Role Spotlight
Data Annotation Jobs
Labeling the data that trains AI is the most accessible remote AI job there is. No experience needed to start, and live openings are below.
What data annotation work is
Data annotation is labeling raw data so machines can learn from it. You might draw a box around every car in a photo, tag the sentiment of a review, or transcribe a clip of speech. Each label teaches the model what things are, and consistent, accurate labeling is exactly what buyers pay for.
It is the classic entry point into AI work because it screens for care and consistency rather than a background. Do it well and you build a track record that opens higher-paid evaluation work.
What data annotation jobs pay
Annotation sits at the accessible end of AI pay, with rates rising for specialized data.
| Type | What you label | Common pay |
|---|---|---|
| Image and text | Boxes, tags, classification | $15-$25/hr |
| Audio and video | Transcription, frame tracking | $18-$35/hr |
| Specialized | Medical, legal, code, multilingual | $35-$60/hr |
For the full picture, read our data annotation guide or estimate earnings with the pay calculator.
Who data annotation suits
Annotation is built for beginners and anyone who wants a low-barrier start.
- Beginners with no experience who work carefully
- People who want flexible, async, work-from-anywhere tasks
- Those with a language or technical skill for specialized, higher-paid labeling
- Anyone wanting a first step toward better-paid AI evaluation
Live Data Annotation roles, updated weekly
These listings come straight from the current board, so you only ever see roles that are open right now. Each links directly to the platform where you apply.
Browse live data annotation roles →Frequently Asked Questions
What is a data annotation job?
It is labeling raw data, such as drawing boxes on images, tagging text, or transcribing audio, so AI models can learn from clear examples. Accuracy and consistency are what matter most.
Do data annotation jobs require experience?
No. Entry-level image, text, and audio labeling is designed for careful beginners. Specialized data like medical or code labeling pays more and rewards relevant knowledge.
How much do data annotation jobs pay?
Image and text labeling typically pays $15 to $25 an hour, audio and video $18 to $35, and specialized labeling $35 to $60, depending on the data and your skills.
Can data annotation lead to better-paid work?
Yes. A strong annotation record is the most common on-ramp to AI evaluation and RLHF work, which pay considerably more.
What is the starting pay for Data Annotation work?
Entry level is image and text at $15-$25/hr, covering boxes, tags, classification. Rates rise with experience and specialization, reaching $35-$60/hr for specialized.
How do I earn the top rate in Data Annotation work?
The top band, $35-$60/hr, goes to specialized: medical, legal, code, multilingual. Building a strong quality record and specializing in that area is what moves you up from the entry band.
Where can I find Data Annotation roles right now?
Live Data Annotation openings are aggregated on the NeonLabs Hub job board, filtered to this category. Each listing links directly to the platform where you apply, and applying is always free.
Are data Annotation Jobs legit, and do they actually pay?
Yes. Every listing here routes to a named, vetted marketplace that pays for hours or tasks you actually complete. The honest caveat: pay is set per project and per contributor, so the $15 to $60 an hour range reflects real listings rather than a promise. No legitimate platform charges you to start, so treat any upfront fee as a red flag.
Do you need a degree or prior experience for data Annotation Jobs?
Not for the entry tier. Generalist evaluation work rewards careful judgment and clear writing more than credentials, so beginners with no experience are regularly accepted. A degree or professional background does matter for the specialist tiers, which is where the upper end of the $15 to $60 an hour range sits.
How and how often do data Annotation Jobs pay?
Most platforms pay weekly or per completed project, usually through PayPal, Wise, or direct deposit. You are paid for hours or tasks you complete, and work is 1099 contract, so set aside part of each payout for self-employment tax.