Software Developer Jobs in San Diego, CA
Software Developer jobs in San Diego are in strong demand, concentrated in Sorrento Valley, UTC, and Downtown across defense technology, cybersecurity, biotech, and enterprise software. Employers actively hiring include Qualcomm, Apple, and Intuit. See the openings below and apply to the ones that match your experience.
Find Software Developer JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 854+ Software Developer jobs






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.
See All 854+ Software Developer Jobs in San Diego
Find roles in San Diego that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Software Developer JobsSoftware Developer Job Market in San Diego
Who's Hiring
- Qualcomm177

- Apple44

- Intuit44

- Shield AI44

- Booz Allen Hamilton44

Top Industries Hiring
- Technology & Software
- Electronics & Hardware
Software Developer Jobs in San Diego: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a software developer job in San Diego?
Focus your search on the clusters where San Diego hiring concentrates: defense contractors and cybersecurity firms in Sorrento Valley, biotech and health tech companies near Torrey Pines and UTC, and enterprise software shops Downtown. Candidates with experience in embedded systems, cloud infrastructure, or data engineering stand out locally. Tailoring your portfolio to San Diego's defense and life sciences sectors gives you a real edge over generalist applicants.
Which companies hire software developers in San Diego?
Companies currently hiring software developers in San Diego include Qualcomm, Apple, and Intuit, per current listings on Migrate Mate as of August 2026. San Diego's employer mix leans toward defense primes, cybersecurity firms, biotech companies, and mid-size SaaS businesses, alongside a growing number of startup studios concentrated near the waterfront and East Village.
Are there remote software developer jobs in San Diego?
Yes, software development is among the most remote-friendly occupations given that the work is largely screen-based and location-independent. About 57% of software developer openings tied to San Diego are remote or hybrid as of August 2026, though roles at defense contractors often require on-site presence due to clearance obligations. Backend, cloud, and full-stack roles see the highest share of fully remote arrangements locally.
How can I get a software developer job in San Diego with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path in San Diego is targeting junior roles at mid-size SaaS companies and health tech startups, which hire more entry-level engineers than large defense primes. UC San Diego, SDSU, and San Diego coding bootcamps produce graduates that local employers recognize, giving you a credibility signal. Applying for QA engineer or DevOps support roles at biotech and fintech firms is a strong lateral move that builds the experience needed to step into full software developer positions.
Which industries hire the most software developers in San Diego?
The sectors hiring the most software developers in San Diego are Technology & Software and Electronics & Hardware, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of August 2026. San Diego's large defense and military presence, world-class life sciences corridor near La Jolla, and expanding cybersecurity ecosystem create consistent demand for software talent that goes beyond what most coastal cities its size generate.
Related Jobs in California
See All 854+ Software Developer Jobs in San Diego
Find roles in San Diego that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Software Developer Jobs