For cash compensation, we set standard ranges for all U.S.-based roles based on function, level, and geographic location, benchmarked against similar stage growth companies. In order to be compliant with local legislation, as well as to provide greater transparency to candidates, we share salary ranges on all job postings regardless of desired hiring location. Final offer amounts are determined by multiple factors, including geographic location as well as candidate experience and expertise, and may vary from the amounts listed above.

About Handshake AI

Handshake is building the career network for the AI economy. Our three-sided marketplace connects 18 million students and alumni, 1,500+ academic institutions across the U.S. and Europe, and 1 million employers to power how the next generation explores careers, builds skills, and gets hired.

Handshake AI is a human data labeling business that leverages the scale of the largest early career network. We work directly with the world’s leading AI research labs to build a new generation of human data products. From PhDs in physics to undergrads fluent in LLMs, Handshake AI is the trusted partner for domain-specific data and evaluation at scale.

This is a unique opportunity to join a fast-growing team shaping the future of AI through better data, better tools, and better systems—for experts, by experts.

What sets us apart is that we are the first company to recognize India’s critical role in building out frontier AI models at scale and our team reflects this global-first, future-forward approach.

You’ll be joining a group of operators and strategists who have spent years at the forefront of the human data industry, working with some of the brightest minds in AI research and development.

About the Role

Handshake is expanding into AI research and development, building a world-class network of expert Fellows - PhDs, researchers, and subject matter specialists - who contribute to cutting-edge AI through specialized research, model evaluation, and domain-specific applications. We’re looking for a Strategic Projects Lead to drive high-impact initiatives, working across product, operations, and customer engagement to scale and optimize our expert workforce.

This is a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in a fast-growing space, working directly with leading AI labs and tech companies to deliver high-quality data solutions. You will work cross-functionally to execute large-scale projects, improve internal processes, and drive revenue growth by ensuring a seamless experience for both customers and Fellows.

• This position is located in Bangalore, India and is 5 days in office

• Develop and implement operational strategies to recruit, manage, and deploy high-skill talent (PhDs, domain experts) across AI data projects.

• Own and drive large-scale projects for AI labs and tech companies, ensuring exceptional execution and customer satisfaction.

• Partner with product and engineering teams to optimize and enhance our workforce platform for scalability and efficiency.

• Manage customer relationships, understanding their evolving needs and expanding project scope where possible.

• Provide regular progress updates and strategic insights to Handshake’s leadership team to refine our long-term data strategy.

• Identify opportunities for process automation and workflow improvements to increase efficiency in expert recruitment and deployment.

• Lead cross-functional projects, collaborating with Engineering, Operations, and Go-to-Market teams to execute high-priority initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• 4+ years of experience in a generalist or operational role, such as strategy & operations, product, management consulting, finance, or startups.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with experience tackling operational and scaling challenges.

• Strong sense of ownership and pride in their work

• Entrepreneurial mindset - comfortable with ambiguity, self-directed, and excited to build and iterate quickly.

• Ability to learn complex concepts rather quickly, bonus points for learning technical concepts

• High degree of agency - ideal candidate can thrive in ambiguity

• Analytical mindset with comfort using spreadsheets (Excel/Google Sheets) and project management tools (Notion, Asana, Jira, etc.).

• Thoughtful about making decisions - doesn’t jump to conclusions without considering all potential variables/curve balls

• Clear communicator with excellent written and verbal English.

• Passionate about / interested in AI (super user of LLMs, up-to-date on latest AI trends)

• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and driven to deliver outcomes rather than just complete tasks.

Desired Capabilities

• Technical background (CS degree or proficiency in SQL/Python for analytics).

• Experience in AI, ML, or data operations, particularly in workforce management, data labeling, or model evaluation.

• Previous experience in a high-growth startup or an AI-focused company.

You’ll Thrive Here If You:

• Are motivated by solving operational problems that have direct, measurable impact.

• Want to be part of a company shaping the future of AI through human data.

• Can navigate ambiguity, act with urgency, and keep multiple workstreams moving in parallel.

• Are ambitious and looking for a stepping stone into leadership roles in operations or client strategy

Perks

• Generous Equity Grant vested over 4 years

• Housing Bonus: 1.3 Lakhs spread throughout the first year

• Well Defined Performance Bonus ranging between 10 - 100% of base

• Medical Insurance Coverage

• Food credit for every in person day

Compensation Range: ₹25L - ₹35L