Machine Learning Engineer (Train AI Models Part Time!)
hackajob · United States
- Hybrid
- Contract
- $120,000 / year
- United States
Job highlights
- Part-time Machine Learning Engineer role at Mercor.
- Focus on AI model performance and training.
- Remote, asynchronous work with flexible hours.
- Requires Python and ML library experience.
- Contractor role with $80-$120/hr pay.
About the role
About Mercor and the Role
Mercor is building the talent engine to help leading labs and research organizations advance AI. This role focuses on benchmarking and improving model performance and training speed across real ML workloads. It's ideal for an early-career Machine Learning Engineer or an ML PhD passionate about innovation and impact.
What to Expect
As a Machine Learning Engineer, you will tackle diverse problems exploring ML from unconventional angles. This is a remote, asynchronous, part-time role (approximately 20 hours/week) designed for individuals who thrive on clear structure and measurable outcomes. The engagement is expected to run through December 22nd, with potential for extension into 2026.
What You’ll Do
- Draft detailed natural-language plans and code implementations for machine learning tasks.
- Convert novel machine learning problems into agent-executable tasks for reinforcement learning environments.
- Identify failure modes and apply golden patches to LLM-generated trajectories for machine learning tasks.
What You’ll Bring
- Experience: 0-2 years as a Machine Learning Engineer or a PhD in Computer Science with Machine Learning coursework.
- Required Skills: Proficiency in Python, ML libraries (XGBoost, Tensorflow, scikit-learn, etc.), data preparation, and model training.
- Bonus: Contribution to ML benchmarks.
Compensation & Terms
- Rate: $80-$120/hr, dependent on region and experience.
- Payments: Weekly via Stripe Connect.
- Engagement: Independent contractor.
How to Apply
Submit your resume and complete the System Design Session, which includes filling out the Machine Learning Engineer Screen.
Why Mercor
Mercor is a talent marketplace connecting 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 law, creative fields, engineering, and research use Mercor to work on frontier projects shaping the next era of AI. We are an equal opportunity employer and provide reasonable accommodations upon request.
Key skills/competency
- Machine Learning Engineer
- Python
- XGBoost
- Tensorflow
- Scikit-learn
- Data Preparation
- Model Training
- Reinforcement Learning
- LLM
- AI
Skills & topics
- Machine Learning Engineer
- Python
- XGBoost
- Tensorflow
- Scikit-learn
- Data Preparation
- Model Training
- Reinforcement Learning
- LLM
- AI
- Machine Learning
- Computer Science
- PhD
- Remote
- Part-time
- Contractor
How to get hired
- Tailor your resume: Highlight your Python, ML library experience, and any ML benchmark contributions.
- Prepare for System Design: Practice ML concepts, model training, and data preparation scenarios.
- Demonstrate ML coursework: If a PhD candidate, clearly list relevant machine learning coursework.
- Apply promptly: Submit your resume and complete the required Machine Learning Engineer Screen.
Technical preparation
Behavioral questions
Frequently asked questions
- What is the commitment for the Machine Learning Engineer role at Mercor?
- This is a part-time role requiring approximately 20 hours per week, offering a flexible, asynchronous schedule to accommodate your needs.
- What are the technical requirements for the Machine Learning Engineer position?
- You'll need experience with Python and ML libraries like XGBoost, Tensorflow, and scikit-learn, along with skills in data preparation and model training.
- Is this Machine Learning Engineer position remote?
- Yes, this is a fully remote position. However, candidates MUST be based in the United States.
- What is the compensation for the Machine Learning Engineer at Mercor?
- The hourly rate ranges from $80 to $120, depending on your region and experience. Payments are made weekly via Stripe Connect.
- What is the duration of the Machine Learning Engineer contract?
- The initial engagement is through December 22nd, with a strong potential for extension into 2026.
- What kind of ML problems will a Machine Learning Engineer work on?
- You will draft plans and code for ML tasks, convert problems into executable tasks for RL environments, and identify failure modes in LLM-generated trajectories.
- How can I apply for the Machine Learning Engineer job at Mercor?
- To apply, submit your resume and complete the System Design Session, which includes the Machine Learning Engineer Screen.
- Does Mercor require prior professional experience for this Machine Learning Engineer role?
- Mercor welcomes applications from individuals with 0-2 years of experience as a Machine Learning Engineer or those with a PhD in Computer Science with relevant ML coursework.