Backend Engineer
Listing checked September 2, 2026 · pay as published by micro1
Overview
As a Backend Engineer on a contract basis, you’ll apply your expertise in Python, Java, and FastAPI to help train next-generation AI systems. Your work directly impacts how models learn and reason — no prior AI experience is needed, just strong backend skills. This fully remote role offers $30–$80/hr and the chance to shape cutting-edge AI.
What You'll Do6
- 1Design, build, and maintain robust backend services and APIs using Python, Java, and FastAPI.
- 2Architect scalable microservices and ensure performance across cloud environments like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud.
- 3Model and optimize both relational (MySQL, PostgreSQL, Oracle) and NoSQL (MongoDB, Cassandra) databases for data integrity and fast access.
- 4Work closely with front-end teams to create seamless API integrations and deliver end-to-end solutions.
- 5Deploy and manage applications using Docker and Kubernetes, championing best practices in CI/CD, version control (Git), and security.
- 6Mentor team members and foster a culture of collaboration and innovation within your team.
Requirements7
- 1Advanced proficiency in Python and Java with hands-on experience in FastAPI and frameworks like Spring, Django, or Flask.
- 2Deep understanding of both SQL and NoSQL databases, including data modeling, query optimization, and performance tuning.
- 3Strong background in API development, microservices architecture, and integration patterns.
- 4Highly skilled in Git for version control and collaboration in distributed teams.
- 5Proven experience with Docker and Kubernetes for containerization and orchestration.
- 6Excellent written and verbal communication, essential for remote teamwork.
- 7Demonstrated commitment to secure software development and vulnerability mitigation.
Who Should Apply
This role is perfect for an experienced backend engineer who thrives on building scalable, high-performance systems and wants to see their work directly improve AI capabilities. You’re comfortable mentoring peers, working remotely, and prefer real-world problem-solving over formal AI credentials. If you’re passionate about clean code, cloud-native technologies, and contributing to the next wave of intelligent systems, you’ll fit right in.
Salary Insight
Contract rate of $30 to $80 per hour, depending on experience and skill set.
Pay and demand for AI Training roles
AggregatedTypical pay
$70/hour
This role
$30–$80/hr
Most AI Training roles pay $44–$96 per hour. This role's pay falls inside that range.
Based on 1,135 similar roles that publish pay · 302 publish only a top rate; those count at the rate they gave
Rates shown per hour. Yearly and monthly pay converted; one-time fees and non-USD pay are not included.
- Live similar roles
- 1,307
- Listed in last 30 days
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Hiring most right now: micro1 (389) · SME Careers (254) · Mercor (174)
Most requested skills · share of roles
- ai evaluation12%
- ai training12%
- llm evaluation11%
- data annotation9%
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Compensation
$30–80/hr
Required Skills
Application Tip
When applying, emphasize any projects where you built or maintained systems that handled large-scale data or real-time processing — even if not explicitly AI-related. Showcasing your ability to architect reliable APIs and manage containerized deployments will make your application stand out.
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