AI Data Annotation Lead

MCI; United States; On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

MCI is seeking an experienced AI Data Annotation Lead to oversee annotation operations that support the development and training of AI and machine learning models. In this role, you will lead annotation teams, manage workflows, and ensure quality standards are met.

The ideal candidate will have strong leadership skills, extensive experience in data annotation or quality assurance, and a passion for AI development.

Qualifications

• Minimum 4 years of experience in data annotation or related fields.
• Strong understanding of annotation methodologies.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead data annotation activities that support AI development.
• Manage annotation workflows and production targets.
• Ensure project timelines and quality standards are achieved.

Skills

Team leadership

Operational performance management

Quality assurance

Data annotation methodologies

Analytical abilities

Project management

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Information Systems, Data Science, Business, or related

Tools

Annotation platforms

Reporting tools

Job description

We are seeking an experienced AI Data Annotation Lead to oversee annotation operations that support the development and training of AI and machine learning models. This role is responsible for leading annotation teams, ensuring quality standards are met, and driving operational excellence across data preparation initiatives.

The successful candidate will combine strong people leadership skills with a passion for data quality and AI development.

Key Responsibilities

Annotation Operations Management

• Lead data annotation activities that support AI development.
• Manage annotation workflows and production targets.
• Allocate work and resources across annotation projects.
• Ensure project timelines and quality standards are achieved.
• Monitor team productivity and operational performance.

Quality Assurance & Data Integrity

• Maintain high standards across all annotation activities.
• Develop and enforce annotation guidelines.
• Conduct quality reviews and audits.
• Address quality concerns and implement corrective actions.
• Ensure consistency across annotation teams.

Team Leadership & Development

• Build and support high‑performing annotation teams.
• Coach, mentor, and develop annotation specialists.
• Conduct performance management activities.
• Support recruitment and onboarding initiatives.
• Foster a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.

Stakeholder Collaboration

• Partner with technical and operational teams.
• Work closely with AI engineers, trainers, and product teams.
• Translate project requirements into operational plans.
• Communicate progress and challenges to stakeholders.
• Support cross‑functional AI initiatives.

Process Improvement & Innovation

• Drive operational excellence across annotation programs.
• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency and quality.
• Implement process improvements and automation opportunities.
• Support new tool adoption and operational enhancements.
• Contribute to AI data strategy initiatives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Information Systems, Data Science, Business, Operations Management, Communications, or a related field.
• Minimum 4 years of experience in data annotation, content operations, quality assurance, or related fields.
• Minimum 2 years of leadership or supervisory experience.
• Strong understanding of annotation methodologies and quality standards.
• Experience managing operational performance metrics.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities.
• Ability to lead and develop teams.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience working with structured processes and operational controls.
• Proficiency in reporting and productivity tools.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.

Nice to Have

• Experience supporting AI or machine learning initiatives.
• Knowledge of NLP and Generative AI technologies.
• Experience with annotation platforms and tools.
• Experience within technology, BPO, or shared services environments.
• Familiarity with Agile methodologies.
• Understanding of AI governance frameworks.
• Experience implementing operational improvements.
• Exposure to workforce management practices.

Job Environment

This job operates in a professional office environment. Employees will be largely sedentary and required to sit/stand for long periods while using a computer and telephone headset. Regular use of a computer and other office equipment, including a phone, copier, and printer, is required. Occasional movement around the office to accomplish tasks, reach in any direction, raise or lower objects, and move objects up to forty (40) pounds may also be required.

Location and Requirements

• Must be authorized to work in the country where the job is based.
• Must be willing to submit up to a LEVEL II background and/or security investigation with a fingerprint.
• Must be willing to submit to drug screening.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), it is the policy of MCI and its affiliates to provide reasonable accommodations when requested by a qualified applicant or employee with a disability unless such accommodations would cause undue hardship. The policy regarding requests for reasonable accommodation applies to all aspects of employment. If reasonable accommodations are needed, please contact Human Resources. MCI embraces differences and believes diversity is a benefit to our employees, our company, our customers, and our community. All aspects of employment at MCI are based solely on a person's merit and qualifications. MCI maintains a work environment free from discrimination, one where employees are treated with dignity and respect. All employees share in the responsibility for fulfilling MCI’s commitment to a diverse and equal opportunity work environment. MCI does not discriminate against any employee or applicant on the basis of age, ancestry, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran status, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations, and ordinances. MCI will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with local and federal requirements. MCI will not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of these characteristics.