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Data Engineer Remote Contract Jobs in Chicago, IL

YO AI Labs

AI Engineer - Remote

Chicago, IL · Remote

$80 - $120/hr

Remote Job Summary We are seeking experienced Senior Software Engineers to support an AI training ... Strong understanding of algorithms and data structures . * Experience with bug fixing and debugging ...

Oowlish Technology

Senior Data Engineer (Snowflake)

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$109K - $148K/yr

We offer the convenience of remote work, allowing you to craft a work-life balance that suits your ... We are looking for an experienced Senior Data Engineer with strong expertise in Snowflake to help ...

NinjaTrader

Sr. Data Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$109K - $148K/yr

This role is remote-friendly and reports to the Manager, Data & Analytics Engineering. As a Sr. Data Engineer, your primary responsibility is to stay one step ahead of your fellow team members by ...

Above Lending

Senior Data Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$110K - $150K/yr

We're looking for a Senior Data Engineer who operates like an owner and thinks like a Systems ... We are not hiring remote candidates at this time. What You'll Do * Build and own end-to-end data ...

Above Lending

Senior Data Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$109K - $148K/yr

We're looking for a Senior Data Engineer who operates like an owner and thinks like a Systems ... We are not hiring remote candidates at this time. What You'll Do * Build and own end-to-end data ...

Turing

Remote Chemistry Specialist

Chicago, IL · Remote

$100 - $200/hr

Remote contract for PhDs in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related fields. Work on cutting ... quality data, advanced training pipelines, plus top AI researchers who specialize in coding ...

Kemper

Data Quality Engineer

Chicago, IL · Remote

$118K - $141K/yr

... Remote-OH, Remote-PA, Remote-RI, Remote-VA Details Kemper is one of the nation's leading ... Kemper is seeking a Data Quality Engineer specializing in Data Testing and Quality Engineering to ...

Kemper

Data Quality Engineer

Downers Grove, IL · Remote

$114K - $137K/yr

... Remote-OH, Remote-PA, Remote-RI, Remote-VA Details Kemper is one of the nation's leading ... Kemper is seeking a Data Quality Engineer specializing in Data Testing and Quality Engineering to ...

YO AI Labs

AI/ML Engineer - Remote

Chicago, IL · Remote

$200 - $350/hr

Remote Job Summary We are seeking an experienced AI/ML Engineer to build and deploy secure ... Build robust ETL and data pipelines , metadata catalogs, and ontologies for AI training and ...

YO AI Labs

DevOps Engineer - Remote

Chicago, IL · Remote

$50 - $150/hr

... Engineer Role Type: Contractor Location: Remote Job Overview We are seeking experienced DevOps ... Previous experience with AI training data or model evaluation.

YO AI Labs

RL Environment Engineer - Remote

Chicago, IL · Remote

$80 - $120/hr

Remote Job Summary We are seeking experienced Senior Software Engineers to support an AI training ... Strong understanding of algorithms and data structures . * Experience with bug fixing and debugging ...

YO AI Labs

AI Software Engineer - Remote

Chicago, IL · Remote

$80 - $120/hr

Remote Job Summary We are seeking experienced Senior Software Engineers to support an AI training ... Strong understanding of algorithms and data structures . * Experience with bug fixing and debugging ...

YO AI Labs

AI/ML Software Engineer - Remote

Chicago, IL · Remote

$80 - $120/hr

Remote Job Summary We are seeking experienced Senior Software Engineers to support an AI training ... Strong understanding of algorithms and data structures . * Experience with bug fixing and debugging ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsData Engineer Contract JobsData Engineer Remote Contract JobsData Engineer Remote Contract Jobs in Chicago, IL

Data Engineer Remote Contract information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$45.8K

$133.6K

$182.9K

How much do data engineer remote contract jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for data engineer remote contract in Chicago, IL is $133,627.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,000.00 and $141,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a data engineer remote contract?

A Data Engineer Remote Contract position involves building and maintaining the infrastructure and systems that enable organizations to collect, store, and analyze large amounts of data, all while working remotely. As a contractor, you are typically hired for a specific project or period and are not a permanent employee. This role often includes tasks like designing data pipelines, optimizing database performance, ensuring data quality, and collaborating with data scientists and analysts. Working remotely provides flexibility in location, but contractors are expected to communicate regularly with teams and meet project deadlines.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a data engineer in a remote contract role?

