Job Description

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.