Technical Lead QA (Project Lead & Quality Expert)

Job Title: Technical Lead QA (Project Lead & Quality Expert)

Location: Playa Vista, Los Angeles, CA (Onsite)

Client: Google/ Cognizant

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced Technical Lead QA / Project Lead & Quality Expert (PLQE) to lead quality assurance and data collection operations for AI/ML training projects. The ideal candidate will have 6–8 years of experience in QA, project leadership, or data collection operations, with proven experience mentoring teams, managing stakeholders, and ensuring high-quality project execution. This role requires strong leadership, technical aptitude, and the ability to oversee end-to-end data collection projects while maintaining compliance with client quality standards.

Key Responsibilities

Lead end-to-end data collection projects, ensuring quality, compliance, and timely delivery.

Supervise project setup, implementation, execution, and quality control activities.

Perform quality audits on at least 10% of completed data collections and provide actionable feedback.

Mentor, coach, and support project associates to achieve performance and quality goals.

Track project metrics, analyze trends, and prepare reports for Weekly Reviews, MBRs, and QBRs.

Coordinate with stakeholders to understand project requirements and resolve operational challenges.

Manage project artifacts, reporting, bug triaging, and documentation.

Oversee device setup, inventory, tracking, shipping, firmware deployment, and maintenance.

Conduct quality evaluations, data collection sessions, and client demonstrations.

Identify risks, resolve blockers proactively, and drive continuous process improvements.

Cross-train new team members and ensure adherence to project protocols and compliance standards.

Maintain effective communication with clients and internal teams throughout the project lifecycle.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree required; Master's or Ph.D. preferred.

6–8 years of experience in QA, project leadership, data collection operations, or a similar technical environment.

Prior experience leading or mentoring teams in a Team Lead or Acting Team Lead capacity.

Strong understanding of quality assurance processes, audits, and operational reporting.

Experience with firmware deployment, system rollbacks, and device management.

Comfortable working in Linux/Unix shell environments and executing command-line operations.

Experience reviewing and validating technical documentation or product datasheets.

Proficiency with Google Workspace (Sheets, Docs, Slides).

Excellent analytical, problem-solving, communication, and organizational skills.

Ability to multitask, manage priorities, and work effectively under tight deadlines.

Flexible to work across shifts and adapt to changing business requirements.

Strong attention to detail with a proven track record of maintaining high-quality standards.

No attendance or compliance issues.

Preferred Skills

Experience supporting AI/ML data collection or annotation projects.

Knowledge of quality metrics, process improvement methodologies, and stakeholder management.

Experience managing cross-functional teams and client-facing projects.

Strong decision-making, critical thinking, and leadership abilities.