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Computer Tester

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$17.50/hr

As a Software Tester, you will play a crucial role in ensuring the quality and functionality of our ... Ability to work independently as well as part of a team

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

As of Jul 16, 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 21% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,490 per year, or $43.5 per hour.
Entry-level Software Tester - $15/hr - Clemson

Entry-level Software Tester - $15/hr - Clemson

Eleos Technologies

Clemson, SC

$15/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

About us

We’re helping a diverse mix of customers—from mom-and-pop operations to companies with thousands of trucks —improve how they communicate with their drivers by tackling information overload, reducing phone calls, and eliminating obsolete technologies.

We have offices located in downtown Greenville and downtown Clemson. 

We began life as a bootstrapped software startup, and have always been focused on building products our customers love. Today, we're part of the Knight-Swift family of companies, (Knight-Swift is a Fortune 500 company) which has allowed us to keep our focus on building world-class software products for the transportation industry. 

Eleos is hiring several new teammates to test our mobile and web software products at our Clemson office.  The individual we want to hire will make few assumptions, take little for granted, and “measure twice and cut once”. If testing and trying to break what our awesome developers create sounds interesting to you, then please keep reading. If you are bored reading this already, then you’re probably not a good fit.

You will join a fun crew in Clemson, who works hard and enjoys a fierce ping-pong game in the office. You will be expected to be tough on our products  and critical of system issues, but incredibly pleasant with your teammates. Assuring the quality of our products is very important to us as a fast-growing company.

If you don't already know how to test code or follow test plans, that's perfectly okay. For this position, we are excited to help you learn by providing you on-the-job training!

You might be a good fit for this role and our company if you say, “that’s me!” to each of the following:
• I cannot ignore mistakes. I understand that not everyone defines "mistake" the same way... but still, I cannot ignore a mistake.
• There is right and there is wrong.
• I think work can be "wrong" without thinking that the person who did that work is "wrong."
• People ask me to proofread because they know I will catch everything that might even be considered to be an error.
If you have actually done any of the following, even for a school project, please tell us:
• Software or system testing
• Software development of any kind
• Writing documentation of any kind

In Summary: 
This Software Tester is responsible for testing our mobile and web applications by executing test cases and clearly documenting the results of testing. This position works collaboratively with other testers and developers.
Minimum Skills and Competencies:
  • Strong work ethic with documented work history
  • Must provide your own laptop and be proficient at using it
  • Must possess effective verbal and written communication skills
  • Must have strong attention for detail
  • Must have strong analytical skills with the ability to interact with development team
  • Ability to escalate issues appropriately
  • Be able to work as a 1099 (contractor)
  • Be able to work part-time with the potential for more hours and the opportunity to use our Clemson office
Primary Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Follow detailed steps towards the accurate and efficient execution of assigned test cases
  • Provide input on improvement opportunities for test cases
  • Ability to learn and understand and follow established QA procedures
  • Quickly learn and understand how the programs, products, and systems we use interact
  • Provide detailed written documentation when results of testing differ from expected outcome
  • Be able to follow up with the development team on defect status
  • Contribute to a positive work environment fostering the values of initiative and accountability
Desired Skills:
  • Be able to pick up new technology and concepts quickly
  • Be passionate about quality and technology
  • Have a knack at finding edge cases, bugs, flaws, gaps etc. in systems, programs, and processes
  • Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to establish working relationships with individuals at varying levels within the organization
  • Effective organization and time management skills with the ability to work under pressure and adhere to deadlines