ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Software Developer Contract Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Civis Analytics

Software Engineer (Contract)

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$90K/yr

This is a 6-month contract role for an early-career engineer who is ready to work across the stack ... software developer/engineer * Familiarity with AI/ML concepts and experience building and ...

Civis Analytics

Software Engineer (Contract)

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$90K/yr

This is a 6-month contract role for an early-career engineer who is ready to work across the stack ... software developer/engineer * Familiarity with AI/ML concepts and experience building and ...

Civis Analytics

Software Engineer (Contract)

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$90K/yr

This is a 6-month contract role for an early-career engineer who is ready to work across the stack ... software developer/engineer * Familiarity with AI/ML concepts and experience building and ...

Amentum

Jr Software Developer

Virginia, IL · On-site

$80 - $110/hr

You will be part of our growing systems and software engineering team and contribute your diverse skills across multiple software contracts in support of our Software Center of Excellence. We are ...

CAI

Software Developer

Chicago, IL

Software Developer Req number: R8372 Employment type: Full time Worksite flexibility: Hybrid Who we ... This position will be a full-time contract and hybrid in Chicago, IL. What You'll Do * Design ...

CAI

Software Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80 - $85/hr

Software Developer Req number: R8372 Employment type: Full time Worksite flexibility: Hybrid Who we ... This position will be a full-time contract and hybrid in Chicago, IL. What You'll Do * Design ...

Auria

Software Developer- Mid

Evanston, IL · On-site

$97 - $130/hr

Software Developer - Mid Location: Colorado Springs, CO (On‑Site) Job Id: 14117-CSAR # of ... True flexibility with contract permitting and flexible scheduling. * 11 Paid Days Off: 6 fixed ...

Auria

Software Developer - Intermediate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$108 - $140/hr

Software Developer - Intermediate Location: Colorado Springs, CO Remote Status: On-Site Job Id ... Contract permitting, use Flex Time to work in a way that fits your life, not just your 8-to-5. * 11 ...

Seneca Holdings

KDM requires contractor support using non-personal services contracts to execute their mission of developing accredited information systems. Western Door Federal is seeking a Software Developer ...

Seneca Holdings

KDM requires contractor support using non-personal services contracts to execute their mission of developing accredited information systems. Western Door Federal is seeking a Software Developer ...

Collabera

Contract to hire - Software Developer

Lisle, IL · On-site

$56.50 - $72/hr

Contract to Hire Responsibilities: Design, develop, and deploy Java/J2EE applications and modules ... Java/J2EE Programming [5+ Years] HTML5 [3+ Year Must] AngularJS [2+ Years Must] Spring MVC Spring ...

Amentum

Sr C/C++ Software Developer

Virginia, IL · On-site

$110 - $190/hr

You will be part of our growing systems and software engineering team and contribute your diverse skills across multiple software contracts in support of our Software Center of Excellence. We are ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSoftware Developer Contract JobsSoftware Developer Contract Jobs in Illinois

Software Developer Contract information

See Illinois salary details

$46.5K

$108.4K

$160.9K

How much do software developer contract jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for software developer contract in Illinois is $108,381.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,200.00 and $126,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a software developer contract?

A Software Developer Contract job is a temporary or project-based position where a developer is hired for a specific duration, typically through a contract agreement. Contractors may work independently, for an agency, or directly with a company to develop, test, and maintain software applications. These roles often offer flexibility but may not include benefits like health insurance or paid time off. Contract developers are usually paid hourly or per project and may work remotely or on-site depending on the employer's needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a software developer contract?

A successful Software Developer Contract requires strong programming abilities, solid knowledge of software development methodologies, and relevant project or domain expertise, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with languages like Java, Python, or JavaScript, as well as tools such as Git, Agile frameworks, and certification in areas like AWS or Scrum, is highly valued. Excellent problem-solving skills, adaptability, effective communication, and an ability to quickly integrate into new teams are crucial soft skills. These competencies enable contract developers to deliver high-quality solutions while efficiently navigating diverse projects and rapidly changing work environments.

What are the typical work arrangements and expectations for contract software developers?

