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Freelance Compiler Software Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Java Full Stack/React Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$54 - $69.75/hr

Can we use Freelancer? : No * Named Job Posting? (if Yes - needs to be approved by SCSC) : No * Remote work possibility : No * Global Role Family : 60236 (P) Software Engineering * Local Role Name

Hardware Machine Learning Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$127K - $167K/yr

We build the hardware, the software, and the infrastructure, so when you hit a bottleneck, you can ... Exposure to ML compiler infrastructure such as MLIR, TVM, XLA, or similar tools for lowering and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Freelance Compiler Software Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$24.7K

$108K

$194.7K

How much do freelance compiler software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance compiler software engineer in Chicago, IL is $108,024.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $123,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance compiler software engineer?

A Freelance Compiler Software Engineer is a professional who specializes in designing, developing, and optimizing compilers on a contract or project basis rather than as a full-time employee. They work with programming languages and toolchains to translate source code into executable programs, ensuring efficiency and correctness. These engineers may be hired for projects such as building custom compilers, improving existing compiler performance, or integrating new language features. Freelancers enjoy flexibility in choosing projects and often work remotely for clients across various industries.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance compiler software engineer?

To thrive as a Freelance Compiler Software Engineer, you need a deep understanding of compiler theory, programming languages (such as C/C++ or Rust), and data structures, often supported by a degree in computer science or related experience. Proficiency with tools like LLVM, GCC, build systems, and debuggers, as well as familiarity with version control systems like Git, is typically required. Strong problem-solving, self-management, and communication skills help you deliver solutions to clients and collaborate remotely. These skills and qualities are crucial for building efficient, reliable compiler software and maintaining client trust in a competitive freelance environment.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance compiler software engineers when working with clients on diverse projects?

Freelance compiler software engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting quickly to different codebases, understanding varying project requirements, and integrating their work with existing developer teams. Since compiler projects can be highly specialized, clear communication with clients about technical constraints and expectations is crucial. Additionally, freelancers may need to juggle multiple projects simultaneously, which requires strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize tasks effectively.

What is the difference between Freelance Compiler Software Engineer vs Freelance Software Developer?

AspectFreelance Compiler Software Engineer

Required CredentialsTypically a computer science degree or equivalent experience, knowledge of compiler design, programming languages, and software development tools.
Work EnvironmentIndependent, project-based work often involving specialized tasks like language parsing, optimization, and code generation.
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by tech companies, startups, or clients needing custom compiler solutions or language tools.
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared with general software developers but focuses on compiler-specific expertise.

While both roles involve software development, a Freelance Compiler Software Engineer specializes in designing and optimizing compilers and language tools, requiring specialized knowledge. In contrast, a Freelance Software Developer has a broader scope, working on various applications and systems without necessarily focusing on compiler technology.

What are the most commonly searched types of Compiler Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Compiler Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What job categories do people searching Freelance Compiler Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Compiler Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Senior Software Engineer, Trading Platform, C++

DRW Holdings, LLC.

Chicago, IL • On-site

$175 - $240/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Senior Software Engineer, Trading Platform, C++ Senior Software Engineer, Trading Platform, C++

Job Location Chicago

Employment type Regular

Department Technology

Targeted Start Date Immediate

DRW is a diversified trading firm with over 3 decades of experience bringing sophisticated technology and exceptional people together to operate in markets around the world. We value autonomy and the ability to quickly pivot to capture opportunities, so we operate using our own capital and trading at our own risk.

Headquartered in Chicago with offices throughout the U.S., Canada, Europe, and Asia, we trade a variety of asset classes including Fixed Income, ETFs, Equities, FX, Commodities and Energy across all major global markets. We have also leveraged our expertise and technology to expand into three non-traditional strategies: real estate, venture capital and cryptoassets.

We operate with respect, curiosity and open minds. The people who thrive here share our belief that it’s not just what we do that matters–it's how we do it. DRW is a place of high expectations, integrity, innovation and a willingness to challenge consensus.

DRW is looking for an outstanding Software Engineer with an expertise in C++ to work in our Chicago office. In this role, you will be a part of our Core Infrastructure team which is responsible for designing, developing and maintaining DRW's low latency trading platform which is deployed global. You will be tasked with working on various areas of the technical stack including order routing, market data, and risk systems.

To qualify for this role, you:

  • Minimum of 5 years of experience working developing high-availability systems in C++ with very tight resource/latency constraints
  • Have a background in multi-threaded programming and a strong understanding of hardware/software interaction
  • Are comfortable working “under the hood” and you are quite skilled in performance tuning (applications, Linux, socket I/O, etc.) and troubleshooting
  • Have experience working with C++ libraries like STL and Boost
  • Are up to date on the C++23 standards and have opinions about them
  • Have worked on challenging projects that involved things like building a custom compiler, writing a matching engine, or working with large amounts of data in real time
  • Have strong English verbal and written communication skills

Bonus points if you have:

  • Experience working in the trading industry or another ultra-low latency sensitive business that involves solving remarkably complex problems
  • Experience working with Research teams and Quants
  • Experience working within gaming or streaming
  • The annual base salary range for this position is $175,000 to $240,000 depending on the candidate’s experience, qualifications, and relevant skill set.
  • The position is also eligible for an annual discretionary bonus.
  • group medical, pharmacy, dental and vision insurance
  • 401k (with discretionary employer match)
  • short and long-term disability
  • life and AD&D insurance
  • health savings accounts
  • flexible spending accounts

For more information about DRW's processing activities and our use of job applicants' data, please view our Privacy Notice at https://drw.com/privacy-notice .

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