While there are a few different ways to find freelance gigs, it’s usually better if you go where the programmers are. Going to local meetups and events like hackathons is definitely a good idea, but there are also a lot of great places online. It’s just a matter of finding them.
Luckily, we’ve done all the work for you and found 8 different places where you can find freelance gigs as a programmer.
| Key Takeaways |
|---|
| The demand for freelance programmers is on the rise, creating opportunities for developers to find gigs and clients to find talented individuals for their projects. |
| There are several online platforms where freelance programmers can find work, including Upwork, Toptal, Freelancer, Guru, and Fiverr. |
| Freelance programmers should take steps to build their brand, network with potential clients, and showcase their skills through a strong portfolio and online presence. |
| Clients seeking to hire freelance programmers should carefully vet candidates, consider their experience and skills, and communicate effectively throughout the project to ensure a successful outcome. |
| Both freelancers and clients should be aware of industry rates and expectations for pay, as well as legal and financial considerations related to freelance work. |
1. Upwork
Upwork is the world’s largest freelancing platform. With more than 10 million registered freelancers and 5 million clients, you can find work as a web developer, software engineer, mobile developer or designer on this site.
Whether you want to work for yourself full-time or pursue other opportunities, Upwork offers an excellent way to earn a side income. You can choose from a number of categories in which to search for jobs and apply for them quickly and easily through the Upwork platform.
If you’re looking to find freelance work as a programmer, there are plenty of online platforms to choose from. Our article on the 15 Best Freelance Websites for Programmers can help you narrow down your options and find the right fit for your skills and experience.
2. Freelancer
Freelancer.com is a great place to find freelance work, whether you’re looking for a part-time gig or full-time employment. It’s the world’s largest freelancing and crowdsourcing marketplace by a number of users, jobs posted, or revenue: over 16 million registered users and 5 million businesses, entrepreneurs, and small businesses have posted jobs totaling more than $3 billion USD in project value. Over 30 million projects have been completed on Freelancer—and 3.2 million projects were posted in 2016 alone.
If you’re interested in finding freelance gigs as a programmer on Freelancer, there are many types of programming jobs available for people with all levels of experience. They include building websites from scratch (HTML5), creating mobile apps (Android & iOS), performing data migration from one platform to another, and setting up content management systems like WordPress or Drupal.
3. Fiverr
Fiverr has been around for years, and it’s one of the most well-known freelancing sites. It’s organized into “gigs,” where people can buy or sell services that are usually $5 or less. There’s a wide range of categories on Fiverr, so you’ll be able to find lots of clients here.
On the whole, Fiverr is a great place to start if you’re new to freelancing and want an easy way to get some experience under your belt. While there are many talented programmers on Fiverr, lots of them aren’t professionals like you might find on other websites. For example, I’ve seen ads for people who say they know how to build a website but really don’t have the skills that your employer wants.
There is also no screening process for potential clients in this system. Once someone hires you for a gig, they can leave reviews about their transactions with you that are visible to anyone browsing the site (including future employers). This means that it’s important to do good work and be polite with your contacts if you want positive reviews from them at the end of each project.
4. Guru
Guru is another freelancer site for programmers. Originally called Rent-a-Coder, Guru was founded in 2001 and is based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It was acquired by Freelancer back in 2015. To this day, the company continues to grow and boasts over 1.5 million users. Here are some features that make Guru stand out:
Freelance work can be a great way to build your programming portfolio and earn money on your own terms. Our list of the Top 10 Programming Websites to Locate Freelance Work can help you get started on your search for the perfect gig.
5. People Per Hour
PeoplePerHour is a London-based freelance marketplace that connects businesses and people in need of jobs with freelancers.
Pricing starts at $0.01 per minute, though Pro users pay a monthly subscription fee to have their proposals get priority placement in search results, unlimited bids and job postings, and other additional benefits. The average job size is $200, so this could be a decent option for developers who only spend an hour or two completing projects.
The vast majority of the jobs are for web development, but there are also plenty of gigs posted for writing and design work. The jobs are posted by both individuals (solopreneurs) and businesses that want to outsource their work instead of hiring full-time employees or contracting directly with freelancers.
6. Envato Studio
This is another freelance platform where programmers and designers can find work. The focus of Envato Studio is primarily web design and programming, but there are other categories that include writing, video, and music. When signing up for Envato Studio, you have the option of registering as a buyer or a freelancer.
If you’re signing up to find work, then becoming a seller might be in your best interest as it will give you access to the jobs posted by buyers. Although Envato Studio isn’t as big as Upwork, there are still quite a few active buyers looking for talent on this site. Most buyers on this site tend to write out detailed descriptions of their projects so that sellers can decide if they want to apply for the job or not.
One benefit of using this website is that all transactions are covered by their “Buyer Protection” guarantee which means that any money sent through the system won’t be released until there’s proof that the final product has been delivered.
