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Freelance Programmatic Trader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

DEPT

Freelance Manager, Programmatic

Denver, CO · On-site +1

WHAT YOU BRING: * 2-4 years of hands-on experience in programmatic media buying, specifically within Google Ads and DSPs like DV360, The Trade Desk, or Amazon DSP. * Deep understanding of the ...

Dept Holding B.V.

WHAT YOU BRING: * 2-4 years of hands-on experience in programmatic media buying, specifically within Google Ads and DSPs like DV360, The Trade Desk, or Amazon DSP. * Proven ability to manage high ...

Polymarket

Junior Designer (Freelance)

New York, NY · On-site

We enable individuals to express views on real-world events by trading on outcomes across politics ... You'll ship creative across social and programmatic and support the wider design team on the decks ...

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How much do freelance programmatic trader jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance programmatic trader in the United States is $62.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60.34 and $68.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance programmatic trader?

A Freelance Programmatic Trader is a digital marketing professional who specializes in buying and optimizing online advertising space using automated, data-driven platforms. Unlike in-house or agency traders, freelancers work independently for multiple clients, managing campaigns across various programmatic channels such as display, video, and social media. Their responsibilities include strategy development, campaign setup, real-time bidding, data analysis, and performance optimization to maximize return on ad spend. They also stay updated on industry trends and use analytics tools to ensure campaigns meet clients' goals. Freelance Programmatic Traders often need strong analytical skills, knowledge of ad tech platforms, and the ability to work autonomously.

How do freelance programmatic traders typically collaborate with clients and other stakeholders to ensure campaign success?

Freelance Programmatic Traders often work closely with clients, media buyers, and creative teams to align campaign objectives, set KPIs, and optimize ad placements in real time. Communication is usually conducted through regular virtual meetings, detailed reporting, and shared dashboards to keep all parties informed of campaign performance. Successful freelancers proactively suggest optimizations and remain flexible to client feedback, ensuring campaigns achieve desired outcomes while maintaining transparency. Building strong relationships and clear communication channels is key to long-term project success.

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

To thrive as a Freelance Programmatic Trader, you need a solid understanding of digital advertising, data analysis, and campaign management, often supported by experience in marketing or advertising. Familiarity with demand-side platforms (DSPs), ad exchanges, and analytics tools like Google Analytics or The Trade Desk is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help in optimizing campaigns and collaborating with clients. These skills ensure efficient ad spend, high campaign performance, and strong client relationships in a fast-evolving digital landscape.

What is the difference between Freelance Programmatic Trader vs Programmatic Media Buyer?

AspectFreelance Programmatic TraderProgrammatic Media Buyer
CredentialsExperience in programmatic platforms, digital marketing certificationsSimilar credentials, often with additional media planning certifications
Work EnvironmentIndependent, remote or freelance basisIn-house or agency setting, sometimes freelance
Industry UsageUsed by digital marketing agencies, freelancers, and advertisersCommonly employed by media agencies and brands
Search & Comparison IntentFocuses on independent trading and optimization skillsEmphasizes media buying and campaign execution

While both roles involve digital advertising and programmatic platforms, a Freelance Programmatic Trader primarily manages real-time bidding and optimization independently, often on a project basis. A Programmatic Media Buyer typically handles media planning and buying within an agency or in-house team. The key difference lies in the freelance nature and focus on trading versus broader media buying responsibilities.

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Freelance Programmatic Trader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Programmatic Trader job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,079 per year, or $62.5 per hour.

Freelance Manager, Programmatic

Denver, CO • On-site, Remote

DEPT
See more jobs at DEPTexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

