Machine Learning Researchers
Hourly Contract | Remote | $140 per hour
1. About the Role
Mercor is partnering with a leading AI research lab on Project Vesuvius — an initiative aimed at evaluating and enhancing the ability of large language models (LLMs) to generate structured, high-quality research plans for open-ended machine learning problems.
We are seeking experienced Machine Learning Researchers and PhDs to assess AI-generated research plans, provide structured feedback, and help improve how advanced models function as brainstorming and planning partners for real-world ML research.
This is a remote, high-impact opportunity for researchers passionate about advancing AI reasoning, experimentation, and planning capabilities.
2. Key Responsibilities
- Evaluate and compare AI-generated ML research plans for clarity, feasibility, and technical validity.
- Design and compile machine learning tasks inspired by real-world research problems and competitions.
- Draft detailed, executable natural-language research workflows for model training, experimentation, and validation.
- Implement and test selected plans using Python within a Docker-based environment.
- Assess performance using structured rubrics and provide quantitative and qualitative feedback.
3. Ideal Qualifications
- 5+ years of experience in applied machine learning, or a PhD in ML, AI, or a closely related field.
- Deep understanding of machine learning research methods, experimental design, and evaluation metrics.
- Strong technical writing and analytical reasoning skills.
- Experience with benchmarking, reproducibility, or research validation workflows preferred.
- Ability to deliver high-quality structured assessments independently and consistently.
4. Engagement Details
- Type: Independent Contractor
- Location: Fully Remote and Asynchronous
- Commitment: Flexible (up to 80 hours per week)
- Project Name: Project Vesuvius
- Start Date: Immediate onboarding for selected candidates
This role is ideal for researchers and engineers who value autonomy, rigor, and contribution to cutting-edge AI research.
5. Compensation & Contract Terms
- Rate: Up to $140/hour
- Classification: Independent Contractor
- Payments: Weekly via Stripe Connect
- Structure: Remote, milestone-based evaluation with flexible scheduling
6. Application Process
- Submit your resume or CV highlighting relevant ML research or engineering experience.
- Complete a short AI-led interview and brief questionnaire about your experience with reproducibility and benchmarking.
- Selected candidates will receive onboarding materials and project access within days.
⚡ PS: Mercor reviews applications daily. Please complete your interview and onboarding steps to be considered for this opportunity. ⚡
