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Independent Contractor Software Tester Jobs in Virginia

Mulesoft QA/Tester

Mclean, VA ยท On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

Works with software developers and software engineers to ensure that development follows ... Steampunk is a Change Agent in the Federal contracting industry, bringing new thinking to clients ...

Mulesoft QA/Tester

Mclean, VA ยท On-site +1

$90K - $130K/yr

Works with software developers and software engineers to ensure that development follows ... Steampunk is a Change Agent in the Federal contracting industry, bringing new thinking to clients ...

Working with software developers and software engineers to ensure that development follows ... Steampunk is a Change Agent in the Federal contracting industry, bringing new thinking to clients ...

Salesforce Tester

Mclean, VA ยท On-site +1

$90K - $130K/yr

Working with software developers and software engineers to ensure that development follows ... Steampunk is a Change Agent in the Federal contracting industry, bringing new thinking to clients ...

Working with software developers and software engineers to ensure that development follows ... Steampunk is a Change Agent in the Federal contracting industry, bringing new thinking to clients ...

ALTA/NSPS Surveyor Independent Contractor

VA ยท On-site +1

$50 - $100/hr

We are looking for individuals to join our contractor network! CREtelligent is seeking experienced ... Proficiency with industry-standard surveying and drafting software. * Ability to manage multiple ...

Showing results 21-40

Independent Contractor Software Tester information

See Virginia salary details

$19

$43

$69

How much do independent contractor software tester jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for independent contractor software tester in Virginia is $43.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.12 and $51.97 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an independent contractor software tester?

To thrive as an Independent Contractor Software Tester, you need a solid understanding of software testing methodologies, attention to detail, and experience with various test case design techniques, often supported by a degree in computer science or relevant certifications. Familiarity with tools such as Selenium, JIRA, Bugzilla, and test automation frameworks is typically required. Excellent communication, self-motivation, and time management help you stand out when working remotely and collaborating with diverse clients. These skills ensure high-quality deliverables, efficient problem-solving, and reliable results in a flexible, often autonomous work environment.

Are independent contractor software testers still in demand?

Independent contractor software testers are still in demand due to ongoing needs for quality assurance in software development. Skills in automation tools, scripting, and familiarity with testing frameworks enhance employability in this flexible role, which often involves remote work and project-based assignments.

What are some common challenges faced by independent contractor software testers, and how can they be addressed?

Independent contractor software testers often face challenges such as managing multiple projects simultaneously, adjusting quickly to different clients' processes, and ensuring clear communication despite remote work. To address these, it's important to develop strong organizational skills, establish clear expectations and communication channels with clients, and continuously update testing knowledge to adapt to various tools and methodologies. Building a network of professional contacts and maintaining regular check-ins with project stakeholders can also help foster collaborative relationships and ensure project success.

What is an independent contractor software tester?

An Independent Contractor Software Tester is a professional who evaluates software applications for defects, usability issues, and overall quality, but works on a contract basis rather than as a full-time employee. Independent contractors are typically hired by companies for specific projects or testing cycles and may work remotely or onsite. Their duties include designing test cases, executing tests, reporting bugs, and collaborating with developers to ensure products meet quality standards. Being independent allows them to work with multiple clients and manage their own schedules. They are responsible for their own taxes and benefits, as they are not direct employees of the companies they serve.

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

AspectIndependent Contractor Software TesterFreelance Software Developer
CredentialsTypically requires testing certifications (e.g., ISTQB), technical skillsRequires programming skills, coding certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentOften project-based, remote or on-site testing rolesProject-based, remote or on-site development work
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by software companies, QA firms, tech startupsUsed by startups, tech companies, agencies
Search & Comparison IntentCommonly compared for testing roles, quality assuranceCompared for development roles, coding projects

The main difference between an Independent Contractor Software Tester and a Freelance Software Developer lies in their focus and skill set. Testers specialize in quality assurance, testing methodologies, and certifications, while developers focus on coding and software creation. Both roles are flexible, project-based, and often remote, but serve different functions within the software development lifecycle.

What are the most commonly searched types of Software Tester jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Software Tester jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Independent Contractor Software Tester jobs in Virginia? For Independent Contractor Software Tester jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Independent Contractor Software Tester jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Independent Contractor Software Tester jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Independent Contractor Software Tester jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Independent Contractor Software Tester job openings:
Infographic showing various Independent Contractor Software Tester job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,714 per year, or $43.1 per hour.

Software Quality Assurance Specialist/Applications Tester 653

Freedom Technology Solutions Group

Herndon, VA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Freedom Technology Solutions Group is looking for a Software Quality Assurance Specialist/Applications Tester to join a new team based out of Herndon, VA!
Responsibilities:
  1. Assist the Sponsor in the evaluation of software and associated documentation
  2. Collaborate with customers to evaluate or diagnose problems; recommend possible solutions
  3. Conduct historical analyses of test results
  4. Conduct software compatibility tests with programs, hardware, operating systems, or network environments
  5. Coordinate user or third party testing
  6. Create or maintain databases of known test defects
  7. Develop testing programs that address areas such as database impacts, software scenarios, regression testing, negative testing, error or bug retests, or usability
  8. Design or develop automated testing tools
  9. Design test plans, scenarios, scripts, or procedures
  10. Document test procedures to ensure replicability and compliance with standards
  11. Estimate software development costs and schedule
  12. Develop and define characteristics of quality including quality metrics and scoring parameters; determine requisite quality control resources
  13. Develop or specify standards, methods, or procedures to determine product quality or release readiness
  14. Document software defects, using a bug tracking system, and report defects to software developers
  15. Evaluate or recommend software for testing or bug tracking
  16. Identify program deviance from standards; suggest modifications to ensure compliance
  17. Identify, analyze, and document problems with program function, output, online screen, or content
  18. Install and configure recreations of software production environments to allow testing of software performance
  19. Install, maintain, or use software testing programs
  20. Monitor bug resolution efforts and track successes
  21. Monitor program performance to ensure efficient and problem-free operations
  22. Participate in formal and informal reviews to determine quality
  23. Participate in product design reviews to provide input on functional requirements, product designs, schedules, or potential problems
  24. Perform initial debugging procedures by reviewing configuration files, logs, or code pieces to determine breakdown source
  25. Plan test schedules or strategies in accordance with project scope or delivery dates
  26. Provide feedback and recommendations to developers on software usability and functionality
  27. Provide technical support during software installation or configuration
  28. Review software documentation to ensure technical accuracy, compliance, or completeness, or to mitigate risks
  29. Test system modifications to prepare for implementation
  30. Update automated test scripts to ensure currency
  31. Utilize beta testing sites to evaluate software performance

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in a related field.
  • An active security clearance with a polygraph.
  • 6 to 10 years of experience.

What's in It for You?
Flexible work environment
A team mentality - work with friendly, like-minded professionals
Work with innovative, cutting edge technologies
Enjoy extremely competitive compensation and benefits
A work-life balance you can count on
Opportunities to grow and advance your career on our dime
The Benefits You Get with Freedom
Amazing benefits including matching 401k, fully paid medical, and more
Generous paid time off - including paid site closure days
Competitive salary offerings
Paid training and tuition reimbursement
Referral bonuses
Fully paid life and disability
Annual logo wear allowance
Company sponsored events (game nights, holiday party, summer party, happy hours)
Interested in learning more about Freedom and our culture? Contact us today! We're constantly hosting hiring events in our office and elsewhere, to help you get a sense of what life is like at Freedom before joining the team.
As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, marital status, disability or veteran status
Applicant Federal & E-Verify Postings
VEVRAA Federal Contractor
Accessibility: If you need an accommodation as part of the employment process, please contact Human Resources at
Phone: 410-290-9035
Email: recruiting@goftsg.com
Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.
If you want to view the EEO Law poster, please choose your language: English - Spanish - Arabic - Chinese
If you want to view the EEO Law Supplement poster, please choose your language: English - Spanish - Chinese
If you want to view the Pay Transparency Policy Statement, please click the link: English