Technical Research & Development Specialist (R&D) (008-01159)
$21,600–$30,000 year
RemotePhilippines
Job Summary
Interrogate client transcripts and source materials to extract genuine technical uncertainties, distinguishing core experimental R&D from work that was simply hard or expensive. Rigorously verify every assertion against original data, delivering accurate first-pass assessments for review by the R&D Tax Manager. Lead technical interviews with engineers and CTOs, formulating five high-value follow-up questions to fill critical evidence gaps. Utilize AI tools to analyze Fathom transcripts and conduct adversarial self-testing to challenge conclusions before submission. Prepare complete, audit-ready technical assessments independently within 12 months, while continuously upgrading internal prompt workflows and quality-control processes. This remote independent contractor role aligns with Australian business hours, offering a clear growth trajectory to Senior R&D Technical Specialist.
Required Qualifications
- 3–5+ years of experience as a scientist, engineer, or technical professional with practical industry experience in engineering, software development, product development, testing, validation, or failure investigation
- Experimental Thinking: Deep understanding of hypotheses, technical uncertainty, testing, iteration, failure modes, and systematic learning
- Technical Judgment: Ability to distinguish genuine experimentation from work that was simply hard, slow, new, or expensive
- Critical Technical Skepticism: A strict habit of checking claims against source evidence and refusing to dress up unsupported statements
- Ownership: Ability to progress work independently without repeated chasing while actively looking for system improvements
- Clear Communication: Excellent spoken and written English, with the ability to unpack complex technical concepts and explain reasoning clearly
- Philippines-based candidates
- Work Schedule: This role is expected to align with the AU (Melbourne) business hours (approx. 8 AM - 5 PM) for collaboration
Desired Qualifications
- Sufficient software-development literacy to understand technical limitations, failed architectural approaches, testing frameworks, and code logic
- Daily, practical experience using Claude, ChatGPT, or similar tools for complex technical analysis and structured data extraction (rather than just drafting emails)
- Prior experience working with Australian, UK, or US businesses
- Hands-on experience with Claude Code, Cursor, automation tools, or lightweight application development
- Experience building/refining advanced prompt frameworks, AI workflows, or automated review processes
- Background or familiarity with the Australian R&D Tax Incentive framework (specifically the legal definitions of Core and Supporting R&D activities)
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