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Backend Software Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

DataAnnotation

Backend Software Engineer

Aurora, IL · Remote

$40 - $75/hr

As a DataAnnotation's coder, you'll be part of a growing community of over 100,000 professionals -- including front-end, back-end, full-stack, machine learning, and other engineers -- who are driving ...

DataAnnotation

Backend Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · Remote

$40 - $75/hr

As a DataAnnotation's coder, you'll be part of a growing community of over 100,000 professionals -- including front-end, back-end, full-stack, machine learning, and other engineers -- who are driving ...

DataAnnotation

Backend Software Engineer

Naperville, IL · Remote

$40 - $75/hr

As a DataAnnotation's coder, you'll be part of a growing community of over 100,000 professionals -- including front-end, back-end, full-stack, machine learning, and other engineers -- who are driving ...

DataAnnotation

Backend Software Engineer

Elgin, IL · Remote

$40 - $75/hr

As a DataAnnotation's coder, you'll be part of a growing community of over 100,000 professionals -- including front-end, back-end, full-stack, machine learning, and other engineers -- who are driving ...

DataAnnotation

Backend Software Engineer

Joliet, IL · Remote

$40 - $75/hr

As a DataAnnotation's coder, you'll be part of a growing community of over 100,000 professionals -- including front-end, back-end, full-stack, machine learning, and other engineers -- who are driving ...

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 solutions, including APIs and business logic, that support Allied's internal and external Digital ...

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.

Views

Software Engineer (Java/Linux)

Chicago, IL

$53.25 - $73.25/hr

Software Engineer Position Join an innovative and fast-paced team-building software that allows ... Create back end applications using primarily Java. * Demonstrate your work product to your team.

FIS Amount

Senior AI Software Engineer

Chicago, IL

$126K - $166K/yr

You'll balance hands-on development of backend services and APIs with designing scalable AI ... software engineering with strong Python skills; experience with Java is a plus * Proven track ...

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All JobsBackend Software Engineer JobsBackend Software Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Backend Software Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$62.3K

$152.1K

$205K

How much do backend software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for backend software engineer in Chicago, IL is $152,113.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $127,700.00 and $177,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are backend engineers still in demand?

Backend software engineers are currently in high demand due to the ongoing need for server-side development, cloud computing, and scalable systems. Skills in programming languages like Java, Python, and frameworks such as Node.js are highly valued, and demand is expected to grow as digital infrastructure expands across industries.

What does a Backend Software Engineer do?

A Backend Software Engineer is responsible for designing, building, and maintaining the server-side logic, databases, and APIs that power applications and websites. They ensure that data flows efficiently between the server, application, and the user interface, often working with languages like Java, Python, or Node.js. Their work is crucial for enabling features, security, and performance on the backend, even though users typically interact with the frontend. Backend engineers also collaborate with frontend developers and other team members to create seamless user experiences.

What are some typical challenges a Backend Software Engineer faces when integrating new services into an existing system?

Backend Software Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring compatibility between new services and legacy systems, maintaining data integrity during migrations, and managing increased system complexity. Effective integration also requires thorough testing to prevent disruptions to existing functionalities and close collaboration with frontend engineers, DevOps, and QA teams. Proactively communicating across teams and adhering to clear documentation standards can help mitigate integration risks and ensure a smoother deployment process.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior backend software engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in areas like distributed systems or cloud computing, and often working at large tech companies or in high-demand industries can earn $300,000 or more annually. Compensation may include base salary, bonuses, and stock options, especially in competitive markets or executive-level roles.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior software engineers, especially those in high-demand fields like backend development, cloud engineering, or machine learning, 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, specialized skills, and working at large tech companies or startups with significant funding.

What is the difference between Backend Software Engineer vs Frontend Software Engineer?

AspectBackend Software EngineerFrontend Software Engineer
Primary FocusServer-side development, databases, APIsClient-side development, UI/UX, visual elements
Required SkillsProgramming languages like Java, Python, SQL; server managementHTML, CSS, JavaScript, frameworks like React or Angular
Work EnvironmentBackend teams, server infrastructure, cloud servicesDesign teams, user interface, web browsers
Common UsageBuilding and maintaining server logic and databasesCreating interactive and visually appealing web pages

While both roles involve web development, Backend Software Engineers focus on server-side logic and data management, whereas Frontend Software Engineers specialize in creating the visual and interactive aspects of websites. Both roles are essential in full-stack development and often collaborate closely.

Is back-end coding hard?

Backend software engineering involves writing server-side code that manages data, application logic, and integration with databases, which can be complex depending on the project. It requires knowledge of programming languages like Java, Python, or Node.js, as well as understanding of APIs, security, and system architecture. The difficulty varies based on experience, project scope, and the complexity of the systems involved.

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

To thrive as a Backend Software Engineer, you need strong programming skills in languages like Java, Python, or Node.js, a solid understanding of data structures, algorithms, and experience with database management, usually supported by a degree in computer science or related fields. Familiarity with tools such as Git, RESTful APIs, cloud platforms (AWS, Azure), and frameworks like Spring or Django is highly valued, and relevant certifications can be advantageous. Problem-solving ability, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills for this position. These skills and qualities are essential to build, maintain, and optimize robust, scalable server-side applications that meet user and business needs.
What are popular job titles related to Backend Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Backend Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Backend Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Backend Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Backend Software Engineer jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Backend Software Engineer job openings:
Backend Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backend Software Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 13% Internship, 49% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 62% In-person, and 38% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $152,113 per year, or $73.1 per hour.
Backend Software Engineer

Backend Software Engineer

DataAnnotation

Aurora, IL • Remote

$40 - $75/hr

Part-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

About the job:

Contribute to developing cutting-edge AI systems, while enjoying the flexibility of remote work and setting your own schedule.

We are looking for an existing Coder (this is an opportunity to work with us as an independent contractor) to help advance AI development. As a DataAnnotation’s coder, you’ll be part of a growing community of over 100,000 professionals — including front-end, back-end, full-stack, machine learning, and other engineers — who are driving real-world impact in AI development.

Our platform offers an engaging blend of flexibility and challenge: you’ll work closely with state-of-the-art AI models to take on programming tasks that include creating and solving challenging coding problems, building beautiful apps with rich functionality, and synthesizing insights through data analysis and visualization. Your work directly contributes to refining intelligent systems that learn, adapt, and evolve.

To get started, once you sign up for an account, you'll take a short assessment (this serves as our version of an interview). If you pass that assessment, you’ll receive an email confirmation, and paid work will become available to you through our platform.

Advantages of contracting with us:

  • You'll be able to choose which projects you want to work on and when
  • You work on your own schedule, on your own computer, from the comfort of your own home
  • Projects are paid hourly starting at $50-100+/hr, with bonus rates available on some projects

Responsibilities:

  • Give AI chatbots coding challenges and evaluate their outputs
  • Evaluate the quality produced by AI models for correctness and performance

Qualifications:

  • Fluency in English (native or bilingual level)
  • Detail-oriented
  • Experience with algorithms, data structures, and debugging workflows
  • A current, in progress, or completed Bachelor's is preferred but not required

Note:

Payment is made via PayPal. We will never ask for any money from you. PayPal will handle any currency conversions from USD. This job is only available to those in the US, Canada, UK, Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand. Those located outside of these countries will not see work or assessments available on our site at this time. This is an independent contractor position.

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