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Software Engineer Contractor Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Amyx is seeking a Software Engineering Lead to join our Dept. of Defense client at Scott Air Force ... Amyx is a VEVRAA federal contractor and we request priority referral of veterans. Physical Demands ...

Overview Amyx is seeking a Software Engineering Lead to join our Dept. of Defense client at Scott ... Amyx is a VEVRAA federal contractor and we request priority referral of veterans. Physical Demands ...

IL ยท On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Software Test Automation Engineer The Opportunity This role works directly with USTRANSCOM ... contractor teams in mission-focused environments. Company Overview C5T Corporation is a Service ...

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Software Engineer Contractor information

See Illinois salary details

$61.5K

$143K

$199.1K

How much do software engineer contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for software engineer contractor in Illinois is $142,954.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $116,300.00 and $167,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Software Engineer Contractor, you need advanced programming skills, problem-solving abilities, and a solid understanding of software development lifecycles, often backed by a relevant degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with source control systems (like Git), cloud platforms, and project management tools, as well as proficiency in key programming languages, is typically required. Strong communication, adaptability, and self-motivation are essential soft skills for collaborating with diverse teams and managing project-based workloads. These skills ensure high-quality deliverables, effective client communication, and successful navigation of varied contract environments.

How does the work structure and team integration typically differ for Software Engineer Contractors compared to full-time employees?

As a Software Engineer Contractor, you will often work on specific projects or deliverables within a defined contract period, which may mean less involvement in long-term planning or company-wide initiatives. Contractors are usually integrated into existing development teams, collaborating closely with full-time engineers, project managers, and QA staff, but may have less access to certain internal resources or benefits. While you can expect to contribute to daily stand-ups, code reviews, and agile sprints, the onboarding process and access to proprietary tools or systems may be streamlined for contractors. This role offers valuable exposure to diverse tech stacks and industries, and successful contracts can lead to extended engagements or full-time offers.

What is the difference between Software Engineer Contractor vs Software Engineer Full-Time Employee?

AspectSoftware Engineer ContractorSoftware Engineer Full-Time Employee
CredentialsTypically requires a relevant degree and technical skills; certifications optionalSame as contractor; often prefers ongoing professional development
Work EnvironmentProject-based, flexible hours, often remote or on-siteSteady, long-term employment, usually on-site or hybrid
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in tech, startups, consulting firmsStandard in large corporations, tech companies, and enterprises
Search & Comparison IntentLooking for short-term or project-based rolesSeeking stable, long-term employment

In summary, Software Engineer Contractors typically work on short-term projects with flexible schedules, while full-time employees enjoy ongoing employment and benefits. Both roles require similar skills and credentials but differ mainly in work arrangement and job stability.

What are Software Engineer Contractors?

Software Engineer Contractors are professionals hired on a temporary or project basis to design, develop, and maintain software applications. Unlike full-time employees, they typically work for a predetermined period or on specific projects for a company. Contractors may work independently or through contracting agencies and often have flexibility regarding work hours and location. Their expertise is sought after for specialized tasks, scaling development teams, or covering skill gaps within organizations.
What are the most commonly searched types of Software Engineer Contractor jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Software Engineer Contractor jobs in Illinois are:
What job categories do people searching Software Engineer Contractor jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Software Engineer Contractor jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Software Engineer Contractor jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Software Engineer Contractor job openings:
Senior Construction Inspector - Rockford

Senior Construction Inspector - Rockford

Terra Engineering Ltd

Rockford, IL โ€ข On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

This position is for a long-term project based in Rockford, Illinois. Candidates must be located in the Rockford area or within daily commuting distance.


Summary/Objective: Applies diverse and innovative solutions, modifications, and theories to a range of projects sizes and types. Exercises initiative and sound judgment in helping to oversee construction projects, monitors and documents progress, and ensures adherence to contract and subcontract terms, performance, quality requirements, and engineering specifications. Works closely with the construction team and other stakeholders to coordinate, delegate and complete work.


Essential Functions

  • Participate in the project proposals process; may participate in client interview preparation, and stakeholder presentations
  • Actively participate in industry, networking, and professional organizations events and activities
  • Responsible for contract administration including preparing change orders
  • Coordinate and supervise job progress meetings, material testing, and construction inspections
  • Accurately interpret contract drawings, standard drawings, and specifications for projects varying in size and complexity
  • Demonstrate a high level of accuracy in measuring, documenting, and calculating quantities of project work performed
  • Manage the interface between design and field construction and inspection work
  • Conduct work independently, exercising a high level of judgment and initiative
  • Identify, report, and document construction activities to ensure compliance with contract documents
  • Resolve field coordination issues, consulting with the resident engineer, contractor, or other individual in charge as needed
  • Identify and independently resolve deviations from plans and specifications
  • Produce highly accurate and comprehensive technical reports to document daily construction inspection activities
  • Monitor and manage work for Quality Assurance/Quality Control purposes and independently resolve issues
  • Manage street and utility projects to ensure compliance with traffic, survey, or construction activities
  • Observe and demonstrate all construction safety protocols and consult with the resident engineer, contractor, or supervisor if needed
  • Develop and maintain collaborative and trusted relationships with multidisciplinary teams, vendors, and authorities having jurisdiction
  • Manage and delegate work to members of the project team
  • Perform other duties as required

