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Independent Contractor Programmer Jobs in Minnesota

Assistant City Engineer

Wayzata, MN · On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

Scope of Responsibility The Assistant City Engineer works independently under the general direction ... Acts as liaison to contractors and the public to provide information and solve problems.

Assistant City Engineer

Wayzata, MN · On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

Scope of Responsibility The Assistant City Engineer works independently under the general direction ... Works with property owners, developers, and contractors on erosion and sediment control. Oversees ...

Process Engineer

Moundsview, MN · On-site

$75K - $146K/yr

An ability to work independently, self-motivate, and communicate effectively with team members is ... This will include coordinating with end-users, vendors, contractors, and others to successfully ...

Process Engineer

Moundsview, MN · On-site

$75K - $146K/yr

An ability to work independently, self-motivate, and communicate effectively with team members is ... This will include coordinating with end-users, vendors, contractors, and others to successfully ...

Process Engineer

Moundsview, MN · On-site

$75K - $146K/yr

An ability to work independently, self-motivate, and communicate effectively with team members is ... This will include coordinating with end-users, vendors, contractors, and others to successfully ...

Showing results 41-60

Independent Contractor Programmer information

See Minnesota salary details

$11

$38

$67

How much do independent contractor programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for independent contractor programmer in Minnesota is $38.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.19 and $50.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Independent Contractor Programmer vs Freelance Software Developer?

AspectIndependent Contractor ProgrammerFreelance Software Developer
CredentialsTypically requires programming certifications or degreesOften self-taught or with certifications, but less formal requirements
Work EnvironmentWorks independently, often on multiple client projectsOperates independently, managing own projects and clients
Employer/Industry UsageHired directly by companies or agencies for specific projectsWorks for various clients, often through platforms or direct contracts
Search/Comparison IntentOften searched for in relation to contract work and project-based rolesCommonly searched for in freelance and gig economy contexts

The main difference is that an Independent Contractor Programmer typically works on contract basis for companies, often with formal credentials, while a Freelance Software Developer may operate more independently, often through platforms, with varied credentials. Both roles involve self-employment and project-based work but differ slightly in work setup and industry terminology.

What are the most commonly searched types of Programmer jobs in Minnesota?

The most popular types of Programmer jobs in Minnesota are:

Infographic showing various Independent Contractor Programmer job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $80,541 per year, or $38.7 per hour.

Lead Engineering Technician

Apex Engineering Group

Saint Cloud, MN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Office Location: Any Apex Office (Fargo, Bismarck, or Dickinson, ND or Detroit Lakes, St. Cloud, or Minnetonka, MN)
Apex Engineering Group has openings for Lead Engineering Technicians. The location of these positions is flexible and can be performed from any of our Apex offices or hybrid. Primary responsibilities include working as a key project team member on highway and urban roadway projects from design through construction. A Lead Engineering Technician shall be capable of independently and collaboratively contributing to the design and development of project plans utilizing their CADD skills and hold the role of Chief Inspector on construction projects. Our Lead Engineering Technicians will typically report to a Project Manager or senior level team member. Additional responsibilities may include materials testing and inspection with concrete and asphalt operations during construction, support to survey crews, and training junior level staff.
Qualification Requirements:
  • High School diploma or equivalent is required.
  • A 2-Year Associates Degree in Engineering Technology or a Technical Degree in Drafting, is highly desirable (applicable experience may be accepted)
  • A minimum of 5 years and up to 10 years of experience is preferred with basic civil engineering design and construction inspection principles.
  • Reasonably proficient with CADD platforms such as Bentley OpenRoads Designer and MicroStation Connect and/or Autodesk's AutoCAD and Civil 3D software. This requirement is especially important if working remote.
  • Working knowledge with Microsoft Windows/Office products (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) required.
  • Material testing experience with current MnDOT technical certifications desired, or the ability to attain these skills and certification training in a timely manner.
  • Working knowledge of MnDOT's AASHTOWARE system to enter daily work reports related to project work completed by the construction contractor.
  • Must be willing to interact with people and work in team environments.
  • Must be a detail orientated, self-motivated, and possess strong communication and organizational skills.
  • A valid driver's license is required or the ability to obtain one.
Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to operate a computer under normal ergonomic office conditions.
  • Ability to work in a variety of weather conditions and terrains associated with construction sites.
  • May require prolonged periods of standing and walking to perform some of the typical tasks and duties associated with construction observation, materials testing and surveying.
  • Must work scheduled and required hours.
  • Required to lift and move objects or containers weighing up to 50 pounds.
Typical Tasks and Duties:
  • Prepare detailed dimensional drawings and design layouts from rough sketches, redline corrections, topographic surveys, etc. utilizing Computer Aided Design and Drafting (CADD) software such as MicroStation GEOPAK, Open Roads Designer and/or Autodesk's AutoCAD and Civil 3D.
  • Calculate dimensions, square footage, profiles of roadway and utilities, material quantities, etc. utilizing computer programs and calculator.
  • Understand and follow company CADD standards/procedures and client CADD standards when required.
  • Follow direction and execute multiple tasks assigned by Project Managers, Project Engineers, and Senior Technicians in the development of project plans and specifications.
  • Assist with and develop skills required for construction observation/inspection, surveying, and materials testing.
  • Understand and fulfill the role of resident project representative (RPR) and/or owner's representative during construction projects.
  • Communicate with contractors and effectively deal with difficult and time-sensitive situations.
  • Communicate frequently and effectively with Apex and State/County Agency Project Managers and Project Engineers to inform them of construction progress and potential issues in the field.
  • Document construction progress and quantities in field diaries and input data into automated computer record systems.
  • Attend company, project and client meetings as required either in person or via teleconference and/or remote video conference. The ability to video conference remotely via computer is essential if working remotely.
  • Understand and follow company employee handbook and mandated safety policies.
  • Perform responsibilities in a conscientious, legal, and ethical manner with a strong attention to detail.
  • Must be able to work independently and in a team environment.
  • Participate in training opportunities that will develop communication, technical and organizational skills.
  • Travel and overnight stays may be required; may work overtime especially during the construction season.

Benefits:
We're looking for experience, entrepreneurs and enthusiasm. Apex Engineering Group believes that every employee plays an important role in our company's success and that is why we strive to provide our employees with a benefits program that rewards them for their hard work and dedication they put forth everyday.
We offer a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, which includes:
  1. Performance-based bonuses
  2. Health, dental, and vision insurance
  3. Life insurance
  4. 401(k) plan with employer match and profit-sharing contribution
  5. Paid parental leave
  6. Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs)
  7. Paid time off
  8. Short- and long-term disability coverage
  9. Employee wellness program

Hourly Base Pay Range: $35 - $50 (Actual base pay is dependent on several factors, including experience, education, licensure, job location, and internal equity.)
EOE/AA
Please email [email protected] with any questions.