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Freelance Programmer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Staff iOS Engineer

Columbia, MD · On-site

$165K - $200K/yr

Bachelor's degree or higher in Computer Science or related engineering field. * 7+ years of industry experience in iOS development; freelance acceptable but must include experience with large ...

... engineering sector. As the organization continues to expand, they are seeking a Senior Technical ... freelancers - which sets us apart in the industries we serve. About Solomon Page Founded in 1990 ...

We advance this mission through programming focused on conserving wildlife, restoring habitat and ... Edit or rewrite freelance manuscripts for style, accuracy, and readability. * Review all copy ...

... freelance in parallel. \n \n \n Preferred Skills ( Not required but strongly preferred): \n \n ... Certified Zoho Developer \n * Experienced working as an IT Support Engineer or System Administrator ...

Mentor and support junior audio operators and freelance staff * Maintain high standards for audio quality across all live programming WHAT YOU WILL NEED * Experience mixing audio for live television ...

(SCA) Subject Matter Expert

Washington, DC · Hybrid

$24 - $30.75/hr

CDS; and secure cloud and hybrid engineering - with at least 10 years total related experience. Education : * A Bachelor's Degree from an accredited university Certifications: * Required: CISM, CAP ...

(SCA) Subject Matter Expert

Washington, DC · Hybrid

$24 - $30.75/hr

CDS; and secure cloud and hybrid engineering - with at least 10 years total related experience. Education : * A Bachelor's Degree from an accredited university Certifications: * Required: CISM, CAP ...

Lead and assist with the recruitment of interns, contractors, freelancers and key employees ... Work with Fortune 500 Leadership and experienced Program Managers, Business Developers and ...

Lead and assist with the recruitment of interns, contractors, freelancers and key employees ... Work with Fortune 500 Leadership and experienced Program Managers, Business Developers and ...

Showing results 21-40

Freelance Programmer information

See Washington salary details

$13

$44

$77

How much do freelance programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance programmer in Washington is $44.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.13 and $58.27 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 Washington?

The most popular types of Programmer jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Freelance Programmer jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Freelance Programmer job openings:

Infographic showing various Freelance Programmer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 12% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,138 per year, or $44.8 per hour.

$73K - $92K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

IntroductionThe National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine value diversity in our members, volunteers, and staff and strive for a culture of inclusion in our workplace and activities. Convening a diverse community to exchange ideas and perspectives enhances the quality of our work and increases our relevance as advisers to the nation about the most complex issues facing the nation and the world.

OverviewRequisition Number: R0002742
Edits text and graphics for publication, including articles, manuscripts, reports, websites, journals, magazines, and/or brochures. Reads and evaluates reports and/or other materials and documents to determine the extent of editorial problems and shortcomings. Looks for inconsistencies of thought, development, or organization. Confers with authors and recommends treatment of material. Reorganizes, cuts, or rewrites as necessary. Ensures material conforms to organization’s and unit’s standards for style, content, and format. Works with editorial and production staff and contractors to guide manuscripts through to publication. May contribute original material where appropriate, writing about topics for a variety of audiences in multiple media formats.
Incumbent independently performs complex editing and writing tasks. Under general direction, applies specific professional-level functional knowledge to solve complex problems and has authority to deviate from standard practices, but must advise superiors of such action as well as non-routine matters. May hire, train, supervise, and evaluate support staff or serve in a lead capacity.

Responsibilities

  • Edits reports, articles, etc. and may help to shape presentation, restructuring and rewriting as needed. Marks up for composition. Ensures material conforms to organization’s and unit’s standards for style, content, accessibility, and format. Works with designers, graphic artists, layout specialists, web developers, marketing, and production staff on all aspects of production.
  • Negotiates revisions with authors. May network with prospective authors, scientific advisers, and news media.
  • Advises staff and authors on editing and publishing options. Holds meetings to discuss current and future projects. Answers editorial questions. Consults with staff about the progress of reports, articles, or other publications.
  • May have supervisory responsibility for editorial assistants, including hiring, training, and evaluation of work.
  • May coordinate freelance activities in the unit, including finding and coordinating work among freelancers.
NONESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES
  • Related duties and special projects as assigned.

Requirements

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Proficiency in Microsoft Word (including track changes and styles). Practical knowledge of WordPress or other content management system, HTML, and CSS desired. Ability to solve problems of variety and complexity. Ability to serve as a resource to others in the resolution of problems and issues. Ability to operate independently and exercise appreciable latitude for independent judgment, discretion, and action. Ability to work successfully in a team environment. Experience working in complex environments with a high degree of organizational effectiveness. Ability to develop relationships with co-workers and employees in other National Academies’ departments through effective communication. Excellent communication skills with a proven ability to interact effectively with all levels of employees.

Minimum Education/Training Requirements: Bachelor’s Degree in English, Journalism, Communications or related field, or equivalent knowledge.

Minimum Experience: Three years of related professional experience.

Physical Capabilities:  Ability to work at a computer for extended periods of time.

Required Licenses, Certification or Registration:  None.

Supervisory Responsibilities/Controls:  Reports to Director or other higher level editorial position.  General supervision is provided.  May supervise junior staff.

Compensation & Benefits: An estimated compensation range for this position is $73,760 - $92,190. Compensation offered to the selected candidate will be based on the candidate’s relevant knowledge, skills, and work experience, commensurate with compensation of current employees in comparable positions with similar knowledge, skills, and work experience, and subject to budget parameters. Note it is not typical for a candidate to be hired at the higher end of the range.  This is a benefits-eligible position.  Our Benefits Plan offers competitive and comprehensive benefit options, including medical, dental and vision insurance, life insurance, disability coverage, retirement and savings benefits, leave benefits such as paid holidays and paid personal leave, transportation subsidies, and education assistance.  For more information, please click here.

Work Environment: Hybrid Office/Telecommute environment, expected onsite percentage 60%, with occasional travel between National Academies’ facilities and to off-site meeting/sponsor locations.