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Backend Developer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Backend Developer (Remote)

Joliet, IL ยท On-site

$50.25 - $65/hr

Recent computer science/engineering/mathematics/statistics or science graduates looking to make their careers in the IT industry. Candidates who are serious about their future in the IT industry and ...

Node JS Backend Developer

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$52.75 - $68.25/hr

Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design, develop, and implement efficient and scalable Node.js back-end services. Write clean, well-structured code and ensure the implementation of unit ...

Senior Backend Engineer

Chicago, IL ยท 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 ...

Senior UI Developer

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$61.75 - $80.25/hr

... APIs and backend services Collaborate with backend, DevOps, and product teams to deliver end-to-end solutions Support API lifecycle management and integration with Azure API Management (APIM ...

Python AWS developer

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$51.75 - $71.50/hr

AWS serverless backend developer in TypeScript and Python * Has used the CDK or Serverless Framework * Experience with the following services: lambda, s3, DynamoDB, event bridge (bus), SNS, SQS ...

Senior Backend Engineer

Chicago, IL ยท 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 ...

Sr. Java Backend Engineer

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$124K - $161K/yr

Job Title: Sr. Java Backend Engineer Location: Chicago IL- Hybrid (3 days onsite per week) Duration: 12 months Contract type: W2 Required Qualifications 10+ years of professional software engineering ...

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Backend Developer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

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How much do backend developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for backend developer in Chicago, IL is $59.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48.80 and $70.34 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.

Will AI replace backend devs?

AI tools can automate certain coding tasks and improve efficiency for backend developers, but they are unlikely to fully replace the role. Backend development requires problem-solving, system design, and understanding complex business logic that currently benefits from human expertise. Developers will need to adapt by learning new tools and focusing on tasks that require creativity and critical thinking.

What does a Backend Developer do?

A Backend Developer designs, builds, and maintains the server-side components of web applications, including databases, APIs, and server logic. They work with programming languages like Java, Python, or Ruby and often use frameworks and tools to ensure efficient data processing and security. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of server management are essential for this role.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior software engineers, especially those working in high-demand fields like fintech, cloud computing, or AI, can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and working at large tech companies or startups with significant funding.

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.

Is Backend Developer in demand?

Backend developers are in high demand due to the growth of web applications and digital services. Skills in programming languages like Java, Python, or Node.js, along with experience in databases and APIs, are highly sought after by employers across various industries.

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 cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Backend Developer jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Backend Developer job openings:

Backend Developer (Node JS and TypeScript)

Hudson Manpower

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$60 - $70/hr

Contractor

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

We seek a Senior Full Stack Developer to design, code, test, debug, and document device communication middleware solutions for monitoring and controlling the devices we manufacture. Affect change in applications deployed in various environments, such as cross-platform desktop (Windows, macOS, Linux), mobile, browser-based, cloud, and embedded. Advance the evolution of our software architecture to improve code reuse in the above environments, write high performance code where milliseconds matter, and increase maintainability. You'll also collaborate with other developers to enhance, modify and maintain the numerous applications consuming the device communication middleware, as well as with business partners to define requirements for application behaviors from user interfaces to embedded device behavior.
Responsibilities:
  • Design and implement platform-independent device communication middleware solutions that control and manage state-of-the-art products and networking technologies.
  • Develop software using agile development methodologies on high-performing, cross functional development teams
  • Collaborates with marketing, test and system engineering to define software use cases and requirements that drive end user value
  • Implement device communication business logic in Node.js and TypeScript
  • Expose functionality to consuming applications via GraphQL and/or REST APIs
  • Research, model and standardize device interaction capabilities across our broad product ecosystem, providing device-agnostic interfaces for client applications

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience
  • Proven experience as Node.js backend developer with a strong focus on TypeScript
  • Proficiency in designing and documenting Web-based APIs for asynchronous systems
  • Demonstrates problem-solving skills and ability to troubleshoot complex issues.
  • Understanding of operating system fundamentals, asynchronous programming, multi-threading, and reactive programming.
  • Understanding of industry standard software development practices, such as:
    • Software Design Patterns and Principles, such as separation of concerns, cohesion vs coupling, SOLID
    • Continuous integration, testing, and deployment
    • Unit and Integration Testing
  • Experience with software version control systems, preferably with git.
  • Software development experience with the following technologies are strongly preferred:
    • Authoring and consuming RESTful and/or GraphQL APIs
    • Distributed Systems