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Freelance Software Developer Student Jobs in Illinois

Cengage Learning, Inc.

Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

As a Software Engineer, you will deliver a world-class experience for learners and instructors on ... students and instructors * Develop scalable, high-performance backend services and RESTful APIs to ...

P2P

Campus Software Engineer (Intern)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$212.50 - $287.50/hr

Our software engineering internship is an intensive 10-week experience with our technology team ... We accept students eligible for CPT/OPT and we sponsor work visas for full-time positions The ...

New

University of Utah

UU Student - Computer

Campus, IL · On-site

$15/hr

Details Open Date 08/19/2026 Requisition Number PRN17378N Job Title UU Student - Computer Working Title Software Engineer Intern Career Progression Track SJ Track Level FLSA Code Nonexempt Patient ...

IMC

Graduate Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$200K/yr

As a Software Engineer at IMC, you will drive the development of our cutting-edge trading ... Current university student graduating between September 2026 - July 2027 that is pursuing a degree ...

NINJA HOLDINGS, LLC

Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

... student' of good design. You'll be part of a team that works in one of the following areas ... Strong experience on the Frontend or the infrastructure (DevOps) * Prior FinTech experience ...

NinjaHoldings

Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$100K - $150K/yr

... student' of good design. You'll be part of a team that works in one of the following areas ... Strong experience on the Frontend or the infrastructure (DevOps) * Prior FinTech experience ...

NinjaHoldings

Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$100K - $150K/yr

... student' of good design. You'll be part of a team that works in one of the following areas ... Strong experience on the Frontend or the infrastructure (DevOps) * Prior FinTech experience ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsSoftware Developer Student JobsFreelance Software Developer Student JobsFreelance Software Developer Student Jobs in Illinois

Freelance Software Developer Student information

What is a freelance software developer student?

A Freelance Software Developer Student is a student who works independently on software development projects while pursuing their studies. They typically take on short-term or contract-based work to build real-world experience, improve their coding skills, and earn income. These students often use platforms like Upwork or Fiverr to find clients, and they may work on tasks like building websites, creating apps, or fixing bugs. Balancing freelance work with academic responsibilities helps them develop time management and professional skills.

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

To thrive as a Freelance Software Developer Student, you need a solid grasp of programming fundamentals, problem-solving abilities, and ongoing coursework or self-study in computer science. Familiarity with code versioning tools like Git, common programming languages (such as Python or JavaScript), and platforms like GitHub or Stack Overflow is typical. Strong time management, self-motivation, and effective communication help you balance learning with client work and collaboration. These skills and qualities are crucial for delivering quality projects, building a professional reputation, and advancing both academically and professionally.

How do freelance software developer students typically find clients and manage projects while balancing their studies?

Freelance Software Developer Students often find clients through online platforms, networking events, or referrals within their academic and professional circles. Balancing freelance work with studies requires effective time management and setting clear expectations with clients regarding availability and deadlines. Many students use project management tools and maintain regular communication to ensure transparency and timely delivery. Collaborating with clients remotely is common, and students often work independently but may join small teams for larger projects, providing valuable real-world experience alongside their academic learning.

What is the difference between Freelance Software Developer Student vs Freelance Software Developer Intern?

AspectFreelance Software Developer StudentFreelance Software Developer Intern
CredentialsEnrolled in a computer science or related programTypically a student or recent graduate
Work EnvironmentIndependent, remote or freelance projectsOften part-time, project-based, or internship roles
Employer & Industry UsageSelf-employed, startups, or small clientsStartups, tech companies, or agencies
Search & Comparison IntentLooking for freelance projects or gigsSeeking internship opportunities or freelance work

Both roles involve learning and applying software development skills, but a Freelance Software Developer Student is typically enrolled in school and works independently on freelance projects, while a Freelance Software Developer Intern is usually gaining practical experience through internships or part-time freelance roles within organizations. The main difference lies in their employment status and purpose: students focus on learning, whereas interns aim to gain industry experience.

Can I do freelancing as a student?

Freelance software developers who are students can often start freelancing if they have the necessary skills and meet legal age requirements. Many platforms allow students to find freelance work, but they should ensure they balance projects with their academic commitments and understand any legal or contractual obligations. Building a portfolio and gaining experience can help students succeed in freelancing roles.

Can a freelance software developer student work freelance?

A freelance software developer student can work freelance if they meet legal age requirements and have the necessary skills. Many students take on freelance projects using platforms like Upwork or Fiverr, but they should ensure they comply with local labor laws and any educational institution policies. Building a portfolio and gaining experience can help them secure freelance opportunities while studying.

