Senior Software Developer Jobs in San Diego, CA
Senior Software Developer jobs in San Diego are concentrated in defense technology, biotech, and enterprise software, with hiring activity spread across Sorrento Valley, Torrey Pines, and the Kearny Mesa corridor. Employers hiring right now include Shield AI, Qualcomm, and Apple. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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NKI is experiencing rapid growth, and we're looking for a full-time Senior Software Engineer (SECRET CLEARED) to join our team and support this exciting expansion. At NKI, we're committed to investing in our employees' growth and development, helping them achieve their career goals. To learn more about us and our team, visit our website.
About You and the Role
The Senior Software Engineer will help to aid in next generation tools and systems development. This is an exciting position that will have you developing web-based applications that integrate with our custom embedded systems, utilizing generative AI and AI-assisted coding tools to design, develop, test, and maintain high-quality software solutions.
We are looking for a San Diego-based Senior Software Engineer to join our team at NKI. This is a 100% onsite, full-time position following a 9/80 schedule.
Responsibilities Include:
- Design, develop, and implement AI-assisted software applications
- Writing of requirements, specifications, and test documents
- Execution of tests and documentation of completed testing
- Interface with customers to develop requirements and perform design reviews
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Information Systems, or related field of study
- 6+ years of professional experience in Software Engineering
-
Experience with the following languages is a must:
- Python
- C# or Rust
- JavaScript/TypeScript
- HTML / CSS
- Expertise in Linux Systems and Virtual Machines
- Expertise in Web-based UI development
- Network Software Engineering (TLS / HTTPS)
- Exposure using AI to write code
- U.S. citizenship required; must be able to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance. Active Secret Clearance ideal.
Preferred Qualifications
- GO
- RESTCONF
- YANG
- Cryptography basics
- Svelte UI Framework
- Playwright (or equivalent test frameworks)
Compensation
- Base salary: $130,000-$160,000 depending on experience and qualifications.
Our Company Perks!
Career Growth: We invest in your professional development and provide clear opportunities for advancement.
Impactful Work: Contribute to critical government and commercial projects that make a difference.
Collaborative Culture: Work alongside experienced professionals in a supportive environment.
Competitive Benefits: Enjoy a comprehensive benefits package and a 9/80 work schedule for better work-life balance.
Benefits Include:
- Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage.
- Company-paid Life, AD&D, Short-Term Disability, and Long-Term Disability insurance, plus access to additional voluntary insurance options.
- 401(k) plan with Company Safe Harbor contributions
- Eligibility for discretionary employer-sponsored bonus
- 9/80 work schedule (every other Friday off).
- Paid Time Off: 10 days of vacation, 7 personal days, and 11 paid Federal holidays annually.
Nathan Kunes Incorporated (NKI), established in 1998, specializes in delivering Software, Systems, and Information Assurance engineering services to the Department of Defense and Intelligence Community agencies. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where every team member feels valued and respected.
NKI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.
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Find JobsSenior Software Developer Job Market in San Diego
Who's Hiring
- Shield AI153

- Qualcomm76

- Apple61

- Booz Allen Hamilton46

- Seasats31

Top Industries Hiring
- Technology & Software46
- Electronics & Hardware31
- Medical Devices15
- Biotechnology & Pharmaceuticals15
Senior Software Developer Jobs in San Diego: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a senior software developer job in San Diego?
San Diego's strongest hiring comes from defense contractors, biotech and life sciences firms, and fintech companies, with a secondary cluster of enterprise SaaS companies based in Sorrento Valley and Carmel Valley. Candidates with experience in embedded systems, cloud infrastructure, or regulated industries stand out here. Targeting mid-size defense and biotech employers directly, rather than relying on national postings alone, gives you a real edge in this market.
Which companies hire senior software developers in San Diego?
Employers hiring senior software developers in San Diego right now include Shield AI, Qualcomm, and Apple, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of August 2026. The local market skews toward defense primes, life sciences technology firms, and growth-stage SaaS companies, all of which tend to hire at the senior level for specialized technical depth.
Are there remote senior software developer jobs in San Diego?
Yes, and senior software developer roles are among the more remote-friendly positions given that the work is largely code-driven and project-based. About 55% of senior software developer openings tied to San Diego are remote or hybrid as of August 2026, though defense and government-adjacent roles often require on-site or cleared work. Cloud, platform, and product-focused roles at San Diego SaaS companies tend to offer the most scheduling flexibility.
How can I get a senior software developer job in San Diego with little or no experience?
The most realistic path is targeting associate or mid-level developer roles at San Diego's biotech software vendors or defense subcontractors, where teams are smaller and growth into senior positions happens faster than at large primes. Local companies in the Torrey Pines and Sorrento Mesa areas regularly promote from within. Building familiarity with defense-adjacent technologies or life sciences data workflows gives candidates a concrete edge when competing for early-career roles that lead to senior tracks.
Which industries hire the most senior software developers in San Diego?
The sectors hiring the most senior software developers in San Diego are Technology & Software, Electronics & Hardware, and Medical Devices, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of August 2026. San Diego's concentration of defense contractors, genomics and biotech companies, and venture-backed SaaS firms creates sustained, year-round demand for senior technical talent at levels not typical of smaller metros.
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