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Freelance Programmatic Trader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$165 - $179/hr

Freelance Associate Director, Programmatic Retail Roles open in: Denver, Los Angeles, Phoenix ... Hands-on campaign trading and optimization with a high level of efficiency and attention to detail

New

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 ...

Hands‑on experience with media buying in DSPs such as The Trade Desk, DV360, AmazonDSP, or ... We also offer medical and voluntary benefits to our freelancers and temporary employees. Voluntary ...

Hands‑on experience with media buying in DSPs such as The Trade Desk, DV360, AmazonDSP, or ... We also offer medical and voluntary benefits to our freelancers and temporary employees. Voluntary ...

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Freelance Programmatic Trader information

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How much do freelance programmatic trader jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 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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The most popular types of Programmatic Trader jobs are:

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The top searched job categories for Freelance Programmatic Trader jobs are:

Infographic showing various Freelance Programmatic Trader job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,079 per year, or $62.5 per hour.

Freelance Associate Director, Programmatic Retail

Dept Holding B.V.

On-site

$165 - $179/hr

Other

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

Freelance Associate Director, Programmatic Retail

Roles open in: Denver, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Portland, Salt Lake City, San Diego, San Francisco

Freelance Associate Director, Programmatic Retail

We are pioneers at heart. What this means, is that we are always leaning forward, thinking of what we can create tomorrow that does not exist today. We were born digital and we are a new model of agency, with a deep skillset in tech and marketing. That’s why we hire curious, self-driven, talented people who never stop innovating.

Our culture is big enough to cope and small enough to care. Meaning, that with people across 20+ countries, we’re big enough to provide you with the best tools, global opportunities, and benefits that help you thrive. While acting small by investing in you, your growth, your team, and giving you the autonomy to solve our clients’ problems, no matter where you are in the world.

About You

Our Freelance Associate Director, Programmatic is responsible for leading successful Programmatic campaigns through media buying sophistication and operational excellence within our retail vertical. This position is responsible for leading and mentoring a team of Account Managers and Coordinators.

While DEPT® is a remote-first company, this role requires candidates to be located in either the Mountain or Pacific time zones.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Own and manage campaign performance across key Retail Media Networks including Amazon DSP, Walmart DSP, and Target DSP
  • Hands-on campaign trading and optimization with a high level of efficiency and attention to detail
  • Manage reporting and performance tracking through Q4 and key promotional periods
  • Monitor and optimize and build upon currently active retail DSP program, ensuring Q4 performance goals are met
  • Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to work independently in a lean environment
  • A self-starter who takes full ownership of their book of business with minimal oversight
  • Collaborate with internal teams to provide data-driven recommendations and programmatic insights
QUALIFICATIONS
  • 5+ years of Programmatic media experience, in Display/Video Programmatic trading expertise in retail DSPs that include Amazon, Walmart, Target and Best Buy
  • Deep experience in Amazon DSP, Walmart Connect, Target Roundel and other retail ad tech
  • Fluent in a variety of DSPs (TTD & DV360 preferred)
  • Strong problem solving, strategic mindset and communication skills
  • Cross functional experience interfacing with planning, adops and data analytics teams
  • While DEPT® is a remote-first company, this role requires candidates to be located in either the Mountain or Pacific time zones.
  • Standard reporting and insight writing

The anticipated hourly rate for this position is $120.00 – $130.00. Hourly range is based on a number 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.

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.

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.

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.

#LI-remote

US Remote Range

$110 — $130 USD

Be part of our digital future

We may be spread across the world, but we all work together as one team. Inspiring each other, collaborating, innovating, and creating together.

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