Competitive Coder

$45–65/hr

rate as listed

Workload: 15+ hrs/week
Engagement: Project-based
Location: Worldwide
Field: STEM and Coding

Create original competitive programming problems with correct C++ reference solutions, checkers and adversarial test suites. The work also includes documenting intended algorithms and reviewing other contributors’ tasks for ambiguity, correctness and test coverage.

The work

You will design algorithmic problems that do not already appear on Codeforces, AtCoder or another online judge. For each problem, you will write the statement, define constraints, implement a correct reference solution in C++, and build tests covering edge cases, maximum constraints and plausible wrong approaches. Some problems also require custom checkers for outputs with multiple valid answers.

What the screening examines

The AI interview is likely to ask for verifiable details from your competitive programming record and then probe your reasoning about algorithms, complexity, constraints and validation. Be ready to explain how you establish originality, compare a reference solution with a brute-force oracle, construct adversarial cases and identify ambiguous statements or unintended solutions. Advanced C++ is required, and clear written and verbal English is expected for statements, editorials, test rationale and review feedback. Prior work as a problem setter, tester or checker on a major platform is a strong plus, not a stated requirement.

Logistics

This is a fully remote contractor role with a commitment of at least 15 hours per week. The listing emphasizes independent work, deadlines and task submissions rather than fixed meeting hours, so candidates should confirm any synchronous requirements during onboarding. Compensation is output-based and depends on tasks meeting project specifications, with minimum submission requirements applying. Selected contributors are expected to begin their first tasks within 24–48 hours after onboarding.

Pay band: $45–65/hr

What they look for

Basics C++
C++
Competitive Programming
CodeForces Handle
Open Source Contributions

Included with this listing

Interview prep — 10 questions

Matched to what this platform's screening actually measures. Answer each out loud in 60–90 seconds: claim → concrete example → implication.

What it tests: This checks whether the claimed competitive record is specific and externally verifiable rather than a general statement about enjoying algorithms.
A strong answer: Give exact platform handles, peak or current ratings, notable contest placements and approximate dates, while distinguishing individual results from team results. Briefly connect that record to the difficulty of problems you can reliably solve or set.
Where people lose it: Candidates lose credibility by saying they are highly rated without naming a handle, rating, contest division or result that a reviewer can verify.

Summary, eligibility guidance and screening preparation are prepared by Sidequest from the platform's posting. Check the source listing before applying.

STEM AND CODING on Sidequest

What stem and coding AI work pays

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