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Freelance Unity Game Developer Jobs in Deerfield, IL

Technical Artist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130K - $156K/yr

Work with engineering and art teams to develop custom shaders from scratch * Work across several ... game engine scripting (ex. Unity, Unreal, Proprietary Engine) * Portfolio demonstrating the ...

Technical Artist

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$130K - $156K/yr

Work with engineering and art teams to develop custom shaders from scratch * Work across several ... game engine scripting (ex. Unity, Unreal, Proprietary Engine) * Portfolio demonstrating the ...

Manager, Data Engineering

Chicago, IL · On-site

$117K - $141K/yr

... and unforgettable gaming experiences -powered by worldclass content , strong technical and ... Experience with Databricks Unity Catalog, Workflows, Delta Lake, Delta Live Tables or Lakeflow ...

FOX Sports has delivered the most watched television program, NFL's America's Game of the Week on ... Together with the programming department, keep track of event schedules and ensure proper resource ...

Showing results 41-54

Freelance Unity Game Developer information

See Deerfield, IL salary details

$33K

$110.3K

$183K

How much do freelance unity game developer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance unity game developer in Deerfield, IL is $110,308.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,900.00 and $126,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance Unity game developer?

A Freelance Unity Game Developer is a self-employed professional who creates, prototypes, and develops games or interactive experiences using the Unity game engine. They typically work on a project basis for clients, handling tasks such as coding, asset integration, debugging, and optimization. Freelancers may collaborate with designers, artists, and other developers to bring games to life. Their job requires proficiency in C#, knowledge of Unity's tools and systems, and problem-solving skills. They often manage their own schedules, client communication, and project scope.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a freelance Unity game developer?

To thrive as a Freelance Unity Game Developer, you need strong proficiency in C# programming, Unity engine expertise, and experience in 2D/3D game development, supported by a solid portfolio. Familiarity with source control systems (like Git), project management tools (such as Trello or Jira), and sometimes Unity certifications is often expected. Excellent communication, self-motivation, time management, and problem-solving skills help you excel in remote or client-based projects. These competencies are crucial for delivering high-quality games, maintaining effective client relationships, and managing the varied demands of freelance work.

What are common challenges freelance Unity game developers face, and how can they be managed?

Freelance Unity game developers often encounter challenges such as juggling multiple projects, ensuring clear communication with remote clients, and managing fluctuating workloads or income streams. Staying organized with effective project management tools and setting clear timelines with clients can help manage these demands. It's also important to regularly update technical skills and maintain a strong professional network to secure consistent work. Overcoming these challenges can lead to a rewarding freelance career with increased flexibility and the ability to work on diverse, creative projects.

Are freelance Unity game developer jobs in demand?

Freelance Unity game developer jobs are in demand due to the growing popularity of mobile and indie games, as well as increased opportunities for remote work. Skills in Unity, C#, and 3D modeling are highly valued, and the industry continues to expand with new platforms and technologies. However, competition can be strong, and success often depends on a developer's portfolio and networking efforts.

What are popular job titles related to Freelance Unity Game Developer jobs in Deerfield, IL?

For Freelance Unity Game Developer jobs in Deerfield, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Deerfield, IL are hiring for Freelance Unity Game Developer jobs?

Cities near Deerfield, IL with the most Freelance Unity Game Developer job openings:

Infographic showing various Freelance Unity Game Developer job openings in Deerfield, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 13% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 80% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,308 per year, or $53 per hour.

Technical Artist

NxT Level

Chicago, IL • On-site

$130K - $156K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Remote - US and Canada only
thatgamecompany designs and develops artistically crafted, broadly accessible video games that push the boundaries of interactive entertainment. We respect our players and want to contribute meaningful, enriching experiences that touch and inspire them.
We seek talent that values integrity and personal growth within an environment of intense collaboration and experimentation.
Our mission - create timeless entertainment that makes positive change to the human psyche worldwide. If you've been wanting to have a positive impact on people's lives and the creative challenges associated with doing something different and unique, then come help us shine brighter together.
Major Responsibilities
  • Work with engineering and art teams to develop custom shaders from scratch
  • Work across several art disciplines including shading, environment art, character art, animation and general art to support as the need arises.
  • Profile and optimize shaders and VFX for optimal performance across a wide range of target platforms.
  • Lead efforts in building foundational systems for art to establish scenes, animation, rigging, FX, and material tests.
  • Coordinate with art, technical, and studio leads to help build and maintain a high-performance art pipeline from creation to final package delivery.
  • Contribute to the unique product artistic vision holding high standards for aesthetics and technical art implementation.
  • Optimizing art content for performance.

Additional Responsibilities
  • Profile and optimize shaders and VFX for optimal performance across a wide range of target platforms.
  • Working in our proprietary engine, help to establish our material and vfx pipelines.
  • Document workflows and best practices for materials and vfx

Must-Haves
  • A good understanding of shaders (HLSL and/or GLSL) and ideally able to handle supporting c++ code for those prototypes or tools if required
  • Solid experience working with shader, materials and vfx in an industry standard or proprietary game engine
  • Experience implementing visual effects in an industry standard or proprietary Game Engine from concept to completion
  • Solid experience profiling and optimizing shaders and vfx on multiple platforms
  • 3-5 or more years experience as a Technical Artist
  • Must have 3 or more years experience with Maya and modern 3D art pipelines
  • Proven experience building tools for modern art pipeline with a solid understanding of game engine scripting (ex. Unity, Unreal, Proprietary Engine)
  • Portfolio demonstrating the technical artistic ability, with a focus on custom shaders and vfx
  • Self-motivated and diligent, with established habits for tracking one's own tasks and seeking out answers when needed

Nice to Haves
  • Writing c++ code would be a plus
  • Knowing Mel, Python, Lua, C++, is a plus
  • Understanding of animation pipelines, including character and environment systems
  • Strong communication skills and a positive and professional attitude
  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent years of experience in Computer Science, 3D graphics, or related field
  • Experience working with offsite art and programming teams

Perks:
  • Paid Time Off, Holidays and Two Weeks Winter Break
  • Employees and their dependents get medical, dental, and vision coverage, regardless of their level, tenure, or position within the company. Moreover, these benefits start on the first day of the job-there's no waiting period before they kick in.
  • Pet Insurance for those who need it too.
  • Compassionate leave for employees who needs to take care of their family members
  • Pre-tax wellness stipend
  • Pre-tax work from home stipend
  • Access our savings plan (401K program) with company match
  • Mental health resources including Headspace membership and Employee Assistance Program (CCA)
  • Discount portal for everyday goods and services
  • Employee inclusive and diversity initiatives such as Grow Together
  • Support for personal professional development