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Freelance Software Developer Student Jobs in Chicago, IL

SysMind Tech

Java Full Stack/React Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$54 - $69.75/hr

Can we use Freelancer? : No * Named Job Posting? (if Yes - needs to be approved by SCSC) : No * Remote work possibility : No * Global Role Family : 60236 (P) Software Engineering * Local Role Name

Braven, Inc.

Senior Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$111 - $153/hr

Senior Software Engineer Team : Systems Location : Hybrid in Chicago (IL) or Newark (NJ) Employment ... ASAP About Braven Braven is a national nonprofit that prepares promising college students to secure ...

Braven

Senior Software Engineer

Chicago, IL

$126K - $166K/yr

Senior Software Engineer Team : Systems Location : Hybrid in Chicago (IL) or Newark (NJ) Employment ... ASAP About Braven Braven is a national nonprofit that prepares promising college students to secure ...

Braven

Senior Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$126K - $166K/yr

Senior Software Engineer Team : Systems Location : Hybrid in Chicago (IL) or Newark (NJ) Employment ... ASAP About Braven Braven is a national nonprofit that prepares promising college students to secure ...

Braven

Senior Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$126K - $166K/yr

Senior Software Engineer Team : Systems Location : Hybrid in Chicago (IL) or Newark (NJ) Employment ... ASAP About Braven Braven is a national nonprofit that prepares promising college students to secure ...

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 ...

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All JobsSoftware Developer Student JobsFreelance Software Developer Student JobsFreelance Software Developer Student Jobs in Chicago, IL

Freelance Software Developer Student information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$30.4K

$103.3K

$248.8K

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

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance software developer student in Chicago, IL is $103,288.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,400.00 and $109,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Software Developer Student jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Freelance Software Developer Student jobs in Chicago, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Freelance Software Developer Student jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Software Developer Student jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Freelance Software Developer Student jobs near you

Senior Lua Developer (Roblox) - AI Code Evaluation

Lifted, an Upwork Company™

Chicago, IL • Remote

$60/hr

Contractor

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Company Description

An enterprise client is seeking experienced Lua Developers to support AI model training through technical evaluations, scripting tasks, and code quality reviews. This opportunity is ideal for developers who have strong Lua programming skills and experience building or scripting within the Roblox ecosystem.

The client partners with leading AI organizations to improve the quality of next-generation AI models by leveraging the expertise of experienced software developers. Selected freelancers will help evaluate AI-generated code, review programming solutions, and contribute to the development of high-quality training data used to advance generative AI technologies.

    Job Description

    This opportunity is ideal for experienced Lua programmers who enjoy solving technical challenges, reviewing code, and improving software quality.

    What You'll Do:

    • Review, analyze, and evaluate Lua code for accuracy, quality, and best practices.
    • Complete technical evaluations and scripting-related tasks involving Lua programming.
    • Identify bugs, performance issues, and opportunities to improve existing code.
    • Develop and modify Lua scripts based on project requirements.
    • Apply strong programming fundamentals, including modular design, data structures, and debugging techniques.
    • Work with Roblox Studio and Roblox development environments where applicable.
    • Contribute to AI model training by providing high-quality technical feedback and code evaluations.
    • Collaborate with the client's AI evaluation platform while following detailed project guidelines.
    Qualifications

    Requirements:

    • Advanced proficiency in Lua programming, including scripting, debugging, and code optimization.
    • Hands-on experience using Roblox Studio and/or developing applications or games on the Roblox platform.
    • Strong understanding of programming fundamentals, including data structures, functions, modular programming, and performance optimization.
    • Ability to independently review, analyze, and improve existing Lua code.
    • Professional working proficiency in English with strong written communication skills.
    • Ability to work independently and follow detailed technical instructions.

    Nice to Haves:

    • Experience developing Roblox games or interactive experiences.
    • Experience reviewing code or conducting technical quality assurance.
    • Familiarity with software testing, debugging, and code optimization techniques.
    • Experience contributing to AI, machine learning, or code evaluation projects.
    Additional Information
    • Fully remote, project-based opportunity.
    • Up to $60/hour, depending on project availability.
    • Expected workload ranges from 10-39 hours per week, although work volume may fluctuate.
    • Weekly lump-sum payments for work completed during the previous week.
    • Qualified candidates will receive an Upwork contract offer along with onboarding instructions.
    • Candidates who successfully complete the initial survey will be invited to a paid technical evaluation (approximately 2-3 hours). Approved evaluations will receive a $150 payment.
    • To begin onboarding and access project tasks, candidates must have an active Upwork contract with the client.
    • Due to the high volume of applicants, the client may not be able to respond to individual inquiries.

    Apply