Master's or PhD in Materials Science, Applied Physics, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related ... Freelance autonomy with the structure of meaningful, task-based scientific work * Make a direct ...
Master's or PhD in Materials Science, Applied Physics, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related ... Freelance autonomy with the structure of meaningful, task-based scientific work * Make a direct ...
Senior Electrical Engineer (AI Consulting)
Manhattan, NY · On-site +1
$200/hr
Unlike low‐skill freelance work on traditional consulting platforms, our community of experts set ... semiconductor and IC companies (Intel, NVIDIA, Qualcomm, Broadcom, TSMC, etc.) Principal engineers ...
Senior Electrical Engineer (AI Consulting)
Manhattan, NY · On-site +1
$200/hr
Unlike low‐skill freelance work on traditional consulting platforms, our community of experts set ... semiconductor and IC companies (Intel, NVIDIA, Qualcomm, Broadcom, TSMC, etc.) Principal engineers ...
Senior Electrical Engineering Consultant
San Francisco, CA · On-site +1
$126.70K - $164.90K/yr
Focus on expert-level consulting, distinct from low-skill freelance work. Learn more about Aligned ... Engineers at leading semiconductor and IC companies (e.g., Intel, NVIDIA, Qualcomm, Broadcom, TSMC)
Senior Electrical Engineering Consultant
San Francisco, CA · On-site +1
$126.70K - $164.90K/yr
Focus on expert-level consulting, distinct from low-skill freelance work. Learn more about Aligned ... Engineers at leading semiconductor and IC companies (e.g., Intel, NVIDIA, Qualcomm, Broadcom, TSMC)
Frontend Systems Developer (contract)
Emeryville, CA · Hybrid
$120.30K - $139.90K/yr
... to semiconductor manufacturing methods. It unlocks MEMS manufacturing not only for device classes ... This is a part-time, hybrid, freelance/contract role. Hours: * 1st 60 days: 20-40 hours per week
Frontend Systems Developer (contract)
Emeryville, CA · Hybrid
$120.30K - $139.90K/yr
... to semiconductor manufacturing methods. It unlocks MEMS manufacturing not only for device classes ... This is a part-time, hybrid, freelance/contract role. Hours: * 1st 60 days: 20-40 hours per week
Frontend Systems Developer (contract)
Emeryville, CA · Hybrid
$120.30K - $139.90K/yr
Frontend Engineer -- Graph Editor (Contract) Atomic Machines is ushering in a new era of ... This is a part-time, hybrid, freelance/contract role. The person will be onsite in our Emeryville ...
Frontend Systems Developer (contract)
Emeryville, CA · Hybrid
$120.30K - $139.90K/yr
Frontend Engineer -- Graph Editor (Contract) Atomic Machines is ushering in a new era of ... This is a part-time, hybrid, freelance/contract role. The person will be onsite in our Emeryville ...
Frontend Systems Developer (contract)
Emeryville, CA · Hybrid
$90 - $120/hr
... to semiconductor manufacturing methods. It unlocks MEMS manufacturing not only for device classes ... This is a part-time, hybrid, freelance/contract role. Hours: * 1st 60 days: 20-40 hours per week
Quick apply
Frontend Systems Developer (contract)
Emeryville, CA · Hybrid
$90 - $120/hr
... to semiconductor manufacturing methods. It unlocks MEMS manufacturing not only for device classes ... This is a part-time, hybrid, freelance/contract role. Hours: * 1st 60 days: 20-40 hours per week
Freelance Semiconductor Engineer information
See salary details
$23.52 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$14.90 - $25.57
31% of jobs
The median wage is $32.14 / hr.
$25.57 - $36.23
31% of jobs
$36.23 - $46.90
4% of jobs
$56.23 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$46.90 - $57.56
10% of jobs
$57.56 - $68.23
9% of jobs
$68.23 - $78.89
5% of jobs
$78.89 - $89.55
0% of jobs
$89.55 - $100.22
8% of jobs
$100.22 - $110.88
0% of jobs
$110.88 - $121.55
0% of jobs
$121.55 - $132.21
1% of jobs
$14
$47
$132
How much do freelance semiconductor engineer jobs pay per hour?
As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance semiconductor engineer in the United States is $47.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $61.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freelance Semiconductor Engineer, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Freelance Semiconductor Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, semiconductor physics, and integrated circuit design, often supported by a relevant degree and industry experience. Familiarity with tools such as Cadence, Synopsys, SPICE simulators, and experience with VHDL/Verilog are typically required, along with knowledge of industry standards. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and project management skills set successful freelancers apart, enabling them to handle client relationships and multiple projects effectively. These skills and qualifications are crucial for delivering high-quality, innovative solutions and maintaining a competitive edge in a rapidly evolving field.
