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Independent Contractor Software Tester Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Greenplum Software Tester

Lanham, MD · On-site

Individual will use IRS or Contractor-developed documentation to construct test cases with ... Qualifications Basic Qualifications for a Software Tester (SITS) are: BS degree and 9 years IT ...

KBR, Inc.

Software Tester

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

Software Tester Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team provides ... Ability to work independently while remaining accountable to team goal Desired: * Create and ...

KBR

Software Tester

Colorado Springs, CO

Software Tester Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team provides ... Ability to work independently while remaining accountable to team goal Desired: * Create and ...

MANTECH

CNO Software Tester

Hanover, MD · On-site

Independently contribute to the testing and debugging of application software and systems * Apply knowledge of security concepts and network technologies * Ensure software engineering standards are ...

MANTECH

CNO Software Tester

Hanover, MD

Independently contribute to the testing and debugging of application software and systems * Apply knowledge of security concepts and network technologies * Ensure software engineering standards are ...

SMFS

Software Tester Mid-Level

Dulles, VA · On-site

Software Tester Mid-Level Location: Northern Virginia Travel: Up to 25% Clearance: Active Top ... Government contracting * DoD programs * Intelligence Community customers * Ability to ...

SMFS

Software Tester Mid-Level

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Software Tester Mid-Level Location: Northern Virginia Travel: Up to 25% Clearance: Active Top ... Government contracting * DoD programs * Intelligence Community customers * Ability to ...

ManTech

CNO Software Tester

Hanover, MD · On-site

$141K - $236K/yr

Independently contribute to the testing and debugging of application software and systems * Apply knowledge of security concepts and network technologies * Ensure software engineering standards are ...

ManTech International

CNO Software Tester

Hanover, MD · On-site

$141K - $236K/yr

Independently contribute to the testing and debugging of application software and systems * Apply knowledge of security concepts and network technologies * Ensure software engineering standards are ...

VTG

Software System Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$178K - $211K/yr

Software Expert II provides independent technical advisory support, evaluating software solutions, requirements, and contractor performance to ensure alignment with mission and program objectives.

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

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for independent contractor software tester in the United States is $43.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.41 and $52.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Independent Contractor Software Tester, and why are they important?

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.

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 cities are hiring for Independent Contractor Software Tester jobs? Cities with the most Independent Contractor Software Tester job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Software Tester jobs? The most popular types of Software Tester jobs are:
What states have the most Independent Contractor Software Tester jobs? States with the most job openings for Independent Contractor Software Tester jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Independent Contractor Software Tester jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Independent Contractor Software Tester jobs are:
Independent Contractor Software Tester jobs near you
Infographic showing various Independent Contractor Software Tester job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 90% Full Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 53% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 46% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,490 per year, or $43.5 per hour.
API Software Tester

API Software Tester

Applied Research Solutions

Dayton, OH • On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

ARS is seeking a senior level, detail-oriented API Software Tester to join our quality assurance team. The successful candidate will be responsible for testing software applications, identifying defects, and ensuring our products meet quality standards before release.

Why Work with us? 

Applied Research Solutions (ARS) is respected as a world-class provider of technically integrated solutions as we deliver premier talent and technology across our focused markets for unparalleled, continuous mission support. Awarded a Best Places to Work nominee since 2020, ARS recognizes that without our career- driven, loyal professionals, we would not be able to deliver state-of-the-art results for our mission partners. We firmly believe that prioritizing our employees is of the upmost importance. We provide a culture where our employees are challenged to meet their career goals and aspirations, while still obtaining a work/life balance. ARS employees are motivated through our industry competitive benefits package, our awards and recognition program, and personalized attention from ARS Senior Managers.  

Responsibilities include:

  • Design, develop and execute API test cases (functional, regression, integration, performance and security tests)
  • Validate API responses for accuracy, performance, reliability and compliance with business requirements
  • Use API tools to automate and execute test suites
  • Analyze API logs, errors and response payloads to identify defects and root causes
  • Collaborate with developers, product owners and Test team members to review API specifications and clarify requirements
  • Create and maintain automated API test scripts using scripting languages
  • Integrate API automation tests into CI/CD pipelines (Gitlab)
  • Document test cases, test results and defects with clear reproduction steps
  • Ensure API quality standards including performance, scalability and security best practices
  • Participate in requirements review meetings to ensure testability and quality considerations
  • Maintain and update test documentation and procedures
  • Support release management activities and deployment testing
  • Perform compatibility testing across different browsers, devices, and operating systems
  • Contribute to test automation efforts when applicable
  • Other duties as required

Qualifications / Technical experience required:

  • Must be a US citizen
  • Ability to obtain a Secret Clearance
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field, or equivalent experience
  • Security +
  • Strong understanding of software testing methodologies and best practices
  • Experience testing web applications and APIs
  • Experience with API testing tools (Swagger)
  • Gitlab experience
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Excellent written and verbal communication abilities
  • Attention to detail and commitment to quality

 All positions at Applied Research Solutions are subject to background investigations. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background investigation including criminal history and identity check.

This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-741.5(a). This regulation prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals on the basis of disability, and requires affirmative action by covered prime contractors and subcontractors to employ and advance in employment qualified individuals with disabilities.

This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-300.5(a). This regulation prohibits discrimination against qualified protected veterans, and requires affirmative action by covered contractors and subcontractors to employ and advance in employment qualified protected veterans.

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