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Freelance Backend Web Developer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Catylist

Java/Web Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

You're a quick study, have some experience using Java to build web applications, and aren't afraid ... Consulting/freelance is not your bag. You prefer to maintain and improve the products you've built ...

Anagh Technologies, Inc.

Node / GoLang Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$52.75 - $68.25/hr

Looking for a rockstar back-end web developer with proficiency in NodeJS and/or Golang running on Azure. The candidate should be able to independently develop efficient, secure and scalable RESTful ...

Varsity Tutors

Web Development Tutor

Naperville, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of front-end technologies including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, back-end development ... engineering careers. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled at teaching full-stack ...

Varsity Tutors

Web Development Tutor

Evanston, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of front-end technologies including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, back-end development ... engineering careers. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled at teaching full-stack ...

Varsity Tutors

Web Development Tutor

Chicago, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of front-end technologies including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, back-end development ... engineering careers. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled at teaching full-stack ...

Varsity Tutors

Web Development Tutor

Highland Park, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of front-end technologies including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, back-end development ... engineering careers. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled at teaching full-stack ...

Varsity Tutors

Web Development Tutor

Oak Lawn, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of front-end technologies including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, back-end development ... engineering careers. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled at teaching full-stack ...

Varsity Tutors

Web Development Tutor

Wheaton, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of front-end technologies including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, back-end development ... engineering careers. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled at teaching full-stack ...

Varsity Tutors

Web Development Tutor

Schaumburg, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of front-end technologies including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, back-end development ... engineering careers. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled at teaching full-stack ...

Varsity Tutors

Web Development Tutor

Buffalo Grove, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of front-end technologies including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, back-end development ... engineering careers. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled at teaching full-stack ...

Varsity Tutors

Web Development Tutor

Des Plaines, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of front-end technologies including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, back-end development ... engineering careers. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled at teaching full-stack ...

blueStone

Ruby Developer

Chicago, IL

Looking for an mid level software developer to work on our Backend platform. If you are interested in working in a startup environment and you're passionate about web development, then you'll fit ...

Varsity Tutors

Web Development Tutor

Skokie, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of front-end technologies including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, back-end development ... engineering careers. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled at teaching full-stack ...

Varsity Tutors

Web Development Tutor

Lake Forest, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of front-end technologies including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, back-end development ... engineering careers. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled at teaching full-stack ...

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All JobsBackend Web Developer JobsFreelance Backend Web Developer JobsFreelance Backend Web Developer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Freelance Backend Web Developer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$42.2K

$103.7K

$167.4K

How much do freelance backend web developer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance backend web developer in Chicago, IL is $103,713.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,400.00 and $119,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance backend web developer?

A Freelance Backend Web Developer is a self-employed professional who specializes in building and maintaining the server-side logic, databases, and APIs that power web applications. Unlike front-end developers who focus on the visual and interactive aspects of a website, backend developers work behind the scenes to ensure websites and applications function correctly and efficiently. Freelance backend developers typically work on a project basis for various clients, managing their own schedules and business operations. They often use programming languages like Python, Java, Ruby, PHP, or Node.js, and are responsible for tasks such as database management, server configuration, and integrating third-party services.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance backend web developer?

To thrive as a Freelance Backend Web Developer, you need strong proficiency in server-side programming languages (such as Python, Node.js, or PHP), database management, and a solid understanding of web architecture, often supported by a relevant degree or proven project experience. Familiarity with frameworks (like Django, Express, or Laravel), version control systems (such as Git), and cloud platforms (AWS, Azure) is typically required. Excellent problem-solving, time management, and client communication skills set successful freelancers apart in this competitive field. These skills ensure you can deliver robust, scalable solutions, meet client expectations, and efficiently manage independent projects.

What are some common challenges freelance backend web developers face when working with multiple clients simultaneously?

Freelance backend web developers often juggle projects for several clients at once, which can present challenges in managing deadlines, aligning with different technical stacks, and maintaining clear communication. Each client may use unique frameworks or have distinct workflow expectations, requiring adaptability and strong organizational skills. Effective time management and clear documentation help ensure smooth collaboration and prevent misunderstandings throughout the development process.

Can a freelance backend web developer work as a freelancer?

A freelance backend web developer works independently and can choose to take on projects from clients directly, making freelancing their primary mode of employment. They typically need skills in server-side programming, databases, and relevant tools, and may set their own schedules and rates. Freelancers often find work through online platforms, networking, or personal marketing efforts.

How much does a freelance backend web developer make?

Freelance backend web developers typically earn between $30 and $150 per hour, depending on experience, skills, and project complexity. Annual income varies widely, often ranging from $50,000 to over $150,000 for experienced professionals working on high-value projects or with specialized expertise in languages like Python, Java, or Node.js.

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Freelance Backend Web Developer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Freelance Backend Web Developer job openings:

Freelance Backend Web Developer jobs near you

Java/Web Developer

Catylist

Chicago, IL • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

About Us
We're building a nationwide network of crowdsourced commercial real estate databases. Our wild start-up days are behind us - we're all grown up and profitable now with a 14-year track record and tens of thousands of clients that love us.
Within our small team, you'll be doing a little bit of everything:
  • Building and maintaining server-side frameworks and APIs
  • Adding and refining front-end features (JSP, JavaScript, JQuery, HTML5)
  • If you're into it, configuring and managing parts of our stack (JBoss/Wildfly, MySQL, MongoDB, ElasticSearch/ELK, salt)

We're not dogmatic about our tools/technologies - we use whatever best suits the task at hand.
About You
Like us, you value stability, work/life balance, group decisions, and working with people that are good-natured, interesting, hard-working, and self-motivated.
You're a quick study, have some experience using Java to build web applications, and aren't afraid of the command line.
Catylist is for you if...
  • You hate the corporate bureaucracy of a big company.
  • You're so over the chaos and uncertainty of a start-up. You like having reasonable hours and knowing that your job will be around next week.
  • Consulting/freelance is not your bag. You prefer to maintain and improve the products you've built rather than hand them off and move on.

This is a full-time, 40 hours per week, remote, W2 position with benefits (health/dental/vision/401k).
When applying, please take some time and explain why you're a fit for our team, and please include your resume, github link, and anything else that will help us understand how awesome you are.

Apply