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Freelance Software Architect Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Staff iOS Engineer

Columbia, MD · On-site

$165K - $200K/yr

Architect and design new capabilities within existing iOS codebases, establishing patterns that ... Collaborate cross functionally with SDET, Algorithm, and Infrastructure teams to harden features ...

Freelance Software Architect information

See Washington salary details

$89.5K

$197.1K

$233.3K

How much do freelance software architect jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance software architect in Washington is $197,091.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $160,300.00 and $232,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance software architect?

A Freelance Software Architect is a self-employed professional who designs and oversees the development of software systems for clients. They define the overall structure, technology stack, and development standards to ensure scalability, security, and efficiency. Unlike in-house architects, freelancers work on a project basis, often collaborating with multiple clients across different industries. Their responsibilities include assessing business requirements, selecting appropriate technologies, and guiding development teams. Strong problem-solving skills, technical expertise, and communication abilities are essential for success in this role.

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

To thrive as a Freelance Software Architect, you need advanced software design expertise, proficiency in multiple programming languages, and a strong portfolio demonstrating experience with scalable system architectures. Familiarity with tools such as UML, cloud platforms (AWS, Azure), and certifications like TOGAF or Certified Software Architect are beneficial. Excellent client communication, project management, and adaptability help you effectively collaborate with diverse teams and clients. These skills ensure you can deliver tailored, robust solutions that meet client requirements while maintaining flexibility to handle shifting project scopes.

What are some common challenges freelance software architects face, and how can they address them?

Freelance software architects often face challenges such as managing multiple projects simultaneously, aligning client expectations with technical realities, and staying up-to-date with rapidly evolving technologies. To address these, it's important to establish clear communication from the outset, set realistic deadlines, and maintain thorough documentation for each project. Building a strong professional network can also help you stay aware of industry trends and connect with reliable collaborators when needed. Remaining adaptable and continuously investing in learning will help you deliver high-quality architectural solutions and build long-term client relationships.

What are the most commonly searched types of Software Architect jobs in Washington?

The most popular types of Software Architect jobs in Washington are:

What are popular job titles related to Freelance Software Architect jobs in Washington?

For Freelance Software Architect jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Freelance Software Architect jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Software Architect jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Freelance Software Architect jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Freelance Software Architect job openings:

Infographic showing various Freelance Software Architect job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, and 34% Contract. Highlights an 39% In-person, and 61% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $197,091 per year, or $94.8 per hour.

Staff iOS Engineer

Quidient

Columbia, MD • On-site

$165K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 3 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Overview

We're seeking an iOS Engineer with deep expertise in mobile 3D applications and spatial computing. You will own end-to-end delivery of major iOS features, driving our product from development to production-ready solutions. This role demands mastery of iOS development, the ability to cut through ambiguity, and ownership of complex systems in a fast-moving environment.

This is a hybrid position, meaning that you will need to live within easy driving distance to our Technology Center in Columbia, Maryland.

What You'll DoFeature Development & Architecture
  • Own end-to-end delivery of major iOS features, taking Quidient's 5D product and SDK from prototype to production with a focus on reliability and performance.
  • Architect and design new capabilities within existing iOS codebases, establishing patterns that scale as our product line grows.
  • Drive technical decisions on how Quidient builds SDKs and apps from internal frameworks, developing long term sustainable solutions that mature over time.
  • Build and optimize 5D mobile applications leveraging ARKit, RealityKit, Metal, and GPU acceleration for high-performance, low-latency experiences.
  • Collaborate cross functionally with SDET, Algorithm, and Infrastructure teams to harden features for production and integrate CI/CD pipelines.
  • Design and implement RESTful APIs and integrate with server side technologies to support mobile backend communication.
  • Assemble complex solutions from loosely defined requirements, navigating ambiguity.
  • Mentor and influence technical direction across the iOS team as the product scales.
What You BringMust-Have Qualifications:
  • 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, complex codebases (not simple sandbox or siloed apps).
  • 3+ years of experience building 3D applications or working with spatial computing technologies.
  • Deep expertise in iPhone app development using Swift, with recent hands-on iOS.
  • Heavy iOS framework experience including ARKit, AVFoundation, Core Location, Core Motion, VisionKit, RealityKit, ImageIO, and CoreML.
  • Experience developing web based applications using modern front end technologies and server-side technologies.
  • Strong experience in RESTful API design and development.
  • Experience in coding languages such as C++ and Python.
  • Demonstrated ability to assemble complex solutions from loosely defined requirements without clear PRDs or design documentation.
  • Ownership mindset with ability to drive initiatives on a small team with minimal oversight.
  • Live within easy commuting distance of our Technology Center in Columbia, Maryland.
  • This position is not eligible for H-1B sponsorship.
  • Meet Quidient, customer, and government security requirements, which may include, but are not limited to a background check, citizenship verification, and Criminal Justice Information Services verification.
Nice-to-Have Qualifications:
  • Experience deploying high-performance, low-latency applications.
  • Experience creating computer vision or image processing applications.
  • Metal and GPU programming experience.
  • Knowledge of Android app development (Kotlin) or cross-platform frameworks (Flutter).
  • Knowledge of cloud products and platforms, microservice architectures, automation, and API integration.
What We OfferCompensation:
  • Salary Range: $165,000 - $200,000.
  • Annual bonus and equity as appropriate.
Benefits:
  • Health insurance
  • HSA Account
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Life & disability insurance
  • Paid holidays & generous PTO
  • Opportunities for bonuses, equity, and career growth
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

Quidient is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Quidient will consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other classification protected by applicable state, federal, or local laws.