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Freelance Machine Learning Engineer Jobs in Walnut, CA

We're looking for a Machine Learning Engineer to train custom models using our internal data. This work spans design generation, cost estimation, evaluating the complexity and difficulty of a given ...

As a Machine Learning Integration Engineer, you will help rapidly prototype, mature, and monitor ML/CV solution that are integral to Turion's Space Domain Awareness data products. You will work on ...

Sr Machine Learning Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$112K - $154K/yr

We are seeking a hands-on Senior Machine Learning Engineer to support and enhance machine learning platforms used for media measurement and customer analytics. This role partners closely with Data ...

Sr Machine Learning Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$130 - $162/hr

We are seeking a hands-on Senior Machine Learning Engineer to support and enhance machine learning platforms used for media measurement and customer analytics. This role partners closely with Data ...

New

3D Machine Learning Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

... rigorous engineering with learning systems proven in globally deployed solutions that deliver ... What You'll Do * Design and implement scalable machine learning pipelines for large-scale 3D ...

... rigorous engineering with learning systems proven in globally deployed solutions that deliver ... What You'll Do * Design and implement scalable machine learning pipelines for large-scale 3D ...

3D Machine Learning Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

... rigorous engineering with learning systems proven in globally deployed solutions that deliver ... What You'll Do * Design and implement scalable machine learning pipelines for large-scale 3D ...

Senior Machine Learning Engineer

Burbank, CA

$111K - $153K/yr

Senior Machine Learning Engineer Team: Data & Audience Platform (DAP) - ML Engineering What We Do Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) is home to the world's most iconic entertainment, news, and sports ...

Showing results 21-40

Freelance Machine Learning Engineer information

See Walnut, CA salary details

$15

$48

$134

How much do freelance machine learning engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance machine learning engineer in Walnut, CA is $48.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.76 and $62.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a freelance machine learning engineer do?

A Freelance Machine Learning Engineer designs, develops, and implements machine learning models and algorithms for clients on a project basis. They work independently to analyze data, build predictive models, and help businesses solve complex problems using AI and machine learning techniques. Their responsibilities may also include data preprocessing, model evaluation, and deploying solutions into production environments. Freelance Machine Learning Engineers often collaborate remotely with teams and must manage their own schedules and client relationships.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance machine learning engineer?

To thrive as a Freelance Machine Learning Engineer, you need expertise in programming (especially Python), a solid grasp of machine learning algorithms, and a relevant academic background such as a degree in computer science, mathematics, or engineering. Familiarity with frameworks like TensorFlow or PyTorch, cloud platforms (AWS, GCP, Azure), and experience with version control systems are typically required. Strong problem-solving, self-management, and client communication skills help set successful freelancers apart. These competencies are crucial for delivering effective solutions, managing projects independently, and building client trust in a competitive market.

How do freelance machine learning engineers typically manage client expectations and project scopes?

Freelance machine learning engineers often work with clients who may not have a deep technical understanding of AI or data science. A common challenge is clearly defining the project scope and deliverables at the outset, ensuring both parties understand what is feasible given the data, time, and budget constraints. Successful freelancers use regular progress updates, milestone-based deliverables, and transparent communication to manage expectations and avoid scope creep. Building trust through clear documentation and setting realistic timelines also helps foster long-term client relationships.

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

AspectFreelance Machine Learning EngineerData Scientist
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in computer science, data science, or related fields; certifications in machine learning or AI are a plusUsually holds a degree in statistics, data science, or related areas; certifications in data analysis or visualization are common
Work EnvironmentIndependent, project-based work often remotely for various clientsOften employed full-time in organizations or consulting roles, sometimes freelance
Industry UsageUsed across tech, finance, healthcare, and startups for deploying ML modelsApplied in research, analytics, and strategic decision-making across industries

Freelance Machine Learning Engineers focus on developing and deploying ML models independently for diverse clients, while Data Scientists analyze data to extract insights, often working within organizations. Both roles require strong technical skills, but their work scope and environment differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Freelance Machine Learning Engineer jobs in Walnut, CA?

For Freelance Machine Learning Engineer jobs in Walnut, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Walnut, CA are hiring for Freelance Machine Learning Engineer jobs?

Cities near Walnut, CA with the most Freelance Machine Learning Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Freelance Machine Learning Engineer job openings in Walnut, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,121 per year, or $48.6 per hour.

Machine Learning Engineer

Layup Parts

Huntington Beach, CA

$120K - $185K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

At Layup Parts, we're developing the technology that will build the future.  

We're a manufacturing technology company replacing months of lead time with days, using proprietary software, automation, and advanced manufacturing systems built for speed. Our customers are inventing what's next, in aerospace, defense, robotics, and beyond. To keep up with them, manufacturing has to change. That's what we're building. 

We're looking for a Machine Learning Engineer to train custom models using our internal data. This work spans design generation, cost estimation, evaluating the complexity and difficulty of a given design, and extracting structured data out of existing documentation. We're looking for someone who has trained custom models on large, parameter-rich datasets, ideally with a geometric or spatial component, and who is energized by problems in that space specifically. 

What You'll Do
  • Train and iterate on custom ML models using Layup's internal manufacturing and design data 
  • Build models that estimate cost and predict design complexity or manufacturing difficulty from part geometry 
  • Develop models that generate or assist in generating new designs based on historical design data 
  • Build pipelines to extract structured data (specs, dimensions, material callouts, etc.) from existing engineering documents and drawings 
  • Evaluate and select modeling approaches suited to geometric, spatial, and other structured data, rather than text-based problems 
  • Work closely with engineering and manufacturing teams to source, clean, and label internal datasets 
  • Own model performance end-to-end, from data pipeline through training, evaluation, and deployment into internal tools 
  • Continuously identify new opportunities where custom models could improve design, estimation, or manufacturing workflows 
What We're Looking For
  • Experience training custom models beyond basic labeling or fine-tuning workflows 
  • Experience with advanced object detection at minimum; data classification experience is a strong plus 
  • Experience with geometry-based modeling is highly preferred 
  • Experience working with large, parameter-rich datasets 
  • Strongest fit is someone whose background is in structured, spatial, or geometric data problems rather than natural language or LLM-centric work 
Bonus Points
  • Experience training geometry-specific models 
  • CAD experience 
  • Manufacturing experience 
$120,000 - $185,000 a year

Final compensation is based on your experience, skills, and what you bring to the table.  

  • Full Benefits Package: Medical, dental, and vision coverage, short- and long-term disability insurance, company-paid life insurance  
  • Equity Option Grants 
  • 401k plan 
  • Paid Time Off:  Unlimited PTO + 9 Federal Holidays 

Equal Opportunity 

Layup is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance.  

ITAR Requirements  

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here. 

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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