Role Overview
Build and refine high-performance backend APIs in Rust to support experimental developer tools and cutting-edge AI research. You will implement scalable REST and GraphQL services, collaborate closely with research engineers, and evaluate AI-powered coding models to improve developer workflows. You will join micro1, an AI data lab that converts expert domain knowledge into training data and evaluations for frontier AI.
Key Responsibilities- Design, develop, and optimize REST and GraphQL endpoints for scalable backend APIs.
- Implement robust data validation, error handling, and API security best practices.
- Plan and perform database migrations, schema design, and performance tuning as required.
- Actively test new AI-powered models in Cursor, producing incident reports, bug traces, and screenshots to document findings.
- Participate in scheduled 4-day intensive testing bursts that explore how AI models affect real coding workflows.
- Engage with the research team in a dedicated Slack channel to discuss issues and propose improvements.
- Submit detailed post-burst surveys that capture model performance and developer experience insights.
- 5+ years of professional experience as a backend developer, with strong Rust expertise.
- Proven experience building and maintaining RESTful and GraphQL APIs.
- Advanced knowledge of backend data validation, error handling, and API security.
- Hands-on experience with database migrations, schema design, and performance optimization.
- Extensive experience using AI coding tools, familiarity with Cursor is highly desirable.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including clear incident and bug reporting.
- Ability to thrive in fast-paced, confidential, and collaborative remote environments.
- Preferred: visible open source contributions, experience designing or evaluating experimental tooling and developer workflows, and enthusiasm for AI-driven software development.
Contract position, performed remotely as an independent contractor. Role requires participation in scheduled 4-day intensive testing bursts and ongoing collaboration through a dedicated Slack channel. Placement and ongoing tasks depend on project needs and research schedules.
CompensationPay range: $30 to $90 per hour.
Eligibility- Must be able to work as an independent contractor and perform remote work.
- No sponsorship or visa information is provided in this listing; applicants should be eligible to contract directly as required.