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Contract Programmer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Our client is a wellestablished and growing contract manufacturer serving the Aerospace and Medical Device industries. They are hiring a CMM Programmer responsible for developing and writing CMM ...

Controls Engineer - Contract

Hammond, IN · On-site

$80K - $104K/yr

CMM Programmer - Contract DISHER is seeking an experienced Controls Engineer for our customer in Hammond, IN. This is a 2-3 month contract. What it's like to work here: Make a positive difference

Controls Engineer - Contract

Hammond, IN · On-site

$80K - $104K/yr

CMM Programmer - Contract DISHER is seeking an experienced Controls Engineer for our customer in Hammond, IN. This is a 2-3 month contract. What it's like to work here: Make a positive difference

Virginia Civis is hiring a Software Engineer (Contract) to build and ship high-quality software across the full stack in service of our clients' most important missions. This is a 6-month contract ...

As an individual contributor of the Payer Contract Analytics team, you will greatly influence ... Fluency in multiple programming languages and statistical analysis tools including but not limited ...

Virginia Civis is hiring a Software Engineer (Contract) to build and ship high-quality software across the full stack in service of our clients' most important missions. This is a 6-month contract ...

Virginia Civis is hiring a Software Engineer (Contract) to build and ship high-quality software across the full stack in service of our clients' most important missions. This is a 6-month contract ...

Manager, Payer Contract Analytics

Mettawa, IL · On-site

$79K - $95K/yr

As an individual contributor of the Payer Contract Analytics team, you will greatly influence ... Fluency in multiple programming languages and statistical analysis tools including but not limited ...

As an individual contributor of the Payer Contract Analytics team, you will greatly influence ... Fluency in multiple programming languages and statistical analysis tools including but not limited ...

Manager, Payer Contract Analytics

Mettawa, IL · On-site

$79K - $95K/yr

As an individual contributor of the Payer Contract Analytics team, you will greatly influence ... Fluency in multiple programming languages and statistical analysis tools including but not limited ...

Sr. Contracts Analyst

Wood Dale, IL · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Oversee government contract processes from opportunity review through completion * Evaluate bid ... With units specializing in Accounting and Finance, Administrative, Engineering, Marketing ...

Showing results 21-40

Contract Programmer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$13

$35

$64

How much do contract programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract programmer in Chicago, IL is $35.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.19 and $44.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Contract Programmer, you need strong programming skills in relevant languages, a solid understanding of software development methodologies, and typically a degree in computer science or related field. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, integrated development environments (IDEs), and knowledge of frameworks or cloud platforms are commonly required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, self-motivation, and clear communication with clients set top contract programmers apart. These skills ensure the delivery of high-quality, maintainable code that meets client needs and project deadlines in a dynamic work environment.

What is the difference between Contract Programmer vs Software Developer?

AspectContract ProgrammerSoftware Developer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in computer science or related field, with experience in specific programming languagesUsually holds a degree in computer science or software engineering, with similar certifications
Work EnvironmentWorks on short-term projects, often remotely, with flexible schedulesMay work full-time in an office or remotely, involved in ongoing development
Employer & Industry UsageHired by companies for specific projects or freelance work across various industriesEmployed by companies or as freelancers, involved in software creation and maintenance

In summary, Contract Programmers focus on short-term, project-based work, often freelance or temporary, while Software Developers typically work on ongoing development within a company or as full-time employees. Both roles require similar skills and credentials but differ mainly in work scope and employment type.

How do contract programmers typically manage communication and collaboration with client teams while working remotely?

Contract programmers often work off-site, which makes effective communication and collaboration essential for project success. Most clients use project management tools like Jira, Trello, or Asana, and require regular check-ins via video calls, chat platforms, or emails. It’s important for contract programmers to proactively share progress, clarify requirements, and ask questions as needed to stay aligned with the client’s expectations. Building strong communication habits helps ensure timely delivery and fosters a positive working relationship with diverse team members, even when working remotely.

What is contract programming?

Contract programming is a work arrangement where a programmer is hired on a temporary basis to complete specific projects or tasks under a contract. It often involves working independently or remotely, with defined deliverables, deadlines, and payment terms, and may require skills in specific programming languages or tools. This setup allows companies to access specialized expertise without long-term employment commitments.

What is a contract programmer?

A contract programmer is a software developer who is hired on a temporary basis to work on specific projects or tasks for a company. Unlike full-time employees, contract programmers typically work for a set period or until the completion of a particular project. They may work independently or through an agency, and their expertise is often sought for specialized or short-term needs. Contract programmers can work on-site or remotely, and they usually have flexible arrangements regarding hours and workflow.

What are the most commonly searched types of Programmer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Programmer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Contract Programmer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Contract Programmer job openings:

Infographic showing various Contract Programmer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 8% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,822 per year, or $35.5 per hour.

CMM Programmer

RJO Consulting

Wheeling, IL

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Our client is a wellestablished and growing contract manufacturer serving the Aerospace and Medical Device industries.

They are hiring a CMM Programmer responsible for developing and writing CMM programs to inspect highprecision machined aerospace components. This includes both firstarticle and production inspection programs. The CMM Programmer will also provide clear, actionable feedback to production, engineering, and CNC programming teams to communicate inspection results and support continuous improvement.

This is a full time employee position, onsite in the northwest suburbs of Chicago, IL.

What you need to bring to this winning team:

  • 3+ years in related role with solid experience
  • Aerospace or Medical Industry experience preferred
  • ASQ-CQT or AS9100 is helpful to have
  • The CMM Programmer will write and edit CMM programs using PC-DMIS
  • Utilization of higher level Alignment Techniques
  • Using Scanning Methods
  • Advanced troubleshooting abilities
  • Blueprints, specifications and routers and interpret GD&T
  • Using micrometers, calipers, height gauges, plug gauges, vision system/compactors

Our client offers:

  • Competitive pay rate & discretionary bonus
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) Plan with a generous Company match
  • Paid holidays, vacation days, PTO days
  • Optional Short Term Disability, Accident, Critical Illness, and Supplemental Life Insurance
  • Career growth opportunities