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Freelance Graduate Software Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

IMC

Graduate Software Engineer

Chicago, IL

$200K/yr

  • PTO

As a Software Engineer at IMC, you will drive the development of our cutting-edge trading algorithms. You will be responsible for spotting new opportunities, solving problems and developing ...

IMC B.V.

Graduate Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$180 - $220/hr

As a Software Engineer at IMC, you will drive the development of our cutting‑edge trading algorithms. You will be responsible for spotting new opportunities, solving problems and developing ...

IMC

Graduate Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$200K/yr

  • PTO

As a Software Engineer at IMC, you will drive the development of our cutting-edge trading algorithms. You will be responsible for spotting new opportunities, solving problems and developing ...

IMC

Graduate Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$200K/yr

  • PTO

As a Software Engineer at IMC, you will drive the development of our cutting-edge trading algorithms. You will be responsible for spotting new opportunities, solving problems and developing ...

Optiver

Graduate Software Engineer (2027 Start)

Chicago, IL

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a Software Engineer, you'll work side-by-side with teammates to build real-world applications ... On track to graduate between December 2026 to June 2027 * Passionate for writing clean code, well ...

Optiver

Graduate Software Engineer (2027 Start)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$200K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a Software Engineer, you'll work side-by-side with teammates to build real-world applications ... On track to graduate between December 2026 to June 2027 * Passionate for writing clean code, well ...

Prelim

Software Engineer, Product

Chicago, IL · Remote

$140K - $160K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a Software Engineer, Product at Prelim, you will own critical parts of the platform that powers ... Whether you're a new graduate with impressive projects or an experienced engineer, we want to hear ...

Civis Analytics

Software Engineer (Contract)

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$90K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Virginia Civis is hiring a Software Engineer (Contract) to build and ship high-quality software ... Graduate degree in Computer Science or a related subject * Significant experience with one or more ...

Civis Analytics

Software Engineer (Contract)

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$90K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Virginia Civis is hiring a Software Engineer (Contract) to build and ship high-quality software ... Graduate degree in Computer Science or a related subject * Significant experience with one or more ...

Civis Analytics

Software Engineer (Contract)

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$90K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Virginia Civis is hiring a Software Engineer (Contract) to build and ship high-quality software ... Graduate degree in Computer Science or a related subject * Significant experience with one or more ...

Akuna Capital

Software Engineer - Data Engineering

Chicago, IL · On-site

$145K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

What you'll do as a Software Engineer on the Data Engineering team at Akuna: We are a data-driven ... If you are a current student or recent graduate, please take a look at our Entry Level and Intern ...

Akuna Capital

Software Engineer - Data Engineering

Chicago, IL

$145K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

What you'll do as a Software Engineer on the Data Engineering team at Akuna: We are a data-driven ... If you are a current student or recent graduate, please take a look at our Entry Level and Intern ...

Akuna Capital Llc

Software Engineer - Data Engineering

Chicago, IL · On-site

$117 - $143/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

What you'll do as a Software Engineer on the Data Engineering team at Akuna: We are a data-driven ... If you are a current student or recent graduate, please take a look at our Entry Level and Intern ...

Akuna Capital

Software Engineer - Data Engineering

Chicago, IL · On-site

$145K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

What you'll do as a Software Engineer on the Data Engineering team at Akuna: We are a data-driven ... If you are a current student or recent graduate, please take a look at our Entry Level and Intern ...

P2P

Campus Software Engineer (Full-Time)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$225 - $275/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Our new graduate hires work alongside experienced engineers and learn advanced skills in C ... Ability to work with a team in a fast‑paced environment, deploying new software daily * Passion ...

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All JobsGraduate Software Engineer JobsFreelance Graduate Software Engineer JobsFreelance Graduate Software Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Freelance Graduate Software Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$24.7K

$108K

$194.7K

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

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance graduate 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 graduate software engineer?

