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Part Time Backend Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Swap.com

Developer, Frontend

Bolingbrook, IL · On-site

$102K - $119K/yr

Contract/Part-Time - Approximately 20 hours to start. Who we are: Swap.com was founded in 2012 as ... It would be extra cool if : • Some backend experience, such as creating API's in Node.js or ...

Lucid Motors

Part Time Brand Ambassador

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

We achieve this through deep vertical integration, with design, engineering, and production ... Provide backend operational support (order paperwork, order/vehicle status clarity) * Support ...

All JobsBackend Engineer JobsPart Time Backend Engineer JobsPart Time Backend Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Part Time Backend Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$62.3K

$152.1K

$205K

How much do part time backend engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for part time backend engineer in Chicago, IL is $152,113.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $127,700.00 and $177,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Part Time Backend Engineer vs Part Time Software Developer?

AspectPart Time Backend EngineerPart Time Software Developer
Required SkillsBackend programming, database management, API developmentGeneral programming, multiple languages, software design
Work EnvironmentTech companies, startups, remote or on-siteVaried industries, startups, remote or on-site
Common UsageFocus on server-side developmentBroader software development tasks

Part Time Backend Engineers specialize in server-side development, working primarily on databases and APIs, while Part Time Software Developers may handle both frontend and backend tasks across various projects. The roles overlap in skills and work environments, but Backend Engineers focus more on infrastructure and data management.

Can I make 200k a year as a software engineer?

Part time backend engineers typically do not earn $200,000 annually due to limited hours and lower compensation compared to full-time roles. Achieving this salary usually requires full-time employment, senior-level skills, specialized expertise, or working in high-paying industries or locations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Part Time Backend Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Part Time Backend Engineer, you need strong skills in server-side programming languages (such as Python, Java, or Node.js), database management, and a solid understanding of algorithms and data structures, typically backed by a computer science degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with frameworks (like Django, Express, or Spring), version control systems (e.g., Git), and cloud platforms (such as AWS or Azure) is often required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, time management, and communication skills help you deliver high-quality work efficiently and collaborate with remote or cross-functional teams. These skills are crucial for building reliable backend systems, meeting project deadlines, and ensuring seamless integration with frontend and other services.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

A senior or specialized backend engineer with extensive experience, advanced skills in programming languages like Java or Python, and expertise in scalable systems can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially in high-cost living areas or within large tech companies. Such roles often require leadership responsibilities, advanced certifications, and a strong track record of project delivery.

Can you freelance as a backend developer?

A backend engineer can freelance by offering their skills in server-side development, database management, and API integration on platforms like Upwork or Freelancer. Freelancers typically work independently, set their own schedules, and may need to demonstrate proficiency with programming languages such as Python, Java, or Node.js. Successful freelancing often requires strong communication skills and a portfolio of completed projects.

What are part time backend engineers?

Part time backend engineers are software professionals who work less than full-time hours, typically focusing on building and maintaining the server-side logic, databases, and APIs of web or mobile applications. They are responsible for ensuring seamless data exchange between the server and users, optimizing performance, and implementing security measures. These engineers usually collaborate with frontend developers and other team members, often working flexible schedules or on specific projects. Their role is essential for the core functionality and scalability of modern digital products.

How does working part-time as a Backend Engineer affect project involvement and collaboration with full-time team members?

As a part-time Backend Engineer, you may be assigned focused tasks or modules within larger projects, often requiring strong communication to stay aligned with the broader team's progress. Collaboration typically involves attending regular stand-ups, code reviews, and sprint planning sessions, which may be scheduled flexibly to accommodate your hours. It’s important to proactively update teammates on your progress and availability, as project timelines often depend on close coordination between part-time and full-time engineers. This structure can offer valuable exposure to different parts of the codebase while maintaining work-life balance.

Are backend engineers still in demand?

Backend engineers are currently in high demand due to the ongoing need for server-side development, API integration, and cloud-based solutions. Skills in programming languages like Java, Python, and frameworks such as Node.js are highly valued, and experience with database management and scalable architecture enhances job prospects.
What are the most commonly searched types of Backend Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Backend Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Part Time Backend Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Part Time Backend Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Part Time Backend Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Part Time Backend Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Part Time Backend Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Part Time Backend Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $152,113 per year, or $73.1 per hour.
Back-End Software Developer

Back-End Software Developer

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Lemont, IL • Remote

$43 - $45/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Overview Of Role:
  • Location: Lemont, IL
  • Schedule: Remote
  • Hours: Part-time, approximately 24 hours/week
  • Pay Rate: $43–45/hour
  • Contract Length: Minimum 1-year contract with long-term potential
  • Benefits: BCBS Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage available

This role will focus on improving and maintaining internal web-based applications and operational systems that support technical teams, researchers, and end users. The ideal candidate will have strong back-end development experience combined with front-end/UI exposure and experience working within Linux-based web environments.

The individual will collaborate closely with technical leadership, internal stakeholders, and end users to modernize applications, implement enhancements, troubleshoot issues, and improve overall system functionality and usability.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Review, refactor, and modernize existing applications and codebases
  • Develop and implement new features and functionality within enterprise web applications
  • Troubleshoot, identify, and resolve application and system issues
  • Support ongoing enhancement and stabilization efforts across multiple internal systems
  • Create and maintain technical documentation, process documentation, and user instructions
  • Design and improve user interfaces and overall user experience
  • Develop wireframes, mockups, prototypes, and user flows where needed
  • Collaborate with leadership, engineering teams, and end users to prioritize development tasks
  • Incorporate user feedback and usability findings into system enhancements
  • Support Linux-based web server infrastructure and maintenance processes
  • Maintain development standards using revision control and documented deployment practices
Required Qualifications:

  • Strong experience with PHP (current and legacy versions)
  • Strong experience with MySQL/MariaDB
  • Strong front-end skills with HTML, CSS/SASS, and JavaScript
  • Experience with Git, SVN, or similar revision control systems
  • Familiarity with CakePHP MVC framework is highly preferred
  • Experience working with Oracle, MSSQL, and LDAP authentication environments
  • Understanding of UX/UI design principles and usability best practices
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity