Software Engineer for AI Research - Remote

Overview

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.

In Short

• 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

Requirements

• 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:
  • astropy/astropy
  • django/django
  • matplotlib/matplotlib
  • pytest-dev/pytest
  • scikit-learn/scikit-learn
  • sphinx-doc/sphinx
  • 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.

Benefits

• 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)
• 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