Open Source Software Engineer - Remote Contract
Listing checked September 15, 2026 · pay as published by Micro1
Overview
micro1 seeks a Software Engineer to work on open source contributions for a customer project that trains next-generation AI systems. You will write code in Python3, Java, Rust, C++, and Typescript, fixing bugs, adding features, and refactoring legacy code. The role is fully remote and contractor-based. No AI background is needed; your coding expertise is what counts.
What You'll Do7
- 1Build and improve new features inside existing open source repositories using Python3, Java, Rust, C++, and Typescript.
- 2Track down and fix complex bugs, delivering solutions that meet project standards and stay maintainable.
- 3Refactor and tune legacy code to boost performance, readability, and scalability.
- 4Take part in code validation, checking accuracy, output consistency, and adherence to best coding practices.
- 5Apply advanced algorithms and competitive programming methods to solve intricate problems with efficient solutions.
- 6Work remotely with other contributors to review proposed changes and keep project documentation current.
- 7Write clear technical summaries that explain solution design and implementation details.
Requirements7
- 1Expert-level skill in at least two of these languages: Python, C++, Java, Rust, Typescript, Go, or C#.
- 2Proven track record of open source contributions, especially in feature development, bug fixing, and codebase refactoring.
- 3Demonstrated strength in competitive programming and analysis of complex coding problems.
- 4Strong analytical ability to interpret multifaceted problem constraints and find multiple solution paths.
- 5Excellent written and verbal communication for precise technical documentation and peer collaboration.
- 6Keen attention to detail in code review, validation, and maintenance.
- 7Comfort working independently in a remote, collaborative setting, with a commitment to producing high-quality, well-documented code under project deadlines.
Who Should Apply
This role fits engineers who have deep experience in at least two languages from the list and a public record of open source contributions. You should enjoy competitive programming and be able to explain your design choices in writing. Candidates who lack open source work or who prefer only greenfield projects may find this less suitable. A common reason for rejection is failing to show specific examples of bug fixes or refactoring in real repositories. Another is not meeting the minimum weekly task submission requirement.
Salary Insight
Compensation is $50 to $100 per hour, paid per task that meets project specifications. The time to complete work varies by experience and workflow. Minimum submission requirements apply, and experts must submit a minimum number of tasks per week.
Pay and demand for Software Engineering roles
AggregatedTypical pay
$75/hour
This role
$50–$100/hr
Most Software Engineering roles pay $55–$98 per hour. This role's pay falls inside that range.
Based on 213 similar roles that publish pay · 20 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
- 251
- Listed in last 30 days
- 118
- Remote
- 93%
Hiring most right now: micro1 (123) · Mercor (33) · Handshake AI (20)
Most requested skills · share of roles
- python25%
- JAVA16%
- Typescript16%
- javascript12%
Figures from Software Engineering roles live on NearSkill when this page loaded. A role can close before you apply, so check the listing itself.
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Compensation
$50–100/hr
Required Skills
Application Tip
When you apply, include links to two or three open source pull requests you authored that show feature work, bug fixes, or refactoring in Python, Java, Rust, C++, or Typescript. Highlight any competitive programming results and mention your weekly availability to meet the minimum task submission requirement.
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