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Independent Contractor Software Developer Jobs in Minneapolis, MN

... independently when appropriate, collaborate effectively when challenges arise, and continue ... Familiarity with Azure DevOps or similar development lifecycle tools. * Experience developing ...

... independently when appropriate, collaborate effectively when challenges arise, and continue ... Familiarity with Azure DevOps or similar development lifecycle tools. * Experience developing ...

The Software Engineer may work independently on projects with broad scope or be a team leader / member on PD projects. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE POSITION: * Develop software specifications including ...

AI Software Engineer

Shoreview, MN · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Work independently while contributing to team objectives What You Bring Required * 5+ years of ... If you are an AI Software Engineer who enjoys building intelligent applications, solving real-world ...

Software Dev Engineer II

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$101K - $139K/yr

Ability to work independently while collaborating with technical teams. Preferred Qualifications ... and contracted partners. Frequency varies for text messages. Message and data rates may apply.

.NET Developer

Eagan, MN · On-site

$49.25 - $65/hr

Software Developer-Sr. Duration: 8+ Months (May extend) Location: Eagan, MN - 55123 Description ... problems independently and to seek out and generate innovative solutions Experience and\or a ...

At times you will need to work independently with hardware engineers and subject matter experts to deliver complete software solutions. You will also need to engage other software experts to design ...

Software Engineer

Minneapolis, MN · Hybrid

$48 - $60/hr

Embedded Software Engineer We are seeking a talented Embedded Software Engineer to develop and ... Ability to work independently and as a member of a team. Additional Skills & Qualifications

Embedded Software Engineer Location: Brooklyn Park, MN (Onsite) Work Authorization: Applicants must ... Ability to work independently and as a member of a team. WORKING CONDITIONS : * Clean office ...

Are you a senior software engineer with proven experience building and delivering intelligent ... This role requires someone who can work independently, evaluate new technologies, make sound ...

Software Engineer II - Embedded Systems

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$133K - $175K/yr

Software Engineer II - Embedded Systems Minneapolis, MN | Direct Hire | $100,000-$130,000 (Flexible ... Strong ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within a multidisciplinary ...

Software Support Engineer - Software & Hardware Systems Minneapolis, MN | Direct Hire | $100,000 ... Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to independently diagnose and resolve complex ...

Sr. Software Engineer

Eagan, MN

$124K - $164K/yr

In 2015 we placed more than 6,000 contractors across select 100+ clients that we service. End ... Not looking for a junior developer Did a lot of design work, looking for a fairly seasoned ...

Showing results 41-60

Independent Contractor Software Developer information

See Minneapolis, MN salary details

$50.1K

$116.7K

$173.3K

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 Minneapolis, MN is $116,744.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,900.00 and $135,700.00 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 Minneapolis, MN?

The most popular types of Software Developer jobs in Minneapolis, MN are:

What cities near Minneapolis, MN are hiring for Independent Contractor Software Developer jobs?

Cities near Minneapolis, MN with the most Independent Contractor Software Developer job openings:

Lead Engineer - Network Operating System, Software Developer

Target

Minneapolis, MN • On-site

$132K - $238K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Target rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 7,035 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 39 rated national retailers


Job description

The pay range is $132,000.00 - $238,000.00

Pay is based on several factors which vary based on position.These include labor markets and in some instancesmay include education, work experience and certifications. In addition to your pay, Target cares about and invests in you as a team member, so that you can take care of yourself and your family. Target offers eligible team members and their dependents comprehensive health benefits and programs, which may include medical, vision, dental, life insurance and more, to help you and your family take care of your whole selves.Other benefits for eligible team members include 401(k), employee discount, short term disability, long term disability, paid sick leave, paid national holidays, and paid vacation.Find competitive benefits from financial and education to well-being and beyond at https://corporate.target.com/careers/benefits.

About us:

Working at Target means helping all families discover the joy of everyday life. We bring that vision to life through our values and culture. Learn more about Target here.

As a Lead Engineer, you serve as the technical anchor for the team supporting the Network Operating System (NOS) product. You own and drive the application architecture, ensuring it meets both functional and non-functional requirements. You will build, integrate, and debug software across the Linux stack, including kernel and user space, and contribute to SONiC builds that produce complete Linux-based network operating system images. You will work across hardware and software boundaries, including I2C, networking ASICs, SAI, and platform interfaces, while developing and supporting Docker-based container workflows. You are expected to troubleshoot complex issues spanning software, systems, networking, hardware, and infrastructure, driving problems from identification through resolution. You bring deep and broad engineering expertise, can design and implement solutions independently, and use that expertise to influence architecture, establish engineering best practices, mentor others, and raise the technical capabilities of the entire team.

