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Algorithm Developer Jobs in Pittsburgh, PA (NOW HIRING)

Oxford Solutions is working with a client to hire a Robotics Engineer for a direct hire, onsite ... Strong foundation in mathematics, algorithms, and advanced problem-solving * Experience with ...

FPGA Engineer

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$126K - $162K/yr

S. Government Security Clearance FPGA Engineer The EndoSec FPGA Engineer is responsible for the ... cryptography algorithms using state-of-the-art FPGA hardware. Modeling and Simulation: Use ...

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Algorithm Developer information

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$32

$76

$100

How much do algorithm developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for algorithm developer in Pittsburgh, PA is $76.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64.86 and $86.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an algorithm developer do?

An algorithm developer designs, analyzes, and implements algorithms to solve specific problems or improve processes, often working with data structures and programming languages. They optimize algorithms for efficiency and accuracy, frequently using tools like Python, C++, or MATLAB, and may collaborate with data scientists or software engineers. Their work is essential in fields such as machine learning, artificial intelligence, and software development.

How much do algorithm developers make?

Algorithm developers typically earn a median salary ranging from $80,000 to $130,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in machine learning or data analysis can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $150,000 per year.

What are some common challenges Algorithm Developers face when transitioning from academia to industry roles?

Algorithm Developers transitioning from academia to industry often encounter challenges such as adapting to faster-paced project timelines and prioritizing practical, scalable solutions over theoretical elegance. In industry, collaboration with cross-functional teams—like software engineers and product managers—is essential, requiring strong communication and teamwork skills. Additionally, there is a greater emphasis on writing production-quality, well-documented code and aligning algorithmic work with business objectives. Learning to balance innovation with deliverable deadlines is a key part of succeeding in these roles.

Will AI replace algorithm developers?

AI is unlikely to fully replace algorithm developers, as their role involves designing, optimizing, and understanding complex algorithms that require human creativity and domain expertise. Instead, AI tools can assist developers by automating routine tasks and enhancing productivity, allowing them to focus on more advanced problem-solving and innovation.

What Does an Algorithm Developer Do?

The job duties of an algorithm developer revolve around researching, writing, and performance testing algorithms. As an algorithm developer, your responsibilities include working to implement your algorithms and then to analyze and modify them as needed. Generally, algorithms use data from a system to generate actions, processes, or reports, so with each algorithm you build, you must first identify the goals and then work to achieve specific results. In this career, you may collaborate with a team to create theories and then perform research and tests until you have designed an efficient algorithm.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior software engineers, especially those working in high-demand fields like artificial intelligence, machine learning, or at major tech companies, can earn $500,000 or more annually. Compensation often includes base salary, bonuses, and stock options, and typically requires advanced skills, extensive experience, and sometimes leadership roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Algorithm Developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Algorithm Developer, you need strong programming skills (often in languages like Python, C++, or Java), a solid grasp of data structures and algorithms, and typically a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with version control systems (like Git), algorithm analysis tools, and sometimes knowledge of specialized libraries (e.g., NumPy, TensorFlow) is expected. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are vital soft skills for designing efficient solutions and collaborating with teams. These skills ensure the creation of robust, optimized algorithms that meet technical requirements and business goals.
What are popular job titles related to Algorithm Developer jobs in Pittsburgh, PA? For Algorithm Developer jobs in Pittsburgh, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Algorithm Developer jobs in Pittsburgh, PA look for? The top searched job categories for Algorithm Developer jobs in Pittsburgh, PA are:
Infographic showing various Algorithm Developer job openings in Pittsburgh, PA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Locum Tenens, 69% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $158,500 per year, or $76.2 per hour.
R&D Software Engineer -- AI/ML Mission Solutions

R&D Software Engineer -- AI/ML Mission Solutions

Rackner

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

R&D Software Engineer — AI/ML Mission Solutions

Location: United States
Work Model: Remote
Travel: Approximately 15% for R&D events, technical demos, and collaboration sessions
Clearance: U.S. citizenship required. Active Secret clearance preferred; candidates must be eligible to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance.

Build AI/Data Capabilities for Mission-Focused R&D

Rackner is hiring an R&D Software Engineer — AI/ML Mission Solutions to help build, prototype, validate, and improve AI/data-driven software capabilities for defense-relevant use cases.

This is a hands-on R&D role for an engineer who enjoys solving hard problems across software, data, AI/ML, algorithms, RAG, agentic systems, simulation, or pipeline workflows. You will work with Rackner's internal R&D team to turn ambiguous ideas, operational needs, and user feedback into working technical capabilities.

