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Programming Freelance Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Solomon Page

Senior Data Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65 - $80/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

We are seeking a hands-on Senior Data Engineer to support Phase 0 data discovery, profiling ... freelancers - which sets us apart in the industries we serve. About Solomon Page Founded in 1990 ...

Kehoe Designs Inc

Event Support Coordinator

Chicago, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Freelancer Recruitment Support * Assists with incoming applications and communication with ... Bachelor's Degree (or equivalent background) in theater production, audio or video engineering, or ...

Fox

Manager, StudentU - Big Ten Network

Chicago, IL · On-site

$83K - $95K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... freelance quality control operators who provide feedback and critiques of individual broadcasts in order to improve future productions * Together with the programming department, keep track of event ...

Art Institute of Chicago

Event Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$23 - $28.12/hr

  • PTO

Report issues to AV Systems Integrator Engineer. Track, report, and support installed equipment ... Orients and trains freelance staff. Assist in the orientation and technical training of freelance ...

Publicis Groupe Holdings B.V

Manager, Data Engineering

Chicago, IL · On-site

$88K - $127K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Overview The Data Manager of Data Engineering will work in a hands-on and supportive role in our ... Temporary roles may be eligible to participate in our freelancer/temporary employee medical plan ...

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Showing results 41-60

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 Aug 17, 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, 79% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,222 per year, or $49.1 per hour.

Copy of Senior Lua Developer (Roblox) - AI Code Evaluation

Lifted, an Upwork Company™

Chicago, IL • Remote

$60/hr

Contractor

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Company Description

An enterprise client is seeking experienced Lua Developers to support AI model training through technical evaluations, scripting tasks, and code quality reviews. This opportunity is ideal for developers who have strong Lua programming skills and experience building or scripting within the Roblox ecosystem.

The client partners with leading AI organizations to improve the quality of next-generation AI models by leveraging the expertise of experienced software developers. Selected freelancers will help evaluate AI-generated code, review programming solutions, and contribute to the development of high-quality training data used to advance generative AI technologies.

    Job Description

    This opportunity is ideal for experienced Lua programmers who enjoy solving technical challenges, reviewing code, and improving software quality.

    What You'll Do:

    • Review, analyze, and evaluate Lua code for accuracy, quality, and best practices.
    • Complete technical evaluations and scripting-related tasks involving Lua programming.
    • Identify bugs, performance issues, and opportunities to improve existing code.
    • Develop and modify Lua scripts based on project requirements.
    • Apply strong programming fundamentals, including modular design, data structures, and debugging techniques.
    • Work with Roblox Studio and Roblox development environments where applicable.
    • Contribute to AI model training by providing high-quality technical feedback and code evaluations.
    • Collaborate with the client's AI evaluation platform while following detailed project guidelines.
    Qualifications

    Requirements:

    • Advanced proficiency in Lua programming, including scripting, debugging, and code optimization.
    • Hands-on experience using Roblox Studio and/or developing applications or games on the Roblox platform.
    • Strong understanding of programming fundamentals, including data structures, functions, modular programming, and performance optimization.
    • Ability to independently review, analyze, and improve existing Lua code.
    • Professional working proficiency in English with strong written communication skills.
    • Ability to work independently and follow detailed technical instructions.

    Nice to Haves:

    • Experience developing Roblox games or interactive experiences.
    • Experience reviewing code or conducting technical quality assurance.
    • Familiarity with software testing, debugging, and code optimization techniques.
    • Experience contributing to AI, machine learning, or code evaluation projects.
    Additional Information
    • Fully remote, project-based opportunity.
    • Up to $60/hour, depending on project availability.
    • Expected workload ranges from 10-39 hours per week, although work volume may fluctuate.
    • Weekly lump-sum payments for work completed during the previous week.
    • Qualified candidates will receive an Upwork contract offer along with onboarding instructions.
    • Candidates who successfully complete the initial survey will be invited to a paid technical evaluation (approximately 2-3 hours). Approved evaluations will receive a $150 payment.
    • To begin onboarding and access project tasks, candidates must have an active Upwork contract with the client.
    • Due to the high volume of applicants, the client may not be able to respond to individual inquiries.

    Apply