Software Engineer (Foundational)

$80–120/hr

rate as listed

Workload: 20+ hrs/week
Engagement: Project-based
Location: US
Field: STEM and Coding

Create and evaluate software engineering tasks used to improve foundational AI models, including multi-file code, tests, reference solutions and scoring rubrics. The role requires production experience with Python and at least one systems or backend language, plus reliable weekday availability.

The work

Day to day, you would design realistic software engineering tasks, write reference solutions and unit tests, review model-generated code and debug multi-file projects. You would also create rubrics covering correctness, readability, test coverage and design tradeoffs, then give written feedback that helps research and engineering teams identify model weaknesses in algorithms, data structures, backend engineering and systems design.

What the platform screens for

The screen is likely to test whether you can support technical claims with specific production examples and reason through code-quality judgments under follow-up. Production proficiency in Python is required, along with at least one of these languages: Java, C++, Go or Rust. Expect attention to Git workflows, code review, automated testing, CI, career progression and your ability to explain why a solution or evaluation criterion is technically sound.

Working arrangement

This is a W-2 employment position with Cincinnatus LLC, which acts as the employer of record and may place the engineer with an AI lab as part of its extended workforce. The listing requires at least 20 hours per week during weekdays. It does not specify whether the work is remote or whether hours can be completed asynchronously, so confirm both points before accepting an engagement.

Compensation

Pay band: $80–120/hr

What they look for

Production software engineering in Python
Production experience with Java, C++, Go or Rust
Algorithms, data structures, backend engineering and systems design
Git workflows, code review, automated testing and CI
Designing tests, reference solutions and code-evaluation rubrics
Clear written technical reasoning and feedback

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 the stated 4+ years requirement, the relevance of the companies or startups and whether claimed progression is supported by concrete changes in ownership or technical leadership.
A strong answer: Give a chronological account with dates, products or systems, production responsibilities and specific examples of increasing scope, such as owning a service, leading a migration or setting technical direction. Distinguish formal titles from responsibilities you performed without the title.
Where people lose it: Candidates lose points by naming employers and titles without showing what they personally built, operated or reviewed at each level.

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

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