Strategic Projects Lead

Location: San Francisco, CA
Work Model: Onsite (5 days in office, with additional weekend availability as needed)
Industry: AI / Human Data / Data Operations
Compensation: Base salary range of $120,000–$200,000, plus meaningful performance-based bonus and equity upside

About the Company

Our partner is one of the fastest-growing companies in the AI ecosystem, operating at the intersection of human expertise and frontier model development. Their team works directly with leading AI organizations to build, evaluate, and scale high-quality human data that improves model performance in real-world, high-stakes use cases. They offer a fast-paced, high-ownership environment for candidates who want to work close to the frontier of AI and help build the operational systems behind that growth.

The Opportunity

Our partner is hiring a Strategic Project Lead (SPL) to own the delivery of complex human data projects from end to end. This is a highly operational role focused on execution, problem-solving, and stakeholder management. You will be responsible for managing expert talent networks, maintaining delivery quality, solving workflow issues in real time, and partnering closely with internal teams and external stakeholders to ensure projects are completed accurately and on schedule.

This opportunity is ideal for candidates who thrive in demanding, fast-moving environments and want meaningful ownership early in their careers. Rather than working on strategy from a distance, you will be directly responsible for making systems run, resolving bottlenecks, and driving outcomes that support the development of cutting-edge AI systems.

Responsibilities

• Own end-to-end execution of human data projects, from launch through delivery
• Manage project workflows, timelines, quality standards, and cross-functional coordination
• Work with networks of domain experts to ensure strong project execution and output quality
• Identify operational bottlenecks and implement process improvements in real time
• Communicate clearly with internal stakeholders and external partners on project status, risks, and next steps
• Use data and judgment to improve throughput, quality, and efficiency across projects
• Contribute to building scalable systems and operating processes as the team grows

Requirements

• 0–10 years of experience in a high-performance environment such as consulting, investment banking, startups, operations, or technical roles
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to break down ambiguous problems into actionable plans
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate clearly with senior stakeholders
• Demonstrated ownership mindset and ability to operate effectively under pressure and tight timelines
• Interest in hands-on, execution-oriented work rather than purely strategic or advisory responsibilities
• Willingness to work onsite in San Francisco and contribute in a high-intensity, fast-paced environment
• Authorization to work in the United States without current or future employer sponsorship