1. Role Overview
Mercor is collaborating with a leading AI organization to identify experienced Database Administrators for a high-priority training and evaluation project. Freelancers will be tasked with performing a wide range of real-world database operations to support AI model development focused on SQL, systems administration, and performance optimization. This short-term contract is ideal for experts ready to bring practical, production-grade insights to frontier AI training efforts.
2. Key Responsibilities
* Design and optimize complex SQL queries using EXPLAIN plans and indexing strategies
* Implement schema changes with CREATE/ALTER statements and rollback planning
* Configure and validate automated backup and restoration procedures
* Manage user roles and permissions following defined security policies
* Export/import data between systems with validation checks and encoding integrity
* Execute data quality checks and report violations with remediation scripts
* Apply statistics updates, manage transaction logs, and test failover recovery
* Perform compliance data extractions, patching, and system audits for enterprise use cases
* Document processes and performance findings in clear, reproducible formats
3. Ideal Qualifications
* 5+ years of experience as a Database Administrator working in production environments
* Expert-level SQL skills and proficiency with PostgreSQL, MySQL, and/or SQL Server
* Strong background in performance tuning, security, data integrity, and schema design
* Familiarity with compliance standards (e.g., SOX), data export formats, and backup tooling
* Comfortable handling large datasets, interpreting execution plans, and managing database infrastructure end-to-end
* Ability to produce production-quality scripts and documentation for technical audiences
4. More About the Opportunity
* Remote and asynchronous — work on your own schedule
* Expected commitment: minimum 30 hours/week
* Project duration: ~6 weeks
5. Compensation & Contract Terms
* $90–100/hour for U.S.-based freelancers (localized rates may vary)
* Paid weekly via Stripe Connect
* You’ll be classified as an independent contractor
6. Application Process
* Submit your resume followed by domain expertise interview and short form
7. About Mercor
* Mercor is a talent marketplace that connects top experts with leading AI labs and research organizations.
* Our investors include Benchmark, General Catalyst, Adam D’Angelo, Larry Summers, and Jack Dorsey.
* Thousands of professionals across domains like law, creatives, engineering, and research have joined Mercor to work on frontier projects shaping the next era of AI.