7. Toptal
Toptal can certainly feel overwhelming at first. It’s got a lot of information to digest, from the company itself to the types of jobs it offers, and then even extra information about developers like yourself. That said, once you’ve had some time to study the site and its offerings, you’ll eventually start finding things that are unique and helpful.
Toptal has many advantages for programmers that make it a great place for them to find freelance work because the site covers so much more than just programming-specific skills. Like most freelancing sites on this list, Toptal also offers wireframing, copywriting, research writing, and usability testing—and you can use your computer science degree as well!
Working from home as a freelance web developer can offer flexibility and freedom, but it can also present its own unique challenges. Our Work from Home Guide to Freelance Web Development offers tips and advice on how to make the most of your remote work experience.
8. Outsourcely
Outsourcely is an online platform that connects remote workers with businesses seeking part-time or full-time freelancers. The platform works like any other job portal, in that it requires a resume and cover letter. However, it functions differently from other platforms in that it’s designed to make it easier for outsourcing companies to find tech talent.
Unlike most outsourcing sites, Outsourcely only features jobs that are 100% remote—no on-site contracts allowed. Plus, employers have the option of hiring their contractors directly through the site’s escrow service if they want extra protection around payment terms and expectations.
Employers can also choose between searching for pre-screened talent or posting their job ads publicly. For those who prefer pre-screened talent, Outsourcely has a four-step vetting process: candidates create a profile on the site; then Outsourcely vets them by doing interviews, skills tests, and reference checks; then Outsourcely selects one candidate per job posting; finally, employers review portfolios before making a hiring decision (and there’s always a two week trial period).
What’s more, is that there’s also an overall rating system for both employers and employees so you know exactly what you’re getting into before committing to anything long term.
These are some of the most popular sites for finding freelance gigs as a programmer.
These sites provide a variety of work that can range from small to large. These are companies and individuals looking for programmers to help them out on a wide range of things including building websites, creating apps, developing software, and more. You’ll need to have some programming skills or be very comfortable with the languages they use there.
Most of these sites will give you some sort of test before you can start bidding on jobs. The pay is typically project-based so it depends on the size and complexity of what the client wants to be done. The rate will also depend on your experience which is why it’s important that you take any tests they give you seriously!
To apply for gigs: just sign up with your email address, fill out a profile describing yourself, search around until something catches your eye – then send an application via their website or by emailing directly at whatever contact information they’ve listed (usually this is through LinkedIn).
Tips On How To Find Freelance Gigs For Programmers
Check Out Sites That Connect With Clients
It is possible there will be a client in your network who is looking for freelancers. You can check in with these clients periodically to see if any of them have openings or use sites that connect you directly with them.
The best sites for programmers are the ones where clients post the jobs they need and freelancers apply directly for the position. A large portion of job postings will be from clients who do not understand what kind of programmer they really need, so make sure to read each post carefully before applying to make sure it’s a good fit.
Another option is to use more generalized freelance websites that specialize in connecting specific types of workers with clients, such as programming or data science, but these are usually more competitive, and you may find yourself lowballed on pricing by newer programmers who work at very low rates.
When searching through potential gigs on these sites, look out for red flags like those listed above and avoid projects like those as much as possible.
If you’re a programmer looking for freelance work, be sure to check out our article on the Top 8 Places to Find Freelance Gigs for Programmers for tips and resources on where to find opportunities and how to stand out from the competition.
Make Sure Your Profile Stands Out By Customizing It
An example would be if you want to be a web developer, then add examples of your web development work throughout your portfolio and describe yourself primarily as a web developer in your profile section. Applying for jobs using these types of websites is also easier because all you have to do is answer questions related to the job description and send over any necessary attachments.
Utilize Your Network Of Contacts
If you have a bigger network, then your chances of finding freelance gigs will dramatically increase. In order to do this, you will want to consistently reach out to other programmers and individuals who may be interested in your services. It is also important that you keep track of everyone you meet at conferences and other networking events.
As a result, it is important that you begin building your network before looking for freelance gigs. You should consider joining several professional organizations in the computer programming industry, as well as attending various conferences throughout the year.
Turn To Your Social Media Profiles
Social media proves to be a useful tool for programmers who are searching for freelance work. You can use Facebook and LinkedIn, as well as other social media sites, to connect with potential clients or employers. It’s important that your profile is professional and up-to-date so that anyone viewing it will know whether you have the skills they’re looking for.
Your profile should include your experience and qualifications, as well as a portfolio of any past projects you may have worked on. Social media can help you show off your skills to the world and make valuable connections in the process.
Fill Up Your Portfolio Site
Your portfolio is your online resume. It’s the best opportunity to show off your skills and make a good impression before you’re even hired. Most importantly, it needs to showcase the breadth of your experience. You can do this by categorizing specific projects based on the type of programming language that was used.
