Imagine working alongside the companies redefining the future. The CNBC Disruptor 50 list for 2024 isn’t just for investors – it can be a good indicator for companies looking for specialised freelance talent.
We analysed these disruptors’ careers pages and external recruitment sites to identify some of the contractor hotspots (and in some instances where recruitment has been rocky). Here’s what we found.
Companies embracing freelance talent
Exotec: This international robotics company specialising in warehouse automation is also open to hybrid contract work, especially in France. While their main careers page focuses on full-time positions, they engage contractors for specific projects, particularly in software development and engineering.
Canva: This design platform actively recruits freelance designers, illustrators, and content creators through its Canva talent community
Databricks: Databricks offers freelance opportunities in engineering, data science, and project management. Jobs can be found on their site and through Google searches. There are multiple recruitment agencies representing clients that are asking for Databricks system integrations as well.
Zipline: This drone delivery service hires freelancers for various roles, including engineering, flight operations, and software development. It has operations across the globe, which could be useful for digital nomads.
Relativity Space: This company often seeks freelance engineers with expertise in aerospace, software, and manufacturing. They had over 200 job openings at the time of writing, mostly long-term hires, but if you don’t see what you are looking for you can sign up to their talent community.
Rocky recruitment can happen in fast-growing companies
Scale AI: Scale AI leverages freelancers for data annotation and labelling tasks through its Scale Rapid platform. However, it laid off workers in August, leaving many contractors upset that they were “let go quietly” via email, according to reports.
An Inc. report said Scale’s business model was based on freelance hires to train and refine generative AI programmes in a process known as “tasking,” which involves tagging and labelling data including images, video, and text produced by chatbots, image generators, and other AI tools.
“These contractors are paid hourly and often work for two of Scale’s subsidiaries, Outlier AI and Remotasks,” said the Inc. report, continuing, “AI systems need labelled data as part of their training process.
“For its part, Remotasks has been accused of neglecting to pay contractors in the Philippines and Africa. In June, Inc. revealed that Outlier AI had been accused of not paying contractors in the United States. In May, Scale closed an office in Austin, cutting contractor jobs in the process, the Information reported.”
This is an example of a company that may have been growing too fast and had to scale back. However, a company that does not have control over its subsidiaries’ hiring and payment practices, could be a red flag for any contractor. Hopefully, these practices will be eradicated.
In-demand skills
If you’ve got the following skills, you’re one step ahead of the pack:
Software Development/Engineering: This is the most sought-after skill among the Disruptor 50 companies hiring freelancers.
Data Science/Analysis: With the rise of AI and big data, expertise in data science and analysis is highly valued.
Design: Creative professionals, particularly in the areas of graphic design and user experience (UX), are in demand.
AI/ML: As companies explore the potential of artificial intelligence and machine learning, freelancers with specialised skills in these areas are increasingly sought after.
Cybersecurity: With the growing importance of cybersecurity, companies are looking for freelance experts to help protect their systems and data. However, there are signs that more companies may be looking for permanent on-site hires for data security reasons.
Important considerations for freelancers:
Company stage: Early-stage disruptors might rely more on contractors due to limited resources and the need for specialised skills. However, you may end up feeling like you are on a ship with a captain who is not sure which direction to take, which could be frustrating. Check out our report: Freelancing for a startup? Here’s how to manage your expectations and navigate iffy management experience – Freelance Informer
Industry trends: Sectors like AI, software development, and data science are generally more open to contract work due to the dynamic nature of projects.
While the CNBC Disruptor 50 list doesn’t explicitly highlight a company’s stance on freelance or contract work, a closer look reveals opportunities. By researching company websites on the list, exploring LinkedIn and other recruitment sites, and staying informed about industry trends, freelancers can position themselves for career-changing portfolio opportunities.
Related articles:
Contractor job opportunities set to rise as Google expands King’s Cross AI hub – Freelance Informer
Kyutai the AI research lab behind Moshi AI is hiring – Freelance Informer
