Outlier
Freelance AI-training projects with flexible hours for qualified subject-matter experts.
About Outlier
Outlier is a freelance platform, operated by Scale AI, where subject-matter experts work on projects that improve AI models. Depending on the assignment, contributors may write difficult prompts, build grading rubrics, rank model answers, or revise responses. People set their own schedules, face no minimum-hour requirement, and do not have to accept every invitation. Joining involves account setup, selecting areas of expertise, skill screening, identity verification, and qualification for each project. Contributors are independent contractors rather than Outlier employees. Projects differ in length, availability, and subject fit, so Outlier is better suited to flexible project income than to a predictable workload. Applicants need valid identity and contact details, a resume, a LinkedIn profile, and at least an associate degree. Some specialist projects require a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree.
Best for
Best use cases
Evaluate and rank AI-generated answers
Write prompts, reference answers, and grading rubrics
Take remote AI-training assignments without minimum weekly hours
Compare before choosing
More schedule control than a fixed-shift role
Less predictable project availability than regular employment
Independent-contractor status instead of employee benefits
Features
Expert matching
Onboarding captures areas of expertise and uses skill screenings to match contributors with suitable projects.
Flexible tasking
Contributors can set their own schedule and decide whether to accept each available project invitation.
AI training workflows
Typical work includes prompt creation, rubric writing, answer ranking, and model-response improvement.
Pros
- No minimum-hour requirement makes projects easier to fit around a job or studies.
- Contributors can decline project invitations without reducing access to future invitations.
- Tasks use domain expertise and can provide hands-on experience with AI training workflows.
Cons
- Project length and availability vary, so contributors should not assume a steady workload.
- Contributors work as independent contractors and do not receive employee status through Outlier.
- Screening is selective, and at least an associate degree is required; some projects require advanced degrees.
Pricing Plans
Expert contributor
- No platform subscription stated for contributors
- Payment begins after onboarding and project work starts
- Earnings depend on contributed work
* Pricing information is for reference only. Please refer to the latest announcement on Outlier's official website.