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Software Test Engineer Contract Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Leidos

Software Test Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$92K - $166K/yr

Leidos has a new and exciting opportunity for a Software Test Engineer in our INTEL Sector's Cyber & Analytics Business Area (CABA) . Our talented team is at the forefront in Security Engineering ...

Leidos

Software Test Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$92K - $166K/yr

Leidos has a new and exciting opportunity for a Software Test Engineer in our INTEL Sector's Cyber & Analytics Business Area (CABA) . Our talented team is at the forefront in Security Engineering ...

Persistent Systems

Software Test Engineer

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$106K - $133K/yr

The Software Test Engineer will be responsible for ensuring that our products meet customer and management requirements, as well as Persistent Systems' quality standards. Position Responsibilities

Persistent Systems

Software Test Engineer

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$106K - $133K/yr

The Software Test Engineer will be responsible for ensuring that our products meet customer and management requirements, as well as Persistent Systems' quality standards. Position Responsibilities

Persistent Systems

Software Test Engineer

Manhattan, NY

$106K - $133K/yr

The Software Test Engineer will be responsible for ensuring that our products meet customer and management requirements, as well as Persistent Systems' quality standards. Position Responsibilities

Power3 Solutions

Software Test Engineer

Columbia, MD · On-site

$250K/yr

Six (6) years of experience as a Software Test Engineer on programs and contracts of similar scope, type, and complexity. * A Master's degree may be substituted for two (2) years of experience.

Booz Allen Hamilton

Software Test Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$62K - $141K/yr

Software Test Engineer The Opportunity: When a user tries new software, they expect it to be ... as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected ...

CACI International, Inc.

Software Test Engineer

$75K - $158K/yr

Software Test Engineer Job Category: Engineering Time Type: Full time Minimum Clearance Required to ... and contract wage rates, relevant prior work experience, specific skills and competencies ...

System One

Jr. Software Test Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$62 - $68/hr

Job Title: Jr. Software Test Engineer (Contract-to-Hire) Location: Huntsville, AL (On-site) Security Clearance: Active Secret preferred OR ability to obtain Pay Rate: $62-68/hr (W2) About the role ...

CACI

Software Test Engineer

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$75K - $158K/yr

Software Test Engineer Job Category: Engineering Time Type: Full time Minimum Clearance Required to ... and contract wage rates, relevant prior work experience, specific skills and competencies ...

System One

Jr. Software Test Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$62 - $68/hr

Job Title: Jr. Software Test Engineer (Contract-to-Hire) Location: Huntsville, AL (On-site) Security Clearance: Active Secret preferred OR ability to obtain Pay Rate: $62-68/hr (W2) About the role ...

Detroit Defense Inc.

Software Test Engineer

Troy, MI · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

The Software Test Developer works with the Test Lead who coordinates the testing activities, resources and personnel. They will support a large, ongoing software development effort. Essential Duties ...

System One

Jr. Software Test Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$62 - $68/hr

Job Title: Jr. Software Test Engineer (Contract-to-Hire) Location: Huntsville, AL (On-site) Security Clearance: Active Secret preferred OR ability to obtain Pay Rate: $62-68/hr (W2) About the role ...

System One

Jr. Software Test Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$62 - $68/hr

Job Title: Jr. Software Test Engineer (Contract-to-Hire) Location: Huntsville, AL (On-site) Security Clearance: Active Secret preferred OR ability to obtain Pay Rate: $62-68/hr (W2) About the role ...

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Software Test Engineer Contract information

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

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for software test engineer contract in the United States is $51.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42.07 and $58.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

Are software test engineers in demand in 2026?

Software test engineers are expected to remain in demand in 2026 due to ongoing software development and the need for quality assurance. Skills in automation tools, scripting, and understanding of testing frameworks will enhance job prospects in this field.

What cities are hiring for Software Test Engineer Contract jobs?

Cities with the most Software Test Engineer Contract job openings:

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

The most popular types of Software Test Engineer jobs are:

What states have the most Software Test Engineer Contract jobs?

