Machine Learning Engineer

Hourly Contract | Remote (Canada) | $150 per hour

Role Overview

A leading AI research initiative is seeking experienced Machine Learning Engineers (MLEs) to benchmark and enhance model performance and training efficiency across a variety of machine learning tasks. This project is ideal for engineers with 5+ years of applied ML experience or those with a PhD in Machine Learning who are passionate about reproducibility, benchmarking, and advancing AI model development.

Key Responsibilities

• Compile external ML competitions into challenging, real-world tasks (model training, dataset preparation, experiment execution).
• Draft detailed, executable natural language plans for completing MLE tasks.
• Implement plans in Python code within a provided Docker environment.
• Validate implementations against original plans and document discrepancies.

Ideal Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in applied machine learning OR PhD in machine learning/related fields
• Strong Python engineering skills , especially in model training and data handling
• Familiarity with Docker-based development environments
• Detail-oriented approach to technical planning and validation
• Experience with reproducibility and benchmarking in ML research (preferred)
• Ability to work independently under strict compliance constraints

Project Details

• Remote & asynchronous — work on your own schedule
• Commitment: ~20 hours per week
• Duration: ~2+ months, with potential extension

Compensation & Contract

• Rate: Up to $150/hour (depending on experience and region)
• Contract Type: Independent contractor
• Payments: Weekly via Stripe Connect

Application & Onboarding Process

1. Submit your resume
2. Complete an AI interview (<10 minutes) and a short form covering your ML background

PS: Mercor team reviews applications daily. Please complete your AI interview and application steps to be considered for this opportunity.