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Freelance Artificial Intelligence Engineer Jobs in Raleigh, NC

CoVar

Machine Learning Engineer

Durham, NC · On-site

CoVar is a small AI/ML R&D software company in Durham, NC, that uses artificial intelligence to solve problems that matter. The Machine Learning Engineer will develop software and machine learning ...

NetApp

Sr. Software Engineer

Morrisville, NC · On-site

$114K - $151K/yr

Experience using Artificial Intelligence to accelerate automation development and optimize ... Strong understanding of DevOps / SRE practices. * Excellent troubleshooting skills across ...

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All JobsArtificial Intelligence Engineer JobsFreelance Artificial Intelligence Engineer JobsFreelance Artificial Intelligence Engineer Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Freelance Artificial Intelligence Engineer information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$14

$46

$128

How much do freelance artificial intelligence engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance artificial intelligence engineer in Raleigh, NC is $46.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.56 and $60.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance artificial intelligence engineer?

Freelance artificial intelligence (AI) engineers are independent professionals who design, develop, and implement AI solutions for clients on a project or contract basis rather than as full-time employees. They typically work with machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, and related technologies to solve specific business problems. Freelance AI engineers may collaborate with companies across various industries, offering expertise in building predictive models, automating processes, and analyzing large datasets. Their flexible work arrangements allow businesses to access specialized AI skills without long-term commitments. They often manage their own schedules, client relationships, and project deliverables.

How do freelance artificial intelligence engineers typically collaborate with clients and other team members on projects?

Freelance Artificial Intelligence Engineers often work remotely and collaborate with clients and multidisciplinary teams using digital communication tools like Slack, Zoom, and project management platforms. They usually participate in regular virtual meetings to discuss project requirements, share progress updates, and troubleshoot challenges. Effective communication and clear documentation are key, as freelancers must ensure alignment on project goals and deliverables while managing their own schedules. Additionally, they may collaborate with data scientists, software developers, and product managers to integrate AI models into broader applications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance artificial intelligence engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Artificial Intelligence Engineer, you need a strong background in computer science, mathematics, and machine learning, typically supported by a relevant degree and demonstrated project experience. Proficiency in programming languages like Python, frameworks such as TensorFlow or PyTorch, and familiarity with cloud platforms are essential, along with certifications like TensorFlow Developer or AWS Machine Learning if possible. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and self-management skills help you deliver projects independently and collaborate effectively with clients. These skills and qualities are crucial for building robust AI solutions, meeting client expectations, and succeeding in a dynamic freelance environment.

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

AspectFreelance Artificial Intelligence EngineerData Scientist
CredentialsTypically requires degrees in computer science, AI, or related fields; certifications in AI/ML are commonRequires degrees in statistics, data analysis, or related fields; certifications in data analysis or ML are common
Work EnvironmentFreelance projects, remote or on-site, working with clients across industriesUsually employed full-time in organizations or consulting firms, working with large datasets
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by startups, tech companies, and consulting clients for AI solutionsEmployed in finance, healthcare, tech, and research sectors for data analysis and insights

While both roles involve working with data and machine learning, Freelance Artificial Intelligence Engineers focus on developing AI solutions for clients on a project basis, often requiring self-management and diverse project scopes. Data Scientists analyze data to extract insights, typically within organizations. The roles overlap in skills but differ mainly in work setting and project structure.

Is a Freelance Artificial Intelligence Engineer still in demand?

Yes, freelance artificial intelligence engineers are in high demand due to the growing adoption of AI technologies across industries. Skills in machine learning, deep learning, and proficiency with tools like Python and TensorFlow increase job opportunities for freelancers in this field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Artificial Intelligence Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC?

The most popular types of Artificial Intelligence Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What job categories do people searching Freelance Artificial Intelligence Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Artificial Intelligence Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Freelance Artificial Intelligence Engineer jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Freelance Artificial Intelligence Engineer job openings:

Freelance Artificial Intelligence Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Artificial Intelligence Engineer job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,454 per year, or $46.4 per hour.

Staff Research Scientist - Artificial Intelligence Engineer

ARA

Raleigh, NC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

The Analytical and Spatial Intelligence Research Team (ASIRT) at Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) is seeking scientists/researchers interested in developing artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and computer vision software to solve challenging problems for the US defense and intelligence communities. We perform fundamental and applied research in many open areas, including GenAI, Agentic AI Systems, Large Language Models (LLMs), Vision Language Models (VLMs), backbone fine tuning, AI explainability, adversarial attacks and World Models. We are a close-knit team of creative thinkers from diverse backgrounds who collaborate to find non-standard solutions to challenging problems. We encourage candidates with a creative and entrepreneurial spirit who seek a research career within a stable industry to apply.
Staff Research Scientist - Artificial Intelligence Engineer Position Highlights:
  • Research, develop, test and deploy artificial intelligence, machine learning and computer vision software.
  • Process and integrate data from different sources, including satellites, unmanned aerial vehicles, ground vehicles, human-wearables, and smart devices
  • Enjoy a challenging technical career with opportunities for personal growth
  • Team player able to communicate technical results effectively to others
  • Position is located in the Raleigh, NC metropolitan area

Staff Research Scientist - Artificial Intelligence Engineer Position Required Experience & Skills:
  • US citizenship required (green card holders are not eligible for this position)
  • Eligibility to apply for and hold a U.S. security clearance (selected applicants will undergo a security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements at the time of employment)
  • BS Degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or similar technical field along with 2-4 years of experience OR MS degree with 0-2 years of experience
  • Strong foundation and experience using AI/ML frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch) and software libraries (jax, scikit-learn, hugging-face, ollama, langchain, langgraph, or similar)
  • Experience in software development in Python and C/C++
  • Solid mathematical background in linear algebra and probability theory
  • Experience working with AWS cloud computing
  • Experience with collaborative software development and version control (Git)
  • Proficiency in one of the following areas: mathematics, physics, robotics, sensor fusion, machine learning, computer vision or signal processing

Staff Research Scientist - Artificial Intelligence Engineer Position Desirable Experience & Skills:
  • Experience working with AWS, S3, Docker and Kubernetes
  • Experience developing software for execution on edge devices (GPUs, mobile phones, deployed CPU)
  • Experience working with and flying Class I unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs)
  • Experience writing technical proposals
  • Experience working on intelligence and DoD programs

Who is ARA?
Do you want to work for a purpose? Applied Research Associates, Inc. (aka ARA) is an employee-owned international research and engineering company. We have been providing technically superior solutions to complex and challenging problems in the physical sciences since 1979. ARA has over 2,226 employee-owners and continues to grow rapidly. Together, our offices throughout the U.S. and Canada provide a broad range of technical expertise in defense, civil, and health technologies, computer software and simulation, systems analysis, environmental technologies, and testing and measurement.
ARA also prides itself, on having a challenging culture where innovation & experimentation are the norm. The motto, "Engineering and Science for Fun and Profit" sums up the ARA experience. Employee ownership ensures you have a voice in what happens in the company.
To find out more about what the Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance Division has to offer, visit our website at: https://www.ara.com/benefits/
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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