AI Data Annotation Lead

MCI; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 800,000; Full time

Job summary

MCI is looking for an AI Data Annotation Lead in Gauteng, South Africa, to oversee annotation operations crucial for AI and machine learning development. The ideal candidate will lead teams, ensuring adherence to quality standards and operational excellence across data preparation initiatives.

With a Bachelor's Degree and extensive experience in data annotation or quality assurance, this role will require strong leadership skills and an analytical mindset. Join MCI in a dynamic and impactful work environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required in Information Systems, Data Science, or related field.
• Minimum 4 years of experience in data annotation or quality assurance.
• Minimum 2 years of leadership experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead data annotation activities that support AI development.
• Manage annotation workflows and production targets.
• Maintain high standards across all annotation activities.

Skills

Data quality management

Leadership skills

Analytical abilities

Project management

Stakeholder management

Education

Bachelor's Degree in relevant field

Tools

Reporting tools

Job description

AI Data Annotation Lead

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.

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.

This job operates in a professional office environment. While performing the duties of this job, the employee will be largely sedentary and will be required to sit/stand for long periods while using a computer and telephone headset. The employee will be regularly required to operate a computer and other office equipment, including a phone, copier, and printer. The employee may occasionally be required to move about the office to accomplish tasks; reach in any direction; raise or lower objects, move objects from place to place, hold onto objects, and move or exert force up to forty (40) pounds.

All MCI Locations

• Must be authorized to work in the country where the job is based.

Subject to the program and location of the position

• Must be willing to submit up to a LEVEL II background and/or security investigation with a fingerprint. Job offers are contingent on background/security investigation results.
• Must be willing to submit to drug screening. Job offers are contingent on drug screening results. (Does not apply in Canada)

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.

At MCI and its subsidiaries, we embrace differences and believe 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 for employment 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. We adhere to these principles in all aspects of employment, including recruitment, hiring, training, compensation, promotion, benefits, social and recreational programs, and discipline. In addition, it is the policy of MCI to provide reasonable accommodation to qualified employees who have protected disabilities to the extent required by applicable laws, regulations, and ordinances where an employee works.