Software Developer

• 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

• 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, * 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.

• 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

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., 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