Uber's AI Training Gig: Short-Lived Opportunities

Uber has recently terminated a group of AI training contractors two months earlier than initially promised. These workers were part of Project Sandbox, a program where Uber provides AI training services to other companies, notably Google.

Workers Left Without Pay

Around a dozen contractors, many with advanced degrees or relevant experience, were informed that their services were no longer required due to a change in client priorities. Uber assured them they would be considered for future opportunities. However, the sudden termination left many workers in a difficult position, especially since they were still awaiting their first paycheck, which Uber stated could take up to seven weeks to process.

Tasks and Pay Structure

The contractors were responsible for:

• Annotating photos and videos
• Evaluating AI-generated responses

Pay rates varied, with some workers earning up to $110 an hour if they consistently worked 40 hours a week. However, they were sometimes asked to work fewer hours, making it challenging to reach the highest pay rate.

Instability in Gig Work

This situation underscores the unstable nature of gig work, particularly in the AI training sector. While Uber has thrived in ride-hailing and delivery services, its AI training arm is still in its early stages. The company recently launched a new program called Digital Tasks, which allows gig workers to train AI. Some of these tasks require advanced degrees, showcasing Uber's expansion beyond driving and delivery.

Workers Recruited Through Staffing Agency

The workers involved in Project Sandbox were recruited through a staffing agency and were promised at least three months of work. They were also provided with company laptops, which they now have to return. This experience has left some workers questioning the reliability of gig work, especially in the tech industry.