ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Backend Developer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Teal Media

Senior WordPress Backend Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$115K - $135K/yr

Teal Media is looking for a Senior WordPress Backend Developer who's a thoughtful problem-solver and hands-on builder. This role is a client-facing technical lead who partners with designers ...

Jobsbridge

Senior Java (Back-End) Developer

Chicago, IL

$124K - $161K/yr

Play a critical role in creating multiple backend applications. Be comfortable delivering high ... Rock-solid programming skills. Experience with MongoDB. Experience with JSON, and RESTful web ...

Purplejack Technologies LLC

Senior Java Developer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$59 - $75.25/hr

Senior Java Backend Developer - Hybrid (Chicago, IL / Peoria, IL) Duration: 12 Months Contract Location: Hybrid - Chicago, IL or Peoria, IL (2-3 days onsite/week) We are seeking a Senior Java Backend ...

Wand

Senior Backend Engineer

Chicago, IL · Remote

$150K - $250K/yr

Role Overview We're hiring a Senior Backend Engineer to own meaningful parts of Wand's backend and help us drive the work forward. You'll partner closely with our Head of Engineering and the ...

Honor

Senior Backend Engineer

Chicago, IL · Remote

$160K - $180K/yr

As a Senior Backend Engineer at Honor: * You care about building systems that have real-world impact. * You're creative and curious, and enjoy thinking outside the box. * You thrive in diverse, cross ...

Allied

Senior Software Engineer - Backend

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$120K - $150K/yr

The Senior Software Engineer Backend is responsible for designing and developing backend software ... Familiarity with Azure DevOps or similar platforms for source control and build automation POSITION ...

Cameo

Staff Software Engineer-Backend

Chicago, IL · On-site

The Staff Software Engineer-Backend will set the technical direction for the backend platform, focusing on architecture, distributed systems, and AI integration to enhance the user experience.

Cameo

Staff Software Engineer-Backend

Chicago, IL

$175K - $215K/yr

Staff Software Engineer, Backend At Cameo, we make impossible connections possible. Our platform allows fans to get personalized messages from their favorite comedians, actors, athletes, and more ...

Cameo

Staff Software Engineer-Backend

Chicago, IL · On-site

$175K - $215K/yr

Staff Software Engineer, Backend At Cameo, we make impossible connections possible. Our platform allows fans to get personalized messages from their favorite comedians, actors, athletes, and more ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsBackend Developer JobsBackend Developer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Backend Developer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$59

$86

How much do backend developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for backend developer in Chicago, IL is $59.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48.80 and $70.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Backend Developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Backend Developer, you need a strong grasp of server-side programming languages (such as Java, Python, or Node.js), database management, and software architecture concepts, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with frameworks (like Spring or Django), cloud platforms (AWS, Azure), APIs, and version control systems (Git) is typically required. Problem-solving ability, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure robust, scalable, and secure systems that effectively support the needs of users and front-end applications.

What is the difference between Backend Developer vs Frontend Developer?

AspectBackend DeveloperFrontend Developer
Primary FocusServer-side logic, databases, APIsClient-side interface, UI/UX, visual elements
Required SkillsProgramming languages like Java, Python, PHP; databases; server managementHTML, CSS, JavaScript; frameworks like React or Angular
Work EnvironmentBackend systems, server infrastructure, cloud servicesWeb browsers, design tools, user interface testing
Common UsageBuilding and maintaining server-side applicationsDesigning and implementing user interfaces

While both roles are essential in web development, Backend Developers focus on server-side logic and data management, whereas Frontend Developers create the visual and interactive aspects of websites. Understanding their differences helps in choosing the right career path or project collaboration.

What are some common challenges Backend Developers face when collaborating with frontend teams?

Backend Developers often encounter challenges related to syncing data structures, API endpoints, and release timelines with frontend teams. Ensuring clear communication and thorough documentation is critical to avoid mismatches in data expectations and functionality. Regular coordination through stand-up meetings, shared project management tools, and version-controlled API documentation helps mitigate misunderstandings and keeps both backend and frontend development aligned. Adopting practices like API-first development and automated testing can significantly improve collaboration and overall project quality.

What are Backend Developers?

