Director, Software Engineering, Machine Learning -Data Curation & Annotation

LinkedIn • Sunnyvale, CA

30d • $226,000 - $369,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

This role will be based in Sunnyvale, CA. At LinkedIn, our approach to flexible work is centered on trust and optimized for culture, connection, clarity, and the evolving needs of our business. The work location of this role is hybrid, meaning it will be performed both from home and from a LinkedIn office on select days, as determined by the business needs of the team. Do you thrive in a fast-paced and dynamic environment where you can leverage the latest technologies and methodologies to improve efficiency and quality in data curation, annotation and operations? We’re seeking an exceptional Director of Data Curation and Annotation to lead our talented team of data professionals. At LinkedIn, our Core AI organization stands as the innovation epicenter, addressing the fundamental AI challenges and the force behind LinkedIn's next-generation AI-driven member experiences. Our mission spans across the entire marketplace, leveraging our expertise in data curation, algorithm development, and robust infrastructure to spearhead AI innovations. We are dedicated to creating a transformative impact on all LinkedIn products, establishing the platform as a leader in the AI realm. In this role, you will be a core member of LinkedIn’s Core AI team and will partner closely with other verticals in Data and AI organization and other Product teams. You’ll be driving and managing all data curation and annotation efforts across LinkedIn. You’ll be at the forefront of transforming how we curate and annotate data, leveraging cutting-edge AI technologies to enhance our processes. You will oversee the development and improvement of the tools and platforms that support these activities. Success in this role hinges on building strong partnerships. You’ll work closely with teams across the company, ensuring their data requirements are met swiftly and effectively. Your vision, leadership, and strategic mindset will be critical as we push the boundaries of what’s possible. As the Director, you’ll oversee a diverse group of nearly 40 individuals across various functions, including AI linguists, program managers, software engineers, AI engineers, engineering managers, and linguist managers in addition to tens of contractors. You’ll collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, understanding their unique data needs and priorities. Beyond managing existing data operations, you’ll spearhead our transformation journey. We’re committed to making data annotation more efficient using AI techniques. Your expertise will be instrumental in streamlining processes, optimizing workflows, and implementing best practices. Get ready to challenge the status quo and elevate our capabilities.

Requirements

• Master’s or PhD degree in information science, library science, linguistics, cognitive science, computer science, or a related field, or equivalent work experience.
• 5+ years of experience in leading and managing teams and projects.

Nice To Haves

• ML expertise (build and serve models), building GAI products, RL is a plus
• Platform expertise, data and system infrastructure at scale
• Experience with Python or Java
• Experience with LLM evaluations and annotations is a plus
• Startup mindset, zero to one product builder, system thinker
• Ability to communicate, inspire teams, leadership and executive presence
• Demonstrated ability to lead, coach, and grow a diverse team of senior managers, linguists, and engineers. Fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, and innovation.
• Experience in leading or working with remote or distributed teams and contractors.
• Deep understanding of data curation and annotation principles, methodologies, and standards.
• Curiosity about the latest trends in natural language processing, machine learning, and artificial intelligence, and their application to data curation and annotation.
• Demonstrated success in delivering complex and large-scale data annotation projects, preferably in the context of AI solutions and applications.
• Ability to navigate diverse processes, tools, and stakeholders seamlessly.
• Ability to think strategically, creatively, and proactively, making sound decisions based on data and analysis even under uncertainty.
• Strong ability to communicate complex information clearly and persuasively, both verbally and in writing.
• Sense of ownership, user-centric decision-making, and effective prioritization.
• Ability to adapt, learn, and thrive in a rapidly changing environment.
• Experience with remote or distributed teams and contractors.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage multiple managers across functions, overseeing data annotation projects in diverse domains.
• Develop and align data annotation strategy, best practices, and roadmaps with internal and external stakeholders.
• Innovate by adopting new tools, platforms, and techniques (e.g., automation, crowdsourcing, active learning).
• Ensure data sets’ quality, consistency, accuracy, and compliance with security and privacy standards.
• Establish KPIs, track metrics, and provide regular reports to senior management and relevant parties.
• Identify and resolve issues, implementing corrective actions for successful project delivery.
• Build and motivate a high-performing, diverse team through coaching, mentorship, and development.
• Attract, hire, and retain top talent, ensuring resource allocation for organizational needs.
• Foster collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement across the organization.

Benefits

• We strongly believe in the well-being of our employees and their families. That is why we offer generous health and wellness programs and time away for employees of all levels.
• LinkedIn is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices.
• The pay range for this role is $226,000 to $369,000. Actual compensation packages are based on several factors that are unique to each candidate, including but not limited to skill set, depth of experience, certifications, and specific work location. This may be different in other locations due to differences in the cost of labor.
• The total compensation package for this position may also include annual performance bonus, stock, benefits and/or other applicable incentive compensation plans.
• For more information, visit https://careers.linkedin.com/benefits.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director