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Independent Contractor Software Developer Jobs in Rhode Island

Mgr Software Engineering

Johnston, RI ยท On-site

$180K - $231K/yr

Operates independently in decision making related to execution and technical direction within the ... managing engineering teams and delivering software products Strong understanding of software ...

SDET / Automation Engineer

Woonsocket, RI ยท On-site

$44 - $58.25/hr

Job Title: SDET / Automation Engineer Key Responsibilities Building modern, AI-forward test ... Highly independent. Forward-thinking approach to automation strategy. Comfortable owning a separate ...

Software Engineer

Carolina, RI ยท On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

The Software Engineer will work with colleagues to deliver reliable and scalable applications that ... Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a development team * Participate in ...

Embedded Software Engineer

North Kingstown, RI ยท On-site

$120K - $180K/yr

About the Role: HavocAI is seeking an Embedded Software Engineer to lead hardware/software ... Ability to independently manage and execute prototype development projects. * Must be a US Citizen ...

C Basic Developer

Woonsocket, RI ยท On-site

$47 - $63.25/hr

Company Description 3S Business Corporation is a specialized Software & Consulting Services ... Ability to work independently Excellent written and oral communication skills Preferred ...

Lead Software Engineer - NBA

Providence, RI ยท On-site

$129 - $178/hr

Team leadership -- Manage and mentor engineers and contractors; run code reviews, uphold ... Bachelor's degree in computer science or relevant area * 6+ years of full stack software ...

QA/Test Engineer

Middletown, RI ยท On-site

$41 - $56/hr

Tasks include, but are not limited to, software testing and quality assurance for enterprise ... Self-directed with ability to prioritize work independently and with a team to complete required ...

Showing results 41-60

Independent Contractor Software Developer information

See Rhode Island salary details

$47K

$109.5K

$162.6K

How much do independent contractor software developer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for independent contractor software developer in Rhode Island is $109,531.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,100.00 and $127,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an independent contractor software developer?

An Independent Contractor Software Developer is a professional who designs, develops, and maintains software applications while working independently rather than as a traditional employee. They are typically hired on a contractual basis to complete specific projects or provide specialized expertise for a set duration. Independent contractors manage their own schedules, handle multiple clients, and are responsible for their own taxes and business expenses. This arrangement offers flexibility but also requires strong self-management, business skills, and a clear understanding of project requirements.

How do independent contractor software developers typically manage client communication and project expectations?

As an Independent Contractor Software Developer, clear and consistent client communication is essential to ensure project requirements, timelines, and deliverables are well understood by all parties. Contractors often use project management tools, regular status updates, and well-defined contracts to set expectations from the outset. Proactively addressing questions, setting realistic deadlines, and documenting progress help prevent misunderstandings and foster strong client relationships, which can lead to repeat business and referrals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an independent contractor software developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Independent Contractor Software Developer, you need strong programming skills, a solid understanding of software development principles, and relevant experience or a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, cloud platforms, and proficiency in popular programming languages, along with certifications such as AWS Certified Developer or Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate, are often beneficial. Excellent communication, time management, and problem-solving abilities set standout contractors apart, enabling effective client interaction and project delivery. These skills and qualities are crucial for producing high-quality software, meeting client expectations, and managing projects independently.

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

AspectIndependent Contractor Software DeveloperFreelance Software Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires relevant coding certifications or degreesOften has similar credentials, but not always mandatory
Work EnvironmentWorks independently, often remotely or on client sitesOperates independently, managing multiple clients or projects
Employer/Industry UsageHired directly by companies or through agencies for specific projectsHired directly by clients or through platforms for project-based work
Search/Comparison IntentOften compared based on project scope, independence, and contractual termsCompared for flexibility, project variety, and client interaction

Both roles involve independent work in software development, requiring similar skills and credentials. The main difference lies in terminology and slight variations in work setup, but they are often used interchangeably in the industry.

Are independent contractor software developers still in high demand?

Independent contractor software developers continue to be in high demand due to ongoing digital transformation and the need for specialized skills in areas like web development, mobile apps, and cloud computing. Many organizations prefer flexible, project-based work, making freelance and contract roles a common employment option in the tech industry.

How much do independent contractor software developers make?

Independent contractor software developers typically earn between $50 and $150 per hour, depending on experience, specialization, and project complexity. Annual income can vary widely, often ranging from $50,000 to over $150,000 for experienced freelancers working on multiple projects or high-demand skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Software Developer jobs in Rhode Island?

