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Data Collection Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Aerotek

Data Collection Assembler

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Job Title: Data Collection Assembler We are seeking disciplined, detail-oriented Assembly ... Work collaboratively with engineers and team leads to refine assembly procedures over time. * ...

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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 4, 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 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 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 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.

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 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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $145,530 per year, or $70 per hour.

Data Collection Operator (Swing Shift)

RoboForce

Milpitas, CA • On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Why RoboForce
RoboForce is an AI robotics company developing Physical AI-powered Robo-Labor for dull, dirty, and dangerous work. Our robots are engineered for demanding outdoor environments, with a focus on real-world deployment and scalability.
We are seeking a Data Collection Operator (Contractor) to operate and support robotic systems through advanced robotic control interfaces. In this role, you will execute precise manipulation tasks across a variety of real-world workflows, while generating high-quality data to power RoboForce's AI systems.
This is a hands-on, physical role requiring strong coordination, attention to detail, and sustained focus in a lab/industrial environment.
Responsibilities
  • Perform data collection tasks such as manipulation of objects, walk pre-determined routes, follow testing guidelines and test protocols at RoboForce facilities and in public environments.
  • Start/stop recording devices and perform minor equipment and software debugging.
  • Provide feedback on the performance of the equipment.
  • Analyze and report on data collected during shift.
  • Upload data collected and write daily reports detailing observations and issues.
  • Maintain equipment in safe working condition, prioritize safety protocols, and communicate with leadership promptly.

Requirements
  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree (or equivalent experience).
  • Familiar with using teleop tools like UMI style, GELLO style, VR-Based Systems, etc.
  • Strong attention to detail and manual dexterity.
  • Ability to follow detailed instructions and work independently with minimal supervision.
  • Clear written communication and a collaborative attitude.
  • Basic proficiency with software for data upload and reporting.
  • Ability to perform technical troubleshooting on equipment and willingness to learn new technologies quickly.

Bonus Qualifications
  • Experience with robotic systems, teleoperation, or related fields.
  • Basic working knowledge and familiarity with computer software interfaces and tools (e.g., the command line, bash, linux OS).
  • Hands-on experience annotating video (boxes/masks/keypoints, action labels, ID tracking).
  • Proficiency with annotation tools; comfort with pre-annotation/autolabel review and correction.
  • Knowledge of common annotation formats (e.g., COCO, YOLO, MOT/KITTI) and basic video concepts (frame rate, codecs).
Benefits
  • Lunches and dinners, a fully stocked kitchen.
  • The US hourly rate for this position is $30-$35.

Shift - Monday-Friday, 03:00 PM-11:00 PM

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