Opportunity Overview:

Handshake is seeking experienced Software Engineers to support AI research through flexible, hourly contract work. This is not a traditional full-time SWE role. You’ll use your real-world software development experience to evaluate AI-generated code and technical content, provide structured feedback, and help improve how AI understands programming tasks, system design, and engineering best practices.

This is an ongoing, project-based opportunity that can be done alongside your primary employment.

Who This Is For:

This opportunity is designed for professionals currently working (or recently working) in roles such as:

• Software Engineer or Senior Software Engineer

• Backend, Frontend, or Full-Stack Engineer

• Systems Engineer or Application Developer

This is not a traditional full-time role. You’ll apply once and, if qualified, be considered for part-time, project-based work as new projects become available.

What You’ll Do:

This project involves using your software engineering experience to design job-related coding questions and review AI-generated responses for correctness, efficiency, clarity, and alignment with real-world engineering practices.

Applicants will be required to pass a coding assessment as part of the selection process.

Qualifications:

We’re looking for professionals with:

• 4+ years of professional software engineering experience (internships excluded)

• Strong hands-on coding experience in at least one major programming language (e.g., Python, Java, C++, JavaScript, Go, etc.)

• Experience writing, reviewing, and debugging production-level code

• Comfortable working independently and following detailed technical guidelines

• Strong written communication skills and attention to detail

Application Process

• Create a Handshake account

• Upload your resume and verify your identity

• Get matched and onboarded into relevant projects

• Start working and earning

Work Model and Project Details:

• Status: Independent contractor (not a full-time employee role)

• Location: Fully remote

• Schedule: Flexible and asynchronous, with no minimum hour requirement. Many contributors work approximately 5–20 hours per week when assigned to an active project

• Duration: The Handshake AI program runs year-round, with projects opening periodically across different areas of expertise. Placement depends on current project needs, with opportunities to be considered for future projects as they become available

Work authorization information

F-1 students who are eligible for CPT or OPT may be eligible for projects on Handshake AI. Work with your Designated School Official to determine your eligibility. If your school requires a CPT course, Handshake AI may not meet your school’s requirements. STEM OPT is not supported. See our Help Center article https://support.joinhandshake.com/hc/en-us/articles/32245223383703-Fellowship-Work-Authorization-Eligibility for more information on what types of work authorizations are supported on Handshake AI.