WHY DEPT®?
We are a Growth Invention company built to help the world's most ambitious brands grow faster. Operating at the intersection of technology and marketing, we create what is next by pioneering ideas, acting fast, and moving further because standing still just is not in our DNA.
We are drawn to people who stay curious, move with intent, and never stop inventing. Our culture runs on three values: better together, relentlessly curious, and get sh*t done. It is how we work, how we grow, and how we make things that matter.
At DEPT®, you will find the freedom to explore, the space to collaborate, and the trust to make a real impact for our clients, for each other, and for the world we are helping to build.
THE ROLE:
Our Programmatic Managers are our resident experts in programmatic and direct buying. You are responsible for keeping on top of industry-wide trends and best practices, putting them to optimal use for each client's initiatives. You will be part of a cross-functional team including Paid Search, Paid Social, Ad Operations, and Data Strategy, ensuring client needs are anticipated and met. From negotiating direct deals to building stellar full-funnel media plans, you move with precision to drive growth for our most ambitious brands.
WHAT YOU'LL DO:
  • Client Dedication: Maintain 100% focus on one of DEPT®s largest, most dynamic clients.
  • Strategic Planning: Design and execute programmatic strategies across Display, Video, CTV, and Audio that align with client business objectives.
  • Campaign Management: Manage large scale budgets, ensuring optimal allocation across tactics and inventory to maximize ROI.
  • Deal Negotiation: Lead the negotiation and management of Programmatic Guaranteed (PG) and Private Marketplace (PMP) deals with premium publishers.
  • Data-Driven Optimization: Translate complex programmatic data into actionable insights for client presentations, moving beyond the "what" to the "why."
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with Integrated Planning and Data Strategy teams to ensure programmatic activity is a cohesive part of the total media mix.
  • Technical Oversight: Oversee the technical quality of campaigns, ensuring brand safety standards and 3rd-party verification (IAS, DV) are strictly maintained.
  • Team Mentorship: Provide guidance and tactical support to Associate-level team members, helping to foster the next generation of programmatic experts.

WHAT YOU BRING:
  • 2-4 years of hands-on experience in programmatic media buying, specifically within Google Ads and DSPs like DV360, The Trade Desk, or Amazon DSP.
  • Deep understanding of the programmatic ecosystem, including identity solutions, real-time bidding, and the evolving cookie-less landscape.
  • Proven ability to manage high volume, full-funnel campaigns, moving from broad awareness to performance-based conversion.
  • Proven ability to manage high-touch accounts while prioritizing effectively and maintaining composure and positivity under pressure.
  • Proficiency in Excel and data visualization tools; you can find the "story" within the spreadsheet.
  • Experience with ad servers (Google Campaign Manager 360) and 3rd party verification tools (IAS, DoubleVerify, MOAT).
  • Exceptional communication skills-you can explain the complexities of programmatic to clients in a clear and compelling way.
  • A "better together" spirit and a relentless curiosity to test new platforms and inventory sources.
  • While DEPT® is a remote-first company, this role requires candidates to be located in either the Mountain or Pacific time zones.

WHAT DO WE OFFER?
We are a collaborative, open-door, best-idea-wins environment that fosters personal and company growth and has fun doing it. Here is a snapshot of our benefits package:
  • Healthcare, Dental, and Vision coverage
  • 401k plan, plus matching
  • PTO
  • Paid Company Holidays
  • Parental Leave

WE SUPPORT YOU BEING YOU:
DEPT® is an equal opportunity employer (EOE). We believe our work is its best when our people feel safe and free to be themselves. We're committed to an inclusive and barrier-free recruitment and selection process and workplace, regardless of anyone's identity, background, beliefs, lifestyle or disabilities. So tell us about any accommodations you need. It's totally confidential and only used to make sure you feel fully supported at every step.
DEPT® participates in E-Verify, meaning your Form I-9 information will be sent to the federal government to confirm you are authorized to work in the U.S.
We are a B Corp-certified company passionate about purpose-driven work. Our hope is that you can feel good about the contributions DEPT® is making to the world and we always have an open door for your ideas in making the world a better place.
DEPT® is a pioneering technology and marketing services company that creates integrated end-to-end digital experiences for brands such as Google, KFC, Philips, Audi, Twitch, Patagonia, eBay and more. Its team of 2,500+ digital specialists across 30+ locations on 5 continents delivers pioneering work on a global scale with a boutique culture.
Learn more about DEPT®
DIVERSITY, EQUITY, & INCLUSION
At DEPT®, we take pride in creating an inclusive workplace where everyone has an equal opportunity to thrive. We actively seek to recruit, develop, nurture, and retain talented individuals from diverse backgrounds, with varying skills and perspectives.
Not sure you meet all qualifications? Apply, and let us decide! Research shows that women and members of underrepresented groups tend not to apply for jobs when they think they may not meet every requirement, when in fact they do. We believe in giving everyone a fair chance to shine.
We also encourage you to reach out to us and discuss any reasonable adjustments we can make to support you throughout the recruitment process and your time with us.
Want to know more about our dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion? Check out our efforts here.
#LI-Remote
The anticipated salary range for this position is listed below. Salary is based on a range of factors that include relevant experience, expertise, physical location, and organizational impact. This is based on a 40-hour workweek and leveling. Keep in mind, we're flexible.
US Remote Range
$65-$80 USD

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