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Programming Freelance Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Fox

Coordinator, StudentU - Big Ten Network

Chicago, IL

$21 - $25.97/hr

Oversee daily function of the B1G+ Operations Center, including working with freelance staff to ... Collaborate with other departments including programming, streaming, social media, and more to ...

Catylist

Java/Web Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

Consulting/freelance is not your bag. You prefer to maintain and improve the products you've built rather than hand them off and move on. This is a full-time, 40 hours per week, remote, W2 position ...

Readdy

Technical User Support Intern

Mundelein, IL · On-site

$15.25 - $19.75/hr

Tens of thousands of freelancers, agencies, and small business owners sign up every month, and our ... Reproduce real bugs and write clean handoff reports for the engineering team (steps to reproduce ...

Inside Lvmh

Account Executive, Chicago

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80 - $95/hr

Possess impeccable knowledge of all retailer CRM programs and be fluent in all dior.com programming ... Recruit, hire, and develop high performing counter teams, freelancers, and market leads. * Uphold ...

Nuphoriq

Director of Web Strategy & Design

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

You'll lead our web team and freelancers through the website process. * Innovation. You'll improve ... You don't need to be the only writer, SEO person, analyst, or developer, but you do need to ...

Nuphoriq

Director of Web Strategy & Design

Chicago, IL · On-site

You'll lead our web team and freelancers through the website process. * Innovation. You'll improve ... You don't need to be the only writer, SEO person, analyst, or developer, but you do need to ...

Nuphoriq

Director of Web Strategy & Design

Chicago, IL · On-site

You'll lead our web team and freelancers through the website process. * Innovation. You'll improve ... You don't need to be the only writer, SEO person, analyst, or developer, but you do need to ...

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All JobsProgramming JobsProgramming Freelance JobsProgramming Freelance Jobs in Chicago, IL

Programming Freelance information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$15

$49

$136

How much do programming freelance jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for programming freelance in Chicago, IL is $49.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.00 and $63.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a programming freelance?

Programming freelancers are independent professionals who offer their coding, software development, or related technical skills to clients on a project-by-project basis. Unlike full-time employees, freelancers work for themselves, often managing multiple projects for different clients simultaneously. They may specialize in specific programming languages, frameworks, or industries, and are responsible for finding their own work, negotiating rates, and managing their workloads. Freelance programmers enjoy flexibility in choosing their projects and schedules, but also take on the challenges of self-employment, such as finding clients and handling taxes.

What are freelance programming jobs?

As a freelance programmer, your responsibilities are to develop programs, write code, design software, troubleshoot and update systems, and complete projects as an independent party on a contract basis. Programming jobs include websites, mobile apps, company systems, and more. You can work as a generalist, taking on assignments in various industries with general knowledge of multiple programs, or work as a specialist programmer and focus on one industry, programming language, or specific skill. Freelance programming jobs are typically temporary positions for a company and you are paid a previously agreed amount per job.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a programming freelance?

To succeed as a Programming Freelancer, you need strong coding skills in relevant languages, a solid portfolio of completed projects, and often a degree or certification in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with version control systems (like Git), popular frameworks, and freelancing platforms is highly beneficial. Excellent self-management, communication, and problem-solving abilities set top freelancers apart by ensuring client satisfaction and project delivery. These skills are crucial for building a reliable reputation, meeting client expectations, and securing ongoing work in a competitive market.

How do programming freelancers typically manage multiple client projects and deadlines effectively?

Freelance programmers often juggle several projects at once, which requires strong organizational and time management skills. They commonly use project management tools, set clear expectations with clients, and break projects into manageable tasks with specific milestones. Communication is key—regular updates and proactive discussions about timelines help prevent misunderstandings. Additionally, successful freelancers build buffer time into their schedules to accommodate unexpected issues or urgent client requests.

What is the difference between Programming Freelance vs Software Developer?

AspectProgramming FreelanceSoftware Developer
CredentialsSelf-taught or certifications, no formal degree requiredBachelor's or higher in Computer Science or related field
Work EnvironmentRemote, independent projects, flexible hoursTypically office-based or remote, employed by a company
Employer & Industry UsageClients, startups, agencies; freelance platformsTech companies, corporations, startups; full-time employment
Search & Comparison IntentFreelance opportunities, project-based workFull-time roles, career growth, company benefits

Programming Freelance involves independent, project-based work often done remotely for various clients, requiring self-motivation and diverse skills. Software Developers usually work as part of a team within a company, focusing on long-term projects and career development. Both roles require programming skills, but their work settings, employment status, and career paths differ significantly.

How to get into freelance programming?

To start as a freelance programmer, build a strong portfolio showcasing your skills, gain experience through personal projects or internships, and create profiles on freelance platforms like Upwork or Freelancer. Developing proficiency in relevant programming languages and tools, along with good communication skills, helps attract clients and secure projects.
More about Programming Freelance jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Programming jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Programming jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Programming Freelance jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Programming Freelance jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Programming Freelance jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Programming Freelance jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Programming Freelance jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Programming Freelance job openings:

Programming Freelance jobs near you
Infographic showing various Programming Freelance job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,222 per year, or $49.1 per hour.

