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Freelance Engineer Jobs in Wheaton, IL (NOW HIRING)

Framestore

Freelance: Nuke - Chicago

Chicago, IL · On-site

$64.75 - $73/hr

If you are a freelancer who would be interested in being kept on our books for future freelancing ... Programming and coding experience and knowledge * Experience with Hiero, Shotgun, After effects ...

24 Seven Talent

Multimedia Specialist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

This freelance Multimedia Specialist will help manage photo/video needs at monthly events, support ... programming. Maintain and make minor repairs to A/V equipment. Complete multiple projects in a ...

24 Seven Talent

Multimedia Specialist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

This freelance Multimedia Specialist will help manage photo/video needs at monthly events, support ... programming. Maintain and make minor repairs to A/V equipment. Complete multiple projects in a ...

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All JobsEngineer JobsFreelance Engineer JobsFreelance Engineer Jobs in Wheaton, IL

Freelance Engineer information

See Wheaton, IL salary details

$14

$47

$130

How much do freelance engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance engineer in Wheaton, IL is $47.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $61.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance engineer?

Freelance engineers are independent professionals who offer engineering services on a contract or project basis, rather than working as full-time employees for a single company. They may provide expertise in areas such as software, mechanical, civil, or electrical engineering, working with multiple clients to solve technical problems, design systems, or develop products. Freelance engineers often set their own schedules, manage their workload, and negotiate their rates, allowing for greater flexibility and autonomy. However, they are also responsible for finding clients, managing business operations, and keeping their skills up to date.

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

To thrive as a Freelance Engineer, you need strong technical engineering expertise in your specialization, a relevant degree or certification, and a demonstrated portfolio of completed projects. Familiarity with industry-standard design software (such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or MATLAB), project management tools, and remote collaboration platforms is typically required. Exceptional communication, self-motivation, and time management skills help you attract clients, clarify project needs, and meet deadlines. These abilities are crucial for delivering high-quality work independently and ensuring sustained client satisfaction in a competitive freelance market.

How do freelance engineers typically manage client relationships and project expectations?

Freelance engineers often juggle multiple clients, making clear communication and expectation-setting essential. This means discussing project scope, deliverables, timelines, and rates upfront, and providing regular updates to clients throughout the project. Many freelance engineers use project management tools, contracts, and milestone check-ins to stay organized and ensure everyone is on the same page. Building trust through reliability and transparency can lead to repeat business and referrals, which are important for career growth in freelance engineering.

What is the difference between Freelance Engineer vs Contract Engineer?

AspectFreelance EngineerContract Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires relevant engineering degrees and certifications; no employer-specific credentials neededRequires engineering degrees and certifications; often involves contractual agreements with employers
Work EnvironmentIndependent, remote or on-site projects for multiple clientsUsually on-site or remote, working on specific projects for a single employer during contract duration
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across various industries; self-employed or through platformsEmployed by companies or agencies for project-based work in engineering sectors

In summary, Freelance Engineers operate independently, often handling multiple clients, while Contract Engineers work on specific projects for a single employer under contractual terms. Both roles require engineering credentials but differ mainly in work setup and employment structure.

Can a freelance engineer be a freelancer?

A freelance engineer is a professional who offers engineering services independently, often working on a project basis for clients. Yes, they are considered freelancers, as they operate without long-term employment and typically manage their own schedules, tools, and contracts.

How much do freelance engineers make?

Freelance engineers' earnings vary based on experience, specialization, location, and project complexity, but they typically charge hourly rates ranging from $50 to $150 or more. Many freelance engineers work on a project basis or retainers, with annual incomes often between $60,000 and $120,000, depending on their skills and client base.

What are the most commonly searched types of Engineer jobs in Wheaton, IL?

The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Wheaton, IL are:

What cities near Wheaton, IL are hiring for Freelance Engineer jobs?

Cities near Wheaton, IL with the most Freelance Engineer job openings:

Freelance Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Engineer job openings in Wheaton, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,209 per year, or $47.2 per hour.

Freelance: Nuke - Chicago

Framestore

Chicago, IL • On-site

$64.75 - $73/hr

Temporary

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Framestore Integrated Advertising are always on the look-out for exceptional talent to join our award winning team. If you are a freelancer who would be interested in being kept on our books for future freelancing opportunities with our team then please submit your details to us - we would love to hear from you!
Our freelance opportunities will always be live on the website and we will get in touch with people who have submitted their details as and when opportunities arise. There is no need to apply here more than once - once you're in then you're in and you will be on our radar! In fact, the people who submit here will be our first point of call when we're looking.
So if you want to freelance on some of the most exciting and challenging advertising work out there then you know what to do - hit that 'apply' button right now!
  • Excellent working knowledge of and at least 1 year production experience with Nuke in commercials, TV, and/or film projects
  • A solid reel showing a wide range of shots and a creative eye
  • Excellent organization, communication and interpersonal skills
  • A proactive and collaborative work ethic
  • A strong eye for detail, composition, color and lighting
  • The ability to multitask, prioritize and problem solve
  • Eagerness to learn and self-motivated in pursuit of own professional development
  • Proven ability in working with clients in order to create their vision
  • An understanding of color space principles
  • Photoshop and Linux experience
  • Must have US work authorization

Desired Skills:
  • Knowledge of practical lighting for photography
  • A working knowledge of the overall VFX pipeline
  • Programming and coding experience and knowledge
  • Experience with Hiero, Shotgun, After effects, Final Cut, Flame is an advantage
  • Compositing experience in a commercial environment is desirable

Apply