEL:Yes, 5 % of the TimeMEDICAL SURVEILLANCE:Not ApplicableSIGNIFICANT WORK ACTIVITIES:Continuous sitting for prolonged periods (more than 2 consecutive hours in an 8 hour day)Abbott is an Equal Opportunity Employer of Minorities/Women/Individuals with Disabilities/Protected Veterans.EEO is the Law link - English: http://webstorage.abbott.com/common/External/EEO_English.pdfEEO is the Law link - Espanol: http://webstorage.abbott.com/common/External/EEO_Spanish.pdf

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