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Freelance Programmer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Freelance Production Assistants operate the teleprompter during live newscasts, manage and organize ... From the programming and movies we create to employee benefits/programs and social impact outreach ...

YouTube Producer, Freelance

Los Angeles, CA

$133K - $135K/yr

YouTube Producer, Freelance We are searching for a YouTube Producer operating at the highest ... Develop original concepts, formats, and narrative structures engineered for audience retention and ...

Freelance A/V Technician - Los Angeles In this role you will be responsible for delivering ... Lighting operation: console programming, moving light operation, fixture setup & strike * Ability ...

Showing results 21-40

Freelance Programmer information

See California salary details

$11

$39

$67

How much do freelance programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance programmer in California is $39.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.38 and $50.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance programmer?

A freelance programmer or developer codes software applications for mobile or desktop computing. They consult with clients to determine the scope and goals of the project and provide input to improve the design. They then prepare a workflow chart that helps them manage the software development process and code the workflow information using a computer language. After completing the programming, the developer then tests the finished product to ensure it meets the client’s expectations. A freelance programmer may work independently or as part of a team of freelance developers for a specific project.

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

To thrive as a Freelance Programmer, you need strong programming skills in relevant languages, a solid understanding of software development practices, and a portfolio that showcases your work. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, project management tools, and sometimes certifications in specific technologies can be advantageous. Excellent communication, time management, and self-motivation are essential soft skills for managing client relationships and deadlines. These abilities are important because they ensure you can deliver high-quality work independently, meet client expectations, and maintain a steady stream of projects.

What are some common challenges freelance programmers face when managing multiple clients simultaneously?

Freelance programmers often juggle multiple projects with different deadlines, expectations, and communication styles, which can make time management and prioritization challenging. Balancing client demands while maintaining code quality and meeting delivery schedules requires strong organizational skills and clear, proactive communication. Additionally, freelancers must handle administrative tasks such as invoicing and contract management, which can add to their workload. Building long-term client relationships and setting clear boundaries are key strategies for overcoming these challenges.

What is the difference between Freelance Programmer vs Software Developer?

AspectFreelance ProgrammerSoftware Developer
CredentialsTypically self-taught or with coding bootcamps; no formal certification requiredOften holds a degree in computer science or related field; certifications like Microsoft, AWS may be common
Work EnvironmentIndependent, remote or on-site client projectsEmployed by a company or organization, working in teams or departments
Employer & Industry UsageClients across various industries; project-based workCompanies, startups, or organizations; product development teams
Search & Comparison IntentLooking for freelance opportunities or project-based workSeeking full-time or permanent roles in software development

While both Freelance Programmers and Software Developers write code, Freelance Programmers typically work independently on diverse client projects without formal employment, whereas Software Developers are usually employed by organizations, working within teams on ongoing software products.

What are the most commonly searched types of Programmer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Programmer jobs in California are:

What job categories do people searching Freelance Programmer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Programmer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Freelance Programmer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Freelance Programmer job openings:

Infographic showing various Freelance Programmer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 6% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,158 per year, or $39 per hour.

$18.67/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

NEWS PRODUCTION ASSISTANT

Position OverviewThis entry-level role provides essential clerical and technical support to the news production team. Freelance Production Assistants operate the teleprompter during live newscasts, manage and organize archival materials, and assist with daily newsroom communications. Successful candidates show drive, curiosity, and enthusiasm for journalism and local news while upholding high standards of professionalism.

Responsibilities

  • Operate teleprompter and assist technical staff during live or recorded broadcasts
  • Locate, catalogue, and retrieve file video and archival material
  • Answer phones, relay information, and handle general office tasks
  • Run newsroom errands and assist with set logistics as needed

Cross-Training OpportunitiesCross-training and advancement opportunities may be available for freelance Production Assistants who excel but are not guaranteed parts of this position. Our goal is to help freelance Production Assistants expand their skills and grow into other newsroom roles through cross-training. Those who consistently demonstrate drive, initiative, and enthusiasm will be considered for advancement opportunities as they develop professionally.

  • Writing news copy for broadcast and digital platforms
  • Managing and creating posts for social media accounts
  • Editing video and audio for broadcast
  • Operating technical production equipment
  • Supporting the Assignment Desk: story research, pitching, and newsroom coordination

Desired Qualities

  • Demonstrated enthusiasm, initiative, and excitement for new opportunities
  • Strong curiosity about news, journalism, and broadcast media
  • Excellent communication, organization, and problem-solving abilities
  • Ability to work independently or as part of a motivated team
  • Willingness to work flexible hours - including mornings, nights, and weekends
  • Reliability, punctuality, and professionalism are essential

CBS News and Stations, brings together the power of CBS News, 28 owned television stations in 17 major U.S. markets, the CBS News Streaming Network, CBS News Streaming local platforms, local websites and cbsnews.com, under one umbrella. CBS News and Stations is home to the nation's #1 news program 60 MINUTES, the CBS News Streaming Network, the first 24/7 digital streaming news network, the award-winning broadcasts CBS MORNINGS, CBS SATURDAY MORNING, the CBS EVENING NEWS WITH NORAH O'DONNELL, CBS SUNDAY MORNING, CBS WEEKEND EVENING NEWS, 48 HOURS and FACE THE NATION WITH MARGARET BRENNAN. CBS News and Stations provides news and information for the CBS Television Network, CBSNews.com, CBS News Radio and podcasts, Paramount +, all digital platforms, and the CBS News Streaming Network, the premier 24/7 anchored streaming news service that is available free to everyone with access to the internet. The CBS News Streaming Network is the destination for breaking news, live events, original reporting and storytelling, and programs from CBS News and Stations' top anchors and correspondents working locally, nationally and around the globe. CBS News' streaming services, across national and local, amassed more than 1.01 billion streams in 2021. Launched in November 2014 as CBSN, the CBS News Streaming Network is available on 30 digital platforms and apps, as well as CBSNews.com and Paramount+. The service is available live in 91 countries. CBS News and Stations is dedicated to providing the highest quality journalism under standards it pioneered and continues to set in today's digital age. CBS News earns more prestigious journalism awards than any other broadcast news division.

Organizations that wish to receive job vacancy notices from this posting's television station should contact sf_recruitingsupport@paramount.com.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Hiring Salary Range: $18.67 - 18.67.

The hiring salary range for this position applies to New York, California, Colorado, Washington state, and most other geographies. Starting pay for the successful applicant depends on a variety of job-related factors, including but not limited to geographic location, market demands, experience, training, and education. The benefits available for this position include medical, dental, vision, 401(k) plan, life insurance coverage, disability benefits, tuition assistance program and PTO or, if applicable, as otherwise dictated by the appropriate Collective Bargaining Agreement. ((cust_payTransSTIP)) ((cust_payTransSalesInc))

https://www.paramount.com/careers/benefits

Paramount is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) including disability/vet.

At Paramount, the spirit of inclusion feeds into everything that we do, on-screen and off. From the programming and movies we create to employee benefits/programs and social impact outreach initiatives, we believe that opportunity, access, resources and rewards should be available to and for the benefit of all. Paramount is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ethnicity, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship status, marital status, disability, gender identity, gender expression, and Veteran status.

If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you may request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access https://www.paramount.com/careers as a result of your disability. You can request reasonable accommodations by calling 212.846.5500 or by sending an email to paramountaccommodations@paramount.com. Only messages left for this purpose will be returned.