Backend Developers are software engineers who focus on building and maintaining the server-side logic, databases, and APIs that power websites and applications. They ensure that the data requested by frontend systems is delivered efficiently and securely. Their responsibilities include creating and managing databases, developing server-side application logic, integrating third-party services, and ensuring application performance and scalability. Backend Developers typically work with languages such as Java, Python, Ruby, Node.js, or PHP. They often collaborate with frontend developers, designers, and other team members to deliver complete, functional digital products.
More about Backend Developer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Backend Developer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Backend Developer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Backend Developer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Backend Developer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Backend Developer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Backend Developer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Backend Developer jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Backend Developer job openings:
Backend Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backend Developer job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 11% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 75% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,804 per year, or $59.5 per hour.
Senior WordPress Backend Developer

Senior WordPress Backend Developer

Teal Media

Chicago, IL • On-site, Remote

$115K - $135K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Who We Are

Teal Media is a full-service creative and design agency with a conscience. We believe purposeful design can transform organizations, inspire action, and enable progress. Our clients and nonprofit partners are committed to creating positive social change—and we pour every ounce of our passion and skill into helping them succeed.

We offer a variety of strategic, creative, and technical services, including brand strategy, web design and development, and creative support.

We're a woman-founded and woman-led firm with a team that reflects a broad range of lived experiences, backgrounds, and perspectives. At Teal, we value our people above all else and choose to work with partners and clients who share those values.

No recruiters, please.

Teal Media is looking for a Senior WordPress Backend Developer who's a thoughtful problem-solver and hands-on builder. This role is a client-facing technical lead who partners with designers, frontend developers, and strategists to architect, build, and evolve WordPress and other platforms for our clients. You bring years or decades of backend expertise, take ownership of technical decisions, and enjoy translating complex client needs into reliable, scalable solutions. You're confident when leading technical work, adaptable as projects evolve, and motivated by supporting mission-driven organizations.

What success looks like in this role
  • You translate ambiguous client needs into clear, actionable technical approaches.
  • You've worked at an agency or have other experience juggling multiple competing priorities.
  • You build trust with clients through clarity, responsiveness, and sound judgment.
  • You balance ideal technical solutions with real-world constraints (budget, timeline, team capacity).
  • You take ownership of outcomes, not just assigned tasks.
What You'll DoBuild & Deliver
  • Lead the architecture and development of custom web projects, primarily using open-source tools, with a strong focus on WordPress backend development (themes, plugins, and systems integrations).
  • Act as the lead developer on both new builds and ongoing support work, owning technical decisions and translating complex client needs into thoughtful, scalable solutions.
  • Take pride in building long-term, maintainable solutions.
  • Identify risks early and propose alternative approaches when needed.
Collaborate with Purpose
  • Act as a technical lead in client conversations, clearly explaining complex concepts in accessible terms.
  • Present tradeoffs and recommendations with confidence, helping clients make informed decisions.
  • Navigate ambiguity and challenging situations with professionalism and sound judgment.
Lead & Support the Team
  • Mentor developers across the team through thoughtful feedback, pairing, and code reviews.
  • Participate in hiring and evaluation of technical talent as needed.
  • Model strong communication, collaboration, and accountability within project teams.
Qualifications:
  • 10+ years of experience building with WordPress and other PHP tools, including deep expertise in custom themes, plugins, and WordPress architecture
  • Strong proficiency in PHP and modern backend development practices, including AI-based workflows.
  • Experience working in an agency or consulting environment, balancing multiple projects and priorities.
Location

Ideal Location: Remote (US)

Salary

The salary range for this role is $115,000 - $135,000, commensurate with experience and location.

At Teal, we use transparent salary bands to promote equity and clarity across our team. Final offers are based on a candidate's skills, experience, and demonstrated expertise within the scope of this role.

In addition, Teal offers a comprehensive benefits package, generous PTO, and a flexible, people-first workplace that supports balance and professional growth.

Application Instructions

Important: This position requires deep experience with WordPress backend development. In your cover letter, please describe your experience architecting and developing custom WordPress solutions, including themes, plugins, integrations, and content/editorial workflows. We'd also love to hear about a project you're especially proud of, your specific contributions to it, and how you approached key technical or client challenges along the way.

No recruiters, please.

Equal Opportunity Statement

If your experience doesn't exactly match the qualifications listed, but you believe you'd thrive in this role, we'd love to hear from you. Please apply and tell us why you're the right person for the job.

We strongly encourage individuals from historically marginalized communities to apply—including Black and Indigenous people, people of color, immigrants, women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, people with disabilities, neurodiverse individuals, and those who have been system-impacted.

Teal Media is an equal opportunity employer that values a diverse workforce and inclusive culture. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, national origin, marital status, disability, and veteran status. We are not offering US visa sponsorship at this time.