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Junior Machine Learning Engineer Jobs in Chesapeake, VA

Deep knowledge of supervised learning, unsupervised learning, feature engineering, model selection ... Familiar with machine learning curricula and common challenges such as understanding bias-variance ...

Machine Learning Tutor

Norfolk, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of supervised learning, unsupervised learning, feature engineering, model selection ... Familiar with machine learning curricula and common challenges such as understanding bias-variance ...

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Junior Machine Learning Engineer information

See Chesapeake, VA salary details

$32.5K

$69.7K

$106.3K

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

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior machine learning engineer in Chesapeake, VA is $69,731.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,100.00 and $77,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 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.

How much do junior machine learning engineers make?

Junior machine learning engineers typically earn between $70,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on location, education, and industry. Entry-level roles often require knowledge of programming languages like Python and familiarity with machine learning frameworks such as TensorFlow or PyTorch.

What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Learning Engineer jobs in Chesapeake, VA?

The most popular types of Machine Learning Engineer jobs in Chesapeake, VA are:

What are popular job titles related to Junior Machine Learning Engineer jobs in Chesapeake, VA?

For Junior Machine Learning Engineer jobs in Chesapeake, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Junior Machine Learning Engineer jobs in Chesapeake, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Junior Machine Learning Engineer jobs in Chesapeake, VA are:

What cities near Chesapeake, VA are hiring for Junior Machine Learning Engineer jobs?

Cities near Chesapeake, VA with the most Junior Machine Learning Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Junior Machine Learning Engineer job openings in Chesapeake, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,731 per year, or $33.5 per hour.

Machine Learning Engineer - Training & Simulation Systems (Engineer Machine Learning 2)

Huntington Ingalls Industries

Virginia Beach, VA • On-site

$95K - $122K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Huntington Ingalls Industries rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Huntington Ingalls Industries

Based on 147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Manufacturers average

Based on 76,028 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Requisition Number: 29568
Required Travel: 0 - 10%
Employment Type: Full Time/Salaried/Exempt
Anticipated Salary Range: $95,004.00 - $122,000.00
Security Clearance: Secret
Level of Experience: Mid
This opportunity resides with Global Security (GS). Mission Technologies' Global Security (GS) group comprises live, virtual, constructive (LVC) solutions; fleet sustainment; nuclear and environmental; and Australia business.
As a trusted partner to our military customers, HII designs, develops and operates the largest LVC enterprise that prepares warfighters for cross-domain battle. With advanced technologies to enable mission readiness, HII understands that preparation requires full coordination-not readiness in piece-parts.
For more than 40 years, the U.S. Navy has entrusted HII to maintain and modernize the vast majority of its fleet. With a holistic approach to life-cycle maritime defense systems-from small watercraft to submarines, surface combatants and aircraft carriers-HII ensures a high state of readiness.
HII supports the Department of Energy's national security mission through the management and operation of its sites, as well as the safe cleanup of legacy waste across the country. HII meets clients' toughest nuclear and environmental challenges.
Leadership Mindset at HII - Mission Technologies
Leadership at HII is a mindset, not a title. Through our Leadership Capability Framework, we define how every employee grows, leads, and contributes-regardless of role. It sets the standard for how you can develop yourself and what you can expect from leaders across our organization. We look for candidates who want to grow in alignment with these capabilities:
  • Know & Grow Your People - Commit to learning and supporting team success.
  • Build Relationships - Communicate openly, collaborate well, and build trust.
  • Take Ownership - Deliver on commitments and take pride in your work.
  • Customer First - Focus on the mission and those we serve.
  • Shape the Future - Bring ideas, curiosity, and continuous improvement.
  • Act with Urgency - Take initiative and follow through with purpose.

These capabilities guide how all employees contribute to our shared success across Mission Technologies.
Summary
HII Mission Technologies is seeking a Machine Learning Engineer to support the design, development, and deployment of advanced training and simulation capabilities within the Advanced Training Domain (ATD) System-a shipboard combat system trainer that enhances U.S. Navy operational readiness. This full-time, on-site role is part of a high-performing engineering team delivering mission-driven solutions that improve warfighter training and decision-making.
In this role, you will help integrate machine-learning and data-driven capabilities that elevate the realism, adaptability, and performance of next-generation combat system training environments.
Impact, Growth & Development
  • Strengthen U.S. Navy readiness by engineering ML solutions that improve training fidelity and system performance
  • Collaborate with software engineers, data engineers, analysts, and end users to solve operationally relevant challenges
  • Grow your skills through hands-on work with high-fidelity simulation systems, real-world training data, and modern ML/AI toolchains
  • Contribute to innovations that shape future combat system training platforms

