Software Developer (Active Github Contributor)

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