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Comment by jjgreen | Hacker News Reader

For a 2015 ML job I applied for:

    | We are wondering if you would like to attempt our code challenge (C/C++ or
    | Python). It is a Computer Vision problem which we think can be solved in
    | about 8 hours.
    
    I'm afraid I wouldn't, 8 hours is far too much for a interview
    problem.
    
    However, thanks for considering my application.

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Alternative response: “Sure, I charge $xxx per hour, payable in advance. Please deposit to account xxxx and you get the solution 24 later.”

I think it's important to remember that candidates should evaluating the viability of the company as a potential future employer. This seems like a reason to look elsewhere. They do not seem to value the candidate's time (assuming positive intent otherwise).

I'd skip the shenanigans and look elsewhere. I think "thanks, but no thanks" is a good response in this case.

Alternatively, you could say..."for my time spent after the 1st hour, I will charge you $200/hour. Are we good to proceed"

My take on this what they were testing whether I could be pushed around, and I won't be. I'd not want to work at a place that plays those kind of mind-games.

You are, of course, correct. You still could have made $XXX/hr for the privilege to continue this charade and then reject their offer.

For someone skilled at doing ML, your hourly contract rate is about 60% too low.

There you go, the correction is made. :-)

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