Data Acquisition Associate

About Abaka AI Abaka AI is built on one mission: to be the world’s most trusted data partner for AI companies. More than 1,000 industry leaders across Generative AI, Embodied AI, and Automotive AI rely on us to power their data pipelines. With our headquarters in Silicon Valley—and teams in Paris, Singapore, and Tokyo—we support global partners with fast, reliable, and scalable data solutions. Our offerings include a diverse catalog of off-the-shelf datasets—including image, video, multimodal, reasoning, and 3D data—as well as comprehensive data collection and annotation services. Whether teams need raw data, curated datasets, or full-cycle data engineering, Abaka AI provides the foundation for building high-performance AI systems. About the Role We are looking for a Data Acquisition Associate to help expand and manage Abaka AI’s global network of raw data suppliers. You will work closely with our Data Acquisition Engineers to identify new data sources, evaluate prospective suppliers, manage outreach, and support suppliers throughout the onboarding and delivery process. This role combines sourcing, operations, and AI-assisted systems building. Vibe coding is a core part of the job: you will be expected to use AI coding tools to independently build functional scripts, automations, internal tools, and workflows that improve the efficiency of our data acquisition operations. A traditional software engineering background is not required, but hands-on experience building with AI coding tools is mandatory. This is an ideal opportunity for an early-career candidate who is resourceful, technically capable, commercially minded, and excited to build systems from the ground up in a fast-moving AI company. Responsibilities Research and identify potential data suppliers across industries, data modalities, and global markets

Conduct high-volume, targeted outreach to prospective suppliers through email, LinkedIn, online communities, and other channels

Support the evaluation of suppliers based on data quality, relevance, pricing, reliability, licensing, and scalability

Coordinate supplier onboarding, sample collection, documentation, and internal review processes

Maintain accurate supplier records and track outreach, negotiations, deliverables, and performance

Vibe code lightweight scripts, automations, internal tools, and prototypes using AI-assisted development platforms

Use scraping tools, APIs, workflow builders, and AI agents to improve supplier discovery and sourcing efficiency

Build dashboards and reporting workflows to track sourcing activity, supplier performance, and data supply coverage

Assist with supplier communications, pricing discussions, contract coordination, and ongoing relationship management

Work cross-functionally with Data Engineering, Research, Project Management, Legal, Finance, and GTM teams

Identify repetitive processes and build scalable solutions that reduce manual work

Support other data acquisition projects and operational priorities as the function grows

Qualifications Bachelor’s degree or equivalent practical experience

1–3 years of experience in operations, sourcing, business development, data, research, engineering, or a related field

Hands-on experience using AI coding tools such as Cursor, Claude Code, Replit, or similar platforms is required

Demonstrated ability to independently build functional scripts, automations, internal tools, or prototypes through vibe coding

Comfortable working with APIs, web scraping tools, spreadsheets, databases, and workflow automation platforms

Strong research skills and the ability to find information creatively across the internet

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Highly organized and able to manage multiple suppliers, projects, and deadlines simultaneously

Strong sense of ownership and ability to operate independently in an ambiguous environment

Resourceful, persistent, and comfortable conducting outbound outreach

Genuine interest in AI, machine learning, data infrastructure, or emerging technologies

Bias toward action, experimentation, and continuous improvement

Preferred Qualifications Familiarity with Python, SQL, JavaScript, or another scripting language

Experience building a personal project, internal tool, automation, or AI-powered workflow

Experience with automation platforms such as Zapier, Make, Airtable, or similar tools

Familiarity with vendor sourcing, partnerships, sales development, procurement, or marketplace operations

Experience working at a startup or in another fast-paced environment

Additional language proficiency is a plus

Compensation & Benefits The base salary range for this position is $80,000–$110,000 USD annually. Compensation may vary outside this range depending on several factors, including a candidate’s qualifications, skills, competencies, and experience. Base pay is one part of the total package provided to compensate and recognize employees for their work at Abaka AI. This role is eligible for equity and a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision, PTO, and a flexible work schedule.