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Freelance Data Engineering Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Freelance Data Engineering information

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$15

$49

$136

How much do freelance data engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance data engineering in Chicago, IL is $49.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.00 and $63.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is freelance data engineering?

A Freelance Data Engineering job involves designing, building, and maintaining data infrastructure on a contract basis. Freelancers work with businesses to develop ETL pipelines, optimize databases, and manage big data technologies. They often use tools like SQL, Python, Apache Spark, and cloud platforms such as AWS, Google Cloud, or Azure. This role requires strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently on data-related projects.

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

To excel as a Freelance Data Engineer, you need strong programming skills (Python, SQL), experience with data architecture, ETL processes, and a solid understanding of cloud platforms such as AWS or Azure. Familiarity with tools like Apache Spark, Hadoop, Airflow, and relevant certifications such as Google Cloud Professional Data Engineer or AWS Certified Data Analytics are highly valued. Exceptional communication, project management skills, and the ability to work independently are crucial soft skills in this freelance capacity. These competencies ensure you can efficiently deliver robust data solutions, manage client expectations, and adapt swiftly to diverse project needs.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance data engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Freelance data engineers often face challenges such as managing multiple clients with varying needs, keeping up-to-date with rapidly evolving technologies, and ensuring clear communication despite remote arrangements. To address these challenges, it's important to set clear project expectations from the start, maintain a consistent schedule for learning and skill development, and utilize collaboration tools for effective communication. Building a strong portfolio and leveraging professional networking can also yield steady work opportunities and referrals. Proactively addressing these areas helps freelance data engineers remain competitive and successful in the industry.

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Freelance Data Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Freelance Data Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Freelance Data Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Data Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Freelance Data Engineering jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Freelance Data Engineering job openings:

Freelance Data Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Data Engineering job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $102,222 per year, or $49.1 per hour.

Senior Lua Developer (Roblox) - AI Code Evaluation

Lifted, an Upwork Company™

Chicago, IL • Remote

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Company Description

An enterprise client is seeking experienced Lua Developers to support AI model training through technical evaluations, scripting tasks, and code quality reviews. This opportunity is ideal for developers who have strong Lua programming skills and experience building or scripting within the Roblox ecosystem.

The client partners with leading AI organizations to improve the quality of next-generation AI models by leveraging the expertise of experienced software developers. Selected freelancers will help evaluate AI-generated code, review programming solutions, and contribute to the development of high-quality training data used to advance generative AI technologies.

    Job Description

    This opportunity is ideal for experienced Lua programmers who enjoy solving technical challenges, reviewing code, and improving software quality.

    What You'll Do:

    • Review, analyze, and evaluate Lua code for accuracy, quality, and best practices.
    • Complete technical evaluations and scripting-related tasks involving Lua programming.
    • Identify bugs, performance issues, and opportunities to improve existing code.
    • Develop and modify Lua scripts based on project requirements.
    • Apply strong programming fundamentals, including modular design, data structures, and debugging techniques.
    • Work with Roblox Studio and Roblox development environments where applicable.
    • Contribute to AI model training by providing high-quality technical feedback and code evaluations.
    • Collaborate with the client's AI evaluation platform while following detailed project guidelines.
    Qualifications

    Requirements:

    • Advanced proficiency in Lua programming, including scripting, debugging, and code optimization.
    • Hands-on experience using Roblox Studio and/or developing applications or games on the Roblox platform.
    • Strong understanding of programming fundamentals, including data structures, functions, modular programming, and performance optimization.
    • Ability to independently review, analyze, and improve existing Lua code.
    • Professional working proficiency in English with strong written communication skills.
    • Ability to work independently and follow detailed technical instructions.

    Nice to Haves:

    • Experience developing Roblox games or interactive experiences.
    • Experience reviewing code or conducting technical quality assurance.
    • Familiarity with software testing, debugging, and code optimization techniques.
    • Experience contributing to AI, machine learning, or code evaluation projects.

    Additional Information
    • Fully remote, project-based opportunity.
    • Up to $60/hour, depending on project availability.
    • Expected workload ranges from 10–39 hours per week, although work volume may fluctuate.
    • Weekly lump-sum payments for work completed during the previous week.
    • Qualified candidates will receive an Upwork contract offer along with onboarding instructions.
    • Candidates who successfully complete the initial survey will be invited to a paid technical evaluation (approximately 2–3 hours). Approved evaluations will receive a $150 payment.
    • To begin onboarding and access project tasks, candidates must have an active Upwork contract with the client.
    • Due to the high volume of applicants, the client may not be able to respond to individual inquiries.