Director of Broadcast Operations (Athletics)

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL • On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New

Northwestern University rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

316th of 631 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Department: Univ Athletics-Extrnl Affairs
Salary/Grade: EXS/7
Target hiring range for this position will be between $80,000-$90,000 per year. Offered salary will be determined by the applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data
Job Summary:
The Director of Broadcast Production oversees the daily operations and long-term development of Northwestern Athletics' live production department. This position will be actively involved in producing and directing in-venue video board productions and Big Ten Network StudentU broadcasts.
The Director is responsible for staff leadership, budgeting, production standards, resource planning and stakeholder coordination. As the leader of Northwestern Athletics' production efforts, this position works closely with OVG Venue Technology, Northwestern University Information Technology, Athletics IT and other support partners to communicate production needs and ensure event readiness.
*Willingness and ability to work a non-traditional schedule including evenings, weekends and holidays as required.
Specific Responsibilities:
  • Oversees the daily operations of Northwestern Athletics' in-venue and StudentU live productions.
  • Supervises, evaluates and supports the professional development of the department's Assistant Directors.
  • Produces and directs live sporting events and serves in other control-room roles as needed.
  • Establishes production standards, workflows and operating procedures across sports and venues.
  • Coordinates staffing, schedules, equipment and production resources across simultaneous events.
  • Oversees event preparation, including rundowns, show formats, scripts, crew assignments and production meetings.
  • Manages the department's operating budget, including staffing, travel, equipment, training and event expenses.
  • Develops short- and long-term plans for staffing, production capabilities, equipment needs and program growth.
  • Collaborates with marketing, sponsorship, athletic communications, event management, sport administrators and other stakeholders to execute departmental objectives.
  • Coordinates with the Big Ten Network and other broadcast partners regarding schedules, staffing, formats, graphics and production standards.
  • Serves as the primary production liaison to OVG Venue Technology, Northwestern University Information Technology, Athletics IT and other technical support partners.
  • Communicates production requirements, coordinates event support and works with technical staff to resolve recurring operational issues.
  • Oversees the recruitment, scheduling and development of student, part-time, freelance and contracted production personnel.
  • Leads live-event decision-making and coordinates responses to production, staffing or technical issues.
  • Conducts event reviews and staff feedback sessions to improve production quality and consistency.
  • Represents Broadcast Production in departmental meetings, event-planning discussions and facility initiatives.
  • Assumes responsibility for daily department operations in the absence of the Director of Broadcast Operations.
  • Responsible for adhering to all Department and University policies and procedures, as well as the rules, regulations, bylaws and interpretations of the Big Ten Conference, CSC, and the NCAA.
  • Responsible for adhering to all Department and University continuing education initiatives and required certifications and trainings.
Miscellaneous
Performs other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in broadcasting, video production, communications, sports management or a related field, or an appropriate combination of education and professional experience.
  • Minimum of four (4) years of progressively responsible experience in live sports broadcasting, in-venue production or a related live-event environment.
  • Demonstrated experience producing or directing live sporting events and managing production personnel, schedules and resources.
  • Previous supervisory or management experience, including staff development and performance oversight.
  • Experience managing production budgets, freelance labor or event-related expenses.
Minimum Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities.)
  • Strong understanding of live sports production workflows, including switching, replay, graphics, audio, cameras, routing and intercom.
  • Ability to communicate production needs effectively to engineers, information technology professionals and other technical support personnel.
  • Strong leadership, communication, organizational and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to balance administrative and strategic responsibilities with hands-on event production.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience working with broadcast partners, conference networks, venue operators, contractors or production vendors preferred.
Preferred Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities)
  • Working knowledge of Ross Video production systems, including XPression and Carbonite, preferred.
Benefits:
At Northwestern, we are proud to provide meaningful and competitive benefits. The available benefits package for this position will include health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance; paid vacation and holidays; paid medical/sick and parental leave; tuition benefits for the employee and dependents; pre-tax and flex spending accounts for commuting and dependent care; generous retirement savings options; and wellness programs. For a comprehensive overview of available benefits, including eligibility details, visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/index.html to learn more.
Work-Life and Wellness:
Northwestern offers comprehensive programs and services to help you and your family navigate life's challenges and opportunities, and adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles.
We support flexible work arrangements where possible and programs to help you locate and pay for quality, affordable childcare and senior/adult care. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/work-life/index.html to learn more.
Professional Growth & Development:
Northwestern supports employee career development in all circumstances whether your workspace is on campus or at home. If you're interested in developing your professional potential or continuing your formal education, we offer a variety of tools and resources. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/learning/index.html to learn more
Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected characteristics, including disability and veteran status. View Northwestern's non-discrimination statement . Job applicants who wish to request an accommodation in the application or hiring process should contact the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance. View additional information on the accommodations process .

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