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Freelance Data Science Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

AKQA

Freelance Senior Copywriter

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$2.6K - $3.4K/wk

At AKQA (part of WPP), we believe in the imaginative application of art and science to create ... We unite cutting-edge media intelligence and data solutions, world-class creativity, next ...

Solomon Page

Manager Data Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$90/hr

Collaborate with data scientists, analysts, and business stakeholders to understand data ... freelancers - which sets us apart in the industries we serve. About Solomon Page Founded in 1990 ...

AKQA

Freelance Program Manager

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$3.0K - $4.0K/wk

At AKQA (part of WPP) we believe in the imaginative application of art and science to create ... We unite cutting-edge media intelligence and data solutions, world-class creativity, next ...

Handshake

Staff Product Designer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$190K - $240K/yr

From freelance AI training gigs to first internships to full-time careers, Handshake is where ... Partner closely with product, engineering, marketing, data science, and content teams to define ...

AKQA

Freelance Senior Project Manager

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$2.2K - $2.6K/wk

At AKQA (part of WPP), we believe in the imaginative application of art and science to create ... We unite cutting-edge media intelligence and data solutions, world-class creativity, next ...

Intuit

Group Creative Director - Credit Karma

Oakland, CA · On-site

$213K - $289K/yr

... Data Science, and Product Design to drive engagement, retention, trust, and financial progress ... Oversee external agencies, freelancers, and production resources as needed. * Drive measurable ...

Intuit

Group Creative Director - Credit Karma

Oakland, CA · On-site

$213K - $289K/yr

... Data Science, and Product Design to drive engagement, retention, trust, and financial progress ... Oversee external agencies, freelancers, and production resources as needed. * Drive measurable ...

Upwork

VP, Marketing

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

... freelance, fractional, and payrolled. This portfolio includes the Upwork Marketplace, which ... Product, Engineering, Data Science, and Finance to improve the full customer journey.

Upwork

VP, Marketing

Palo Alto, CA · On-site +1

... freelance, fractional, and payrolled. This portfolio includes the Upwork Marketplace, which ... Product, Engineering, Data Science, and Finance to improve the full customer journey.

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All JobsData Science JobsFreelance Data Science JobsFreelance Data Science Jobs in California

Freelance Data Science information

See California salary details

$37K

$121.1K

$193.9K

How much do freelance data science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance data science in California is $121,131.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,200.00 and $134,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance data scientist?

To thrive as a Freelance Data Scientist, you need strong proficiency in statistics, programming (commonly Python or R), and data analysis, often backed by a degree in a quantitative field or relevant certifications. Mastery of tools like Jupyter Notebook, SQL, machine learning libraries (e.g., scikit-learn, TensorFlow), and experience with cloud platforms are typically required. Excellent communication, self-motivation, and time management skills set successful freelancers apart by enabling effective client collaboration and project delivery. These abilities ensure you can independently deliver actionable insights and solutions that meet diverse client needs in a competitive market.

What is a freelance data scientist?

Freelance data scientists are independent professionals who analyze, interpret, and extract insights from data for clients on a project or contract basis, rather than working as full-time employees for a single organization. They leverage skills in statistics, programming, and machine learning to solve business problems, build predictive models, and visualize data. Freelance data scientists often work with multiple clients across various industries, providing flexibility and the ability to specialize in different types of data projects. Their work may include tasks such as data cleaning, exploratory data analysis, algorithm development, and reporting findings to stakeholders.

What is the difference between Freelance Data Science vs Data Analyst?

AspectFreelance Data ScienceData Analyst
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in data science, statistics, or related fields; certifications like CAP or Microsoft Data AnalystOften requires a degree in statistics, mathematics, or related fields; certifications like Microsoft Data Analyst or Tableau
Work EnvironmentIndependent, project-based, remote or on-siteUsually employed within organizations, working in teams or departments
Employer & Industry UsageFreelance data science projects across various industries like tech, finance, healthcareIn-house roles in industries such as finance, marketing, healthcare, and retail

Freelance Data Science involves independent, project-based work requiring advanced skills in machine learning, programming, and statistical analysis. Data Analysts typically focus on interpreting existing data, creating reports, and visualizations within organizations. While both roles require strong analytical skills, freelance data scientists often handle more complex modeling tasks, whereas data analysts focus on data interpretation and reporting.

What are the most common challenges faced by freelance data scientists when working with clients remotely?