If you have one particular project that really stands out, feel free to add a detailed description of it and what you did for the project. A good example of a well-formatted portfolio site would be one that allows users to filter through projects using dropdowns or checkboxes. This way, visitors don’t have to sift through all of your content at once.
Web development is a fast-growing field with plenty of opportunities for freelance work. Our article on 9 Ways to Get Started in Freelance Web Development offers advice on how to get your foot in the door and start building your career as a freelance web developer.
Build Connections With Others In The Community
One of the best ways to start freelancing is to develop your network. If you’re interested in freelance programming, there are a few ways to meet other programmers outside of your work. You can attend conferences for developers, participate in online forums, and speak with people you know who work as programmers. You can also follow people on Twitter who work as programmers and reach out if they’re open to answering questions or giving you advice.
Final Thoughts
Finding a freelance gig is not always easy. Because there are numerous platforms out there and because it’s hard to tell which ones will be fruitful, I decided to compile a list of the many sites that offer programmers freelance jobs. Hopefully, this list will point you in the right direction and help you land yourself a great new job.
Further Reading
Top Platforms to Find and Hire Freelance Developers: This article provides an overview of the top platforms for finding and hiring freelance developers, including tips for using each platform effectively.
Top 7 Websites to Find Freelance Coding Jobs: This article offers a curated list of websites where freelancers can find coding jobs, including information on the types of projects available and tips for creating a successful freelancer profile.
Freelance Websites for Developers: The Ultimate List: This comprehensive list of freelance websites for developers offers a range of options for finding work as a freelancer, including both general and niche platforms.
People Also Ask
What is a freelance developer?
A freelance developer is a professional who works on a project-by-project basis for various clients. They are not employed full-time by a single company, but rather work independently and may have several clients at once.
How do I find freelance developer jobs?
There are a number of online platforms and websites that specialize in connecting freelancers with potential clients. Some of the top options include Upwork, Freelancer, and Toptal.
What skills do I need to become a freelance developer?
To become a freelance developer, you will need a strong understanding of programming languages and the ability to work independently on complex coding projects. Additionally, good communication skills and the ability to manage your time effectively are essential for success as a freelancer.
How do I set my rates as a freelance developer?
Setting your rates as a freelance developer will depend on several factors, including your experience level, the complexity of the project, and the market rate for similar work. It can be helpful to research industry standards and compare rates on freelance websites to get a sense of what is reasonable.
What are the benefits of working as a freelance developer?
Working as a freelance developer offers a great deal of flexibility and control over your schedule, as well as the opportunity to work on a variety of projects and gain experience across multiple industries. Additionally, freelancers have the potential to earn higher rates than traditional employees in some cases.
How Do I Know If It’s A Good Platform?
The good platforms will pay their freelancers well, and they will also take care of their clients. When you’re looking at a new platform, check out testimonials from other freelancers to see if they’ve had a good experience. It’s also important that your work is protected by an agreement that way, if anything goes wrong, there will be something in writing to fall back on.
What About Upwork?
Upwork is considered one of the most reputable platforms for gig work. The rates are high and the platform is easy to use. It’s definitely worth checking out!
What Are Some Things You Should Consider Before You Start Looking For Freelance Gigs?
You have to be prepared to market yourself. You’re selling your skills and your time, so you need to make sure the people who need your skills know about you.
Your reputation is worth a lot more than the money in your pocket. If you build a reputation as a flaky, unreliable programmer, you won’t get work, no matter how good you are. Be professional, and build your reputation by being someone that people can trust.
Be ready to hustle and put in the hours at first. The early days of freelancing are all about building up a strong client base, and you can’t do that if you’re not willing to work a little harder than usual to get there. The payoff will be worth it!
How Do I Get Freelance Programming Work?
See above, the best way to get freelance work as a programmer is by using websites that connect freelancers with prospective employers or by networking with people in your industry
What should I charge for a website?. Most websites cost between $3000 and $6000 to build.
Are There Any Good Non-Tech Ways To Find Freelance Gigs For Programmers?
Yes! There are plenty of ways to connect with potential clients that aren’t directly related to technical work.
First, check out your local user groups for developers, designers, and other creatives. These groups often host happy hours, mixers, and other events that cater to both clients looking for freelancers and vice versa. At these events, you can network with people in your industry, talk about the projects you’re working on, and even ask friends of friends if they know anyone looking for freelance help.
Similarly, you can use sites like Meetup to find local groups in your area that get together and share ideas in a variety of industries. You never know when you might meet a person who has a startup idea but needs someone to build their product.
Another great way to get help is to talk with the people who already work at the companies where you want to find gigs. Many companies will subcontract work out rather than hire someone full-time if they don’t have enough work or if they need specific skillsets beyond the scope of their employees’ current capabilities.
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