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Artificial Intelligence Machine Learning Engineer Jobs in Santa Maria, CA

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Artificial Intelligence Machine Learning Engineer information

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How much do artificial intelligence machine learning engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for artificial intelligence machine learning engineer in Santa Maria, CA is $131,993.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,000.00 and $158,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an artificial intelligence machine learning engineer?

An Artificial Intelligence (AI) Machine Learning Engineer is a professional who designs, builds, and implements machine learning models and AI systems. They work with large datasets, develop algorithms, and use programming languages like Python or R to enable computers to learn from data and make predictions or decisions. Their work is essential in fields such as natural language processing, computer vision, and robotics. These engineers collaborate with data scientists, software developers, and business stakeholders to deploy AI solutions in real-world applications.

What are some common challenges faced by artificial intelligence machine learning engineers when deploying models to production?

One of the main challenges AI/ML engineers encounter is ensuring that models trained in a controlled environment perform reliably in real-world production settings. This often involves handling issues like data drift, scaling models to handle large volumes of requests, and integrating with existing infrastructure. Collaboration with data engineers and software developers is crucial to streamline deployment, monitor model performance, and address any unexpected behavior quickly. Keeping up with evolving tools and best practices is also important for long-term model maintenance and success.

What is the difference between Artificial Intelligence Machine Learning Engineer vs Data Scientist?

AspectArtificial Intelligence Machine Learning EngineerData Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in CS, AI, ML, or related; certifications like TensorFlow, AWSBachelor's or higher in CS, Statistics, or related; certifications in data analysis or visualization
Work EnvironmentDevelops AI/ML models, coding, deploying algorithms in software environmentsAnalyzes data, builds models, interprets data insights for business decisions
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, AI startups, R&D departmentsFinance, healthcare, marketing, consulting firms

While both roles involve working with data and algorithms, Artificial Intelligence Machine Learning Engineers focus on designing, building, and deploying AI/ML models in software systems. Data Scientists primarily analyze data to extract insights and support decision-making. The roles often overlap but differ in their core focus and daily tasks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an artificial intelligence machine learning engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Artificial Intelligence Machine Learning Engineer, you need strong programming skills (typically in Python or R), a background in mathematics or statistics, and a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with machine learning frameworks (such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, or scikit-learn), cloud platforms, and relevant certifications are highly valuable. Problem-solving ability, creativity, and effective communication are important soft skills that distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies are crucial for designing robust AI solutions, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and driving innovation in rapidly evolving technological environments.
What job categories do people searching Artificial Intelligence Machine Learning Engineer jobs in Santa Maria, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Artificial Intelligence Machine Learning Engineer jobs in Santa Maria, CA are:
What cities near Santa Maria, CA are hiring for Artificial Intelligence Machine Learning Engineer jobs? Cities near Santa Maria, CA with the most Artificial Intelligence Machine Learning Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Artificial Intelligence Machine Learning Engineer job openings in Santa Maria, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $131,993 per year, or $63.5 per hour.

Staff Flight Controls Engineer

Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc.

San Luis Obispo, CA โ€ข On-site

$140K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Staff Flight Controls Engineer
Job Summary:
ESAero is seeking an experienced Staff Flight ControlsEngineer with rotorcraft and flight test experience to join our team in San Luis Obispo, CA. The engineer will lead and support the simulation and development of advanced control systems for unique configuration aircraft including multi-propulsor eVTOL and CTOL aircraft at all scales (VTOL sUAS to eVTOL manned platforms, research platforms, CTOL Distributed Electric Propulsion aircraft). This is a multi-functional role that will require candidates to be involved in all phases of design and development of new platforms collaborating with other engineering disciplines and project personnel.
Responsibilities and Duties:
  • Development of complex VTOL flight dynamics simulations with high fidelity rotor dynamics
  • Design, development, and implementation of optimal and adaptive flight controls and guidance laws for reconfigurable aircraft
  • Development of flight test maneuvers for system verification and identification
  • System identification in time a frequency domain

Required Qualifications and Skills:
  • Bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering or equivalent.
  • 10+ years of flight controls andsimulation engineering experience.
  • Experience in UAS and manned aircraft design
  • Proven understanding of complex aircraft dynamics (aero, structures, control)
  • Experience simulating non-linear complex aircraft sub-systems and systems
  • Experience with frequency and time domain system analysis
  • Control system simulation, implementation, test, and verification experience
  • Familiarity with implementation of embedded real-time control system
  • Familiarity with system identification of aircraft from flight test
  • Familiarity with FAA and Military standards relating to the control system design for aircraft.
  • Familiarity with Risk Management
  • Fundamental understanding of other disciplines (Aerodynamics, Structures, Electrical Eng., Embedded systems)

Desired Qualifications and Skills:
  • Master's degree in aerospace engineering or equivalent and
  • 15+ years of flight controls andsimulation engineering experience.
  • Experience with non-linear controls and analysis (adaptive control, neural networks, machine learning)
  • Experience with implementation of embedded real-time control systems
  • Experience designing to FAA and Military standards relating to the control system design for aircraft.
  • Experience with system identification of aircraft from flight test
  • Experience with Risk Management

Comprehensive Benefits & Perks:
  • Health & Wellness: Choose from three health, dental, and vision plans - including a 100% employer-paid option covering both employees and their families.
  • Paid Time Off: Enjoy 120 hours of PTO, 80 hours accrued plus an additional 40 hours of holiday break pay in addition to Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day off.
  • Life Insurance: $25,000 employer-paid life insurance policy, with the option to purchase additional coverage for employees and their families.
  • Supplemental Coverage: Access optional benefits such as Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, Accident Insurance, and Critical Illness with Skin Cancer coverage.
  • Health Savings Account (HSA): Take advantage of a tax-advantaged HSA to manage medical expenses.
  • Retirement Savings: 401(k) with a company match to support your financial future.
  • Paid Holidays: Enjoy 9 paid holidays throughout the year.
  • Work Environment: A casual dress code, complimentary snacks, and a welcoming company culture.
  • Ideal Location: Work in an area that offers an outstanding quality of life - a perfect place to live, work, and play!

Company Overview:
Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc (ESAero) is a leader in aerospace engineering, product development, and manufacturing, dedicated to delivering high-quality, innovative, and cost-effective solutions to the industry. We specialize in cutting-edge system design, rapid product development, precision manufacturing, comprehensive testing, and technology demonstrations to support the evolving needs of the aerospace community. Committed to excellence, on-time delivery, and continuous growth, we invest in infrastructure to expand our manufacturing and aftermarket capabilities while maintaining the highest standards of engineering services.
At ESAero, we don't just build products, we engineer solutions that propel
the aerospace industry forward.
**This position is fully on-site at ESAero in San Luis Obispo, CA**
ESAero is an equal opportunity employer.
E-Verify participation required for employment.
Must present proof of authorization to work in the United States.
Must be able to pass background check and drug test.
Pay Range: $140,000- $175,000 Salary Exempt