Independent Contractor Image Annotation Jobs in California

Collectors is the leading creator of innovative technology that provides value-added services for collectors worldwide. We grade, authenticate, vault, and sell millions of record-setting collectibles, all while modernizing and digitalizing the process to further our mission of helping collectors pursue their passions. We're always on the lookout for talented people to join our growing team.

Our services span collectible trading cards, autographs, comic books, coins, video games, event tickets, and memorabilia. Our subsidiaries include PSA, PCGS, Beckett, SGC, and Card Ladder.

Since our founding in 1986, we have graded and authenticated millions of items. We employ more than 3000 people across our headquarters in Santa Ana, California and offices in New Jersey, Texas, Florida, Japan, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Canada, Mexico, Germany, and France.

As part of our interview process, we request that candidates have their cameras on during video interviews. This helps foster meaningful conversation and allows us to create an experience that closely resembles our standard working environment. Certain interview steps may take place by phone. For remote roles, and at our discretion, candidates may be asked to participate in an on-site interview as part of the final stages of the process.

We understand there may be occasional circumstances requiring accommodation and are happy to discuss them as needed. Your recruiter will be able to clarify expectations and answer any questions you have.

We're looking for a Data Annotation Specialist contractor who can work full-time (40 hours per week) for an 8-week on-site (Santa Ana) contract assignment with our AI/ML Team. As a Data Annotation Specialist, you will support a high-priority initiative focused on building high-quality training data for our machine learning models. Your work will involve reviewing images, following detailed labeling guidelines, and accurately annotating data within our internal software. You will be motivated to reach your goals and deadlines as you focus on accurately labeling, tagging, and categorizing large datasets.

You'll report to AI/ML Director and work from our Santa Ana, CA office headquarters.

Onsite Requirement:

This role requires you to be onsite in the office 5 days per week.

What You'll Do:

• Prepare and annotate large volumes of data with precision, efficiency, and within project timelines

• Collaborate with team members to ensure data is labeled consistently and accurately according to defined guidelines

• Perform quality control checks to maintain high levels of annotation accuracy

• Communicate effectively with stakeholders to understand project requirements and labeling specifications

• Continuously improve annotation workflows to increase efficiency and reduce errors

Who You Are:

• You have a personal interest in collectibles, trading cards, coins, or related hobbyist markets (not required, but it helps)

• You have a keen eye for accuracy and strong attention to detail

• You are motivated by clear goals and consistent, measurable output, and can maintain focus through repetitive, high-volume work

• You work well both independently and as part of a team, with strong time management and minimal need for oversight

• You communicate clearly and are comfortable asking critical questions

• You are comfortable with standard computer tools and data management systems

• Familiarity with data annotation tools or similar software and data formats such as CSV, JSON, and XML

• Prior experience with detail-oriented data work, QA, or repetitive precision tasks

Training you will receive in the role:

• Annotation Tools - Training on internal software to efficiently label large datasets

• Data Management - Training on data management practices to organize and maintain accurate, high-quality datasets

• Quality Control - Training on QC methods to ensure data meets accuracy and consistency standards

• Machine Learning Concepts - For interested candidates, an introduction to the basics of machine learning concepts and how annotation supports model training

Physical Requirements:

• Computer Use: Typing, mouse work, and sitting and looking at a computer potentially for long periods of time

• Hand Use: Regular hand use for various tasks

• Hearing Requirements: Ability to hear alarms, signals, and verbal instructions

• Lifting and Carrying: Ability to routinely lift, carry, and move materials up to 40 pounds

• Sitting: Ability to sit for extended periods of time

• Sitting or Standing: Ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time

• Vision: Using vision aiding devices, as well as sitting in dark or dimly lit rooms with soft desk lighting

Hourly Range:

The hourly range for this position is $25 - $30. Actual compensation in this range will be based on a variety of non-discriminatory factors, including location, job level, prior experience, and skill set.

Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States.

Collectors uses e-Verify to validate your ability to work legally in the United States.

We are aware that there are instances where individuals are receiving job offers that fraudulently allege to be from Collectors or one of our business units. This type of fraud can be carried out through false websites, through fake e-mails claiming to be from the company or through social media. We never ask for personal information such as your bank account, Social Security numbers or National IDs, nor do we send or request payments for the purchase of business-related equipment. If you suspect fraud, please reach out to people@collectors.com.

We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ethnicity, ancestry, religion, national origin, gender, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital or parental status, disability, veteran status, or other class protected by applicable law. We believe that a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills will better service the diverse community of collectors we support.

If you require an accommodation to apply or interview with us due to a disability or special need, please email people@collectors.com.

U.S. residents: for disclosures relating to personal information we collect during the employment application and recruitment process, please see our Privacy Notice for U.S. Applicants.

If you are based in California, you can read information for California residents here.