A freelance graduate software engineer is an individual who has recently completed a degree in software engineering, computer science, or a related field and works independently on a contract or project basis. Instead of being employed full-time by a single company, they offer their programming and software development skills to various clients. This role allows for flexibility in choosing projects and clients, but also requires self-management, networking, and business skills. Freelance graduate software engineers may work on web development, app creation, debugging, or contributing to larger software projects. This path is ideal for those seeking diverse experience and the ability to set their own work schedule.

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

To thrive as a Freelance Graduate Software Engineer, you need strong programming skills, a relevant degree in computer science or engineering, and a foundational understanding of software development principles. Familiarity with popular programming languages, version control systems like Git, and basic project management or collaboration tools is typically expected. Excellent problem-solving, effective communication, and time management skills help you deliver quality work and manage client expectations. These abilities are crucial for successfully handling diverse projects, building client relationships, and progressing in a competitive freelance environment.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance graduate software engineers when starting out, and how can they overcome them?

Freelance graduate software engineers often face challenges such as building a client base, managing multiple projects, and adapting to varying client expectations. It's common to feel overwhelmed by the need to market oneself while maintaining high coding standards. To overcome these challenges, many new freelancers focus on networking, maintaining an up-to-date portfolio, and improving time-management skills. Joining professional communities and seeking mentorship can also provide support and open doors to project opportunities.

What is the difference between Freelance Graduate Software Engineer vs Junior Software Developer?

AspectFreelance Graduate Software EngineerJunior Software Developer
CredentialsTypically recent graduates or those with basic coding skillsEntry-level professionals with foundational knowledge
Work EnvironmentSelf-employed, project-based, remote or freelanceFull-time or part-time employment in a company or team
Employer & Industry UsageFreelance platforms, startups, tech companiesSoftware firms, tech departments, corporate environments

The main difference is that a Freelance Graduate Software Engineer works independently on various projects, often remotely, and manages their own clients. In contrast, a Junior Software Developer is typically employed by a company, working within a team on ongoing projects. Both roles require basic coding skills, but the freelance role offers more flexibility and self-direction, while the junior role provides structured training and team collaboration.

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Freelance Graduate Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Freelance Graduate Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Freelance Graduate Software Engineer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Freelance Graduate Software Engineer job openings:

Freelance Graduate Software Engineer jobs near you

Graduate Software Engineer

IMC

Chicago, IL

$200K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Having the best technology drives our business. As a Software Engineer at IMC, you will drive the development of our cutting-edge trading algorithms. You will be responsible for spotting new opportunities, solving problems and developing innovative technologies. Software development here is innovative, pragmatic and fun, even as complexity grows.

Your Core Responsibilities:

  • Build and maintain our trading platform and software stack
  • Bring our trading strategies and technology platform to the next level
  • Collaborate with Traders, Quant Researchers and other Engineers both locally and globally
  • Develop expertise within the entire software development lifecycle
  • Learn new technologies and programming languages in a dynamic environment

Your Skills and Experience:

  • Current university student graduating between September 2026 - July 2027 that is pursuing a degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related technology field
  • Must have strong knowledge of algorithms and data structures
  • Proficiency in a programming language is required (Java or C++ preferred)
  • Strong analytical skills and interest in solving complex problems programmatically
  • Desire to interact and work closely with non-engineers in a dynamic environment
  • Interest in the Financial Markets; previous knowledge is NOT required
  • Must be available for full-time employment starting in February or August 2027

You may submit one application per role each year.  We strongly encourage you to focus on applying to a single role that best matches your skills and interests.  Though you may apply to multiple roles, please note that each application will be evaluated based on the specific criteria established for that particular role. If you have already applied for this position during the current recruitment season and were not selected, you may reapply when the next recruitment season begins in 2027.

The Base Salary range for the role is included below. Base salary is only one component of total compensation; all full-time, permanent positions are eligible for a discretionary bonus and benefits, including paid leave and insurance. Please visit Benefits - US | IMC Trading for more comprehensive information.

Base Salary: $200,000

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