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Data Annotator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

IntelliPro Group Inc.

Data Annotator

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Data Annotator Location: San Francisco, CA 94158 Duration: 6 Months Pay Rate : $35-$40/hr Top 3 Responsibilities * Annotate visual 3D data (LiDAR/Point Cloud) and 2D camera imagery using bounding ...

IntelliPro Group Inc.

Data Annotator

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$35 - $40/hr

Data Annotator Location: San Francisco, CA 94158 Duration: 6 Months Pay Rate : $35-$40/hr Top 3 Responsibilities * Annotate visual 3D data (LiDAR/Point Cloud) and 2D camera imagery using bounding ...

Apple

Data Scientist, AIML Data Scientist

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$175K - $263K/yr

Analyze trends across projects to identify patterns in annotator performance, task complexity, and data characteristics that inform more effective project scoping design and guideline development.

Apple

Data Scientist, AIML Data Scientist

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$175K - $263K/yr

Analyze trends across projects to identify patterns in annotator performance, task complexity, and data characteristics that inform more effective project scoping design and guideline development.

Encord

Learning Design Lead

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Partner with the Data Strategy team to move toward a fully automated annotator hiring pipeline Who we're looking for * A rigorous instructional designer with a strong grounding in learning science ...

New

Encord

Learning Design Lead

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Partner with the Data Strategy team to move toward a fully automated annotator hiring pipeline Who we're looking for * A rigorous instructional designer with a strong grounding in learning science ...

New

Rivian

Sr. Software Analyst, Data, Autonomy

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$132.10 - $165.10/hr

... annotator performance trends. * Interpret complex annotation and perception data into clear ... actionable insights for engineering, annotation operations, and leadership. * Partner with ...

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All JobsData Annotator JobsData Annotator Jobs in California

Data Annotator information

See California salary details

$45.4K

$162.9K

$240.3K

How much do data annotator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for data annotator in California is $162,857.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $131,800.00 and $167,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a data annotator?

Data Annotators are professionals who label or tag data such as images, text, audio, or video to prepare it for use in machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) models. Their work is crucial because accurately labeled data helps algorithms learn to recognize patterns and make decisions. Data annotators may use specialized software tools to highlight objects, transcribe speech, or classify documents according to specific guidelines. The quality and accuracy of their annotations directly affect the performance of AI systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a data annotator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Data Annotator, you need attention to detail, accuracy, and a basic understanding of data structures, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with data labeling platforms, annotation tools like Labelbox or Supervisely, and sometimes basic coding skills are typically required. Strong organizational skills, patience, and the ability to follow precise guidelines make someone stand out in this position. These skills and qualities are crucial for producing high-quality datasets that drive effective machine learning and AI model development.

What are the typical challenges data annotators face when working with large datasets, and how can they overcome them?

Data Annotators often encounter challenges such as repetitive tasks, maintaining high accuracy, and dealing with ambiguous data points when working with large datasets. To overcome these, it's important to follow clear annotation guidelines, regularly communicate with team leads or project managers about uncertainties, and leverage quality control tools provided by the organization. Collaborating with peers and participating in review sessions can also help ensure consistency and improve the overall quality of the annotations.

What is the difference between Data Annotator vs Data Labeler?

AspectData AnnotatorData Labeler
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer basic technical skillsSimilar; often requires only basic education and attention to detail
Work EnvironmentRemote or office-based; working with datasets and annotation toolsPrimarily remote; focused on labeling data for machine learning
Industry UsageUsed across AI, machine learning, and data science industriesCommonly used in AI and machine learning sectors for training data
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared due to similar tasks and roles in data preparation

Both Data Annotators and Data Labelers perform data preparation tasks for AI models, often with overlapping skills and work environments. The main difference lies in terminology used by employers or platforms, but their roles are largely similar, focusing on labeling data to improve machine learning algorithms.

How much does a data annotator make?

Data annotators typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the annotation tasks. Some positions may offer freelance or part-time work with variable pay rates, and proficiency with annotation tools can influence earning potential.

What exactly does a data annotator do?

A data annotator labels and tags data such as images, text, or audio to help machine learning models understand and learn from the data. This role involves using specialized tools and requires attention to detail to ensure accuracy, often working with large datasets on flexible schedules.

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Data Annotator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Data Annotator job openings:

Data Annotator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Data Annotator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $162,857 per year, or $78.3 per hour.

Data Annotator

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Horizon Surgical Systems, Inc.
See more jobs at Horizon Surgical Systems, Inc.external

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Open Position - Data Annotator

Horizon Surgical Systems Inc.

Horizon Surgical Systems Inc. is revolutionizing the world of surgical ophthalmology by developing a novel, AI driven, and imaging-guided surgical robotic system. Horizon Surgical Systems Inc. aims to expand access to care, provide superior capabilities to the human surgeon, and enhance patient outcomes. Microsurgery in general and Ophthalmology are subfields of surgery for which the surgical outcomes can be significantly improved by robotic systems to allow superior dexterity, precision, accuracy, and visualization beyond the human surgeon's own capabilities.

We are seeking highly motivated, and intellectually inquisitive individuals looking to make a positive impact on healthcare via the development of robotic technology. The core values of Horizon Surgical Systems Inc. are:

  • Commitment to Excellence: We aim to deliver superior patient outcomes and surgeon experiences
  • Passion for Creativity and Innovation: We are driven by new ideas and aim to push the boundaries of what's possible
  • Teamwork and Camaraderie: We achieve our best when we collaborate and work together
  • Welcoming of Critical Opinion: We are enriched by constructive criticism and support the best ideas
  • Personal Accountability: We honor our commitments and take responsibility for our actions

Horizon Surgical Systems Inc. offers:

  • An opportunity to build autonomous surgical robotic systems driven by image guidance and AI technology for the future of affordable, high-quality healthcare.
  • The opportunity to work alongside clinicians, engineers, and global leaders in cutting-edge AI, imaging, and robotics technology.
  • Competitive compensation and an excellent company-paid benefits package.

Role:

In your role as a data annotator at Horizon Surgical Systems, you will help process, organize, and review various types of data, create tutorials and guides to assist with training personnel regarding our data and processes, annotate various kinds of data, and assist with managing contracted labeling companies.

Required Qualifications and Abilities:

  • Educational Background:
    • Bachelor's degree
    • CS or Biology background preferred
  • Technical Skills:
    • Good computer knowledge and skills.
    • Proficiency in working with Linux and/or Windows OS.
    • Proficiency in English and English grammar.
  • Soft Skills:
    • Strong attention to detail, analytical, problem-solving, and organizational abilities.
    • Good communication skills to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including software engineers, hardware engineers, clinicians, and project managers.
    • Ability to find patterns between complicated data, then organize and present that data.
  • Responsibilities:
    • Review and analyze labeled surgical data.
    • Create and edit labeling tutorials and guidelines.
    • Assist with training contracted labelers.
    • Communicate information effectively and efficiently to contracted labeling companies.
    • Process and select data for labeling.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a high-tech startup that is poised to revolutionize surgical robotics in ophthalmology. 

The base salary range for this role is $60,000-$80,000, in addition to a performance-based annual bonus, equity (stock options), a comprehensive benefits package, and a generous PTO policy.

Apply