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Freelance Software Development Jobs in California

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

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

Community Development: Plan and execute member events update community calendar, secure sponsor ... of individuals, freelancers, entrepreneurs, startups, small businesses and remote workers who ...

Freelance or Full-time Position Overview As an AI Generalist Artist, you will be responsible for ... R&D tasks, including project pitches. · Collaborate with the Head of AI, AI artists, and CG ...

Partner with software engineers and internal stakeholders to translate complex ERP and ... This is a contract/freelance engagement. While some flexibility may be accommodated, preference is ...

Partner with software engineers and internal stakeholders to translate complex ERP and ... This is a contract/freelance engagement. While some flexibility may be accommodated, preference is ...

Partner with software engineers and internal stakeholders to translate complex ERP and ... This is a contract/freelance engagement. While some flexibility may be accommodated, preference is ...

You will manage our blog and work closely with freelancers, own the editorial calendar, and heavily ... development completely around the feedback data we collect. Lever builds modern recruiting software ...

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Showing results 1-20

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:
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.
Senior Roblox Developer

Senior Roblox Developer

Sawhorse Productions

Los Angeles, CA • Remote

$35 - $55/hr

Contractor

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Sawhorse Productions is a Los Angeles based, Award winning full-service creative studio turning ideas into unforgettable experiences through captivating branded content, viral social moments, and groundbreaking interactive experiences. We partner with industry-leading brands, artists, and studios such as Walmart, Google, NBCU, Fanatics, Toyota, Pepsi and Alo to deliver industry leading, innovative multi-platform content. At Sawhorse, we believe in fostering a culture of collaboration, creativity, and relentless excellence while shaping the future of digital storytelling.
Our releases include:

  • Walmart Discovered - 2024 ADDY Winner
  • Alo Sanctuary
  • Beetlejuice Escape the Afterlife
  • Lamborghini Lanzador Lab - 2024 Telly Winner
  • Elton John's 'Beyond The Yellow Brick Road'
  • Olivia Rodrigo 
  • Fashion Klossette
  • And numerous digital fashion releases on web3 platforms

We are looking for experienced Full Stack Roblox Developers to craft best-in-class, high-fidelity experiences that redefine interactive entertainment. In this role, you'll work alongside a team of industry pioneers, collaborating with game designers, artists, and engineers to develop immersive, scalable, and engaging gameplay. You'll leverage the latest Roblox technologies, advanced scripting techniques, and performance optimization strategies to push the platform's boundaries, ensuring seamless cross-platform play across PC, mobile, and console.

Requirements

  • Design, develop, and optimize high-quality gameplay experiences: Write clean, efficient, and scalable Luau code that powers immersive Roblox experiences.
  • Work directly with Creative and Product teams: Translate creative vision and KPIs into interactive, engaging, and data-driven gameplay experiences.
  • Take ownership of features: Lead development cycles from concept to execution, ensuring best practices and industry standards are met.
  • Coordinate with clients and stakeholders: Ensure the technical execution of gameplay features aligns with project objectives and branding requirements.
  • Work cross-functionally with designers and engineers: Implement gameplay mechanics, UI/UX features, and interactive elements to enhance user experience.
  • Collaborate with QA and product managers: Troubleshoot, debug, and optimize features for performance, reliability, and scalability across multiple devices.
  • Implement and optimize game systems: Develop custom character controllers, AI behavior, and dynamic game mechanics using Object-Oriented Programming principles.
  • Ensure cross-platform compatibility: Optimize gameplay performance across PC, mobile, and console while maintaining graphical and interactive consistency.
  • Utilize the latest Roblox technologies: Implement StreamingEnabled, MemoryStoreService, and advanced data handling techniques for seamless user experiences.
Qualifications

A strong candidate for this position should have the following qualities:

  • Proven Roblox development experience: 6-10 years of experience on the Roblox platform, with at least 2+ years of programming in Luau.
  • Advanced proficiency in Roblox Studio & scripting: Expertise with Roblox API, object-oriented programming, CFrame manipulation, UI/UX scripting, and performance optimization.
  • Strong understanding of backend services: Experience with Roblox's datastore, MemoryStoreService, and efficient data handling techniques.
  • Proficiency in GitHub & Rojo: Comfortable working in team-based environments using version control and collaborative coding workflows.
  • Effective communication skills: Ability to explain technical concepts to both developers and non-technical stakeholders.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively: Must be a self-starter with strong time-management skills in a remote, fast-paced setting.
Nice To Have's
  • Familiarity with open-source tools: Experience using Nevermore, Maids, Promises, Signals, and other community libraries.
  • Game UX & UI expertise: Ability to design and implement smooth, intuitive user flows within the Roblox platform.
  • Roblox plugin development: Experience creating custom Studio tools or plugins to streamline development workflows.
  • Advanced mathematics & physics programming: A background in vector math, procedural animation, and physics-based interactions.
  • Custom Avatar Rigging & Character Controllers: Experience designing unique character systems and animation pipelines.
  • Interest in Web Development: Familiarity with front-end frameworks, API integrations, and external server communication is a plus.

Benefits

  • Hourly Rate: $35 - $55/hr (This is a Freelance position and hours may vary)
  • Flexible, remote-friendly role with occasional in-office collaboration opportunities in Los Angeles.
  • Opportunity to work on cutting-edge gaming projects with a team passionate about interactive entertainment.
  • Collaborate with top-tier gaming and entertainment brands.

This freelance position is hourly but general work hours are M - F 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM PST. Top performers will have the opportunities to move to full time if everyone is aligned. 


EEO Statement

Sawhorse Productions is an equal employment opportunity employer. All employees and applicants are evaluated on the basis of their qualifications, consistent with applicable state and federal laws. In addition, Sawhorse Productions will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities. Sawhorse Productions will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and federal law.