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Programming Freelance Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Staff iOS Engineer

Columbia, MD · On-site

$165K - $200K/yr

Bachelor's degree or higher in Computer Science or related engineering field. * 7+ years of industry experience in iOS development; freelance acceptable but must include experience with large ...

... engineering sector. As the organization continues to expand, they are seeking a Senior Technical ... freelancers - which sets us apart in the industries we serve. About Solomon Page Founded in 1990 ...

(SCA) Subject Matter Expert

Washington, DC · Hybrid

$24 - $30.75/hr

CDS; and secure cloud and hybrid engineering - with at least 10 years total related experience. Education : * A Bachelor's Degree from an accredited university Certifications: * Required: CISM, CAP ...

(SCA) Subject Matter Expert

Washington, DC · Hybrid

$24 - $30.75/hr

CDS; and secure cloud and hybrid engineering - with at least 10 years total related experience. Education : * A Bachelor's Degree from an accredited university Certifications: * Required: CISM, CAP ...

... freelance in parallel. \n \n \n Preferred Skills ( Not required but strongly preferred): \n \n ... Certified Zoho Developer \n * Experienced working as an IT Support Engineer or System Administrator ...

Mentor and support junior audio operators and freelance staff * Maintain high standards for audio quality across all live programming WHAT YOU WILL NEED * Experience mixing audio for live television ...

We advance this mission through programming focused on conserving wildlife, restoring habitat and ... Edit or rewrite freelance manuscripts for style, accuracy, and readability. * Review all copy ...

Close disbursement partnerships with gig and freelance platforms that have high concentrations of ... Coordinate across Legal, Compliance, Finance, Product, and Engineering to keep deals moving.

Content Manager

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$95K - $105K/yr

... freelancers) for added capacity and accountable for the output either way. Core Functions of the ... Everyone from full-stack developers to data scientists, former Hill staffers, and sales ...

Content Manager

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$95K - $105K/yr

... freelancers) for added capacity and accountable for the output either way. Core Functions of the ... Everyone from full-stack developers to data scientists, former Hill staffers, and sales ...

Showing results 21-40

Programming Freelance information

See Washington, DC salary details

$16

$54

$149

How much do programming freelance jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for programming freelance in Washington, DC is $54.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.50 and $69.95 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.

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.

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.

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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Programming jobs in Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Programming jobs in Washington, DC are:

What job categories do people searching Programming Freelance jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Programming Freelance jobs in Washington, DC are:

Infographic showing various Programming Freelance job openings in Washington, DC 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 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,388 per year, or $54 per hour.

$73K - $92K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

IntroductionThe National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine value diversity in our members, volunteers, and staff and strive for a culture of inclusion in our workplace and activities. Convening a diverse community to exchange ideas and perspectives enhances the quality of our work and increases our relevance as advisers to the nation about the most complex issues facing the nation and the world.

OverviewRequisition Number: R0002742
Edits text and graphics for publication, including articles, manuscripts, reports, websites, journals, magazines, and/or brochures. Reads and evaluates reports and/or other materials and documents to determine the extent of editorial problems and shortcomings. Looks for inconsistencies of thought, development, or organization. Confers with authors and recommends treatment of material. Reorganizes, cuts, or rewrites as necessary. Ensures material conforms to organization’s and unit’s standards for style, content, and format. Works with editorial and production staff and contractors to guide manuscripts through to publication. May contribute original material where appropriate, writing about topics for a variety of audiences in multiple media formats.
Incumbent independently performs complex editing and writing tasks. Under general direction, applies specific professional-level functional knowledge to solve complex problems and has authority to deviate from standard practices, but must advise superiors of such action as well as non-routine matters. May hire, train, supervise, and evaluate support staff or serve in a lead capacity.

Responsibilities

  • Edits reports, articles, etc. and may help to shape presentation, restructuring and rewriting as needed. Marks up for composition. Ensures material conforms to organization’s and unit’s standards for style, content, accessibility, and format. Works with designers, graphic artists, layout specialists, web developers, marketing, and production staff on all aspects of production.
  • Negotiates revisions with authors. May network with prospective authors, scientific advisers, and news media.
  • Advises staff and authors on editing and publishing options. Holds meetings to discuss current and future projects. Answers editorial questions. Consults with staff about the progress of reports, articles, or other publications.
  • May have supervisory responsibility for editorial assistants, including hiring, training, and evaluation of work.
  • May coordinate freelance activities in the unit, including finding and coordinating work among freelancers.
NONESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES
  • Related duties and special projects as assigned.

Requirements

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Proficiency in Microsoft Word (including track changes and styles). Practical knowledge of WordPress or other content management system, HTML, and CSS desired. Ability to solve problems of variety and complexity. Ability to serve as a resource to others in the resolution of problems and issues. Ability to operate independently and exercise appreciable latitude for independent judgment, discretion, and action. Ability to work successfully in a team environment. Experience working in complex environments with a high degree of organizational effectiveness. Ability to develop relationships with co-workers and employees in other National Academies’ departments through effective communication. Excellent communication skills with a proven ability to interact effectively with all levels of employees.

Minimum Education/Training Requirements: Bachelor’s Degree in English, Journalism, Communications or related field, or equivalent knowledge.

Minimum Experience: Three years of related professional experience.

Physical Capabilities:  Ability to work at a computer for extended periods of time.

Required Licenses, Certification or Registration:  None.

Supervisory Responsibilities/Controls:  Reports to Director or other higher level editorial position.  General supervision is provided.  May supervise junior staff.

Compensation & Benefits: An estimated compensation range for this position is $73,760 - $92,190. Compensation offered to the selected candidate will be based on the candidate’s relevant knowledge, skills, and work experience, commensurate with compensation of current employees in comparable positions with similar knowledge, skills, and work experience, and subject to budget parameters. Note it is not typical for a candidate to be hired at the higher end of the range.  This is a benefits-eligible position.  Our Benefits Plan offers competitive and comprehensive benefit options, including medical, dental and vision insurance, life insurance, disability coverage, retirement and savings benefits, leave benefits such as paid holidays and paid personal leave, transportation subsidies, and education assistance.  For more information, please click here.

Work Environment: Hybrid Office/Telecommute environment, expected onsite percentage 60%, with occasional travel between National Academies’ facilities and to off-site meeting/sponsor locations.