Job Description
Role Overview
Mercor is partnering with a leading AI research lab on Project Vesuvius , an initiative designed to evaluate and enhance the ability of large language models (LLMs) to generate structured, high-quality research plans for open-ended machine learning problems.
We are seeking Machine Learning Researchers and PhDs to serve as annotators who will assess and provide structured feedback on AI-generated research plans. The goal is to improve how LLMs function as brainstorming partners for machine learning research.
This is a remote, short-term engagement with flexible hours and opportunities to contribute to frontier AI evaluation and research.
Key Responsibilities
Evaluate and compare AI-generated research plans for clarity, feasibility, and technical soundness.
Design and compile ML tasks based on real-world challenges and research competitions.
Draft detailed, executable natural language plans for machine learning workflows.
Implement and validate research plans in Python within a Docker environment.
Assess outputs against structured rubrics, provide usefulness scores, and deliver concise, objective feedback.
Ideal Qualifications
5+ years of experience in applied machine learning or a PhD in machine learning or related fields.
Strong understanding of ML research methodologies, experimental design, and evaluation practices.
Excellent analytical and technical writing skills.
Experience with reproducibility or benchmarking in ML research preferred.
Detail-oriented and able to deliver high-quality, structured feedback independently.
Engagement Details
Type: Independent contractor
Mode: Fully remote and asynchronous — work from anywhere, on your own schedule.
Commitment: Maximum 80 hours per week
Project Name: Vesuvius
This role is designed for researchers and engineers who value autonomy, precision, and meaningful contribution to frontier AI development.
Compensation & Contract Terms
Hourly Pay Rate: Up to $140/hour
Payment: Weekly via Stripe Connect
Contract Type: Independent contractor engagement
Structure: Remote, milestone-based evaluation with flexible scheduling
Application Process
Submit your resume or CV highlighting relevant ML research or engineering experience.
Complete a short AI-based interview and a brief questionnaire about your experience with reproducibility and model benchmarking.
Selected candidates will receive detailed onboarding materials and access to the project environment.
About Mercor
Mercor is a global talent marketplace connecting exceptional professionals with leading AI labs and research organizations. Our mission is to empower experts to contribute directly to the most influential and technically advanced AI projects worldwide. Mercor is backed by investors including Benchmark, General Catalyst, Adam D’Angelo, Larry Summers, and Jack Dorsey. Thousands of professionals across disciplines — from research and engineering to law and design — have joined Mercor to build the next generation of artificial intelligence systems.
...Some of our worlds largest industries, including tactical, military, automotive, aerospace, and energy. Our expertise in the material sciences, coupled with Response Technologies additive manufacturing and innovative processes, continues to strengthen our position as...
...PURPOSE AND SCOPE: The Facility Administrator is responsible for the leadership of the clinical facility ensuring all clinical, operational, and business objectives are met. The Facility Administrator is authorized to make daily decisions to ensure patient and staff safety...
...Role Summary We're looking for someone truly excited about the Free People and FP Movement brands and are passionate about supporting and building upon how our core values are expressed and communicated both internally as well as externally. We believe strongly in starting...
1st Shift - Sunday-Thursday 6am-2:45pm-possible overtime Pay $21/hr Assemble food kits per work orders and make sure they are accurate, complete, and meet the customer's quality standards, while following all regulatory and company safety standards, policies, and ...
...Join Our Team as a Cleaning Technician SERVPRO of Jefferson City is hiring a Cleaning Technician! SERVPRO of Jefferson City offers: Competitive compensation Superior benefits Career progression Professional development And more! In this position...