AI Tutor, Geochemistry Specialist (contract), Handshake AI

At Handshake, we believe inclusive teams build the best technology. We're committed to fostering an environment that welcomes diverse perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds. We especially encourage applicants from underrepresented or non-traditional paths to apply.

This is a contract remote position with variable time commitments. The services to be provided by the Contractor under this agreement are supplementary and not integral to the Handshake’s primary business operations. The Contractor’s services are distinct and separate from the core business activities of Handshake.

Your Impact

As an AI Tutor, Geochemistry Specialist, you will play a vital role in shaping how advanced AI models understand and communicate complex Earth and environmental science concepts. Leveraging your deep knowledge of geochemistry, mineralogy, aqueous chemistry, and thermodynamics, you’ll evaluate and improve AI-generated content to ensure scientific accuracy, conceptual clarity, and educational value. Your work will directly support the training of large language models (LLMs) used in scientific research, environmental policy, and academic tools.

Your Role

• Use internal tools to review and refine AI-generated responses related to geochemistry and Earth science domains.

• Assess outputs for technical correctness, geochemical relevance, and clarity in areas such as mineral equilibria, isotope geochemistry, and geochemical modeling.

• Curate high-quality datasets used for training and fine-tuning AI models in Earth and planetary sciences.

• Identify model blind spots, edge cases, and inconsistent or misleading explanations in geochemistry topics.

• Collaborate with cross-functional AI teams to improve content quality and knowledge alignment across scientific disciplines.

Your Experience

• PhD or MS in Geochemistry, Earth Sciences, Environmental Chemistry, or a closely related field.

• Alternatively, 3+ years of professional experience in academic research, lab-based geochemistry, or environmental consulting.

• In-depth knowledge of chemical weathering, thermodynamic databases, redox systems, and analytical techniques (e.g., ICP-MS, XRF).

• Strong written communication skills, especially for explaining scientific concepts clearly and accurately.

• Ability to critically evaluate technical content and provide detailed, constructive feedback.

• Comfortable working independently and navigating ambiguity in fast-evolving workflows.

Bonus Expertise

• Publications in peer-reviewed Earth science or geochemistry journals.

• Teaching, tutoring, or curriculum development experience in geosciences.

• Experience with geochemical modeling tools (e.g., PHREEQC, Geochemist’s Workbench).

• Familiarity with LLMs, scientific AI applications, or natural language interfaces for STEM.

• Background in human-in-the-loop feedback systems or scientific annotation pipelines.

Additional Requirements

• Available to work evenings or weekends as needed.

• Comfortable adapting to rapidly changing workflows and AI tools.

• Personal device must support Windows 10 or macOS Big Sur 11.0 or later.

• Reliable smartphone access for secure login and multi-factor authentication.

Location & Work Expectations

• 100% Remote

• No visa sponsorship available

• Not hiring in Wyoming or Illinois at this time

Compensation Range

$55/hr – $100/hr
We benchmark our compensation ranges against similar stage companies. Final compensation will be based on factors such as location, relevant experience, and skill alignment.