1

Junior Machine Learning Engineer Jobs in Ankeny, IA

MLOps Engineer

Ames, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Build and maintain machine learning infrastructure, CI/CD pipelines, and automated data workflows. * Implement model tracking, versioning, and reproducibility practices. * Deploy and manage machine ...

MLOps Engineer

Ames, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Build and maintain machine learning infrastructure, CI/CD pipelines, and automated data workflows. * Implement model tracking, versioning, and reproducibility practices. * Deploy and manage machine ...

Robotics & AI Research Engineer Description Auzmor is redefining workforce training by seamlessly ... You will develop state-of-the-art machine learning models, reinforcement learning algorithms, and ...

Data Engineer

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are seeking passionate, talented engineers to work on exciting projects using the latest tools and technologies including robotics, computer-vision, machine learning, IoT, cloud computing, and ...

Collaborate with data engineers, software engineers, machine learning engineers, architects, cybersecurity specialists, and platform teams to operationalize scalable AI solutions using MLOps ...

NGA AI Engineer Manager

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$73K - $244K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Those in data science and machine learning engineering at PwC will focus on leveraging advanced analytics and machine learning techniques to extract insights from large datasets and drive data-driven ...

We are seeking passionate, talented engineers to work on exciting projects using the latest tools and technologies including robotics, computer-vision, machine learning, IoT, cloud computing, and ...

ClifyX is seeking a highly accomplished Principal AI Engineer to lead the design, architecture, and delivery of enterprise scale AI and Machine Learning solutions. This role requires deep technical ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$70K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are seeking passionate, talented engineers to work on exciting projects using the latest tools and technologies including robotics, computer-vision, machine learning, IoT, cloud computing, and ...

Entry Level Software Engineer

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are seeking passionate, talented engineers to work on exciting projects using the latest tools and technologies including robotics, computer-vision, machine learning, IoT, cloud computing, and ...

Showing results 21-40

Junior Machine Learning Engineer information

See Ankeny, IA salary details

$31.4K

$67.3K

$102.6K

How much do junior machine learning engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior machine learning engineer in Ankeny, IA is $67,285.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,400.00 and $75,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a junior machine learning engineer, and why are they important?

To succeed as a Junior Machine Learning Engineer, you need a solid grasp of programming (especially Python), foundational knowledge of algorithms and statistics, and a relevant degree in computer science, mathematics, or a related field. Familiarity with machine learning frameworks such as TensorFlow or PyTorch and tools like scikit-learn, as well as experience with version control systems like Git, are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn from feedback are valuable soft skills that help you adapt and grow in the field. These skills ensure you can effectively develop, test, and improve machine learning models while collaborating with more experienced engineers and contributing to team projects.

What kinds of projects and responsibilities can a junior machine learning engineer expect in their first year on the job?

As a Junior Machine Learning Engineer, you’ll typically work on tasks such as data preprocessing, building and testing simple models, and supporting more senior engineers in deploying machine learning solutions. Your responsibilities may also include cleaning datasets, implementing basic algorithms, and running experiments to evaluate model performance. You’ll often collaborate closely with data scientists, software engineers, and product teams to understand project goals and learn best practices. The role provides excellent opportunities to develop your technical skills, gain exposure to various stages of the ML pipeline, and gradually take on more complex projects as you grow.

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

AspectJunior Machine Learning EngineerData Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's in CS, Data Science, or related; some experience with ML frameworksBachelor's or higher in CS, Statistics, or related; often advanced certifications
Work EnvironmentDeveloping and deploying ML models, coding, testingData analysis, statistical modeling, interpreting data insights
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, startups, AI-focused firmsFinance, healthcare, tech, consulting
Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

While both roles involve working with data and machine learning, Junior Machine Learning Engineers focus on building and deploying models, often with coding and engineering skills. Data Scientists analyze data, create statistical models, and interpret insights. The roles overlap but differ mainly in their core responsibilities and skill emphasis.

What does a junior machine learning engineer do?