Contract Software Developers are usually hired for specific projects or defined timeframes, which can range from several weeks to multiple months, often working remotely or on-site depending on client needs. They are expected to quickly understand project requirements, deliver code efficiently, and collaborate with both in-house teams and other contractors, maintaining flexibility to adapt to different workflows and tools. Because contract roles may not include the same onboarding experience as permanent positions, self-motivation and strong independent work habits are important. This work arrangement provides valuable exposure to various industries and technologies, often expanding a developer’s professional network and enhancing career versatility.

Are software developers still in high demand?

Yes, software developers remain in high demand due to ongoing digital transformation across industries, the need for new applications, and the growth of cloud computing and cybersecurity. Strong programming skills in languages like Java, Python, or JavaScript, along with experience in agile environments, enhance job prospects for contract software developers.

How much do contract software developers make?

Contract software developers typically earn between $50 and $150 per hour, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Rates can vary based on skills such as proficiency in specific programming languages, frameworks, and the duration of the contract.

What are the most commonly searched types of Software Developer jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Software Developer jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Software Developer Contract jobs in Illinois?

For Software Developer Contract jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Software Developer Contract jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Software Developer Contract jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Software Developer Contract jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Software Developer Contract job openings:

Software Developer Contract jobs near you
Infographic showing various Software Developer Contract job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 6% Temporary, and 29% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,381 per year, or $52.1 per hour.

MERN stack: Software Developer - Contract/Contract to Hire - Chicago, IL

Software Guidance & Assistance

Chicago, IL • On-site

Other

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Software Guidance & Assistance, Inc., (SGA), is searching for a Software Developer (MERN) for a CONTRACT assignment with one of our premier Financial/Insurance clients in Chicago, IL.
Responsibilities:
  • Independently design, develop, code, test, and debug software programs and small technical modules using the MERN stack and SQL.
  • Meet project plan goals under limited guidance from Lead developers and collaborate with the team to develop and communicate project plans.
  • Assist in identifying and repairing coding problems to ensure software quality and performance.
  • Provide technical support to clients and internal teams, including help desk support for escalated issues.
  • Monitor trends and results from technical support calls to advise senior team members on the performance and improvement of existing systems.
  • Act as a technical resource and mentor for other analysts and developers on the team.
  • Manage source code using Git, including branching, merging, and pull requests, ensuring adherence to version control best practices.
  • Deploy and maintain applications on AWS infrastructure, utilizing services such as EC2, S3, Lambda, and RDS.
  • Follow and promote software development best practices, including code quality, testing, documentation, and security standards.
  • Stay current with emerging technologies and industry trends to continuously improve development processes and system performance.
Required Skills:
  • 6 to 10 years of professional experience in full-stack web development with a focus on the MERN stack (MongoDB, Express.js, React.js, Node.js).
  • Strong proficiency in SQL databases, including complex query writing and database design.
  • Experience with Git version control and collaborative workflows.
  • Practical knowledge of AWS cloud services and deployment best practices.
  • Proven ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
  • Excellent communication skills and ability to provide technical support and mentorship.
  • Deep understanding of software development best practices, including testing, debugging, and documentation.
Preferred Skills:
  • Experience with containerization (Docker) and orchestration (Kubernetes).
  • Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines and automation tools.
  • Knowledge of TypeScript and additional modern JavaScript frameworks.
  • Leverage AI-driven tools to optimize programming efficiency and accelerate software development
By applying for a job with SGA, you agree to allow SGA to process your application for this and future opportunities in accordance with our Privacy Policy. Also, to ensure timely processing, you agree to be contacted by our AI recruiter via email, text, or phone. Message frequency varies and data rates may apply, but you can reply STOP to any SMS message to opt-out of texts and may contact SGA at to opt-out of AI communications. The choice not to engage with AI will not adversely impact your consideration for placement. AI is not used to make any hiring determinations.
SGA is a technology and resource solutions provider driven to stand out. We are a women-owned business. Our mission: to solve big IT problems with a more personal, boutique approach. Each year, we match consultants like you to more than 1,000 engagements. When we say let's work better together, we mean it. You'll join a diverse team built on these core values: customer service, employee development, and quality and integrity in everything we do. Be yourself, love what you do and find your passion at work. Please find us at .
SGA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of Race, Color, Sex, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, Religion, National Origin, Disability, Veteran Status, Age, Marital Status, Pregnancy, Genetic Information, or Other Legally Protected Status. We are committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, and our services, programs, and activities. Please visit our company to request an accommodation or assistance regarding our policy.

Apply