States with the most job openings for Software Test Engineer Contract jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Software Test Engineer Contract jobs?

For Software Test Engineer Contract jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Software Test Engineer Contract jobs near you
Infographic showing various Software Test Engineer Contract job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,014 per year, or $51.4 per hour.

Software Test Engineer

San Diego, CA • On-site

Leidos
IT Services • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Leidosexternal

$92K - $166K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Leidos rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 154 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Leidos has a new and exciting opportunity for a Software Test Engineer in our INTEL Sector's Cyber & Analytics Business Area (CABA). Our talented team is at the forefront in Security Engineering, Computer Network Operations (CNO), Mission Software, Analytical Methods and Modeling, Signals Intelligence (SIGINT), and Cryptographic Key Management. At Leidos, we offer competitive benefits, including Paid Time Off, 11 paid Holidays, 401K with a 6% company match and immediate vesting, Flexible Schedules, Discounted Stock Purchase Plans, Technical Upskilling, Education and Training Support, Parental Paid Leave, and much more. Join us and make a difference in National Security!
Job Summary:
The Software Test Engineer will be part of a dynamic team working in an agile software development environment that is building a user application to run on mobile device form factors. The Software Test Engineer will be responsible for the quality of the developed product and participating in manual and automated testing operations.
This position requires someone who is proactive and passionate about ensuring the quality of software deliverables and can participate in both the manual and automated testing of user interface and backend software implementations effectively. In addition, the Software Test Engineer will work with System Engineers, Developers and other Testers to accurately author the test based documentation required for the project.
Primary Responsibilities:
  • Author and execute manual and automated test cases to ensure product requirements are met.
  • Author and maintain tools, techniques, and practices for assuring the testing of the product.
  • Participate in agile planning events, analysis and design events, and reviews
  • Ensure that quality checks and acceptance criteria are satisfied before code merges can occur.
  • Ensure complete and timely reporting on bugs and test results.
  • Identify, analyze, and document problems with program function, output, online screen, or content.
  • Participate in product design reviews to provide input on functional requirements, product designs, schedules, or potential problems.
  • Write testing documentation and help finalize all system and software documentation CDRLs for the program.
  • Familiarity working on programs using the Agile Scrum methodology

What you will like about this position...
  • Being part of an amazing team of professionals all passionate about the vision of the product and the positive impact it provides to our many customers.
  • Implementing a wide variety of technologies and the use of powerful industry-standard development tools and practices.

Required Qualifications:
  • Position requires US citizenship and an active Secret DoD security clearance
  • Bachelor's Degree in Systems Engineering, Computer Science, or related field and 8-12 years of related experience. Will consider experience in lieu of a degree.
  • At least 8 years of experience in software testing and/or software development.
  • Experience with a scripting language: Python, JavaScript, and related others.
  • Experience with implementing regression testing for software.
  • Experience performing "illity" testing, especially performance testing.
  • Familiarity and/or experience using automated test tools on software projects.
  • The ability to communicate effectively with both Product Owners and software developers.
  • Knowledge of Agile Development methodologies.
  • DoD 8570 approved security certification (i.e., Security +, CISSP, etc.) (Will be required 90 days after hire)

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Ability to quickly become proficient in new tools/technologies.
  • Ability to identify efficiencies and process improvements between the development and testing disciplines.
  • Experience in Agile development methodologies.
  • Experience with a version control system (e.g., Git, SVN).
  • Experience with an issue/problem tracking system (e.g., VersionOne, Jira).
  • Experience with continuous integration environments (e.g., Jenkins).
  • Proficiency with MS Office Products (i.e., Word, Excel, Visio, & PowerPoint).

Desired Skills:
  • Agile certification
  • Knowledge of DevOps practices

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.
Original Posting:
July 6, 2026
For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.
Pay Range:
Pay Range $92,300.00 - $166,850.00
The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.

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About Leidos

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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