Ask HN: Freelancing in the Bay Area

12 pointsby _augustvor 12 Jahren2 comments

I'm interested in doing freelance web development work in the SF/Berkeley bay area, and was hoping some of you could share your experiences and advice.

I fully expect it to be more work than a full-time position in a tech company, and that I will have to delve more into the business side of things.

However, my concerns are about the types of freelance opportunities in the area, and if most are wordpress type jobs. Is front-end javascript and iOS development relegated to full-time positions?

I have a CS background and worked full-time for some time, but quit to work on my own projects instead. I've found some part time work improving a Meteor app, and am liking working this way much more. I'd like to take it to the next step, where I can work mostly on client projects and work on my own projects as well.

I'd appreciate any insights and advice. Thank you.

2 comments

hbienvor 12 Jahren

I freelanced in the Bay Area for ~1.5 years, mostly Rails/Backbone. I wasn't good because I was never more than a coder-for-hire -- but the pay was still more than enough.

(1) Yes, companies in SF/Berkeley are looking for freelance JavaScript/iOS developers. Especially if you've worked with Backbone/Angular/Ember/Node/whatever popular framework used today. You'll never have to take on Wordpress type jobs if you don't want to.

(2) My personal experience is companies prefer full-time contracts over part-time contracts. They want 40 hours/week freelancers but if they can't find them, will settle for whatever you can provide.

(3) If you can't tap into your own network to find these contracts, subcontract through a recruiter or agency. Being able to work on-site is a HUGE bonus, you'll get a contract in no time (although they'll take a cut of your pay)

_augustvor 12 Jahren

Thanks, that's incredibly helpful and motivating. I'm going to proceed with this plan.