Use your skills, experience, and talents to be a part of groundbreaking thinking and visionary goals. As a Lead Engineer, you'll take the lead as you...

Use your technology acumen to apply and maintain knowledge of current and emerging technologies within specialized area(s) of the technology domain. Evaluate new technologies and participate in decision-making, accounting for several factors such as viability within Target's technical environment, maintainability, and cost of ownership. Initiate and execute research and proof-of-concept activities for new technologies. Lead or set strategy for testing and debugging at the platform or enterprise level. In complex and unstructured situations, serve as an expert resource to create and improve standards and best practices to ensure high-performance, scalable, repeatable, and secure deliverables. Lead the design, lifecycle management, and total cost of ownership of services. Provide the team with thought leadership to promote re-use and develop consistent, scalable patterns. Participate in planning services that have enterprise impact. Provide suggestions for handling routine and moderately complex technical problems, escalating issues when appropriate. Gather information, data, and input from a wide variety of sources; identify additional resources when appropriate, engage with appropriate stakeholders, and conduct in-depth analysis of information. Provide suggestions for handling routine and moderately complex technical problems, escalating issues when appropriate. Develop plans and schedules, estimate resource requirements, and define milestones and deliverables. Monitor workflow and risks; play a leadership role in mitigating risks and removing obstacles. Lead and participate in complex construction, automation, and implementation activities, ensuring successful implementation with architectural and operational requirements met. Establish new standards and best practices to monitor, test, automate, and maintain IT components or systems. Serve as an expert resource in disaster recovery and disaster recovery planning. Stay current with Target's technical capabilities, infrastructure, and technical environment. Develop fully attributed data models, including logical, physical, and canonical. Influence data standards, policies, and procedures. Install, configure, and/or tune data management solutions with minimal guidance. Monitor data management solution(s) and identify optimization opportunities.

Core responsibilities of this job are described within this job description. Job duties may change at any time due to business needs.

About you:

  • 4-year degree or equivalent experience

  • 7+ years of software development experience

  • Strong experience in C /C++ in a Linux environment

  • Working knowledge of Python and scripting (bash or similar)

  • Familiarity with common tools like git, make, and basic build systems

  • Linux operating system services (e.g. systemd).

  • Experience using Docker and understanding how containers work

  • Familiarity with build tools and package management (apt, pip, etc.)

  • Basic understanding of handling certificates, credentials, and secure access

  • General understanding of networking concepts: Ethernet basics (Interfaces copper and optical, MAC addressing etc.) and Layer 2 / Layer 3 concepts (switching vs routing)

  • Experience with protocols including ARP, ICMP, BGP, LACP, STP, LLDP, VLANs, etc.

  • Awareness of infrastructure components like DNS, firewalls, and TLS

  • Experience or familiarity with I2C devices and communication, network switch architecture, switching ASIC concepts, low-level concepts like memory-mapped I/O or interrupts

This position will operate as a Hybrid/Flex for Your Day work arrangement based on Target's needs. A Hybrid/Flex for Your Day work arrangement means the team member's core role will need to be performed both onsite at the Target HQ MN location the role is assigned to and virtually, depending upon what your role, team and tasks require for that day. Work duties cannot be performed outside of the country of the primary work location, unless otherwise prescribed by Target. Click here if you are curious to learn more about Minnesota.

Benefits Eligibility

Please paste this url into your preferred browser to learn about benefits eligibility for this role: https://tgt.biz/BenefitsForYou_E

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

In compliance with state and federal laws, Target will make reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. If a reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, please reach out to candidate.accommodations@HRHelp.Target.com. Non-accommodation-related requests, such as application follow-ups or technical issues, will not be addressed through this channel.


What Target employees say

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About Target

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We're here to help all families discover the joy of everyday life. Target is a general merchandise retailer with stores in all 50 U.S. states and the District of Columbia. 75% of the U.S. population lives within 10 miles of a Target store. We employ 400,000+ Our tagline is "Expect More. Pay Less." We've been using it since 1994! The Target Corporation also owns Shipt and Roundel. More to love! Target is headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, its hometown since the first Target store opened in 1962 under The Dayton Company.

Industry

Retail and scientific research and development services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Minneapolis, MN, US