What are some common challenges faced by freelance semiconductor engineers, and how can they be addressed?
Freelance semiconductor engineers often navigate challenges such as managing multiple client projects with differing requirements, staying updated with rapidly evolving technologies, and ensuring access to the latest design tools and software. Effective time management and clear communication with clients are essential for balancing workloads and expectations. Additionally, building a strong professional network and regularly participating in industry forums can help freelancers stay informed about advancements and best practices in semiconductor design.
What does a Freelance Semiconductor Engineer do?
A Freelance Semiconductor Engineer designs, develops, and tests semiconductor devices such as integrated circuits, transistors, and microchips for various applications. Unlike full-time employees, freelancers work independently on a contract basis, often handling multiple projects for different clients. Their responsibilities can include circuit design, simulation, layout, verification, and troubleshooting. They may also consult on manufacturing processes, materials, and system integration. This role requires strong technical skills, up-to-date industry knowledge, and the ability to manage projects autonomously.
What is the difference between Freelance Semiconductor Engineer vs Semiconductor Design Engineer?
| Aspect | Freelance Semiconductor Engineer | Semiconductor Design Engineer |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Typically requires a degree in electrical engineering or related field; certifications are optional | Requires a degree in electrical engineering or related field; often holds professional certifications |
| Work Environment | Independent, remote or on-site, project-based | Usually employed by a company, working in an office or lab environment |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Works with multiple clients across industries like consumer electronics, automotive, and telecommunications | Employed by semiconductor companies or design firms, focusing on chip design and development |
Freelance Semiconductor Engineers typically work independently on various projects, offering flexibility and diverse experience. In contrast, Semiconductor Design Engineers are usually employed full-time within companies, focusing on specific design tasks. Both roles require similar technical credentials but differ mainly in work setting and employment structure.
More about Freelance Semiconductor Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Freelance Semiconductor Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Semiconductor Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Semiconductor Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Semiconductor Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Freelance Semiconductor Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Semiconductor Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Semiconductor Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Semiconductor Engineer jobs are:
Full-time
This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.
Job description
Semiconductor Material Science Expert (AI Training)
What if your deep knowledge of semiconductor materials or molecular modeling could directly shape how AI reasons about the physical world? We're looking for Materials Science experts — Masters and PhD-level — to help train and evaluate cutting-edge AI models by crafting, solving, and reviewing advanced scientific problems.
This is a fully remote, flexible contract role built for researchers and domain experts who want meaningful, intellectually stimulating work on their own schedule. No prior AI experience required — your scientific expertise is what matters.
- Organization: Alignerr
- Type: Hourly Contract
- Location: Remote
- Commitment: 10–40 hours/week
What You'll Do
- Develop, solve, and critically review advanced material science problems with real-world relevance
- Apply your expertise in semiconductor materials, molecular modeling, or related domains to design complex, rigorous problem statements
- Collaborate asynchronously with AI researchers and fellow domain experts to strengthen AI model reasoning in materials science
- Evaluate AI-generated scientific content for accuracy, depth, and technical rigor
- Ensure clarity and scientific precision across all deliverables
- Work independently on task-based assignments at a pace that suits you
Who You Are
- Master's or PhD in Materials Science, Applied Physics, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field
- Deep expertise in semiconductor materials, molecular modeling, or adjacent areas of materials research
- Proficient in Python or MATLAB for research applications or computational modeling
- Exceptionally detail-oriented with strong written communication skills
- Able to translate complex scientific concepts into clear, structured problem sets
- No prior AI or data annotation experience required
Nice to Have
- Prior experience with data annotation, data quality review, or AI evaluation workflows
- Background in computational materials science, density functional theory (DFT), or related simulation methods
- Familiarity with materials databases or scientific literature databases
- Experience collaborating in cross-functional or interdisciplinary research environments
Why Join Us
- Work on cutting-edge AI projects alongside leading AI research labs
- Fully remote and flexible — work when and where it suits you
- Freelance autonomy with the structure of meaningful, task-based scientific work
- Make a direct, tangible impact on how AI understands and reasons about materials science
- Potential for ongoing work and contract extension as new projects launch
- Engage with intellectually stimulating problems that draw on the full depth of your expertise