Open Source Software Engineer
Listing checked September 23, 2026 · pay as published by micro1
Key details
- Pay
- $50–100/hr
- Location
- Remote
- Job type
- contract
- Openings
- 37
- Posted
- September 15, 2026
Overview
micro1 seeks a Software Engineer to contribute to open source projects that help train next-generation AI systems. You will work with Python3, Java, Rust, C++, and Typescript to develop features, fix bugs, and refactor code. This is a remote contractor role with output-based pay, and no prior AI experience is needed. Your domain knowledge in software engineering is what matters.
What You'll Do7
- Build and enhance new features in existing open source codebases using Python3, Java, Rust, C++, and Typescript.
- Diagnose and fix complex bugs, delivering maintainable solutions that meet project standards.
- Refactor and improve legacy code to boost performance, readability, and scalability.
- Take part in code validation efforts, ensuring accuracy, consistent output, and adherence to best practices.
- Apply advanced algorithms and competitive programming methods to solve intricate problems.
- Work remotely with other contributors to review changes and keep project documentation up to date.
- Write clear technical documents that explain solution design and implementation details.
Requirements7
- Expert-level skill in at least two of: Python, C++, Java, Rust, Typescript, Go, or C#.
- Proven experience contributing to open source projects, including feature development, bug fixing, and codebase refactoring.
- Strong background in competitive programming and analysis of complex coding problems.
- Solid analytical abilities to interpret multifaceted problem constraints and identify multiple solution paths.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills for precise technical documentation and peer collaboration.
- Keen attention to detail in code review, validation, and maintenance.
- Ability to work independently in a remote, collaborative setting and deliver high-quality, well-documented code under deadlines.
Who Should Apply
This role suits software engineers with deep expertise in at least two languages such as Python, Java, Rust, C++, or Typescript, and a track record of open source contributions. Candidates who enjoy competitive programming and can analyze complex problems will find the work engaging. The position is less ideal for those who prefer a structured office environment or need constant supervision. A common reason candidates get rejected is failing to show specific open source contributions or competitive programming achievements. Another is not providing clear examples of refactoring or bug fixing in real codebases.
Salary Insight
Compensation is $50 to $100 per hour, paid per task that meets project specifications. The time to complete tasks varies based on your experience and workflow. Minimum submission requirements apply, and you must submit a minimum number of tasks per week.
Pay and demand for Software Engineering roles
Market estimates from live NearSkill listings — separate from this job's published terms.
This role · as published
$50–100/hr
Taken from the listing itself.
Typical pay · estimated
$80/hour
Median of 710 similar roles that publish pay · 103 publish only a top rate; those count at the rate they gave
Most Software Engineering roles pay $55–$100 per hour. This role's pay falls inside that range.
Rates shown per hour. Yearly and monthly pay converted; one-time fees and non-USD pay are not included.
- Live similar roles
- 858
- Listed in last 30 days
- 513
- Remote
- 94%
Hiring most right now: micro1 (279) · Mercor (139) · Turing (118)
Most requested skills · share of roles
- python23%
- code review11%
- llm evaluation10%
- technical writing10%
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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