We are not looking for one person to be an expert in every area. The strongest candidates bring one deep technical lane — such as AI/ML systems, RAG/agentic workflows, data pipelines, Python/Go development, Kubernetes/deployable systems, MLOps, or algorithmic software — plus enough working knowledge in adjacent areas to contribute in a fast-moving R&D environment.

This is not a traditional sales role and not a platform-only engineering role. Kubernetes, Terraform, cloud, CI/CD, and DevSecOps are helpful, but the main focus is software engineering, AI/data systems, algorithmic problem-solving, validation, and R&D execution.

What You'll Do

  • Design, prototype, test, and refine AI/data-driven software capabilities for mission-focused use cases
  • Build software for AI/ML experimentation, RAG or agentic workflows, model integration, simulation, data pipelines, and applied R&D prototypes
  • Develop and improve data workflows, schema transformations, JSON workflows, APIs, backend services, and integration layers
  • Support AI/ML workflows including inference, evaluation, deployment, monitoring, and model-serving patterns
  • Validate outputs through testing, data quality checks, evaluation methods, debugging, monitoring, and failure analysis
  • Troubleshoot complex issues across software, data, model, and integration layers
  • Work with engineers and technical leadership to assess tradeoffs, identify constraints, and improve solution design
  • Participate in technical demos, R&D events, mission-user discussions, and feedback cycles as needed
  • Convert stakeholder or mission feedback into actionable technical steps
  • Clearly explain technical concepts to engineering teams, program stakeholders, customers, and mission users

What You'll Bring

  • Strong software engineering background with hands-on experience building, testing, debugging, and improving modern systems
  • Proficiency in Python, Go, C++, Java, SQL, or a similar language used for backend, data, AI/ML, or algorithmic work
  • Hands-on depth in at least one relevant area: AI/ML systems, RAG, agentic development, LangChain, data pipelines, MLOps, algorithmic software, simulation, or deployable systems
  • Ability to clearly explain what you personally built, how the system worked, what broke, how you validated it, and what impact it had
  • Familiarity with real-world data workflows, including data sources, APIs, schemas, transformations, databases, files, events, or logs
  • Comfort working in fast-paced environments with evolving requirements
  • Willingness to travel approximately 15% for R&D events, demos, collaboration sessions, or customer and mission engagements

Experience That Stands Out

  • DoD, Air Force, Platform One, Big Bang, mission planning, C2, ISR, autonomy, or defense technology experience
  • AI/ML systems, applied AI workflows, RAG, agentic development, LangChain, model integration, evaluation, deployment, serving, registry, or monitoring
  • MLOps tools or workflows such as MLflow, SageMaker, Databricks, Kubeflow, Airflow, Dagster, Prefect, or similar tools
  • Data pipelines, ETL/ELT workflows, schema transformations, JSON transformations, dbt pipelines, or messy data integration workflows
  • Data validation, data quality checks, pipeline monitoring, failure handling, debugging, or observability for data/model workflows
  • Algorithms, optimization, simulation, scientific computing, applied mathematics, physics-informed software, computer vision, autonomy, or robotics
  • Python, Go, C++, SQL, PyTorch, TensorFlow, scikit-learn, FastAPI, Postgres, or related software/data/AI tooling
  • Technical demos, pilots, field exercises, workshops, briefings, or customer / mission-user discussions
  • Cloud, Docker, Kubernetes, Terraform, CI/CD, DevSecOps, ATO, or secure delivery experience

About Rackner

Rackner is a software consultancy focused on building mission-critical systems for the U.S. government. Our teams work across cloud platforms, DevSecOps, AI/ML, distributed systems, and modern software engineering initiatives supporting federal agencies and national security missions.

Rackner engineers and technical teams collaborate closely with leadership, program teams, and mission stakeholders to design, demonstrate, and improve software systems that address complex operational challenges.

Benefits & Perks

Rackner invests in its people, because when you grow, we all win.

  • Company-supported certifications aligned to current and future program work, including cloud, Kubernetes, DevSecOps, security, AI/ML, project management, and related technical areas
  • Clear advancement tracks and future leadership opportunities
  • 401(k) with 100% match up to 6%
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life, and disability coverage
  • Generous PTO and paid holidays
  • Home-office equipment plan and remote work support
  • Fitness and wellness reimbursement
  • Weekly pay schedule and modern perks, including team events

Equal Opportunity

Rackner is an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other protected characteristics.