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Director Machine Learning Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Required : • Over 10 years of experience in software engineering with at least 5 years focused in designing machine learning solutions with direct application in the data engineering space • ...

Over 10 years of experience in software engineering with at least 5 years focused in designing machine learning solutions with direct application in the data engineering space * Ability to lead and ...

Over 10 years of experience in software engineering with at least 5 years focused in designing machine learning solutions with direct application in the data engineering space * Ability to lead and ...

Director - Runtime Intelligence & Personalization Overview We are seeking a strategic and execution-oriented Director to lead our Runtime Intelligence & Personalization function. This leader will own ...

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Director Machine Learning information

See California salary details

$35.5K

$90.7K

$139.2K

How much do director machine learning jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for director machine learning in California is $90,729.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,600.00 and $104,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Director Machine Learning position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director Machine Learning, you need advanced expertise in machine learning, statistics, data science, and leadership, typically supported by a master's or Ph.D. in a related field and several years of relevant industry experience. Familiarity with tools such as Python, TensorFlow or PyTorch, cloud platforms, and data management systems, as well as certifications like AWS Certified Machine Learning or Google Professional Machine Learning Engineer, are commonly required. Exceptional communication, strategic thinking, and team management skills distinguish top candidates in this role. These capabilities are essential for driving organizational AI initiatives, fostering high-performing teams, and delivering impactful business solutions.

What is a Director Machine Learning job?

A Director of Machine Learning leads teams in developing and deploying machine learning models to solve business challenges. They define the AI strategy, oversee research, and ensure models are scalable and ethical. This role requires expertise in machine learning, data science, and leadership, as well as collaboration with cross-functional teams. Directors also stay updated on industry advancements and drive innovation within their organizations.

What are the primary responsibilities and challenges faced by a Director of Machine Learning on a daily basis?

A Director of Machine Learning is typically responsible for overseeing the development and deployment of machine learning solutions, mentoring technical teams, setting strategic direction for AI initiatives, and ensuring the alignment of projects with organizational goals. Challenges often include balancing innovative research with business priorities, navigating evolving technology landscapes, and coordinating efforts across data science, engineering, and stakeholder teams. This role requires regular collaboration with product managers, executives, and cross-functional departments to prioritize initiatives and communicate complex technical concepts. Successful directors excel at fostering a culture of continuous learning, optimizing team productivity, and staying ahead in a fast-paced, rapidly changing field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Learning jobs in California? The most popular types of Machine Learning jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Director Machine Learning jobs? Cities in California with the most Director Machine Learning job openings:
Infographic showing various Director Machine Learning job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,729 per year, or $43.6 per hour.
Dir, Machine Learning Eng

Dir, Machine Learning Eng

Adobe

San Jose, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Adobe rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

40th of 245 rated software companies


Job description

Job Summary:
Adobe is a leading company that empowers creativity through innovative tools and platforms. They are seeking a highly motivated AI/ML and data leader to enhance their data platform organization and drive AI/ML innovation within the Adobe Experience Platform.
Responsibilities:
• Lead a team of applied scientists and data / systems engineers in designing, building and maintaining core capabilities with Adobe Experience Platform focused on big-data management (petabytes) and compute abstractions (Spark, Kubernetes, etc)
• Drive the transformation of a data engineering group toward a world where AI/ML is an integral part and heavily influencing the innovation in the data engineering space.
• Provide strong leadership to the engineering team, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Drive technical excellence, operational maturity, and code quality within your team.
• Up-to-date with any emerging trends to adjust the organization to always utilize the best Data, ML and Engineering practices.
• Attract, recruit, hire, and develop a high-performing group with the right mix of skills to support the AI/ML, data and operational excellence needs.
Qualifications:
Required:
• Over 10 years of experience in software engineering with at least 5 years focused in designing machine learning solutions with direct application in the data engineering space
• Ability to lead and inspire a team, excellent interpersonal skills, and the capacity to communicate complex machine learning concepts and their influence / impact on the data space clearly and effectively to stakeholders at all levels.
• A deep understanding of machine learning models, frameworks, and algorithms, with hands-on experience in model development, deployment, and optimization complemented with a good understanding of the big data technologies and challenges.
• Strategic thinking capabilities, with a proven track record of leveraging AI to solve complex business challenges and drive growth.
• Passionate about the ethical and responsible use of AI/ML, ensuring solutions meet the highest standards of transparency and fairness.
• Typically requires a Master’s degree in applied machine learning, artificial intelligence, or data science.
Preferred:
• A PhD is preferred.
Company:
Adobe is a software company that provides its users with digital marketing and media solutions. Founded in 1982, the company is headquartered in San Jose, USA, with a team of 10001+ employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

What Adobe employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Adobe logo

About Adobe

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Adobe for All is our vision to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) across our company and in our communities. We’re focused on creating a more diverse and inclusive workforce; unleashing the full potential of every employee; and driving meaningful impact for Adobe, our industry, and society at large. Creativity has the power to unite us and inspire us to change the world. Through a vision we call Creativity for All, we’re empowering millions of people of all ages and backgrounds to express themselves, reach their full potential, and share their diverse perspectives with the world. We’re committed to advancing the responsible use of technology and driving a positive environmental impact through sustainability and climate action. Our innovations are making a significant impact across AI ethics, security, privacy, trust and safety, accessibility, and sustainability.

Industry

Computer and computer peripheral equipment and software wholesalers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Jose, CA, US

Year founded

1982