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Freelance Developer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

A-V Services, Inc

Be Seen First

Freelance Audio-Visual Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

A-V Services Inc., a leading AV company with multiple fortune 100 contracts within the financial, pharmaceutical and computing industry, seeks a Freelance Audio/Visual/Multimedia Technician for on ...

Catylist

Java/Web Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

Solomon Page

Senior Data Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65 - $80/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

We are seeking a hands-on Senior Data Engineer to support Phase 0 data discovery, profiling ... freelancers - which sets us apart in the industries we serve. About Solomon Page Founded in 1990 ...

Kehoe Designs Inc

Event Support Coordinator

Chicago, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Freelancer Recruitment Support * Assists with incoming applications and communication with ... Bachelor's Degree (or equivalent background) in theater production, audio or video engineering, or ...

Fox

Manager, StudentU - Big Ten Network

Chicago, IL · On-site

$83K - $95K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... freelance quality control operators who provide feedback and critiques of individual broadcasts in order to improve future productions * Together with the programming department, keep track of event ...

Art Institute of Chicago

Event Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$23 - $28.12/hr

  • PTO

Report issues to AV Systems Integrator Engineer. Track, report, and support installed equipment ... Orients and trains freelance staff. Assist in the orientation and technical training of freelance ...

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Freelance Developer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$23

$69

How much do freelance developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance developer in Chicago, IL is $23.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.94 and $18.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do freelance developers typically find and manage multiple clients while maintaining consistent project quality?

Freelance developers often rely on a mix of online platforms, personal networks, and referrals to secure new clients. Managing multiple projects requires strong organizational skills, effective communication, and the ability to set clear expectations with each client. Many freelancers use project management tools to track deadlines and deliverables, ensuring that each client receives consistent quality. Balancing workloads and prioritizing tasks are common challenges, but successful freelancers establish routines and boundaries to maintain high standards across all engagements.

What is a freelance developer?

Freelance developers are self-employed professionals who offer software development services to clients on a project or contract basis, rather than working as permanent employees. They may specialize in areas such as web development, mobile app development, or software engineering. Freelance developers typically manage their own schedules, find their own clients, and are responsible for handling multiple aspects of their business, including invoicing and project management. This career path offers flexibility and the opportunity to work on diverse projects, but also requires strong self-motivation and business skills.

What does a freelance developer do?

A freelance developer performs software programming and web development duties for a client or clients on a contract basis. These responsibilities may include helping build a website, working on design or user experience functionality, and developing code. A freelance developer often works as part of a larger team of developers, programmers, and engineers on a specific project. The qualifications you need for this position include a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field, technical skills, and knowledge of one or more programming languages.

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

To thrive as a Freelance Developer, you need strong programming skills, a solid portfolio, and proficiency in relevant languages such as JavaScript, Python, or Java. Familiarity with version control systems (like Git), cloud platforms, and project management tools is typically required, along with certifications in specific technologies as a plus. Excellent communication, self-motivation, and time management set top freelancers apart by ensuring reliable project delivery and client satisfaction. These skills are vital for attracting clients, managing multiple projects, and maintaining a successful independent business.

What is the difference between Freelance Developer vs Web Developer?

AspectFreelance DeveloperWeb Developer
CredentialsTypically self-taught or with coding bootcamps; no formal certification requiredOften holds a degree in computer science or related field; certifications like HTML, CSS, JavaScript are common
Work EnvironmentWorks independently, often remotely, with multiple clientsWorks for a company or as a full-time employee, usually in an office or remote
Employer & Industry UsageClients include startups, small businesses, or individuals; freelance platforms are commonEmployers include tech firms, agencies, or corporations; industry standard role

In summary, Freelance Developers operate independently, often with diverse clients and flexible schedules, while Web Developers are typically employed by organizations or agencies, focusing on building websites within a structured environment.

More about Freelance Developer jobs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Freelance Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Developer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,251 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Copy of Senior Lua Developer (Roblox) - AI Code Evaluation

Lifted, an Upwork Company™

Chicago, IL • Remote

$60/hr

Contractor

Posted 19 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.

    Apply