Economics Professor (Contract) - Handshake

Role Overview

Handshake is seeking experienced Economics Professors to support AI research through flexible, hourly contract work. This is not a traditional full-time faculty role. You’ll use your real-world experience teaching economics at the post-secondary level to evaluate AI-generated content and provide feedback that helps AI better understand economic concepts, pedagogy, and academic language. This is an ongoing, project-based opportunity that can be done alongside your primary employment.

A Day in the Life

As an Economics Professor (Contract) at Handshake, your day will involve:

• Reviewing AI-generated responses to economics-related questions.
• Providing feedback on the accuracy, clarity, and relevance of the content.
• Designing job-related questions to train AI models.
• Working independently and following written guidelines.
• Maintaining confidentiality and discretion.

Why Austin, Texas? (Remote Role)

While this is a fully remote position, Handshake has a significant presence in Austin, Texas. This allows for potential future opportunities to connect with Handshake employees and participate in company events if desired. The vibrant tech scene in Austin also provides a stimulating environment for innovation and collaboration.

Career Path

This contract role provides an excellent opportunity to contribute to the cutting edge of AI research while leveraging your expertise as an Economics Professor. While not a direct path to full-time employment at Handshake, it can open doors to future project-based opportunities and collaborations within the company. It allows you to expand your skill set in AI evaluation and content review, which is increasingly valuable in today's job market.

Salary & Benefits

This is an hourly contract role, and the compensation will be commensurate with your experience and the scope of the projects assigned. Handshake offers competitive rates for contract work and provides the flexibility to work around your existing schedule.

Benefits of this contract position include:

• Flexible work schedule.
• Remote work opportunity.
• Opportunity to contribute to AI research.
• Development of new skills in AI evaluation.
• Competitive hourly rate.

Handshake's Mission

Handshake's mission is to democratize opportunity and help every student find the right job, no matter where they go to school, what they’re majoring in, or who they know. By contributing to the development of AI models that better understand economics, you'll be playing a crucial role in making this mission a reality.

How to Apply

To apply for the Economics Professor (Contract) position, please submit your resume and a brief cover letter highlighting your relevant experience and qualifications. Be sure to emphasize your experience teaching economics at the post-secondary level, your strong communication skills, and your ability to work independently.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the time commitment for this role?

   The time commitment is flexible and project-based. Many contributors work approximately 5–20 hours per week when assigned to an active project.

2. Is this a full-time position?

   No, this is an independent contractor role, not a full-time employee role.

3. Do I need prior AI experience?

   No, prior AI or technical experience is not required.

4. What qualifications are you looking for?

   We’re looking for professionals with 4+ years of experience teaching economics at the post-secondary level, hands-on experience designing and delivering economics courses, strong written communication skills, and the ability to work independently.

5. Is this role remote?

   Yes, this is a fully remote role. You can work from anywhere with a reliable internet connection and access to a desktop or laptop computer.

6. How long do projects typically last?

   The duration of projects varies, but the Handshake AI program runs year-round, with projects opening periodically across different areas of expertise.

7. What type of economics courses will I be evaluating content for?

   You may be evaluating content for a variety of economics courses, including microeconomics, macroeconomics, and related fields at the undergraduate or graduate level.

8. What if I am an F-1 student eligible for CPT or OPT?

   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 for more information on what types of work authorizations are supported on Handshake AI.

9. How often are new projects available?

   Projects open periodically across different areas of expertise, so there are ongoing opportunities to be considered for new projects as they become available.

10. What kind of feedback are you looking for on the AI-generated content?

    We are looking for feedback on the accuracy, clarity, and relevance of the content, as well as its appropriateness for real-world economics instruction. We also value your insights into how the AI can better understand economic concepts, pedagogy, and academic language.