Appen
AI training data platform where contractors annotate, transcribe and evaluate data for machine learning models.
Appen is an Australian company that supplies training data for AI models to major tech firms. Contractors work on projects such as search relevance evaluation, speech transcription, image annotation and chatbot testing. Projects are typically longer-term than microtask sites, lasting weeks or months.
How Appen works for contractors
Workers apply for specific projects listed on the Appen Connect portal. Each project has its own qualification test, pay rate and hourly commitment. Once accepted, contractors complete work in Appen's annotation tools and submit hours for weekly or monthly payment.
Pay structure and project types
Rates vary by project and country, typically $3–$20 per hour. US-based search evaluation projects often pay $13–$15 per hour, while simpler annotation tasks pay less. Payment is monthly via PayPal or Payoneer. Because Appen contracts with large tech clients, project availability can be cyclical.
Tips for getting hired on Appen
- Apply to multiple projects at once; acceptance can take weeks
- Read the project guidelines carefully before the qualification test
- Track your hours meticulously; Appen pays only for approved time
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