Mercor is seeking experienced software engineers to support a leading AI lab in advancing research and infrastructure for next-generation machine learning systems. This engagement focuses on diagnosing and solving real issues derived from major open-source repositories through hands-on coding, debugging, and validation. It’s an opportunity to contribute your technical expertise to cutting-edge AI research while working independently and remotely on your own schedule.
Key Responsibilities
* Analyze and resolve software issues drawn from large open-source codebases
* Write, test, and validate code solutions that address specific bugs or system inefficiencies
* Implement and refine APIs, database structures, and backend components supporting AI workflows
* Configure local development environments to replicate and investigate complex issues
Ideal Qualifications
* 1+ years of professional software engineering experience in a fast-paced or technically demanding environment
* Proven contribution history to one or more of the following open-source repositories is a must:
o astropy/astropy
o django/django
o matplotlib/matplotlib
o pytest-dev/pytest
o scikit-learn/scikit-learn
o sphinx-doc/sphinx
o sympy/sympy
* Advanced proficiency in Python, API development, and structured testing
* Excellent analytical, written, and communication skills
* Exceptional attention to detail and persistence in debugging complex systems
* Residency in one of the following regions: United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand.
More About the Opportunity
* Fully remote and asynchronous — complete work on your own schedule
* Expected workload: 10–20 hours per week, with flexibility to scale up to 40 hours
* Duration: open-ended engagement with potential for long-term collaboration
* Project start date: mid to late October (applications reviewed on a rolling basis)
Compensation & Contract Terms
* Independent contractor engagement through Mercor
* Hourly compensation, paid weekly via Stripe Connect
* Payments based on services rendered; contractors maintain full control over their work schedule and methods
Application Process
* Submit your resume and include links to your GitHub profile and relevant repository contributions
* Applications reviewed continuously; shortlisted professionals will be contacted for next steps
* Typical response time: within one week of submission
About Mercor
* Mercor is a talent marketplace that connects top experts with leading AI labs and research organizations
* Our investors include Benchmark, General Catalyst, Adam D’Angelo, Larry Summers, and Jack Dorsey
* Thousands of professionals across domains like engineering, research, law, and creative services have partnered with Mercor on frontier AI projects