The most popular types of Software Developer jobs in Rhode Island are:

Mgr Software Engineering

Citizens

Johnston, RI โ€ข On-site

$180K - $231K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Description

4 Days in the office from any of our locations in Johnston RI,ย Nashville TN, Short Hills NJ, Westwood or Medford MA, Phoenix AZ and couple other locations

Role is not relocation eligible.ย 

Role Summary

The Manager of Software Engineering leads a team of engineers to deliver high-quality, scalable, and reliable software aligned to business and customer outcomes. This role combines technical depth, disciplined execution, and strong leadership to drive team performance, uphold engineering standards, and ensure consistent delivery. The manager owns team outcomes, develops talent, and partners across product, architecture, and engineering to deliver meaningful customer value.

Responsibilities

Technical Expertise and Quality
Ensures the team adheres to established engineering standards, including code development and documentation practices. Guides technical execution and reviews designs and code to maintain quality, scalability, and maintainability. Coaches engineers on tools, frameworks, and development workflows to raise the overall technical bar.

Execution and Delivery
Owns delivery of team commitments, including scope, timelines, and quality. Tracks progress, removes blockers, and manages risks to maintain consistent velocity. Coordinates with cross-functional partners to ensure alignment with business priorities and customer needs. Drives predictable, incremental delivery of product enhancements and capabilities.

Ownership and Accountability
Takes full ownership of team outcomes, including delivery, technical health, and team performance. Operates independently in decision making related to execution and technical direction within the team. Identifies and resolves systemic issues that impact delivery, quality, or team effectiveness.

Collaboration
Builds strong working relationships with product managers, architects, and peer engineering teams. Ensures alignment on design approaches and integration points. Facilitates healthy team dynamics and resolves conflicts to maintain a productive and focused environment.

Communication
Communicates clearly with both technical and non-technical stakeholders. Provides transparent updates on progress, risks, and decisions. Ensures the team maintains clear and consistent communication practices across workstreams.

Leadership and Talent Development
Leads by example and sets clear expectations for performance, quality, and accountability. Hires, develops, and retains engineering talent through coaching and mentoring. Creates an environment that supports continuous improvement, learning, and career growth.

Impact and Continuous Improvement
Delivers measurable team-level impact through reliable execution and strong engineering practices. Improves team efficiency, system scalability, and operational reliability. Drives continuous improvement in delivery practices, tooling, and team effectiveness.

Customer Focus
Advocates for customer needs in design and delivery decisions. Partners with product and design to improve user experience. Ensures systems are performant, reliable, and aligned to customer expectations.

Required Qualifications

10+ years of hands-on software development experience delivering scalable and reliable systems

7+ years of experience managing engineering teams and delivering software products

Strong understanding of software development practices, including agile methodologies, lifecycle management, configuration management, and release processes

Experience leading design and delivery across modern technology stacks, including front-end frameworks (Angular, React, or Vue) and backend languages such as Java, Python, or similar

Experience with cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, or GCP, including secure handling of sensitive dataย 

Experience with CI/CD pipelines such as Jenkins, CircleCI, or equivalent

Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to operate across technical and business audiences

Desired Qualifications

Experience in financial services, including consumer banking, business banking or payments

Understanding of banking systems, custody, and financial operations

Ability to navigate complex organizations and drive alignment to deliver outcomes

Education

Required: Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related discipline

Preferred: Master's degree in a related field

Pay Transparencyย 

The salary range for this position is $180,000 - $231,000 per year, plus an opportunity to earn additional incentive earnings (if applicable). Actual pay is based on various factors including, but not limited to, the budget, work location, and relevant skills and experience..

We offer competitive pay, comprehensive medical, dental and vision coverage, retirement benefits, maternity/paternity leave, flexible work arrangements, education reimbursement, wellness programs and more. Note, Citizens' paid time off policy exceeds the mandatory, paid sick or paid time-away policy of every local and state jurisdiction in the United States. For an overview of our benefits, visitย https://jobs.citizensbank.com/benefits

Some job boards have started using jobseeker-reported data to estimate salary ranges for roles. If you apply and qualify for this role, a recruiter will discuss accurate pay guidance.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Citizens, its parent, subsidiaries, and related companies (Citizens) provide equal employment and advancement opportunities to all colleagues and applicants for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, citizenship, physical or mental disability, perceived disability or history or record of a disability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity or expression, genetic information, genetic characteristic, marital or domestic partner status, victim of domestic violence, family status/parenthood, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, pregnancy/childbirth/lactation, colleague's or a dependent's reproductive health decision making, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or any other category protected by federal, state and/or local laws. At Citizens, we are committed to fostering an inclusive culture that enables all colleagues to bring their best selves to work every day and everyone is expected to be treated with respect and professionalism. Employment decisions are based solely on merit, qualifications, performance and capability.

Education:Why Work for UsEmployment Type: 1ST