Role Overview
The Data Operations position at Thinking Machines in San Francisco is a hands-on role focused on helping researchers secure the necessary data to train and evaluate advanced models. This position suits individuals who thrive in fast-moving environments and enjoy turning open-ended research requests into structured, actionable delivery plans.
Key Responsibilities
Collaborate directly with researchers to identify data requirements and translate loose needs into concrete operational plans.
Take full ownership of data projects from initial sourcing and vendor selection to final quality review and delivery.
Identify, vet, and partner with the best data vendors, industry experts, and unusual data sources across various domains.
Establish and nurture robust partnerships with data vendors, including international partners and cross-border operations.
Inspect data quality alongside researchers and vendors to spot issues and continuously improve output.
Dive deep into new data domains quickly to understand high-quality standards.
Create clear guidelines, efficient processes, and scalable tools for recurring operational tasks.
Implement automation for repetitive tasks while retaining hands-on judgment where necessary.
Collaborate with legal and other internal teams to manage vendor relationships and communication guidelines effectively.
Balance multiple projects against strict research timelines and adapt seamlessly to shifting priorities.
Requirements
Demonstrated background in owning operational, data, product, program, or vendor tasks from inception to completion.
Prior experience collaborating with data vendors, preferably within the technology or AI sectors.
Strong analytical problem-solving instincts with the capability to investigate solutions when clear answers are absent.
Proven capacity to partner with technical teams and researchers while converting vague requirements into action.
Excellent judgment regarding quality standards and a willingness to thoroughly inspect work.
Clear communication skills suitable for diverse teams, vendors, and cross-cultural environments.
High comfort level with ambiguity, changing schedules, and tight deadlines.
Strong personal initiative and readiness to handle any task required to advance the work.
Ability to introduce practical structure without creating unnecessary complexity.
Nice to Have
Practical exposure to AI data types such as pre-training, post-training, evaluation, or annotation.
Pre-existing professional connections with a varied group of AI or technology data vendors.
Background working inside an AI business, data enterprise, marketplace, or rapid technology firm.
Experience collaborating with international vendors alongside handling cross-border compliance matters.
Generalist, operations, product, or program experience in environments requiring spontaneous process building.
History of constructing simple automation or internal tooling to cut down manual operational tasks.
Skills and Tools
Data sourcing and vendor management
Process building and workflow structuring
Cross-functional and international communication
Quality assurance and data review
Basic automation and tooling creation
Salary and Benefits
Annual salary range of $300,000 to $350,000 depending on background, skills, and experience
Visa sponsorship available for qualified candidates
Generous health, dental, and vision insurance coverage
Unlimited paid time off (PTO)
Paid parental leave
Relocation support provided as needed
About the Company
Thinking Machines works to build artificial intelligence that extends human will and judgment. The organization trains frontier models using Inkling, creates Tinker to help individuals personalize models, and designs interfaces that enhance human-AI communication.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should visit the official Thinking Machines careers page to submit an application for this opportunity.