What are the most commonly searched types of Software Developer Student jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Software Developer Student jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Freelance Software Developer Student jobs in Illinois?

For Freelance Software Developer Student jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Freelance Software Developer Student jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Software Developer Student jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Freelance Software Developer Student jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Freelance Software Developer Student job openings:

Freelance Software Developer Student jobs near you

Software Engineer

Cengage Learning, Inc.

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

We believe in the power and joy of learning
At Cengage, our employees have a direct impact in helping learners around the world discover the power and joy of learning. We are bonded by our shared purpose - driving innovation that helps millions of learners improve their lives and achieve their dreams through education.
What you'll do here:
As a Software Engineer, you will deliver a world-class experience for learners and instructors on our Cengage Learning Platforms (CLP). Working on a cross-functional team, you will implement an innovative, AI-first roadmap.
Following the Product Operating Model (POM), you will collaborate with product managers, designers, engineers, and testers to deliver high-quality, accessible, solutions to improve customer outcomes.
  • Work on a high-performing engineering team focused on quality, accountability, and continuous improvement
  • Design, develop, and maintain end-to-end features across both backend services (Java/Spring) and frontend applications (React) supporting higher education platforms and products
  • Build dynamic, responsive, and accessible user interfaces using React that enhance the learning experience for students and instructors
  • Develop scalable, high-performance backend services and RESTful APIs to support frontend functionality
  • Collaborate closely with Product, UX, QA, and other engineers to deliver cohesive, user-centered solutions
  • Write clean, maintainable, and testable code, demonstrating modern frontend patterns (hooks, component composition) and scalable backend practices
  • Troubleshoot and resolve issues across the stack, including UI bugs, API failures, and performance bottlenecks
  • Contribute to platform modernization efforts, including frontend architecture evolution and backend service improvements

Skills You Will Need Here:
Generative AI & Emerging Technologies
  • Familiarity with AI/ML concepts and emerging technologies, including generative AI and LLM-based tools
  • Experience integrating with or consuming AI-powered services (e.g., APIs for generative AI or intelligent workflows)
  • Demonstrated ability to apply AI tools in day-to-day engineering workflows (e.g., code generation, refactoring, test creation, CI/CD augmentation)
  • Practical experience working with agentic AI workflows, including using LLMs to perform multi-step tasks, invoke tools/APIs, and integrate with existing systems

Architecture & Cloud Platforms
  • Experience building and consuming APIs that integrate legacy systems with modern solutions
  • Familiarity with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, or GCP) and containerization technologies (Docker; Kubernetes a plus)

Software Engineering & Product Delivery
  • Experience developing full-stack applications using Java (Spring/Spring Boot) and modern JavaScript (ReactJS)
  • Strong understanding of software engineering fundamentals, including testing, debugging, and performance optimization
  • Experience working in agile environments (Scrum, Kanban), contributing to iterative delivery

Collaboration & Communication
  • Strong collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in cross functional and distributed teams
  • Ability to communicate technical ideas clearly and contribute to team discussions and decision-making
  • Willingness to learn, take ownership, and continuously improve both individually and as part of a team

Education & Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field, or equivalent practical experience
  • 2-5+ years of professional experience in software engineering, with exposure to full-stack development

Cengage is committed to working with broad talent pools to attract and hire strong and most qualified individuals. Our job applicants are considered regardless of any classification protected by applicable federal, state, provincial or local laws.
Cengage is also committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities including during our job application process. If you are an applicant with a disability and require reasonable accommodation in our job application process, please contact us at accommodations.ta@cengage.com.
About Cengage
Cengage, a global education technology company serving millions of learners, provides affordable, quality digital products and services that equip students with the skills and competencies needed to be job ready. For more than 100 years, we have enabled the power and joy of learning with trusted, engaging content, and now, integrated digital platforms. We serve the higher education, workforce skills, secondary education, English language teaching and research markets worldwide. Through our scalable technology, including MindTap and Cengage Unlimited, we support all learners who seek to improve their lives and achieve their dreams through education.
Compensation
At Cengage Group, we take great pride in our commitment to providing a comprehensive and rewarding Total Rewards package designed to support and empower our employees. Click here to learn more about our Total Rewards Philosophy.
The full base pay range has been provided for this position. Individual base pay will vary based on work schedule, qualifications, experience, internal equity, and geographic location. Sales roles often incorporate a significant incentive compensation program beyond this base pay range.
$77,100.00 - $123,300.00 USD

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