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Freelance Software Development Jobs in California

Abbott

Cloud Software Engineer II

Los Angeles, CA

$81K - $141K/yr

Minimum 2 years of experience in software development (combination of programming-heavy coursework, school projects, freelance work and professional experience). * Excellent communication skills and ...

Abbott

Cloud Software Engineer II

Los Angeles, CA

$81K - $141K/yr

Minimum 2 years of experience in software development (combination of programming-heavy coursework, school projects, freelance work and professional experience). * Excellent communication skills and ...

Abbott

Cloud Software Engineer II

Sylmar, CA · On-site

$81K - $141K/yr

Minimum 2 years of experience in software development (combination of programming-heavy coursework, school projects, freelance work and professional experience). * Excellent communication skills and ...

JLab Audio

Junior Developer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$31.25 - $40.86/hr

... software development, application development, systems integration, or related technical work environments (professional, internship, or freelance) * Strong proficiency in at least one modern ...

Upwork

Sr Director, Corporate Development

Palo Alto, CA · On-site +1

... freelance, fractional, and payrolled. This portfolio includes the Upwork Marketplace, which ... software development, sales & marketing, customer support, finance & accounting, and more, the ...

Marcus Evans

Freelance AV Technician

San Diego, CA · On-site

Familiarity with operating presentation software, managing slides, and handling multiple ... Opportunity for growth and development in the AV industry. * Hands-on training and support provided ...

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All JobsFreelance Software Development JobsFreelance Software Development Jobs in California

Freelance Software Development information

See California salary details

$78.5K

$140.2K

$176.2K

How much do freelance software development jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance software development in California is $140,241.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $121,900.00 and $160,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is freelance software development?

Freelance software development refers to the practice of working independently, often on a contract basis, to design, build, and maintain software solutions for clients. Freelance software developers are not tied to a single employer and typically work with multiple clients or companies on a project-by-project basis. Their responsibilities can range from coding and debugging to consulting on software architecture and providing technical support. This type of work offers flexibility in terms of schedule and location, but also requires strong self-management and business skills.

What is the difference between Freelance Software Development vs In-House Software Developer?

AspectFreelance Software DevelopmentIn-House Software Developer
CredentialsTypically requires a portfolio and relevant technical skills; certifications are optionalRequires a degree in computer science or related field; certifications can enhance prospects
Work EnvironmentRemote, flexible, often project-basedOffice or remote, full-time employment within a company
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by startups, small businesses, and agenciesEmployed by large corporations, tech firms, and organizations
Work ScopeProject-specific, variable workloadOngoing, consistent responsibilities

Freelance Software Development offers flexibility and diverse projects, ideal for those seeking independence. In contrast, in-house developers enjoy stability and integrated team collaboration. The choice depends on your career goals and preferred work environment.

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

To thrive as a Freelance Software Developer, you need strong programming expertise, problem-solving abilities, and a solid understanding of software development methodologies, often backed by a relevant degree or portfolio of completed projects. Familiarity with source control tools like Git, cloud platforms, and various development frameworks is typically required, as well as knowledge of project management tools used for remote work. Excellent communication, self-motivation, and time management skills help freelancers stand out when working independently with clients. These skills are crucial to deliver high-quality results, build client trust, and manage multiple projects efficiently in a competitive, dynamic environment.

What are some common challenges freelance software developers face when managing multiple client projects simultaneously?

Freelance software developers often juggle several projects at once, which can make balancing deadlines, communication, and shifting priorities a challenge. Time management and clear client communication are essential to avoid scope creep and ensure deliverables meet expectations. Additionally, freelancers must stay organized to track progress across different projects and maintain quality standards. Using project management tools and setting clear boundaries with clients can help manage workloads effectively.
What are the most commonly searched types of Software Development jobs in California? The most popular types of Software Development jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Freelance Software Development jobs? Cities in California with the most Freelance Software Development job openings:
Freelance Software Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Software Development job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $140,241 per year, or $67.4 per hour.
Embedded Software Development (Newark, CA, Boston, MA, or Remote)

Embedded Software Development (Newark, CA, Boston, MA, or Remote)

Triple Ring Technologies

Newark, CA • On-site, Remote

$25 - $250/hr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Triple Ring Technologies, Inc. offers a unique environment for talented individuals interested in undertaking varied technical challenges, primarily in medical device and life science industries. Headquartered in Newark, CA, we are an innovative research and development company that partners with clients to deliver complex technical solutions. Our highly interdisciplinary team includes senior professionals from industry, finance, and academia, with extensive experience in medical device, life science, clean tech, security, and industrial technologies. We rely upon each other for technical excellence, real-world engineering and commercial wisdom. Learn more at www.tripleringtech.com.
Over the years, Triple Ring has built a community of top-tier fractional and freelance operators that we engage and work with regularly. These individuals are a valuable subset of the Triple Ring team and we are always interested in growing this community of expert top-tier talent.
Are you returning to the workforce after some time off? Are you in-transition? Are you focused on another project and looking for fractional work to fill in the gaps? Are you in a place where you wish to work across clients and have greater flexibility in your schedule?
If so... we want to hear from you and talk to you about opportunities we may have working from our offices in Newark, CA or Boston, MA, as well as potential remote work (position-dependent).
We are especially interested in Embedded Software Development Engineering individuals with significant expertise and skills in the following:
  • C/C++ programming skills
  • experience with embedded microcontrollers especially the STMicro family
  • real-time operating systems
  • bare metal

If you have interest in joining our community of top-tier talent, please apply.
The hourly range for jobs which are performed in California is $25 to $250. Please note that the salary range is a guideline and compensation may vary based on factors such as qualifications, skill level, experience, competencies and work location.
Triple Ring Technologies is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and is committed to workforce diversity, providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, color, age, religion, protected veteran or disability status, or genetic information.
Triple Ring Technologies complies with federal and state disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and candidates with disabilities. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, please email staffing@tripleringtech.com.

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