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Data Annotation Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Encord

Human Data Operations Strategist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$130K - $210K/yr

Oversee data annotation projects, translating complex AI and machine learning requirements into clear workflows and instructions for data annotation teams * Ensure the highest standards of data ...

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Data Annotation information

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How much do data annotation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for data annotation in California is $24.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.71 and $29.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a typical workday look like for someone in a Data Annotation role?

A typical workday as a Data Annotator involves reviewing datasets—such as images, audio, text, or video—and accurately labeling or categorizing information according to specific project guidelines. Most Data Annotators work independently, but they often collaborate with project managers or data scientists to clarify requirements and resolve ambiguities. Tasks may be repetitive, but adhering to precise standards is vital for maintaining data quality. Work environments can range from technology companies to remote or freelance settings, and advancement opportunities exist as team leads or quality assurance specialists for those who excel in consistency and reliability.

Is data annotation a genuine job?

Data annotation is a legitimate job that involves labeling data such as images, text, or audio to help train machine learning models. It often requires attention to detail and familiarity with annotation tools, and can be found in various industries like technology and healthcare.

Does data annotation pay well?

Data annotation jobs typically offer entry-level pay that varies depending on the employer, location, and complexity of the tasks. While some positions pay hourly wages comparable to other administrative or clerical roles, experienced annotators working on specialized projects or with advanced tools can earn higher rates. Overall, data annotation is often considered an entry-level position with moderate pay potential.

What is a Data Annotation job?

A Data Annotation job involves labeling and categorizing data, such as text, images, audio, or video, to help train machine learning models. Annotators apply tags, bounding boxes, or classifications to data based on specific guidelines. This process improves the accuracy of AI systems in recognizing patterns and making predictions. Many data annotation jobs require attention to detail and familiarity with specific domains. It is commonly used in applications like autonomous driving, natural language processing, and computer vision.

How hard is it to get hired by data annotation?

Getting hired for a data annotation role generally requires basic computer skills, attention to detail, and sometimes familiarity with specific tools or platforms. Many positions are entry-level and do not require advanced education, making the hiring process relatively accessible, though competition can vary based on the employer and location.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Data Annotation position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Data Annotation, you need strong attention to detail, accuracy, and basic data handling skills, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with annotation platforms, data labeling software, or content management systems is frequently required, though specific certifications are rare. Excellent communication, time management, and the ability to focus on repetitive tasks distinguish top performers in this role. These skills are crucial because accurate and consistent data annotation directly impacts the quality of machine learning models and AI applications.

What does a data annotator do?

A data annotator labels and tags data such as images, text, or videos to help machine learning models understand and learn from the data. They use tools and follow guidelines to ensure accuracy and consistency, often working with large datasets in a structured environment. Attention to detail and knowledge of annotation tools are important for this role.
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 Data Annotation jobs in California? For Data Annotation jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Data Annotation jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Data Annotation jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Data Annotation jobs? Cities in California with the most Data Annotation job openings:
Data Annotation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Data Annotation job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 34% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 2% Contract, 35% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 56% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 43% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,398 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Data Annotation Analyst

ATOMS Careers page

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$71K - $89K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Who we are
Atoms is building the machines that power the next era of progress.
Over the last decade, software has transformed the digital world. But the physical world, where food is made, minerals are mined, goods are moved, and industries are run, remains far less intelligent, far less efficient, and far more constrained. We're changing that.
Atoms builds Physical AI- real-world robots for the industries that move civilization forward, starting with food, mining, and transport. Our systems are designed to understand, predict, and control the real world with precision, turning complex physical operations into something more reliable, more scalable, and more productive.
This work requires more than robotics. It requires deep integration across hardware, software, AI, operations, manufacturing, and real estate. We don't just build machines in a lab. We deploy them into real environments, operate them, learn from them, and improve them until they work at scale.
We are roboticists, engineers, operators, and builders. We believe the next great technology companies will not only transform information, but the physical systems that shape everyday life.
If you want to work on hard problems with real-world impact, join us.
What you'll do
  • Perform quality control and labeling for images used for machine learning (ML) models
  • Manage a large team of remote labelers
  • Upload prioritized image data for labeling
  • Create and track metrics for labelers
  • Iterate on existing labeling guidelines for multiple types of computer vision tasks
  • Identify common errors in labeling
  • Communicate feedback and priorities to the labeling team
  • Work directly with the ML team

What we're looking for
  • Prior experience labeling or performing quality control for ML training data
  • Detail-oriented approach
  • Excellent communication skills and effective collaboration with members of the team
  • Familiarity with command-line interface tools preferred
  • Knowledge of labeling policies for multiple types of computer vision tasks
  • Experience with annotation platforms
  • Familiarity with spreadsheet tools or BI dashboards for tracking and visualizing labeler metrics
  • Exposure to version control (Git) or ticketing/workflow tools

Why join us
At Atoms, you'll work on one of the defining challenges of our time-bringing automation into the physical world to drive real, lasting impact. We exist to uncover valuable unknown truths and turn them into progress, which means constantly pushing beyond what's known and building what doesn't yet exist. The work is ambitious and often challenging, but it's grounded in a shared sense of purpose and a team committed to seeing it through together. Our work only matters if it serves others, and we know that meaningful progress depends on the trust of the people we serve and the strength of our team-so we invest in both, creating an environment where you can do your best work and grow.
What else you need to know
This role is based in our San Francisco office. Atoms is a company driven by invention and continuous change - we are constantly reimagining our industries, building new products, and refining how we operate. We do our best work together. That's why all of our office-based teams work onsite, five days a week.
The base salary range for this role is $71,000 - $89,000 per year.
Actual compensation will be determined on an individual basis and may vary depending on experience, skills, and qualifications.
Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package. You may also be eligible for equity awards and an annual performance-based bonus.
Benefits Summary (USA Full-Time Exempt Employees):
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, and Life Insurance
  • Flexible Spending Account / Health Savings Account Options
  • 401(k)
  • Equity
  • Sick Time, Unlimited Flexible Time Off, and Paid Holidays
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Pre-Tax Commuter Benefit Plan
  • Team lunch in our SoMa office every Tuesday and Thursday

Benefits are subject to change at the company's discretion.
Atoms accepts applications on an ongoing basis.
Ready to join us as we serve those who serve others?
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