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Freelance Programmer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Complex

Freelance Line Producer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$90K - $105K/yr

Write production budgets when required, for internal programming proposals, branded opportunities ... Hire freelance crew, secure locations, engage production design, and coordinate equipment rentals ...

Blue Danube Productions

$30 - $60/hr

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

Paramount

FREELANCE EDITOR

San Francisco, CA · On-site

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 ...

Paramount

FREELANCE EDITOR

San Francisco, CA

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 ...

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All JobsProgrammer JobsFreelance Programmer JobsFreelance Programmer Jobs in California

Freelance Programmer information

See California salary details

$11

$39

$67

How much do freelance programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 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 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 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 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 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.
More about Freelance Programmer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Programmer jobs in California? The most popular types of Programmer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Freelance Programmer jobs in California? For Freelance Programmer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles 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:
Freelance Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Programmer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 8% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,158 per year, or $39 per hour.

Social Media Coordinator (freelance)

Hearst Newspapers

Glendale, CA • On-site

$20/hr

Part-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Social Media Coordinator (freelance) (part-time)Overview

Hearst Media Production Group (HMPG) is seeking a part-time Digital Media Coordinator to assist in managing and coordinating digital content across social media platforms. This role supports the digital team with asset handoff, technical tasks, creative input, and facilitates the content creation and scheduling workflow. The position will work exclusively on select shows in the HMPG portfolio.

This position reports to the Digital Director and is in office at our Hearst offices located in Glendale, CA.

Responsibilities
  • Support the creation of social media posts by preparing assets, sourcing images, and formatting content for various digital platforms
  • Collaborate with Digital Team to brainstorm and execute social media content
  • Schedule and publish social media posts using Sprout or native platforms (e.g., Facebook, Instagram, TikTok) in alignment with established content calendars
  • Monitor social media channels and respond to comments, messages, and mentions using approved messaging and brand guidelines
  • Escalate community issues or engagement opportunities to appropriate team members
  • Track basic post performance metrics and flag notable trends or engagement highlights
  • Assist with organizing and maintaining digital assets, including guest photos and videos, within shared cloud storage systems
  • Support outreach efforts by preparing and sending emails to guests, talent, and partner organizations and maintaining accurate contact records
Experience

  • 1+ years' experience in entertainment industry a plus

  • Production company, network, or studio experience helpful

  • Will consider relevant internships as experience.

Qualifications

  • Excellent organization and time management skills

  • Superior written and oral communication skills

  • Meticulous attention to detail

  • Ability to manage multiple projects with competing deadlines

  • Proficient in Microsoft Office suite, including Word, PowerPoint, and Excel

  • Experience with content editing and creation tools like Capcut, Instagram Edits and Canva.

  • Experience with Adobe Suite for video editing and graphic design a plus! 

Education
  • Related experience and/or training considered as well as a combination of education and experience
  • HMPG is a proud supporter of military veterans. Related military training and experience will be considered.

The base salary for this role is $20.00/hour. The actual base pay offered is dependent upon many factors, such as transferable skills, work experience, business needs, market demands and conditions, including geographic location where the work will be performed, and other factors permitted by law. The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future.

Values in Action

At Hearst Television we tell stories every day. Stories about people of all cultures, backgrounds, perspectives, and identities. That is why, behind the scenes, we believe in being an organization as diverse and varied as the audience we reach, ensuring that the content we create is more compassionate, and more representative of the communities we serve.


About Hearst Media Production Group

Hearst Media Production Group (HMPG), a business unit of Hearst Television, is an independent producer and distributor of original programming for TV stations, broadcast and cable networks and streaming services. HMPG produces hundreds of hours of Emmy Award-winning programming annually across linear, streaming, digital and social media platforms for domestic and international distribution in 100 countries. Its popular weekly educational/informational (E/I) programming blocks air weekends nationwide including "Weekend Adventure," on ABC stations; "CBS WKND," on the CBS Network; "The More You Know," on the NBC Network; "One Magnificent Morning," on the CW Network; "Mi Telemundo" on the Telemundo Network and "Go Time" on independent stations. HMPG also produces and/or distributes a diverse slate of other programming and content including the company's dedicated FAST channels Xplore, The Jack Hanna Channel, Rovr Pets, and Lucky Dog Channel, available on some of the most popular smart TVs and streaming platforms. HMPG has offices in New York, Los Angeles, and Charlotte. HMPG is represented by United Talent Agency.

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