1

Contract Data Annotation Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Software Analyst, Data, Autonomy

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$101K - $127K/yr

Responsibilities Analyzing Data Insights * Analyze large‑scale 2D/3D annotation datasets to ... contract and quote review, for third‑party annotation services and tools. * Define and track ...

User Study Researcher

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$55 - $70/hr

Experience with automated data annotation pipelines and multi-modal dataset QA * UX research certificates, training programs, or human-subjects research backgrounds Type: Contract (W2) Duration: 12 ...

This is a 4 months contract opportunity paying $25/hour. Sama will offer a Driver Incentive Program ... We're experts in data annotation, supporting text, 2D, 3D image, video, and sensor data for machine ...

This is a 4 months contract opportunity paying $25/hour. Sama will offer a Driver Incentive Program ... We're experts in data annotation, supporting text, 2D, 3D image, video, and sensor data for machine ...

Technical Program Manager III

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$152K - $197K/yr

Onsite Contract Duration: 12 months Summary: The Client's R&D Operations Organization is seeking a ... Strong understanding of ML development workflows, data pipelines, and annotation lifecycle.

next page

Showing results 1-20

Contract Data Annotation information

What is a contract data annotation?

A contract data annotation job involves labeling or tagging data—such as images, text, audio, or video—according to specific guidelines, usually on a temporary or project-based contract. These annotations help train machine learning models by providing accurate, human-labeled examples for algorithms to learn from. Contract workers are typically hired for a set period or project and may work remotely or on-site, depending on the employer. The work requires attention to detail, adherence to quality standards, and sometimes familiarity with specialized annotation tools.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract data annotation specialist?

To thrive as a Contract Data Annotation Specialist, you need a keen eye for detail, strong analytical skills, and familiarity with data labeling standards, often supported by experience in data management or related fields. Proficiency with annotation platforms (such as Labelbox, Prodigy, or CVAT) and basic knowledge of data formats like JSON or XML are commonly required. Excellent communication, time management, and the ability to work independently help individuals excel in this often remote and deadline-driven role. These skills ensure high-quality, accurate data annotations that are vital for training reliable machine learning models.

What are some common challenges faced by contract data annotation professionals, and how can they be effectively managed?

Contract data annotation professionals often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistency in labeling, managing tight project deadlines, and ensuring data privacy. These challenges can be effectively managed by following detailed annotation guidelines, utilizing collaborative tools for team communication, and participating in regular quality assurance checks. Staying organized and proactive about seeking clarification from project leads also helps ensure high-quality, accurate results and a smooth workflow.

What is the difference between Contract Data Annotation vs Data Labeler?

AspectContract Data AnnotationData Labeler
CredentialsBasic computer skills, attention to detailBasic computer skills, attention to detail
Work EnvironmentRemote or on-site, project-basedRemote or on-site, task-based
Industry UsageAI/ML training, tech companiesAI/ML training, tech companies
Job FocusAnnotating data for machine learning modelsLabeling data to improve AI algorithms

Contract Data Annotation involves completing specific annotation projects for AI training, often on a contractual basis. Data Labelers focus on labeling data to enhance machine learning models, typically performing similar tasks. Both roles require attention to detail and are used in AI/ML industries, but Contract Data Annotation emphasizes project-based work with defined deliverables.

Is data annotation still hiring?

Data annotation roles are currently in demand as companies continue to develop AI and machine learning models. Many positions are available for remote work, often requiring basic computer skills and attention to detail, with some roles offering flexible schedules. Job availability can vary by industry and region, so checking specific job boards is recommended.

Is it hard to get hired for contract data annotation?

Contract data annotation jobs are generally accessible to individuals with basic computer skills and attention to detail. The hiring process often involves completing a skills test or sample annotation task, and some roles may require familiarity with specific tools or platforms. Competition can vary depending on the demand and the company's requirements, but many positions are available for entry-level candidates.

What are the most commonly searched types of Data Annotation jobs in California?

The most popular types of Data Annotation jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Contract Data Annotation jobs in California?

For Contract Data Annotation jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Contract Data Annotation jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Contract Data Annotation jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Contract Data Annotation jobs?

Cities in California with the most Contract Data Annotation job openings:

Infographic showing various Contract Data Annotation job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution.

Technical Program Manager, Human Data Annotation (Code)

Palo Alto, CA • On-site

$152K - $196K/yr

Other

Medical, Retirement

Posted 9 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Collaborate with research teams to develop data strategies and translate research needs into operational human data annotation campaigns.

  • Manage and drive human data annotation campaigns from scoping through delivery, ensuring data needs, budget, and timelines are met.

  • Oversee a data quality assurance team to design and implement quality control processes, including automated and manual checks, and drive continuous improvement.


Job description

About Mistral

Mistral provides full-stack AI solutions: from frontier models to developer tools, applications, and compute. We partner with enterprises tackling the hardest problems—across high-stakes industries like finance, manufacturing, defense, healthcare, and the public sector—co-creating customized AI systems that they can run on their terms.

We are a dynamic, collaborative team passionate about AI and its potential to transform society. Our diverse workforce thrives in competitive environments and is committed to driving innovation. Our teams are distributed between Europe, North America, Asia and the Middle East. We are creative, low-ego and team-spirited.

The Role

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Technical Program Manager to lead and scale human data annotation operations for our Code team. In this pivotal role, you will collaborate closely with researchers to define and drive data strategies. This role is a critical link between research, product, engineering, and annotation teams, and will be key in accelerating research at Mistral AI.

What will you do
  • Partner closely with code research team to develop data strategies and translate research needs into operationalizable human data annotation campaigns

  • Drive human data annotation campaigns, from scoping through delivery, balancing data needs, budget, delivery timeline

  • Manage a data quality assurance team that designs and implements rigorous and scalable quality control processes, including running automated and manual checks, synthesizing actionable insights, and driving continuous improvement

  • Establish and maintain strong relationships with annotation teams (e.g. contractor, vendor) to generate high quality data, spanning phases across sourcing, contracts, onboarding / training, performance monitoring, etc.

What We're Looking For
  • 5+ years of relevant experience, with a blend of software engineering and technical program management

  • Strong technical foundation in Python

  • Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to work well under pressure - excellent project management skills, with the ability to successfully manage multiple projects simultaneously

  • Great communication skills, capable of engaging effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders

  • Autonomous and proactive problem-solver with a continuous improvement mindset

  • Experience leading a team, with a low ego and team spirit mindset

  • Embraces hands-on, operational work in a fast-paced and dynamic environment


Nice to have criteria/ would be ideal if you have/are:

  • Proficiency in JavaScript/TypeScript and experience in modern web frameworks (FastAPI, Django, React, …)

  • Experience with operations around data collection, annotation, and/or quality assurance

  • Experience with vendor and/or contractor management

  • Understanding of and interest in LLMs

What We Offer

We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and work-life balance. Benefits vary by country and may include healthcare coverage, parental leave, retirement plans, relocation support, wellness programs, meal and transportation allowances, and other location-specific perks.

For the most up-to-date details on benefits available in your location, please refer to our Benefits page.

Privacy Policy

Your privacy matters to us. You can learn more about how we handle your personal data in our Applicant Privacy Policy.

#J-18808-Ljbffr