How much does a Software Engineering Associate make in the United States?
-
The average Software Engineering Associate salary in the United States is $156,342 as of September 2026. The range for our most popular Software Engineering Associate positions (listed below) typically falls between $146,656 and $166,027. Keep in mind that salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including position, education, certifications, additional skills, and the number of years you have spent in your profession. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target.
| Job Title | Salary | Hourly Rate | Location | Date Updated |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Associate Software Engineering | $169,435 | $81.46 | United States | September 2026 |
| Software Engineering | $78,691 | $37.83 | United States | September 2026 |
| Software Engineering Director | $214,161 | $102.96 | United States | September 2026 |
| Software Engineering Manager | $169,542 | $81.51 | United States | September 2026 |
| VP of Software Engineering | $241,485 | $116.10 | United States | September 2026 |
| Embedded Software Engineering Director | $212,252 | $102.04 | United States | September 2026 |
| Embedded Software Engineering Manager | $153,547 | $73.82 | United States | September 2026 |
| Embedded Software Engineering Supervisor | $122,574 | $58.93 | United States | September 2026 |
| Director of Software Engineering | $214,200 | $102.98 | United States | September 2026 |
| computer software engineering | $139,283 | $66.96 | United States | September 2026 |
-
Manages the design and development of software applications. Monitors the evaluations of user requirements and the development of build plans. Directs the work of engineers, including coding, debugging, testing, code review, and troubleshooting, to ensure best practices in software development. Requires a bachelor's degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field. Typically reports to a director. Manages subordinate staff in the day-to-day performance of their jobs. True first level manager. Ensures that project/department milestones/goals are met and adhering to approved budgets. Has full authority for personnel actions. Typically requires 5 years experience in the related area as an individual contributor. 1-3 years supervisory experience may be required. Extensive knowledge of the function and department processes. View Software Engineering Manager SalaryAlternate Job Titles:Software Development Manager
-
Directs the software engineering function in the development, release, and maintenance of software applications to meet business objectives. Provides technical leadership, defines engineering vision, and implements best practices to maximize efficiency, reliability, and product quality. Establishes policies and procedures to deliver high-quality software products and services that drive growth and competitive advantage. Requires a bachelor's degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field. Typically reports to senior management. Manages a departmental sub-function within a broader departmental function. Creates functional strategies and specific objectives for the sub-function and develops budgets/policies/procedures to support the functional infrastructure. Typically requires 5+ years of managerial experience. Deep knowledge of the managed sub-function and solid knowledge of the overall departmental function. View Software Engineering Director SalaryAlternate Job Titles:Director of Software Engineering, Software Development Director
-
Designs and develops software applications. Gathers and evaluates end-user requirements. Develops build plans. Performs coding, debugging, testing, code review, and troubleshooting throughout the software development lifecycle. Requires a bachelor's degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field. Typically reports to a manager. Work is closely managed. Works on projects/matters of limited complexity in a support role. Typically requires 0-2 years of related experience. View Software Engineer I SalaryAlternate Job Titles:Entry Software Engineer, Software Developer I