Software Developer (Active Github Contributor)

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

We consider all qualified applicants without regard to legally protected characteristics and provide reasonable accommodations upon request.