Machine Learning Engineer – $140/hr – Remote

Role Overview Mercor is driving a leading AI research initiative focused on benchmarking and enhancing model performance and training speed across a range of machine learning tasks. We’re seeking Machine Learning Engineers (MLEs) with 3+ years of experience to contribute to a multi-step pilot project designed to evaluate human-led planning and implementation workflows. This project is ideal for professionals interested in reproducible ML research and benchmarking AI model development pipelines. Key Responsibilities Draft detailed, executable natural language plans to address ML-related Kaggle competition tasks Implement those plans in Python code within a provided Docker environment Validate implementations against original plans and mark discrepancies Ideal Qualifications 3+ years of experience in applied machine learning or MLE roles Strong Python engineering skills, especially for model training and data handling Familiarity with Docker-based development environments Detail-oriented approach to technical planning and code validation Experience with reproducibility and benchmarking in ML research (preferred) Comfortable working independently under strict compliance constraints More About the Opportunity Remote and asynchronous — set your own hours Estimated commitment: 20 hours/week Expected project duration: 4-6 weeks Compensation & Contract Terms Up to $140/hour depending on region and experience Paid weekly via Stripe Connect Structured as an independent contractor engagement Application Process Submit your resume to express interest Complete AI interview (<10 minutes) and short form revolving around your ML experience Selected contributors will receive a sample spec and rubric to complete as an initial test (paid exercise) We aim to get back to all applicants within 7 business days of applying