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Data Collection Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Hark

Data Collection

San Jose, CA · On-site

$150K - $250K/yr

You'll work directly with researchers, engineers, and external partners, and the data you deliver ... Design and run data collection programs end-to-end - scoping requirements, writing instructions ...

Hark

Data Collection

San Jose, CA · On-site

$150K - $250K/yr

You'll work directly with researchers, engineers, and external partners, and the data you deliver ... Design and run data collection programs end-to-end - scoping requirements, writing instructions ...

Aerotek

Data Collection Technician

Castaic, CA

$18 - $25/hr

If you have Environmental Technician or Field Technician or Data Collection Technican experience ... A popular Construction / Engineering company in Castaic, 91384 is looking for multiple ...

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All JobsData Collection Engineer JobsData Collection Engineer Jobs in California

Data Collection Engineer information

See California salary details

$50.8K

$145.5K

$194.4K

How much do data collection engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for data collection engineer in California is $145,530.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,900.00 and $193,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Data Collection Engineers face when gathering and managing large-scale datasets?

Data Collection Engineers frequently encounter challenges such as ensuring data quality and consistency across various sources, managing the volume and velocity of incoming data, and handling data privacy or compliance concerns. They must also design robust pipelines that can scale as data needs grow, and often collaborate with data scientists, software engineers, and product teams to align data collection strategies with project goals. Regularly troubleshooting data ingestion errors and adapting to changing data requirements are also key parts of the role.

What is the difference between Data Collection Engineer vs Data Analyst?

AspectData Collection EngineerData Analyst
Primary FocusDesigning and implementing data collection systems and pipelinesAnalyzing and interpreting data to support business decisions
Skills & CertificationsData engineering, SQL, programming (Python, Java), data architectureStatistical analysis, data visualization, SQL, Excel
Work EnvironmentData engineering teams, IT infrastructure, cloud platformsBusiness units, analytics teams, reporting tools

While Data Collection Engineers focus on building and maintaining data pipelines and infrastructure, Data Analysts interpret the collected data to generate insights. Both roles often collaborate but serve different stages of the data lifecycle, with the engineer ensuring data availability and the analyst deriving actionable insights.

What are Data Collection Engineers?

Data Collection Engineers are professionals who design, implement, and maintain systems for gathering data from various sources. Their work involves creating pipelines to collect, store, and preprocess data, often in support of analytics, machine learning, or business intelligence projects. They work closely with data scientists and software engineers to ensure data quality and reliability. Data Collection Engineers may use a range of tools and technologies, such as APIs, web scraping frameworks, and database management systems, to automate and optimize data acquisition processes.

Is AI replacing data engineers?

AI is transforming the role of data collection engineers by automating certain tasks such as data preprocessing and integration, but it does not fully replace the need for human expertise in designing data pipelines, managing data quality, and ensuring security. Data engineers continue to be essential for building and maintaining the infrastructure that supports AI and machine learning systems. Skills in programming, database management, and cloud platforms remain critical in this evolving field.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior data collection engineers or related roles in data engineering and analytics can reach salaries of $500,000 or more, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills in cloud platforms, big data tools, and certifications. These high salaries are often found in large tech companies, finance, or specialized industries where data infrastructure is critical. Compensation may include base salary, bonuses, and stock options.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior data collection engineers, especially those with extensive experience, advanced skills in data systems, and expertise in tools like SQL, Python, or cloud platforms, can earn $300,000 or more annually. High compensation is often associated with roles in large organizations, specialized industries, or positions requiring leadership and strategic oversight.

Is a data engineer a high paying job?

Data engineers typically earn high salaries due to their specialized skills in building and maintaining data pipelines, working with tools like SQL, Python, and cloud platforms. Compensation varies by experience, location, and industry, but overall, data engineering is considered a well-paying profession in the tech field.

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

To thrive as a Data Collection Engineer, you need a solid background in computer science or engineering, experience with data acquisition, and proficiency in programming languages like Python or Java. Familiarity with data collection frameworks, APIs, sensor technologies, and cloud platforms is commonly required, along with certifications in data engineering or related fields. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with cross-functional teams and troubleshooting issues. These skills and qualities are important to ensure accurate, reliable, and scalable data pipelines that support critical business analytics and decision-making.
What are popular job titles related to Data Collection Engineer jobs in California? For Data Collection Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Data Collection Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Data Collection Engineer jobs in California are:
Data Collection Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Data Collection Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $145,530 per year, or $70 per hour.

User Study & Data Collection Engineer

Prophecy Technologies

Sunnyvale, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Job Summary
Apple is seeking a detail-oriented and people-focused User Study & Data Collection Engineer to join the Human Engineering Validation team. This role supports cutting-edge technology development by facilitating in-person user studies, managing study devices, collecting high-quality data, and ensuring exceptional participant experiences. The ideal candidate combines strong interpersonal skills, technical troubleshooting ability, and a passion for conducting accurate, impactful research.
Key Responsibilities
  • Facilitate and moderate in-person user studies using complex and dynamic protocols
  • Provide a positive, high-energy experience for study participants
  • Ensure participant compliance with study protocols and document deviations or issues
  • Gather quantitative and system data from study devices and equipment
  • Validate data accuracy and fidelity during and after collection
  • Track study progress, participation metrics, and communicate daily status updates
  • Proactively identify and raise study-related risks or challenges
  • Prepare, troubleshoot, and maintain study devices and equipment
  • Set up and break down study session environments daily
  • Oversee study environment readiness and communicate maintenance needs
  • Install software and enable systems using SSH, terminal, and command-line tools
  • Perform basic troubleshooting on development and consumer electronics
  • Manage participant recruitment, correspondence, and scheduling
  • Collaborate with data consumers on data collection plans, issues, and next steps
  • Support improvements to data collection workflows and processes
  • Assist with basic data processing, analysis, and visualizations
  • Distribute surveys, collect responses, and compile feedback
  • Support additional user study and data collection efforts as required

Required Skills & Experience
  • BS in Computer Science or related field (MS preferred)
  • 2+ years of relevant professional experience
  • Strong experience working in high-engagement, people-facing roles
  • Experience facilitating or supporting user studies or research activities
  • Ability to troubleshoot computers and/or consumer electronics
  • Familiarity with command line, SSH, and basic system configuration
  • High attention to detail and strong documentation skills
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and in fast-paced, evolving environments
  • Familiarity with Apple products (preferred)

Competencies
  • Study Execution & Protocol Adherence
  • Participant Engagement & Communication
  • Data Collection & Validation
  • Technical Troubleshooting
  • Process Improvement & Collaboration

Preferred Skills
  • Experience with data processing or visualization tools
  • Exposure to UX research, human factors, or validation engineering
  • Prior experience supporting large-scale or longitudinal studies

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