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Freelance Software Engineer Jobs in Ottawa, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Freelance Software Engineer information

See Ottawa, IL salary details

$23.7K

$103.7K

$186.8K

How much do freelance software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance software engineer in Ottawa, IL is $103,670.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,300.00 and $118,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance software engineer?

A freelance software engineer is an independent professional who offers software development services to clients on a contract or project basis, rather than being a full-time employee at a company. They may work on a variety of projects, such as building websites, creating apps, or developing custom software solutions. Freelance software engineers typically manage their own schedules, seek out clients, and are responsible for handling business operations like billing and taxes. This flexible career path allows them to work with different clients and industries, often remotely or from any location.

What does a freelance software engineer do?

Freelance software engineers design and develop applications for clients on a short- or long-term contract basis. In this role, your job duties may include coordinating with systems analysts and programmers to determine the scope of the project, developing new or modifying existing software according to your client's needs and expectations, and analyzing computer specifications and layouts to build a better system. You also troubleshoot and update the application when necessary. Freelance software engineers may work remotely from home or they may occasionally travel to their client’s office to perform job duties. You may work primarily with one client at a time, or you may choose to contract with many different clients.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance software engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Software Engineer, you need strong programming skills, proficiency in relevant languages (such as Python, JavaScript, or Java), and a good understanding of software development methodologies. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, cloud platforms, and project management tools is highly beneficial, along with a portfolio or certifications to demonstrate expertise. Excellent communication, time management, and self-motivation are critical soft skills for managing client relationships and project deadlines independently. These competencies are essential for delivering high-quality work, maintaining client trust, and sustaining a successful freelance business.

How do freelance software engineers typically manage client communication and project expectations?

Freelance software engineers usually handle client communication directly, which means clear and regular updates are crucial for building trust and ensuring project success. Setting expectations early—such as deliverables, timelines, and feedback processes—helps prevent misunderstandings and scope creep. Many freelancers use project management tools, structured status reports, and scheduled check-ins to keep projects on track. Balancing multiple clients can be challenging, so effective time management and proactive communication are key to maintaining client satisfaction and repeat business.

How much do freelance software engineers make?

Freelance software engineers' earnings vary widely based on experience, skills, project complexity, and client budget. On average, they can charge hourly rates from $50 to over $150, with annual income ranging from $50,000 to over $150,000 for experienced professionals working on high-demand projects. Rates often depend on expertise in specific programming languages, tools, and the ability to manage multiple clients.
More about Freelance Software Engineer jobs

What cities near Ottawa, IL are hiring for Freelance Software Engineer jobs?

Cities near Ottawa, IL with the most Freelance Software Engineer job openings:

Freelance Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Software Engineer job openings in Ottawa, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 52% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 60% In-person, and 40% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,670 per year, or $49.8 per hour.

Senior MS Intune & Cloud Security Specialist (Freelance)

Peru, IL • On-site

Coder Technologies Inc.
11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Coder Technologies Inc.external

$124 - $207/hr

Other

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

About Coderio

Coderio designs and delivers scalable digital solutions for global companies. With a strong technical foundation and a product-oriented mindset, our teams lead complex software projects from architecture through execution. We value autonomy, clear communication, and technical excellence. We work closely with international teams and partners, building technology that creates real impact.


More information: coderio.com


We are looking for

We are looking for a Senior Cloud Security Architect / MS Intune Specialist for a freelance, project-based engagement. The ideal candidate will lead a 100% greenfield implementation of Microsoft Intune, Entra ID (Cloud-only), and Microsoft Defender for Endpoint in an environment that integrates Google Workspace, AWS, and modern DevOps pipelines.


You will be responsible for defining, configuring, and deploying device management and endpoint security policies across Windows, macOS, Android, and AWS servers, ensuring seamless onboarding, maximum protection, and knowledge transfer to internal teams.


Responsibilities

  • Greenfield Architecture & MDM: Design and implement Microsoft Intune and Entra ID Join from scratch, establishing zero dependency on legacy on-premises Active Directory.


  • Device Enrollment & Management: Configure Windows Autopilot, Apple Business Manager (ADE) for macOS, and mobile device management profiles for iOS/Android.


  • Endpoint Security: Set up Microsoft Defender for Endpoint (MDE) and Microsoft Defender Vulnerability Management (MDVM), configuring EDR, Antivirus, ASR, Network Protection, and automated remediation.


  • Multi-Cloud & Server Protection: Connect AWS EC2 instances to Microsoft Defender for Cloud via Azure Arc and enable MDE extension scanning on AWS servers.


  • DevOps Security: Integrate GitHub and GitLab repositories with Defender for Cloud to scan for exposed secrets, IaC misconfigurations, and dependency vulnerabilities (SCA).


  • Documentation & Enablement: Map configured policies against ISO 27001:2022 standards and conduct hands‑on skill-transfer sessions for internal engineering and security leads.



Requirements

  • Experience: 5+ years of experience leading complex IT infrastructure, endpoint management, or cloud security implementations.


  • Proven Greenfield Track Record: Hands‑on experience executing zero-base MS Intune and Entra ID deployments.


  • Core Technology Stack: Advanced hands‑on expertise in Microsoft Intune, Entra ID, Windows Autopilot, Apple Business Manager (ADE), and Defender for Endpoint.


  • Multi-Cloud & Servers: Demonstrated experience connecting non‑Azure infrastructure (specifically AWS EC2) using Azure Arc.


  • DevOps Exposure: Experience connecting GitHub/GitLab repositories for security scanning in cloud environments.


  • Availability: Flexible part‑time availability aligned with Argentina time zone (ART).


  • Communication: Fluent Spanish (spoken and written). Excellent ability to document technical processes and deliver knowledge transfer sessions.



Nice to Have

  • Microsoft Certifications: Microsoft Certified Cybersecurity Architect Expert (SC‑100), Endpoint Administrator Associate (MD‑102), or Azure Security Engineer (AZ‑500).


  • Compliance Standards: Practical understanding of ISO 27001:2022 framework mapping.


  • Scripting: Basic scripting capabilities (PowerShell, Bash).



Benefits

  • Flexible freelance / project-based contract (Part‑time).


  • 100% Remote work.


  • High‑visibility greenfield architecture ownership.


  • Direct collaboration with senior technical leaders and security stakeholders.



Why Join Coderio

At Coderio, we value talent. We are a remote‑first company passionate about technology, collaborative work, and professional growth. We offer an inclusive environment with real opportunities to build high‑impact cloud security solutions from the ground up.

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