Overview

Handshake is seeking experienced Software Engineers residing in Canada 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.

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
• Must be based in Canada

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