Data Operations Lead

About HappyRobot

HappyRobot is the infrastructure for enterprises to build and orchestrate AI workforces. Our AI workers don't just communicate - they make decisions, take action, and run operations autonomously across voice, email, and enterprise systems. Born in Y Combinator (S23) and backed by a16z and Base10 with over $60M raised, we power critical operations for global enterprises worldwide.

Our platform is battle-tested in the most demanding environments - where AI has real consequences. We started in logistics, built our own voice stack, models, and orchestration layer from the ground up, and are now bringing that infrastructure to every enterprise that runs the real economy. Learn more about our vision in our manifesto.

Role Overview

Working hand-in-hand with Engineering, Data Ops tackles two critical challenges: identifying the exact data required to build industry-leading AI audio models, and figuring out how to acquire and scale that data efficiently.

As a key member of this team, you will drive the complete lifecycle of our data collection and annotation efforts. You will act as the vital link between research objectives and daily operations, coordinating both internal teams and external vendors to ensure top-tier datasets are delivered on schedule. Furthermore, you will help expand our operational capacity by upgrading our tools, streamlining workflows, and nurturing a high-performing team of data labelers.

Key Responsibilities

• Translate Research Needs: Convert complex research requirements into clear, actionable data specifications and labeling workflows.
• Manage End-to-End Operations: Oversee the full lifecycle of data acquisition, ensuring datasets are delivered on schedule and meet rigorous quality standards.
• Lead Labeling Teams: Direct both in-house and third-party labeling teams by setting guidelines, prioritizing workflows, implementing robust quality control (QC) processes, and monitoring overall throughput.
• Scale and Optimize: Continuously improve operational tooling and processes while supporting the hiring, training, and development of our growing labeling workforce.

Who You Are

• Detail-Obsessed: Data is all about the details. You excel at collaborating with researchers to craft clear project guidelines and building airtight processes to ensure data meets those standards.
• A Strong Communicator: You possess excellent people skills. You are comfortable interacting with researchers, managing external vendors, delivering constructive feedback, and keeping large labeling teams aligned to hit deadlines.
• Passionate About Audio AI: You are driven by a desire to push the frontiers of new technology and make content universally accessible.
• Highly Motivated & Autonomous: You have a relentless work ethic and operate well without hand-holding. You take initiative from day one, prioritize learning, and leave your ego at the door to help the team lead the evolution of audio AI.
• An Analytical Problem Solver: You tackle complex challenges with a first-principles mindset, consistently striving for excellence and delivering high-quality work efficiently.

Why join us?

• Opportunity to work at a high-growth AI startup, backed by top investors.
• Rapidly growing and backed by top investors including a16z, Y Combinator, and Base10.
• Ownership & Autonomy - Take full ownership of projects and ship fast.
• Top-Tier Compensation - Competitive salary + equity in a high-growth startup.
• Comprehensive Benefits - Healthcare, dental, vision coverage.
• Work With the Best - Join a world-class team of engineers and builders