Software Engineer - Backend Specialist

mercor; United States; Remote; USD 55,000 - 69,000; Part time

Job summary

Mercor is seeking a Software Engineer Expert to join our remote, contract-based team. You will build MCP servers in Python, integrate applications into RL Studio, and work with APIs, Docker, and Linux environments to ensure robust deployment and state management.

The role emphasizes debugging, local testing workflows, and meeting platform validation requirements. Strong problem-solving and detailed-oriented technical skills are essential for success.

Qualifications

• Strong Python skills.
• Experience with APIs, backend systems, and debugging.
• Familiarity with Docker, Linux, and local testing workflows.
• Ability to work with configuration files and deployment pipelines.
• Problem-solving skills and attention to technical detail.

Responsibilities

• Build MCP servers in Python using FastMCP.
• Integrate web or desktop applications into RL Studio.
• Work with APIs, Docker, Linux environments, and service configuration.
• Implement populate/snapshot hooks for app state management.
• Test apps locally and debug build, runtime, and permission issues.
• Ensure apps meet platform validation and deployment requirements.

Skills

Python

APIs

Debugging

Deployment pipelines

Tools

Docker

Linux

Testing

Job description

About the job Mercor connects elite creative and technical talent with leading AI research labs. Headquartered in San Francisco, our investors include Benchmark , General Catalyst , Peter Thiel , Adam D'Angelo , Larry Summers , and Jack Dorsey .

Position: Software Engineer Expert

Type: Contract

Compensation: $40–$50/hour

Location: Remote

Role Responsibilities

• Build MCP servers in Python using FastMCP .
• Integrate web or desktop applications into RL Studio .
• Work with APIs , Docker , Linux environments , and service configuration.
• Implement populate/snapshot hooks for app state management.
• Test apps locally and debug build, runtime, and permission issues.
• Ensure apps meet platform validation and deployment requirements.

Qualifications – Must-Have

• Strong Python skills.
• Experience with APIs , backend systems, and debugging.
• Familiarity with Docker , Linux , and local testing workflows.
• Ability to work with configuration files and deployment pipelines.
• Problem-solving skills and attention to technical detail.

Qualifications – Preferred

• Experience with FastMCP or similar frameworks.
• Experience integrating third-party apps or developer tools.
• Familiarity with web apps, databases, and containerized environments.