Education/Experience

  • High School diploma or equivalent required
  • B.S. in engineering or construction management preferred
  • 8+ years of applicable experience (applicable education or certification will be considered)
  • PE preferred
  • IDOT Documentation Certification and OSHA 30 required
  • Valid driver's license required


Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Demonstrates ability to successfully engage with professionals in a multi-disciplinary environment, communicate with team members; build relationships and trust
  • Exercises sound judgement
  • Highly skilled in preparing reports, cost estimates, schedules, and quantity take offs and providing training and guidance to less experienced team members
  • Effectively applies experience and skills to projects of increasing size and complexity
  • Strong ability to convey information through effective verbal and written communication
  • High level of proficiency with computer-aided design software and other software packages typically associated with construction and engineering required
  • Effectively use general documentation software such as Microsoft Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.), Bluebeam, and/or PowerPoint
  • Demonstrates strong knowledge of industry and construction practices, methodologies, and best practices; leverages that understanding in construction efforts through all project stages
  • Effectively presents recommendations and results to stakeholders, including clients
  • Effective and leadership skills
  • Effectively in sharing knowledge, experience, and skill with others to ensure understanding of concepts and decisions
  • Effectively maintains office and field health & safety requirements and protocols
  • Maintains a work schedule conducive to team collaboration and project-specific requirements

Physical Requirements

  • Involves sitting some of the time, but requires the ability to conduct work on a construction site or other field location
  • May exert up to 30 pounds of force occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force to move objects
  • Occasionally lifts and carries up to 30 pounds
  • Considerable time may be spent at a workstation using a computer and using various forms of communication (telephone, email, messaging, etc.)
  • Field work includes periods of driving or riding in a vehicle on construction sites and exposure to outside weather conditions and various environmental conditions
  • Physical activities include walking, stooping, crawling, and crouching

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties and/or responsibilities required of the employee for this position. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time.

Please note that sponsorship is not available now or in the future for this position.

About TERRA Engineering

TERRA Engineering, Ltd. was founded by Karen Steingraber and Jamil Bou-Saab in 1992, beginning their journey building strong relationships with clients. In 2000, Senior Vice President George Ghareeb joined the team and began overseeing operations in a then-newly opened office in Peoria, Illinois. Since then, TERRA has continued expanding our reach to broaden our markets and serve additional communities, adding offices in St. Louis (2011), Milwaukee (2013), and Bolingbrook, Illinois (2025).

We are proud of our 115+ employees who contribute their talent and skills to TERRAโ€™s success. As we continue to grow, we maintain a strong focus on the development of our team members through mentorship, collaboration, and the continual refining of our collective body of knowledge. At TERRA Engineering, our mission of enhancing communities starts from within.

TERRA Provides:

  • Competitive compensation packages including bonus program, paid holidays and paid time off
  • Comprehensive healthcare benefits
  • Retirement plan options with safe harbor match and profit sharing
  • Hybrid/Flexible work arrangements for most positions
  • Public transportation reimbursement (Chicago-area employees)
  • A warm culture that is conducive to growth and professional development
  • And more!

In accordance with local law, the estimated salary range is applicable to the position and location associated with this posting. Compensation will vary based upon experience, education, skill level, geographical location, and other compensable factors.

The employment policy of TERRA Engineering, Ltd. is to provide equal opportunity to all persons. Our company, therefore, has made a commitment to equal employment opportunity through a positive and continuing affirmative action program. No employee or applicant for employment will be discriminated against because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, military and/or veteran status, or any other Federal or State legally protected classes.

TERRA Engineering, Ltd. will recruit, hire, train and promote qualified individuals in all job titles, and ensure that all other personnel actions are administered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, military and/or veteran status, or disability in accordance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, and the Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974, which require affirmative action to ensure equal opportunity in all aspects of employment. TERRA Engineering, Ltd. does not discriminate on the basis of national origin or citizenship status as provided under the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986.

Notice to Third Party Agencies

TERRA does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters, employment agencies, or other staffing services. Unsolicited resumes include any resume or hiring document sent to TERRA in the absence of a signed Service Agreement where TERRA has expressly requested recruitment/staffing services specific to the position at hand. Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers or other business leaders, will become the property of TERRA and TERRA will have the right to hire that candidate without reservation โ€“ no fee or other compensation will be owed or paid to the recruiter, employment agency, or other staffing service.

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