As a junior machine learning engineer, you work in AI, performing research with algorithms and data modeling techniques. Machine learning involves using large collections of data to create systems that are capable of making predictions, and in this field, your duties and responsibilities revolve around using advanced mathematics to design applications for use in everything from stock trading to sports betting. Some machine learning efforts involve images, and this branch of the field is known as computer vision, while other techniques which focus on text are called natural language processing (NLP). Given these divisions, titles in machine learning include computer vision engineer, NLP scientist, or simply research scientist.

Infographic showing various Junior Machine Learning Engineer job openings in Ankeny, IA 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, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,285 per year, or $32.3 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Iowa State University rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

385th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Title:MLOps EngineerJob Group:Professional & ScientificRequired Minimum Qualifications:Bachelor's degreeJob Description:

Summary of Duties and Responsibilities:

Looking for an opportunity to apply AI and machine learning in ways that truly matter?

If so, the Translational AI Center (TrAC) at Iowa State University is seeking applicants for a MLOps (Machine Learning Operations) Engineer! This position will be classified as a Research and Development Engineer I.

What You'll Do:

  • Build and maintain machine learning infrastructure, CI/CD pipelines, and automated data workflows.

  • Implement model tracking, versioning, and reproducibility practices.

  • Deploy and manage machine learning models in cloud and production environments.

  • Containerize applications and support scalable deployment platforms.

  • Develop and maintain APIs, applications, and services that deliver AI solutions.

  • Monitor system performance, troubleshoot issues, and optimize reliability.

  • Write, test, and maintain high-quality, reusable software.

  • Create and maintain technical documentation.

  • Participate in code reviews and contribute to shared tools and libraries.

  • Collaborate with researchers and stakeholders to transition prototypes into production systems.

  • Support system integration and communicate technical requirements.

  • Provide technical guidance and training as needed.

This is a two-year, fixed term position with the opportunity for renewal.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree or above in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, Data Science, or a related technical field.

  • Two years of related experience in backend software development, AI/ML model deployment, MLOps, DevOps, cloud/platform engineering, or a closely related technical area.

  • Experience deploying AI/ML models from prototype to production, including containerization, model versioning, automated deployment, monitoring, and operational support.

  • Strong backend development experience, preferably in Python, including APIs, distributed services, databases, testing, and reusable software components.

  • Experience with CI/CD, Git-based workflows, containerization, infrastructure automation, experiment tracking, observability, and secure deployment practices.

  • Experience with cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud, including compute, storage, identity management, monitoring, and managed AI/ML services.

  • Experience deploying and supporting shared technical platforms, including user access management, upgrades, backups, capacity planning, and user support.

About TrAC:

At the Translational AI Center (TrAC), we bridge the gap between cutting-edge AI research and real-world applications. Through federally funded initiatives, seed grant projects, and interdisciplinary research thrusts, we drive innovation that shapes the future of AI. To learn more about TrAC, please visit TrAC.

This posting will be open until filled. However, to receive full consideration, applications need to be submitted before August 14th, 2026.

Application Instructions:
To apply for this position, please click on "Apply" and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:

Resume/Curriculum Vitae

Letter of Application/Cover Letter

Why Choose Iowa State University?
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:

  • Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans

  • Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans

  • Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)

  • Life insurance and long-term disability

  • Flexible Spending Accounts

  • Various voluntary benefits and discounts

  • Employee Assistance Program

  • Wellbeing program

  • Iowa State offers WorkFlex options for some positions. WorkFlex offers flexibility on when, where, and how you do your work. For more information, please speak with the Hiring Manager.

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu, or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

Appointment Type:Regular with Term Appointment (Fixed Term)Proposed End Date or Length of Term:August 31, 2028Number of Months Employed Per Year:12 Month Work PeriodTime Type:Full timePay Grade:PS810Original Posting Date:August 7, 2026Posting Close Date:Job Requisition Number:R19645

Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu.

General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.


What Iowa State University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom