Technical Specialist, ML Data (Machine Learning Data)

TL;DR

Technical Specialist, ML Data (Machine Learning Data): Own and drive end-to-end ML data programs for training and evaluation of models powering the Waymo Driver, with an accent on labeling policy definition, data lifecycle orchestration, and scalable data pipelines. Focus on designing evals & metrics, translating ambiguous ML quality issues into precise annotation taxonomies, and leading cross-functional alignment to maximize ROI from labeling.

Location: On Site — Mountain View, California

Salary: $159,000—$202,000 USD

Company

Waymo builds autonomous driving technology and operates a fully autonomous ride-hail service powered by the Waymo Driver.

What you will do

• Drive the ML data lifecycle (“ML flywheel”) from mining and curation through labeling policy definition, validation, and model evaluation.
• Translate labeling and quality policies into scalable annotation policies and data taxonomies for complex autonomous driving domains (e.g., behavior prediction and long-tail edge cases).
• Design and implement ML evaluation frameworks and data-level metrics to track model performance drivers.
• Lead cross-functional coordination by producing analytical write-ups, dashboards, and data visualizations for technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Influence data selection strategies such as active learning and hard-mining to maximize ROI from labeling.

Requirements

• 8+ years of experience in data analysis, including trend identification, summary statistics, and insights from quantitative and qualitative data.
• Deep understanding of the ML data lifecycle: labeling, taxonomy design, quality control, and data curation.
• Experience with the ML data flywheel and working understanding of the ML development lifecycle (model evaluation, data processing, debugging, fine-tuning, and related steps).
• Experience leading and managing complex cross-organization programs, including ML data annotation or human-in-the-loop initiatives.
• Strong ability to operate in ambiguous, fast-changing environments and quickly learn new concepts and proprietary tools.
• Strong understanding of driving rules and regulations.

Culture & Benefits

• Discretionary annual bonus program and equity incentive plan eligibility (subject to eligibility requirements).
• Generous company benefits program (subject to eligibility requirements).
• High-impact role focused on turning ambiguous data needs into scalable solutions.

Hiring process

• Recruiter shares the specific salary range for the role location (and remote option if applicable) during the hiring process.