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Remote Software Engineer Level 1 Jobs in Chicago, IL

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Remote Software Engineer Level 1 information

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$65.4K

$152K

$211.7K

How much do remote software engineer level 1 jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote software engineer level 1 in Chicago, IL is $151,971.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $123,600.00 and $178,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Remote Software Engineer Level 1, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Remote Software Engineer Level 1, you need a solid understanding of programming fundamentals, proficiency in at least one core language (such as Python, Java, or JavaScript), and a relevant degree or coding bootcamp experience. Familiarity with version control systems (like Git), cloud platforms, and basic project management tools is commonly required. Strong communication, time management, and problem-solving skills help you collaborate effectively and stay productive in a remote environment. These skills ensure you can deliver high-quality code, contribute to team projects, and adapt to the unique challenges of remote work.

How do Remote Software Engineer Level 1 professionals typically collaborate with their teams?

As a Remote Software Engineer Level 1, collaboration usually happens through digital platforms such as Slack, Microsoft Teams, and project management tools like Jira or Trello. You will participate in regular virtual stand-ups, code reviews, and pair programming sessions to ensure alignment and knowledge sharing. It's important to communicate proactively, ask questions, and document your work clearly to maintain strong connections with colleagues. Many teams also use version control systems like GitHub to manage and review code collaboratively.

What is a Remote Software Engineer Level 1?

A Remote Software Engineer Level 1 is an entry-level developer who works from a location outside the company's physical office. They are responsible for writing, testing, and debugging code under supervision, often collaborating with more experienced engineers. Their tasks typically include fixing bugs, developing small features, and learning company processes and tools. Working remotely, they rely heavily on digital communication and project management tools to stay connected with their team.

What is the difference between Remote Software Engineer Level 1 vs Remote Software Engineer Level 2?

AspectRemote Software Engineer Level 1Remote Software Engineer Level 2
Experience0-2 years2-4 years
ResponsibilitiesBasic coding, bug fixes, learningComplex features, mentorship, code reviews
SkillsFundamental programming, teamworkAdvanced coding, problem-solving
CertificationsOptional, entry-levelOptional, but preferred

The main difference between Remote Software Engineer Level 1 and Level 2 lies in experience and responsibilities. Level 1 is suitable for entry-level developers focusing on basic tasks, while Level 2 involves more complex projects and mentorship roles, requiring more experience and technical skills.

What are popular job titles related to Remote Software Engineer Level 1 jobs in Chicago, IL? For Remote Software Engineer Level 1 jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Remote Software Engineer Level 1 jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Remote Software Engineer Level 1 jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Remote Software Engineer Level 1 jobs near you
Software Engineer - Coding - Remote

Software Engineer - Coding - Remote

Outlier AI

Schaumburg, IL • Remote

Part-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Outlier helps the worlds most innovative companies improve their AI agents by providing human feedback. Do you want to shape the future of autonomous agents like OpenClaw?

We collaborate with leading AI organizations to train Large Language Models (LLMs) to function as proactive, multi-step agents. Our projects focus on teaching these systems how to design, coordinate, and optimize complex, real-world architectural workflows.

Whether you are a passionate orchestration guru or experienced software developer -- we want you to help us train the world's most advanced generative systems.


About the opportunity:

  • Outlier is looking for skilled software experts to help train generative AI models.
  • This freelance role is fully remote and offers flexible hoursyou can contribute whenever it fits your schedule.


You may contribute your expertise by

  • Developing objective, verifiable criteria (rubrics) to evaluate system performance and ensure outputs meet strict functional requirements.
  • Reviewing system logs and "trajectories" to refactor code, improve execution paths, and reach a "Golden Path" of perfect reliability
  • Testing systems for vulnerabilities, including improper data exposure, unauthorized access escalations, and edge-case failures.


Were looking for people with

  • 2+ years of experience in backend engineering, AI automation, or complex systems integration
  • Proven ability to build and maintain production-grade software with modular separation (e.g., distinct services for data parsing, logic processing, and reporting)
  • Strong command of at least two major languages (e.g., Python, JavaScript, Go, or Java) and experience working with SQL databases
  • Practical experience building for live, non-mocked environments and handling multi-turn system interactions.
  • Outstanding attention to detail and the ability to provide clear, high-density technical feedback on complex system behaviors



Nice to have

  • Expertise building multi-stage coordination tasks where data acquisition leads to reasoned output
  • Hands on experience integrating agents with live tools such as Supabase, Gmail, and various APIs to solve real-world problems
  • High level of comfort implementing persistent state and session discovery using MEMORY.md to track agent progress.
  • Experience identifying subtle failures like privacy leaks, authority escalation, or indirect prompt injections.


Payment:

  • Project work: Earn up to USD $35 per hour for core project work
  • Additional incentives: On average, Outlier Contributors earn an additional 7.5% on top of the core project rates through Missions Outlier's version of surge pricing. The top quartile of contributors boost their earnings by an average of 11%.
  • Rates vary based on expertise, skills assessment, location, project need, and other factors. For example, higher rates may be offered to PhDs. For non-core work, such as during initial project onboarding or project overtime phases, lower rates apply. Additional incentives data is based on payments made in the past six months and is updated quarterly. Certain projects offer incentive payments. Please review the payment terms for each project.


PLEASE NOTE: We collect, retain and use personal data for our professional business purposes, including notifying you of opportunities that may be of interest and sharing with our affiliates. We limit the personal data we collect to that which we believe is appropriate and necessary to manage applicants needs, provide our services, and comply with applicable laws. Any information we collect in connection with your application will be treated in accordance with the Outlier Privacy Policy and our internal policies and programs designed to protect personal data.

This is a 1099 contract opportunity on the Outlier.ai platform. Because this is a freelance opportunity, we do not offer internships, sponsorship, or employment. You must be authorized to work in your country of residence. If you are an international student, you may be able to sign up for Outlier if you are on a visa. You should contact your tax and/or immigration advisor with specific questions regarding your circumstances.

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