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Software Developer Contractor Jobs in Chicago, IL

Samprasoft

Java Developer IV

Chicago, IL

$52.50 - $68/hr

Java Developer Contractor This position for onboarding an experienced Java Developer contractor ... Skilled software engineer to design, develop, document, debug, and test secure software ...

DivIHN

AI Integration Developer

Lemont, IL · On-site

$50.75 - $67.25/hr

Client, through the NST division, is seeking an AI Integration Developer contractor experienced ... All tools, software and related materials will require compliance with local cybersecurity and IT ...

TAD PGS, Inc

Software Engineer

Rolling Meadows, IL · On-site

$151.39/hr

The Software Engineer designs, develops, operates, and maintains software components and computing ... VEVRAA Federal Contractor / Request Priority Protected Veteran Referrals / Equal Opportunity ...

DivIHN

AI Integration Developer

Lemont, IL · On-site

$50.75 - $67.25/hr

Olient, through the NST division, is seeking an AI Integration Developer contractor experienced ... All tools, software and related materials will require compliance with local cybersecurity and IT ...

DivIHN Integration Inc

AI Integration Developer

Lemont, IL · Hybrid

$50.75 - $67.25/hr

Olient, through the NST division, is seeking an AI Integration Developer contractor experienced ... All tools, software and related materials will require compliance with local cybersecurity and IT ...

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All JobsSoftware Developer Contractor JobsSoftware Developer Contractor Jobs in Chicago, IL

Software Developer Contractor information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$48.2K

$112.3K

$166.7K

How much do software developer contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for software developer contractor in Chicago, IL is $112,311.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,400.00 and $130,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Software Developer Contractors?

Software Developer Contractors are professionals hired on a temporary or project basis to design, develop, and maintain software applications for clients or companies. Unlike full-time employees, contractors typically work under a contract for a specific period or for the duration of a project. They may work independently, through agencies, or as part of a consulting firm, and often have specialized skills to meet specific project needs. This arrangement offers flexibility for both the developer and the employer, allowing organizations to scale their technical resources as needed.

What is the difference between Software Developer Contractor vs Software Developer Employee?

AspectSoftware Developer ContractorSoftware Developer Employee
CredentialsTypically requires a relevant degree and technical skills; certifications optionalSame as contractor, often with additional company-specific training
Work EnvironmentContract-based, often remote or on-site for short-term projectsFull-time, usually on-site or hybrid
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in tech firms, startups, consulting agenciesStandard in large corporations, tech companies, and organizations

Software Developer Contractors work on short-term projects, often remotely, with flexible arrangements, while Software Developer Employees are full-time staff with ongoing responsibilities and benefits. Both roles require similar skills and credentials but differ mainly in employment status and work setup.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Software Developer Contractor, and why are they important?

To excel as a Software Developer Contractor, you need strong programming abilities, problem-solving skills, and a solid understanding of software development methodologies, often backed by a relevant degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with version control systems (like Git), cloud platforms, and proficiency in languages such as Python, Java, or JavaScript are commonly required, along with certifications like AWS Certified Developer or Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer. Excellent communication, time management, and adaptability set top contractors apart, enabling them to quickly integrate with diverse teams and projects. These skills are essential for delivering high-quality, timely solutions in dynamic and varied client environments.

What are some common challenges software developer contractors face when integrating with existing teams?

Software developer contractors often join projects mid-stream and must quickly adapt to unfamiliar codebases, workflows, and team dynamics. A common challenge is building rapport with full-time staff and understanding company-specific coding standards or tools. Contractors are expected to be proactive in communicating, asking questions, and clarifying requirements to ensure smooth collaboration. Being flexible and open to feedback helps contractors deliver quality work while navigating these initial hurdles.
What are the most commonly searched types of Software Developer Contractor jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Software Developer Contractor jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Software Developer Contractor jobs near you
Java Developer IV

Java Developer IV

Samprasoft

Chicago, IL

$52.50 - $68/hr

Other

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Java Developer Contractor

This position for onboarding an experienced Java Developer contractor dedicated to security initiatives.

Responsibilities include:

  • Assisting, implementing, and supporting Cybersecurity and Digital Risk program initiatives related to applications within the portfolio.
  • Protecting systems, data, technologies, and the airline by implementing and embedding Cybersecurity in the full development lifecycle.
  • Providing ongoing support and completion of daily tasks for cybersecurity programs such as incident response, application cybersecurity, vulnerability management and remediation, cloud and infrastructure cybersecurity, data protection and privacy, and risk management and compliance.
  • Supporting and conducting cybersecurity threat assessments.
  • Collaborating with digital technology, business teams, and external partners to build relationships supporting accountabilities and ensure consistency, adaptability, responsiveness, and effectiveness of security solutions.
  • Measuring and communicating progress for the overall Cybersecurity health of applications in scope.
  • Communicating information with dependent teams and resources.

Skilled software engineer to design, develop, document, debug, and test secure software applications. Review and implement security best practices and industry standards, conducting security analysis, review and resolve security vulnerabilities and mitigate risks. Collaborate with other internal and external partners and entities to measure and evaluate cyber security threat assessments. Provide support and mentorship to other members of the team.

Responsibilities:

  • Articulate, plan, implement, test, and operate advanced software security techniques and best practices in compliance with technical reference architecture.
  • Perform on-going security testing and code review to improve software security.
  • Troubleshoot and debug issues that arise.
  • Provide engineering designs for new software solutions to help mitigate security vulnerabilities.
  • Contribute to all levels of the architecture from security aspects.
  • Maintain technical documentation.
  • Respond to security related incidents.
  • Measure and communicate progress for overall Cybersecurity health of applications in scope.
  • Support and mentor team members on secure coding practices.

Requirements and skills:

  • Proven work experience as a software security engineer.
  • Detailed technical knowledge of techniques, standards, and state-of-the-art capabilities for security vulnerabilities and remediation.
  • Minimum 5 years of hands-on experience with Java, Spring Boot.
  • Minimum 2 years of hands-on experience with foundational AWS Services (such as, EC2, S3, RDS, VPC, CloudTrail, CloudFront, Lambda, EKS, and/or ECS).
  • In-depth knowledge of various web-related technologies (such as Web applications, services, architectures etc.).
  • Experience with analytic tools such as ELK Stack, Google Analytics, or AppD.
  • Experience working with high performance teams in an agile development environment where continuous integration and continuous delivery (CI/CD) are critical.
  • Experience with secure software development life cycle framework.
  • Experience with security principles.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of software engineering best practices such as version control, software packaging and software release management.
  • Must be self-motivated, possess strong communication skills (verbal and written) and be able to work in a team-oriented environment.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; attention to detail.

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