Freelance data scientists often encounter challenges such as unclear project scopes, varying data quality, and communication gaps when collaborating remotely with clients. It's essential to establish clear expectations, maintain regular updates, and set milestones to ensure both parties are aligned throughout the project. Additionally, freelancers may need to adapt to different tools or platforms based on each client's preferences, requiring flexibility and strong self-management skills. Building trust and delivering insights in a clear, actionable manner can help foster long-term client relationships.
What are the most commonly searched types of Data Science jobs in California? The most popular types of Data Science jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Freelance Data Science jobs in California? For Freelance Data Science jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Data Science jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Data Science jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Freelance Data Science jobs? Cities in California with the most Freelance Data Science job openings:
Freelance Data Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Data Science job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,131 per year, or $58.2 per hour.

Freelance Senior Copywriter

AKQA

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$2.6K - $3.4K/wk

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

At AKQA (part of WPP), we believe in the imaginative application of art and science to create beautiful ideas, products and services. With an entrepreneurial and collaborative approach, we design adaptive digital services and applications that capture the imagination, delivering impressive returns for our clients.
Senior Copywriters at AKQA play essential roles in the strategy, conception, and writing of beautiful ideas, products and services. They bring exceptional creative thought and craft output, developing and delivering projects from brief to end user. The Senior Copywriter at AKQA approaches every brief with fresh eyes. Avoiding familiar solutions, they create and inspire work that is distinctive, effective, and truly remarkable, crafting exceptional copy and storytelling across every touchpoint.
We are seeking a talented Freelance Senior Copywriter to support one of the most globally recognized consumer brands in the world, a company with an enormous and deeply loyal customer base whose digital products and services touch millions of people every day. We have been entrusted with the full lifecycle delivery of one of their most significant consumer-facing digital products. This is a meaningful, high-visibility engagement where strong writing directly shapes the experience of millions of people every day. This is a freelance role running from June 29 through September 30, 2026.
ROLE REQUIREMENTS
  • Write clear, purposeful, and on-brand copy across digital product surfaces, including UX content, interface writing, onboarding flows, notifications, error states, and transactional messaging
  • Bring a combination of strategic, conceptual, and craft-level copywriting skills to each brief, ensuring every word earns its place within the product experience
  • Collaborate closely with UX designers, product managers, strategists, and engineers to ensure copy and experience are working together at every stage of the process
  • Organize and write copy at the component level, thinking in discrete, structured units that map cleanly to product and CMS-driven page architecture
  • Work within sprint-based delivery cadences, committing to copy milestones with the consistency and velocity that agile product development requires
  • Engage directly with client stakeholders in a collaborative and professional manner, contributing to conversations about voice, tone, and content strategy
  • Approach every brief with curiosity and a drive to find the most clear, human, and effective solution
  • Proofread and quality-check your own work rigorously before delivery

QUALITIES AND CHARACTERISTICS
  • 5+ years of experience writing copy for digital products and services, with a compelling portfolio that demonstrates range, craft, and product thinking
  • A portfolio that reflects audience-centric writing organized around user needs, moments, and goals rather than feature lists or product descriptions
  • Comfortable working within a large, complex consumer brand with established voice and tone guidelines, and skilled at writing compellingly within those guardrails
  • Strong grasp of tone and the ability to adapt voice across a wide range of product surfaces and user contexts
  • Comfortable committing to sprint timelines and delivering with consistency in a fast-paced, agile environment
  • Collaborative, open to feedback, and motivated by producing work that genuinely serves the people using it
  • Excellent writing, grammar, and proofreading skills
  • A drive to push boundaries and craft the best ideas of their kind

Location & Commitment
  • West Coast based; must be available during Pacific Time working hours
    • Monthly travel to client headquarters for collaborative working sessions of a few days at a time
  • June 29, 2026 through September 30, 2026
  • 40 hours/week
  • Expected weekly compensation: $2,600 to $3,400

We believe great work happens when we're together, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection. That's why we've adopted a hybrid approach including required in-office days. If you require accommodations or flexibility, please discuss this with the hiring team during the interview process.
AKQA is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination or regard to particular characteristics. We are committed to fostering a culture of respect in which everyone feels they belong and has the same opportunities to progress in their careers.
About WPP
WPP is the trusted growth partner for the world's leading brands. We unite cutting-edge media intelligence and data solutions, world-class creativity, next-generation production, transformative enterprise solutions and expert strategic counsel in a single company - powered by exceptional talent and our agentic marketing platform, WPP Open, to help our clients navigate change, capture opportunity and deliver transformational growth. For more information, visit WPP.com.

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