PyTorch Operator - ML Engineer

1) Role Overview

Mercor is seeking experienced PyTorch experts who excel in extending and customizing the framework at the operator level. Ideal contributors are those who deeply understand PyTorch’s dispatch system, ATen, autograd mechanics, and C++ extension interfaces. These contractors bridge research concepts and high-performance implementation, producing clear, maintainable operator definitions that integrate seamlessly into existing codebases.

2) Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement new PyTorch operators and tensor functions in C++/ATen.

• Build and validate Python bindings with correct gradient propagation and test coverage.

• Create “golden” reference implementations in eager mode for correctness validation.

• Collaborate asynchronously with CUDA or systems engineers who handle low-level kernel optimization.

• Profile, benchmark, and report performance trends at the operator and graph level.

• Document assumptions, APIs, and performance metrics for reproducibility.

3) Ideal Qualifications

• Deep understanding of PyTorch internals (TensorIterator, dispatcher, autograd engine).

• Strong background in C++17+ and template metaprogramming within PyTorch’s ecosystem.

• Experience authoring or extending PyTorch custom ops or backends.

• Working knowledge of performance profiling tools and GPU/CPU interplay.

• Strong written communication and ability to deliver well-documented, self-contained modules.

• Prior open-source contributions to PyTorch, TorchInductor, Triton, or related projects are a plus.

4) More About the Opportunity

• Ideal for contractors who enjoy building clean, high-performance abstractions in deep learning frameworks.

• Work is asynchronous, flexible, and outcome-oriented.

• Collaborate with CUDA optimization specialists to integrate and validate kernels.

• Projects may involve primitives used in state-of-the-art AI models and benchmarks.

5) Compensation & Contract Terms

• Typical range: $100–$200/hour, depending on experience and project scope.

• Structured as an independent contractor engagement, not employment.

• Payments for services rendered on a milestone or weekly invoice cadence.

• Confidentiality and IP assignment agreements may apply.

6) Application Process

• Share a concise summary of your experience with PyTorch internals and systems-level programming.

• Include links to open-source work, GitHub PRs, or sample operator implementations.

• Provide hourly rate, availability, and relevant technical background.

• Selected experts may complete a short, paid pilot module to demonstrate fit.

7) About Mercor

• Mercor connects top-tier independent professionals with leading AI labs and research organizations.

• Contractors retain full control over their work, schedule, and deliverables.

• Our engagements focus on high-skill, high-autonomy technical work across AI systems and optimization