Data Operations Lead

About the role

ABOUT HAPPYROBOT

HappyRobot is the infrastructure for enterprises to build and orchestrate AI workforces. Our AI workers don't just communicate through voice and email - they make decisions, take action, and run operations autonomously across entire enterprise systems. Born in Y Combinator (S23) and backed by a16z, Base10, Prysm Capital and Eurazeo with over $150M 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. https://www.happyrobot.ai/blog/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?

- Join a world-class team of engineers and builders.

- Backed by top investors including a16z, Y Combinator, Base10, Prysm Capital and Eurazeo.

- Have ownership and autonomy of projects and are encouraged to ship.

- Comprehensive Benefits including healthcare, dental, vision coverage.

- Competitive salary + equity in a high-growth startup.

OUR OPERATING PRINCIPLES

Extreme Ownership

We take full responsibility for our work and outcomes. No excuses, no blame-shifting. If something needs fixing, we own it.

Craftsmanship

We sweat the details because details compound. We never settle for "just fine" — whether it's a scoping document, a prototype demo, or a customer conversation.

We are "Majos"

Be a good human. Friendly, genuine, kind. We're building something ambitious and it's better when we enjoy it together.

Urgency with Focus

Move fast, but in the right direction. Prioritize ruthlessly. Act decisively. Aim for the highest leverage action.

Talent Density and Meritocracy

Every hire raises the bar. Ability over seniority. Ownership goes to those who earn it.

First-Principles Thinking

Strip problems to their fundamentals, ignore industry dogma, and rebuild from scratch when needed. It's how we build what others think is impossible.

The personal data provided in your application and during the selection process will be processed by Happyrobot, Inc., acting as Data Controller.

By sending us your CV, you consent to the processing of your personal data for the purpose of evaluating and selecting you as a candidate for the position. Your personal data will be treated confidentially and will only be used for the recruitment process of the selected job offer.

In relation to the period of conservation of your personal data, these will be eliminated after three months of inactivity in compliance with the GDPR and legislation on the protection of personal data.

If you wish to exercise your rights of access, rectification, deletion, portability or opposition in relation to your personal data, you can do so through security@happyrobot.ai subject to the GDPR.

For more information, visit https://www.happyrobot.ai/privacy-policy https://www.happyrobot.ai/privacy-policy

By submitting your request, you confirm that you have read and understood this clause and that you agree to the processing of your personal data as described.