To thrive as a Data Engineer in a remote contract position, you need strong programming skills (such as Python or Java), deep knowledge of database systems, and a background in computer science or a related field. Proficiency with data pipeline tools (like Apache Airflow), cloud platforms (such as AWS or Azure), and ETL processes, along with relevant certifications, is highly valued. Excellent problem-solving abilities, clear communication, and self-motivation are key soft skills, especially when working independently or with distributed teams. These skills ensure the reliable design, development, and maintenance of scalable data systems, which are critical for organizations to leverage data effectively.

What are some common challenges faced by data engineers working remotely on contract assignments?

Data Engineers working remotely on contract assignments often navigate challenges such as aligning with distributed teams across different time zones, ensuring secure access to sensitive data, and maintaining clear communication with stakeholders. Since contractors may work with diverse tech stacks across projects, adapting quickly to new tools and company-specific data infrastructures is essential. Additionally, balancing multiple deliverables and onboarding efficiently without in-person support requires strong self-management and proactive collaboration skills.

What is the difference between Data Engineer Remote Contract vs Data Analyst Remote Contract?

AspectData Engineer Remote ContractData Analyst Remote Contract
Required CredentialsBachelor's in CS, Data Engineering certificationsBachelor's in Statistics, Data Analysis certifications
Work EnvironmentRemote, collaborative teams, cloud platformsRemote, reporting and visualization tools
Employer & Industry UsageTech, finance, healthcareMarketing, retail, consulting
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between Data Engineer Remote Contract and Data Analyst Remote Contract lies in their focus and skill sets. Data Engineers build and maintain data pipelines and infrastructure, requiring technical skills in cloud platforms and programming. Data Analysts interpret data, create reports, and visualize insights. Both roles are remote and industry-specific, but they serve different functions within organizations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Data Engineer Remote jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Data Engineer Remote jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Data Engineer Remote Contract jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Data Engineer Remote Contract jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Data Engineer Remote Contract jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Data Engineer Remote Contract jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Data Engineer Remote Contract jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Data Engineer Remote Contract job openings:

Data Engineer Remote Contract jobs near you
Infographic showing various Data Engineer Remote Contract job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $133,627 per year, or $64.2 per hour.

AI Engineer - Remote

YO AI Labs

Chicago, IL • Remote

$80 - $120/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Senior Software Engineer

Job Type: Contractor (~15 hours/week)
Location: Remote

Job Summary

We are seeking experienced Senior Software Engineers to support an AI training project by creating reinforcement learning environments that evaluate AI models on complex software engineering tasks using Model Context Protocol (MCP) tools.

You will design reproducible environments, deterministic verification, and reference solutions for tasks such as bug fixing, feature implementation, codebase refactoring, and performance optimization. No prior AI experience is required.

Key Responsibilities
  • Create reinforcement learning environments for software engineering tasks.
  • Design tasks involving bug fixing, feature development, refactoring, and performance optimization.
  • Build deterministic verification systems and golden reference solutions.
  • Evaluate AI agents' ability to reason through complex codebases and use MCP tools effectively.
  • Develop realistic, reproducible software engineering scenarios.
  • Ensure tasks accurately measure coding ability, problem-solving, and tool usage.
  • Document solutions and provide clear technical feedback.
Required Skills
  • Strong proficiency in Python 3, Java, Rust, C++, or TypeScript.
  • Strong understanding of algorithms and data structures.
  • Experience with bug fixing and debugging complex software issues.
  • Proven experience in feature implementation and codebase refactoring.
  • Strong knowledge of performance optimization and tuning.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication.
  • Strong attention to detail.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience working with large-scale or distributed codebases.
  • Familiarity with AI/ML systems is a plus but not required.
  • Experience with rigorous code reviews and software engineering best practices.
  • Experience working effectively in remote or cross-functional teams.
Hiring Process
  1. Submit an application and screening questions.
  2. Complete an AI interview (~30 minutes).
  3. Complete a technical assessment, if required.
  4. Hiring Manager review.
Compensation

Compensation is output-based, with payment provided per task that meets project specifications. Minimum weekly submission requirements may apply.

Availability

Selected experts should be prepared to begin their first tasks within 24–48 hours of completing onboarding.