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Data Annotation Research Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Abaka AI

Research Program Associate

Mountain View, CA · On-site

As a Research Program Associate, you will support the operational coordination and execution of ... collection, data cleaning, data annotation, and OTS datasets. Founded in 2021, the company is ...

Abaka AI

Data Solutions Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$136K - $163K/yr

... Research, GTM, and Engineering teams • Assist with dataset reviews, QA processes, delivery ... data annotation, and OTS datasets. Founded in 2021, the company is headquartered in Palo Alto, USA ...

Abaka AI

Data Solutions Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$136K - $163K/yr

... Research, GTM, and Engineering teams • Assist with dataset reviews, QA processes, delivery ... data annotation, and OTS datasets. Founded in 2021, the company is headquartered in Palo Alto, USA ...

Tiki AI

AI Data Software Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$134K - $162K/yr

They are seeking an AI Data Software Engineer who will work closely with AI research labs to ... Tiki AI provides end-to-end data annotation and intelligence solutions that transform raw ...

New

Abaka AI

Data Solutions Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$136K - $163K/yr

... Research, GTM, and Engineering teams • Assist with dataset reviews, QA processes, delivery ... data annotation, and OTS datasets. Founded in 2021, the company is headquartered in Palo Alto, USA ...

Intuitive

Mgr Clinical Data

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

The Ion R&D team is looking for an experienced leader to own medical image dataset development. You ... annotation specialists and external partners, delivering high-quality datasets to enable ...

Hark

Data Collection

San Jose, CA · On-site

$150K - $250K/yr

Familiarity with data annotation platforms or labeling pipelines. * Experience with synthetic data generation or evaluation dataset design. * Background working at a fast-moving AI or research-driven ...

Skild AI

Computer Vision AI & ML Engineer

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$127K - $149K/yr

This role combines applied research with hands-on engineering and offers the opportunity to ... Experience with data annotation tools, dataset management, and augmentation techniques.

Hark

Data Collection

San Jose, CA

$150K - $250K/yr

Familiarity with data annotation platforms or labeling pipelines. * Experience with synthetic data generation or evaluation dataset design. * Background working at a fast-moving AI or research-driven ...

Hark

Data Collection

San Jose, CA · On-site

$150K - $250K/yr

Familiarity with data annotation platforms or labeling pipelines. * Experience with synthetic data generation or evaluation dataset design. * Background working at a fast-moving AI or research-driven ...

Buck Institute

AI Data Scientist-Furman lab

Novato, CA · On-site

$60K - $75K/yr

Position Summary The Buck Institute for Research on Aging is seeking an exceptional, highly ... Developing systems that assist with literature mining, data annotation, hypothesis generation, and ...

Apple

Algorithm Evaluation Manager

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

... data curation and annotation processes, and deep analytical skills. You will collaborate closely with cross-functional research and engineering teams, requiring exceptional communication and ...

Figure

Helix AI Engineer, Data Infrastructure

San Jose, CA · On-site

$150K - $350K/yr

Work together with AI researchers to support new kinds of data workflows Requirements * Strong ... Experience building data annotation and dataset management tools. The US base salary range for this ...

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All JobsData Annotation Research JobsData Annotation Research Jobs in California

Data Annotation Research information

What qualifications do I need for data annotation?

Data annotation research roles typically require basic computer skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with annotation tools or platforms. A high school diploma or equivalent is usually sufficient, though some positions may prefer experience with data labeling, machine learning concepts, or specific software. Strong communication skills and the ability to work independently are also beneficial.

What are some common challenges faced in Data Annotation Research roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Data Annotation Research often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistency in labeling, dealing with ambiguous data, and managing large datasets efficiently. These issues can be addressed by following detailed annotation guidelines, participating in regular calibration sessions with the team, and utilizing annotation tools that support quality control checks. Collaboration with data scientists and project managers is essential to clarify ambiguities and ensure that annotated data meets the project's requirements. Staying proactive in communication and continuous learning helps to minimize errors and improve overall data quality.

Does data annotation actually pay?

Data annotation research jobs typically pay hourly or per task rates, with wages ranging from minimum wage to higher rates depending on experience and complexity of the work. Many positions are freelance or remote, requiring basic skills in data labeling tools and attention to detail. Payment is generally reliable, but rates vary by employer and project.

