ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Freelance Scientific Software Developer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

OpenEye Scientific

The Affinity Group at OpenEye seeks to hire a scientific software developer to join a growing team delivering Molecular Dynamics (MD) based solutions for predicting protein-ligand binding affinities.

Cgg

Scientific Software Developer

Houston, TX · Hybrid

... science (especially parallel programming and code optimization), a strong mathematics/physics/engineering background, in-depth knowledge of computer software/hardware architecture, and excellent ...

Viridien

Scientific Software Developer

Houston, TX · Hybrid

... science (especially parallel programming and code optimization), a strong mathematics/physics/engineering background, in-depth knowledge of computer software/hardware architecture, and excellent ...

Viridien

Scientific Software Developer

Houston, TX · Hybrid

... science (especially parallel programming and code optimization), a strong mathematics/physics/engineering background, in-depth knowledge of computer software/hardware architecture, and excellent ...

Cadence Design Systems Inc.

The Affinity Group at OpenEye seeks to hire a scientific software developer to join a growing team delivering Molecular Dynamics (MD) based solutions for predicting protein-ligand binding affinities.

OpenEye Scientific

$101K - $188K/yr

... software, consulting services, and Orion, the only cloud-native fully integrated software-as-a ... Extend OpenEye's programming toolkits by developing and implementing new and useful scientific and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsFreelance Scientific Software Developer Jobs

Freelance Scientific Software Developer information

See salary details

$83.5K

$102.5K

$135.5K

How much do freelance scientific software developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance scientific software developer in the United States is $102,500.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,000.00 and $115,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Freelance Scientific Software Developer?

A Freelance Scientific Software Developer is a professional who creates and maintains software tools, simulations, and applications used in scientific research and analysis, working independently or on a contract basis. They collaborate with scientists, researchers, and academic institutions to develop custom software solutions that handle data analysis, modeling, and visualization. Their work often involves programming in languages such as Python, R, MATLAB, or C++, and requires a strong understanding of both software engineering and the scientific domain they support. Freelancers in this field typically manage multiple clients or projects and are responsible for the full software development lifecycle, from requirements gathering to deployment and maintenance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freelance Scientific Software Developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Scientific Software Developer, you need strong programming skills (commonly in Python, C++, or R), a background in scientific domains, and a solid grasp of algorithms and data analysis. Familiarity with tools like Git, Jupyter, scientific libraries (e.g., NumPy, SciPy), and cloud platforms is often required, along with relevant certifications or advanced degrees. Excellent problem-solving abilities, clear communication, and self-motivation set top freelancers apart. These skills and qualities are critical for delivering high-quality, reliable software solutions that meet the complex needs of scientific clients and projects.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance scientific software developers when working with research teams?

Freelance scientific software developers often encounter challenges such as aligning with rapidly changing research goals, managing communication across multidisciplinary teams, and ensuring reproducibility and documentation of code for future use. Since research environments can be dynamic, developers must be adaptable and proactive in clarifying requirements. Additionally, collaborating remotely requires strong project management and regular check-ins to keep everyone informed and maintain progress.

What is the difference between Freelance Scientific Software Developer vs Scientific Software Engineer?

AspectFreelance Scientific Software DeveloperScientific Software Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in science or computer science; certifications are optionalUsually holds a degree in computer science, software engineering, or related field; certifications may enhance prospects
Work EnvironmentIndependent, remote, project-based work for various clientsOften employed by organizations, but can also work in research labs or as part of a team
Employer & Industry UsageFreelance roles across research, biotech, pharma, and academiaFull-time or contract roles within scientific research, tech companies, or academia

While both roles involve developing scientific software, Freelance Scientific Software Developers work independently on diverse projects, whereas Scientific Software Engineers are typically employed within organizations to develop and maintain scientific applications as part of a team.

More about Freelance Scientific Software Developer jobs
What cities are hiring for Freelance Scientific Software Developer jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Scientific Software Developer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Scientific Software Developer jobs? The most popular types of Scientific Software Developer jobs are:
What states have the most Freelance Scientific Software Developer jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Scientific Software Developer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Scientific Software Developer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Scientific Software Developer jobs are:
Freelance Scientific Software Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Scientific Software Developer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 13% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 81% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,500 per year, or $49.3 per hour.
Scientific Software Developer - Affinity

Scientific Software Developer - Affinity

OpenEye Scientific

Santa Fe, NM • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Over the last eight years, OpenEye Scientific has developed the field's most advanced large-scale compute platform, Orion, built on Amazon Web Services. In this position, you will be working at the cutting edge of cloud computing, C++/Python development, and advanced MD simulation techniques. Your work will have the potential to make a major impact in drug discovery, and will be available to many pharmaceutical and biotech companies.
OpenEye, Cadence Molecular Sciences, an industry leader in computational molecular design, uses a scientific approach to deliver rapid, robust, and scalable software, toolkits, and technology & design services for the advancement of pharmaceuticals, biologics, agrochemicals, and flavors and fragrances. We are passionate about science and about taking care of our team members, with leaders supporting your development and recognizing your contributions by providing an unmatched total compensation package in a collaborative, caring, energetic and fun work environment.
The Affinity Group at OpenEye seeks to hire a scientific software developer to join a growing team delivering Molecular Dynamics (MD) based solutions for predicting protein-ligand binding affinities. Within OpenEye's Cloud-based platform Orion, our team has already delivered to our clients massively parallel Relative Binding Free Energy (RBFE) tools capable of calculating affinities on dozens of ligands in only hours, using hundreds of GPUs. We are also developing faster, higher throughput MD-based prescreening approaches to use upstream of the heavier free energy methods. With your experience in MD and programming, you will help us to extend our capabilities in this area, making both our science and our tools better: more robust, more accurate, and more efficient. The work you do will have a high impact, contributing to the science of many organizations, both industry-based and academic. In this you will be collaborating with experienced scientific developers with expertise in small molecule drug discovery and long track records of delivering useful solutions and liaising with academic collaborators in the simulations community.
Please include a cover letter.
What you should have:
  • PhD. with PostDoc in an area related to structure-based ligand design methods.
  • 3 or more years of experience in scientific programming with Python.
  • 3 or more years of experience with Molecular Dynamics including Free Energy Calculations.
  • Experience in computational chemistry methods development, implementation, and validation
  • Team-oriented with good communication skills and professional scientific presentation skills.
  • Ability and desire to learn new ideas and adapt to new development practices

The following are a PLUS, but not required:
  • Knowledge & skill in programming and professional software development practices & tools
  • Experience with a multi platform and/or distributed computing environment including cloud computing.
  • Knowledge of chemistry and/or drug discovery & development

Benefits:
OpenEye is passionate about the welfare of its employees and offers competitive benefits that include medical, dental, vision, flexible working schedule, 401k retirement plans, paid vacation, paid sick leave, home internet costs, public transportation reimbursement, and much more.
We're doing work that matters. Help us solve what others can't.

Apply