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Independent Contractor Software Developer Jobs in Detroit, MI

CONTROLTEC LLC

Software Developer C C++

Allen Park, MI

$44.75 - $60.25/hr

The Software Developer will design, develop and maintain software for automotive data acquisition ... Independent problem solving ability * Experience in C/C++ application development * Experience in ...

CONTROLTEC LLC

Software Developer C C++

Allen Park, MI · On-site

$44.75 - $60.25/hr

The Software Developer will design, develop and maintain software for automotive data acquisition ... Independent problem solving ability * Experience in C/C++ application development * Experience in ...

Stefanini

Senior Software Developer

Dearborn, MI

$50.25 - $66.25/hr

Stefanini is looking for a Full Stack Developer (Dearborn, MI) We are seeking a senior-level Full ... Candidate should be able to work independently and contribute across front-end and backend, with ...

DataAnnotation

Software Engineer

Warren, MI · Remote

$40 - $75/hr

... other engineers -- who are driving real-world impact in AI development. Our platform offers an ... This is an independent contractor position. #coder

DataAnnotation

Software Engineer

Dearborn, MI · Remote

$40 - $75/hr

... other engineers -- who are driving real-world impact in AI development. Our platform offers an ... This is an independent contractor position. #coder

DataAnnotation

Software Engineer

Detroit, MI · Remote

$40 - $75/hr

... other engineers -- who are driving real-world impact in AI development. Our platform offers an ... This is an independent contractor position. #coder

Software Technology Inc

Sr. Software Engineer

Dearborn, MI

$112K - $148K/yr

Senior Software Engineer, On-Device As a Software Engineer, you'll join an established venture team ... independent company, with global presence spanning the U.S. and U.K. As the new organization is ...

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All JobsIndependent Contractor Software Developer JobsIndependent Contractor Software Developer Jobs in Detroit, MI

Independent Contractor Software Developer information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$47.5K

$110.7K

$164.3K

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

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for independent contractor software developer in Detroit, MI is $110,723.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,100.00 and $128,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

Can software developers work freelance?

Yes, software developers can work as freelancers, offering their services on a project basis rather than as full-time employees. Freelance developers typically need skills in programming languages, project management, and client communication, and often use platforms like Upwork or Freelancer to find work. This work arrangement provides flexibility but requires self-discipline and the ability to manage multiple clients and deadlines.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior software engineers, especially those with specialized skills in areas like machine learning, cloud computing, or cybersecurity, can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. High earnings are typically associated with experience, leadership roles, and working at large tech companies or successful startups.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior software engineers, especially those with specialized skills in areas like machine learning, cloud computing, or cybersecurity, can earn $300,000 or more annually. High-level roles often require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and work in competitive industries or companies with lucrative compensation packages.

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 is L1, L2, L3, and L4 developer?

In the context of software development, L1, L2, L3, and L4 often refer to different levels of developer experience and seniority, with L1 being entry-level and L4 representing senior or lead developers. These levels help organizations categorize skills, responsibilities, and compensation, and they may correspond to specific technical expertise, problem-solving ability, and project management skills. For an independent contractor software developer, understanding these levels can assist in positioning your skills and negotiating contracts effectively.

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Software Developer jobs in Detroit, MI? The most popular types of Software Developer jobs in Detroit, MI are:
Independent Contractor Software Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Independent Contractor Software Developer job openings in Detroit, MI as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 20% Full Time, and 80% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $110,723 per year, or $53.2 per hour.

APUS Software Developer, Level 2 (Smart Handling)

Daifuku

Novi, MI • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Daifuku rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 31 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

268th of 418 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Overview
Daifuku Airport America Corporation is a subsidiary of Daifuku North America a group company of Daifuku in Japan - the largest material handling company in the world. Our advanced systems move everything from car bodies at auto plants to luggage at airports to packaged goods at warehouses. We are known as experts in engineering, manufacturing, and servicing innovative automated materials handling systems including conveyors, automatic guided vehicles, automated storage & retrieval systems, and integrated controls.
The company is currently seeking an experienced Software Developer, Level 2 (Smart Handling).
Responsibilities
Software Developer, Level 2 (Smart Handling)
Position Summary/ Primary Purpose
Reports to the Software Engineering Manager and works as a member of medium(approx 2 to 4 person) project team. Works, as directed, on the research, design, development, and testing of computer systems-level software and network distribution software for Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV) applications. Authors and reviews operational specifications, formulates, and analyzes software requirements. The Software Developer Level 2 applies principles and techniques of computer science, engineering, and mathematical analysis to software development.
Major Areas of Responsibility
  • Responsible for the design, development and testing of C++ computer applications on Microsoft .NET platforms and Windows based computer systems using the Microsoft Visual Studio suite of development tools.
  • Work with project team members and with other technical departments in the design, development, testing and deployment of Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV) for the manufacturing industry.
  • Assist in the production and review the related product/project documentation for both internal and external use.
  • Contributes to team effort by accomplishing related results as needed to meet product/project goals.
  • Meet timelines to ensure projects stay on schedule and on budget.

Broad Knowledge as Follows (Basic/Preferred)
  • 5+ years of extensive C, C++ and .NET development.
  • 2+ years of developing with MS SQL Server.
  • Ability to understand, modify, and support C++ applications.
  • Superior knowledge of Visual Studio, and Windows 7/8, Windows Server 2008/2012
  • Industrial automation (PLC or OPC) experience is a plus.

Qualifications
Skills & Abilities as Follows (Basic/Preferred)
  • Good working knowledge of current Microsoft Office products
  • Ability to travel up to 20%, annually.
  • Occasionally, working extended hours, weekends, and holidays in support of customers. Customer sites are located throughout the country; the selected candidate will need to travel for commissioning and on-site engineering tasks that cannot be accomplished from our office. On occasion, off-shift work may be necessary to support commissioning efforts.
  • Time Management - Managing one's own time and the time of others.
  • Service Orientation - Actively looking for ways to help people.
  • Coordination - Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
  • Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
  • Judgment and Decision Making - Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
  • Monitoring - Monitoring/Assessing performance of you, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
  • Verbal and Written Expression and Recognition - The ability to listen to, understand and communicate information and ideas presented through spoken or written words and sentences.
  • Information Ordering - The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).
  • Problem Sensitivity - The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing there is a problem.

Education & Experience
  • BS-CS/CE or Equivalent is required.
  • Microsoft.NET, DB certification(s) strongly preferred

Demonstrated Physical Abilities as Follows: remain stationary for 50% of the time; move/traverse throughout the office to access file cabinets and office equipment; operate a computer and other productivity machinery; inspect documents; communicate with others through talking/hearing; read/identify/assess forms and correspondence
Daifuku Airport America Corporation is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled, and federal sub/contractor. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, protected veteran status, marital status or medical condition. If you'd like to view a copy of the company's affirmative action plan or policy statement, please call 248-553-1000.
Daifuku Airport America Corporation offers an excellent compensation package including great benefits such as excellent medical, vision, and dental insurance, paid vacation time, paid sick time, and paid holidays, 401K, Flexible Spending Programs, and more.
At this time our company only receives applications online. If you need assistance applying online to this position, please call 248-553-1000 and leave a message and your call will be returned.

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