How hard is it to get hired by data annotation?

Getting hired for a data annotation research role typically requires basic computer skills, attention to detail, and sometimes familiarity with annotation tools or platforms. Many positions are entry-level and do not require advanced education, making the hiring process relatively accessible for those with the right skills and reliability.

What is the difference between Data Annotation Research vs Data Labeling Specialist?

AspectData Annotation ResearchData Labeling Specialist
CredentialsTypically requires a background in data science, research methods, or related fieldsOften requires basic technical skills and experience with labeling tools
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, tech companies, or remote research teamsData centers, tech companies, or remote labeling teams
Industry UsageUsed in AI/ML research, developing annotation methodologiesUsed in preparing datasets for machine learning models
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research-focused roles in data annotationLooking for practical data labeling jobs

Data Annotation Research involves exploring new annotation techniques and improving data quality for AI models, often requiring research skills. In contrast, Data Labeling Specialists focus on applying existing labeling tools to annotate datasets efficiently. Both roles are essential in AI development but differ in scope and expertise.

Is data annotation real or fake?

Data annotation is a real and essential process in machine learning and AI development, involving labeling data such as images, text, or audio to train algorithms. Data annotation jobs require attention to detail and often use tools like labeling platforms or software, making them a legitimate employment opportunity in the tech industry.

What is data annotation research?

Data annotation research involves studying and developing methods for labeling data, such as images, text, or audio, to be used in training machine learning models. Researchers in this field focus on improving annotation accuracy, efficiency, and scalability, as well as addressing challenges like bias and consistency. This work is critical because high-quality annotated data is essential for building effective AI systems. Data annotation research often includes exploring new tools, techniques, and guidelines for human annotators or automated labeling systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Data Annotation Researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Data Annotation Researcher, you need strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and familiarity with data labeling concepts, often supported by a degree in computer science, linguistics, or a related field. Experience with annotation platforms, data management tools, and sometimes knowledge of programming languages like Python are typically required. Excellent communication, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to work independently set standout contributors apart. These skills ensure high-quality, accurate data labeling, which is crucial for developing reliable AI and machine learning models.
What are popular job titles related to Data Annotation Research jobs in California? For Data Annotation Research jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Data Annotation Research jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Data Annotation Research jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Data Annotation Research jobs? Cities in California with the most Data Annotation Research job openings:
Data Annotation Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Data Annotation Research job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 11% Full Time, 66% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 15% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution.

Research Program Associate

Abaka AI

Mountain View, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
Abaka AI is built on one mission: to be the world’s most trusted data partner for AI companies. As a Research Program Associate, you will support the operational coordination and execution of research initiatives across the Abaka AI and 2077AI Foundation ecosystem, focusing on organization, communication, and efficiency in fast-moving AI research projects.
Responsibilities:
• Support operational coordination across ongoing research initiatives and collaborations
• Manage and maintain GitHub repositories, contributor workflows, issue tracking, and documentation organization
• Track and manage API credit usage across multiple research projects, tools, and contributors
• Take detailed notes and maintain organized documentation for weekly 2077AI meetings and internal discussions
• Support meeting coordination and note-taking for academic, research, and collaborator meetings
• Track action items, follow-ups, and ongoing project updates across research teams
• Maintain internal organization across research operations, documentation, and communication workflows
• Coordinate with research, engineering, and operations teams to support smooth project execution
• Assist with lightweight operational and administrative support for research programs and open-source initiatives
• Help improve internal workflows and operational processes for distributed research contributors
Qualifications:
Required:
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent practical experience
• Strong organizational skills and exceptional attention to detail
• Strong written communication and note-taking abilities
• Comfortable managing multiple projects and priorities in fast-paced environments
• Ability to operate independently with a high ownership mindset
• Strong problem-solving skills and proactive communication style
Preferred:
• Familiarity with GitHub, technical documentation, or open-source workflows
• Interest in AI, machine learning, research ecosystems, or open-source communities
• Experience supporting technical teams, startups, academic labs, or research organizations
Company:
Abaka AI provides accurate and efficient AI data services, including data collection, data cleaning, data annotation, and OTS datasets. Founded in 2021, the company is headquartered in Palo Alto, USA, with a team of 51-200 employees. The company is currently Growth Stage.

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