Software Developer (Active Github Contributor)

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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:

    • 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.

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

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