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Freelance Computer Programming Jobs in California

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AI-Native Growth Engineer / Creative Technologist Freelance Contract | Southern California | Hybrid ... at RKS Design in Thousand Oaks A computer science, engineering, technical product or ...

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AI-Native Growth Engineer / Creative Technologist Freelance Contract | Southern California | Hybrid ... at RKS Design in Thousand Oaks A computer science, engineering, technical product or ...

Location Coordinator

Venice, CA ยท On-site

$20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Access to all BLANKSPACES locations, events, community programming, and membership experiences ... computer and tech capabilities - Reliable transportation, as you may be required to work at more ...

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Freelance Computer Programming information

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$14

$47

$130

How much do freelance computer programming jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance computer programming in California is $47.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.94 and $60.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is freelance computer programming?

Freelance computer programming involves working independently as a programmer or developer, rather than being employed by a single company. Freelancers take on projects from various clients, which can range from building websites and applications to troubleshooting software and writing code for specific tasks. This type of work offers flexibility in choosing projects, setting schedules, and working remotely. However, it also requires managing your own business tasks, such as finding clients, negotiating contracts, and handling taxes.

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

To thrive as a Freelance Computer Programmer, you need strong coding abilities in relevant programming languages, problem-solving skills, and a solid understanding of software development principles, typically supported by a degree or equivalent practical experience. Familiarity with version control systems (like Git), project management tools, and knowledge of frameworks or platforms specific to your niche is highly valued. Excellent communication, time management, and self-motivation are essential soft skills for managing client relationships and deadlines. These skills ensure you can deliver high-quality solutions, maintain client satisfaction, and succeed in a competitive freelance market.

What are common challenges freelance computer programmers face when managing multiple clients simultaneously?

Freelance computer programmers often juggle several projects and clients at once, which can present challenges such as balancing deadlines, prioritizing tasks, and maintaining clear communication. Effective time management and organizational skills are crucial to ensure that deliverables are met and client expectations are managed. Additionally, freelancers must be proactive in setting boundaries and clarifying project scopes to avoid scope creep and ensure a healthy work-life balance. Building transparent communication channels with clients helps prevent misunderstandings and fosters long-term professional relationships.

What is the difference between Freelance Computer Programming vs Software Developer?

AspectFreelance Computer ProgrammingSoftware Developer
CredentialsTypically self-taught or with coding bootcamps; no formal degree requiredOften holds a bachelor's or higher degree in computer science or related fields
Work EnvironmentIndependent, remote, project-basedEmployed by a company, often in an office or hybrid setting
Employer & Industry UsageClients across various industries; freelance platformsTech companies, startups, corporations
Search & Comparison IntentLooking for flexible, project-based work or freelance opportunitiesSeeking full-time or salaried roles in software development

Freelance Computer Programmers work independently on diverse projects for various clients, often remotely and without formal employment. Software Developers are typically employed by organizations, working within teams to develop software products. Both roles require programming skills, but their work settings and employment structures differ significantly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Computer Programming jobs in California?

The most popular types of Computer Programming jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Freelance Computer Programming jobs in California?

For Freelance Computer Programming jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Freelance Computer Programming jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Computer Programming jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Freelance Computer Programming jobs?

Cities in California with the most Freelance Computer Programming job openings:

Infographic showing various Freelance Computer Programming job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 76% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,931 per year, or $47.1 per hour.

Contract Trainer - Unity 3D

Sterling Ledet & Associates, Inc.

El Segundo, CA โ€ข On-site

$24 - $32.75/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Company Description
Ledet training is a chain of instructor-led computer software training centers in the USA. We have been authorized training vendors for Adobe, Autodesk, Unity, Microsoft and other major software vendors for over 20 years.
The company operates bricks and mortar facilities in Atlanta, Chicago, Denver, San Diego and Washington DC, as well as high quality online training in virtual classrooms and onsite training services delivered at customer locations worldwide.
Job Description
Contract trainers are sought for all levels of Unity 3D training, intro through advanced with a focus on serious games, AEC (Architecture Engineering and Construction), simulation, and elearning, as well as game development.
This is a contract 1099 opportunity ideal for independent freelance development professionals seeking to supplement their business income with fairly regular opportunities to deliver classroom based instruction.
Classes are typically 2 to 5 days long. Class times are 9:00 to 4:00 with a one hour lunch break. Instructors are expected to arrive by 8:00 and be prepared to stay up to an hour later, if necessary, to answer customer questions or assist them with any challenges. Classes are delivered during the business work week. We do not offer classes on evenings or weekends.
Students are typically currently employed adult business professionals whose employer is paying for the professional skills development.
Daily Rates
As independent contractors, trainers can set their own pay rate. Different instructors charge different rates, but typically those contractors who set their daily rate competitive with others in the industry have more training opportunities presented to them. Their are approximately six hours of classroom delivery per day, but time must be budgeted for preparation and setup. Pay is competitive and rates are negotiable.
Qualifications
  • Significant real world experience and knowledge of Unity 3D including textures, animation, GUI styles, user session management, etc. Must be willing to invest in Unity 3D certification (a mandatory requirement after 1/1/17).
  • Great presentation skills. Toastmasters membership or previous speaking or teaching experience a big plus.
  • Preparation skills.
  • Caring attitude
  • Self-motivated with a strong desire to learn and stay abreast of Unity 3D developments/standards

Additional Information
A great applicant for this opportunity is someone who has both the techical expertise in the technology they are teaching as well as the effective presentation skills and caring attention to their students necessary to help adults learn to use technology more effectively to achieve business results.
Instructors who get the best reviews are engaging and entertaining, carefully prepared and organized, and focussed on what class participants can do, not on showing how much they know. They are open to constructive feedback and continually honing both their technical and delivery skills.
Clarity and precision in all communications are paramount for this role and brevity and relevance of written communications are highly valued by the executive team selecting the person who will join our high-performing team.