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$25-$30/hr - Data Collection Operator

  • On-site
    • Santa Clara, California, United States
  • $25 - $30 per hour
  • Operations

Job description

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You can text us to schedule a quick 10-minute info call and speak with someone from our team before applying.

This is not a formal interview — just a chance to ask questions and learn about next steps.

Text: (916) 866-7932

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About the Role

Ami Arroyo Recruiting is connecting hands-on, technically curious professionals with an opportunity to help our client advance AI-powered robotics through real-world robot operation and data collection.

As a Robotics Data Collection Operator, you'll operate robotic systems using specialized equipment, guide robots through physical movements and manipulation tasks, and capture high-quality demonstration data used to train AI models. This is an active, onsite position in Santa Clara, California, where physical coordination, technical troubleshooting, and attention to detail are essential.

You'll collaborate directly with robotics, AI, perception, and controls engineers, sharing operational issues, data-quality observations, and practical feedback to improve robot performance and refine data collection workflows.

Core Attributes

  • Hands-On Technical Instincts: You enjoy operating physical equipment, understanding how systems work, and resolving problems as they arise.

  • Physical Coordination & Spatial Awareness: You perform precise movements and equipment-based tasks with control, consistency, and awareness of your surroundings.

  • Troubleshooting Mindset: You investigate hardware or software issues methodically and communicate useful findings.

  • Precision & Data Integrity: You maintain accuracy while performing repetitive tasks, collecting information, and validating results.

  • Adaptability & Learning Agility: You quickly master new tools, physical procedures, and evolving technical workflows.

  • Operational Stamina: You sustain focus, coordination, and productivity during extended periods of standing, walking, and equipment operation.

  • Collaborative Communication: You respond constructively to feedback and share observations clearly with engineering and operations teammates.

Responsibilities

  • Operate robotic systems using specialized data collection equipment to capture motion and behavioral data.

  • Guide robots through designated movements, manipulation tasks, and operational workflows to generate demonstrations for AI model training.

  • Perform precise, repeatable physical operations while maintaining high standards for data quality.

  • Upload, validate, label or organize collected data as required by established workflows.

  • Perform robot startup, calibration, readiness checks, and shutdown procedures.

  • Identify and troubleshoot basic hardware, software, and operational issues during robot operation.

  • Document and communicate equipment problems, unexpected behaviors, and data-quality concerns.

  • Collaborate with AI, perception, and controls engineers to improve robot operation and data collection processes.

  • Adapt to changes in operational procedures, technical tools, and demonstration requirements.

  • Follow established safety procedures and maintain a clean, organized, and efficient work environment.

Qualifications for Success

Minimum Requirements:

  • Excellent physical coordination, spatial awareness, and attention to detail.

  • Hands-on experience with technical equipment, machinery, robotics, manufacturing systems, or comparable physical operations.

  • Basic hardware and software troubleshooting skills, including the ability to diagnose and communicate operational problems.

  • Ability to stand, walk, and operate equipment for 8+ hours per day while maintaining attention and accuracy.

  • Ability to learn new physical tasks, equipment, software tools, and technical procedures efficiently.

  • Strong problem-solving skills and adaptability in a changing, hands-on environment.

  • Ability to collaborate with technical teams, accept feedback, and follow detailed instructions.

  • Availability for the required evening shift and fully onsite work in Santa Clara, California.

A college degree is not required. Relevant hands-on experience and demonstrated technical aptitude are prioritized.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience operating robots, teleoperation systems, humanoid robots, or robotic manipulators.

  • Familiarity with virtual reality (VR) interfaces, haptic devices, or motion-tracking systems.

  • Exposure to robotic control systems, motion capture, or demonstration-based data collection.

  • Experience in manufacturing, equipment operations, warehouse automation, technical quality assurance, or related environments.

  • Experience maintaining accurate operational records or validating technical data.

  • Flexibility to work weekends when needed.

  • Interest in robotics, AI, and emerging automation technologies.

Compensation & Benefits

  • Pay: $25.00–$30.00 per hour.

  • Employment Type: Full-time, W-2 contract.

  • Hours: 40 hours per week.

  • Contract Duration: Ongoing.

Working Environment

  • Location: Santa Clara, California.

  • Work Arrangement: 100% onsite.

  • Schedule: Monday–Friday, evening shift.

  • Shift Options: 3:00 PM–11:00 PM or 4:00 PM–12:00 AM Pacific Time.

  • Weekend Availability: Preferred; flexibility is a plus.

  • Physical Requirements: Extended standing, walking, precise movements, and equipment operation for 8+ hours per day.

This is a physical, technically focused role requiring consistent attention to safety, equipment operation, and data accuracy.

About Our Client

Our client designs, builds, and deploys intelligent robotic systems for logistics and manufacturing applications. Its work combines artificial intelligence, robotics research, and real-world engineering to develop automation for industrial environments. The team brings together engineers, researchers, and operators to build, test, and improve robotic systems that perform complex physical tasks. This opportunity provides hands-on involvement in collecting the operational data used to develop and refine those systems.

Our Commitment to You

Ami Arroyo Recruiting is a specialized recruiting partner focused on autonomous vehicles and physical AI. We support the operational ecosystem that makes this technology real—vehicle operations, safety, fleet and field teams, technicians and mechanics, learning and development, customer support, and the behind-the-scenes HR and operations roles that keep programs running. We connect talented people with high-impact work—and we keep the process human, clear, and candidate-centered.

Put your technical instincts, coordination, and curiosity to work helping train the next generation of intelligent robots—connect with our recruiting team today!

Equal Opportunity and Work Eligibility

We embrace diversity and are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration without regard to protected status. While we are not able to sponsor visas at this time, we welcome every candidate eligible to work in the United States to connect with us.

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