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Role Description
Mercor is collaborating with a leading AI research lab on a project to advance engineering problem-solving at the frontier of artificial intelligence. We are seeking experienced engineers with strong backgrounds in analytical problem design, real-world systems modeling, or competitive engineering problem-solving (university competitions, design challenges, or advanced coursework).
The goal of this project is to create novel, rigorous, and multi-step engineering problems that challenge cutting-edge AI models—specifically those that cause the AI to fail or demonstrate reasoning limits—while supporting the improvement and training of advanced AI systems.
This is a short-term, high-impact, fully remote opportunity for engineering professionals eager to apply their deep technical expertise to frontier AI research, with the possibility of project continuation based on performance.
Key Responsibilities
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Design original, advanced engineering problems that require creative reasoning, multi-domain integration, and precise analytical thinking.
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Evaluate AI-generated engineering solutions for technical accuracy, completeness, and adherence to physical and practical constraints.
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Identify logical gaps, incorrect modeling assumptions, or computational inaccuracies.
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Provide complete, clear, and well-documented solutions and derivations using LaTeX formatting for equations and schematics.
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Maintain high standards of technical precision, rigor, and conceptual depth.
Qualifications
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Advanced degree (or equivalent experience) in mechanical, electrical, civil, aerospace, or chemical engineering, or a related field.
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Experience designing or grading complex analytical or design-focused problems (university level or professional exams).
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Participation in or mentorship for engineering design or modeling competitions (e.g., Formula SAE, Shell Eco-marathon, ASME/IEEE/AIChE contests, robotics challenges, or design sprints).
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Research or teaching experience involving applied problem formulation and quantitative modeling.
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Deep understanding of core engineering principles and real-world systems.
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Ability to communicate step-by-step reasoning, assumptions, and derivations clearly.
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Strong intuition for problem difficulty, structure, and conceptual progression.
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Detail-oriented verification of results and internal consistency.
Requirements
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Proficient in creating and formatting technical documents using LaTeX.
More About the Opportunity
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Time commitment: Minimum 20 hours/week; up to 40 hours/week available
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Duration: Approximately 2 months, with strong potential for extension
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Rolling onboarding; start typically within 1–2 days after approval
Compensation & Contract Terms
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$60–80 per hour, depending on experience and demonstrated performance
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Open to contributors worldwide (English proficiency required)
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Independent contractor arrangement
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Weekly payments via Stripe Connect
Application Process
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Submit your resume or CV highlighting your engineering background and relevant accomplishments.
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Participate in a short interview (20–30 minutes).
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Complete a brief form outlining your experience with problem design, engineering challenges, or teaching.
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Selected applicants will receive follow-up steps within a few days.