Key Job Responsibilities
  • Participate in Agile sprint planning and execution across cross-functional engineering teams
  • Design, develop, and deploy machine learning models supporting simulation accuracy, data analytics, performance prediction, and system-behavior modeling
  • Build data pipelines for collection, preprocessing, labeling, and training using structured and unstructured Navy training data
  • Integrate ML models into Linux-based training systems using containers, APIs, or embedded inference engines
  • Troubleshoot, optimize, and maintain ML workflows including performance tuning, error analysis, and model explainability
  • Develop supporting documentation such as architecture diagrams, data-flow documentation, model cards, evaluation reports, and code commentary
  • Conduct developer testing in lab environments and aboard ship when required
  • Provide occasional on-site support for installations, model validation, and user evaluations (up to 10% travel)
  • Perform additional related duties as assigned to support project and organizational needs

What you must have
Required Education & Experience
  • 2 years of relevant experience with a Bachelor's degree in a related field, OR
  • 0 years of experience with a Master's degree in a related field, OR
  • High school diploma or equivalent and 6 years of relevant experience

Required Knowledge & Skills
  • Experience developing and deploying machine learning models using Python frameworks such as PyTorch, TensorFlow, or Scikit-learn
  • Hands-on experience with Linux-based development environments
  • Familiarity with Agile/Scrum methodologies
  • Experience implementing data pipelines, feature engineering, and model-training/evaluation workflows
  • Ability to troubleshoot complex software, data, or model-related issues

Required Credentials
  • Ability to otain a DoD Information Assurance Technician (IAT) Level II certification or higher (e.g., Security+ CE, CCNA Security, CySA+) within 3 months of hire if not currently held.
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen
  • Must hold a current or active DoD Secret clearance

Preferred Requirements
  • Degree in Computer Science, Data Science, ML/AI, Engineering, or related technical field
  • IAT Level II certification or higher (e.g., Security+ CE, CCNA Security, CySA+)
  • Experience with high-fidelity training systems, simulation environments, or Navy combat systems
  • Experience deploying ML models in operational or real-time systems (e.g., REST APIs, message queues, embedded inference)
  • Familiarity with ActiveMQ, messaging systems, or streaming-data frameworks
  • Experience with MLOps tools such as GitLab CI/CD, Docker, Podman, Kubernetes, or virtualization technologies
  • Background in data analysis for mission systems, sensor data, or tactical environments
  • Experience with Jira, Git, or Subversion

Physical Qualifications
May require working in an office, industrial, shipboard, or laboratory environment. Must be capable of climbing ladders and tolerating confined spaces and a range of temperature conditions during shipboard or testing activities.
The listed salary range for this role is intended as a good faith estimate based on the role's location, expectations, and responsibilities. When extending an offer, HII's Mission Technologies division takes a variety of factors into consideration which include, but are not limited to, the role's function and a candidate's education or training, work experience, and key skills.
Meet HII's Mission Technologies Division
Our team of more than 7,000 professionals worldwide delivers all-domain expertise and advanced technologies in service of mission partners across the globe. Mission Technologies is leading the next evolution of national defense - the data evolution - by accelerating a breadth of national security solutions for government and commercial customers. Our capabilities range from C5ISR, AI and Big Data, cyber operations and synthetic training environments to fleet sustainment, environmental remediation and the largest family of unmanned underwater vehicles in every class. Find the role that's right for you. Apply today. We look forward to meeting you.
To learn more about Mission Technologies, click here for a short video: https://vimeo.com/732533072
HII is more than a job - it's an opportunity to build a new future. We offer competitive benefits such as best-in-class medical, dental and vision plan choices; wellness resources; employee assistance programs; Savings Plan Options (401(k)); financial planning tools, life insurance; employee discounts; paid holidays and paid time off; tuition reimbursement; as well as early childhood and post-secondary education scholarships. Bonus/other non-recurrent compensation is occasionally offered for qualified positions, and if applicable to this role will be addressed by the recruiter at the screening phase of application.
Why HII
We build the world's most powerful, survivable naval ships and defense technology solutions that safeguard our seas, sky, land, space and cyber. Our workforce includes skilled tradespeople; artificial intelligence, machine learning (AI/ML) experts; engineers; technologists; scientists; logistics experts; and business administration professionals.
Recognized as one of America's top large company employers, we are a values and ethics driven organization that puts people's safety and well-being first. Regardless of your role or where you serve, at HII, you'll find a supportive and welcoming environment, competitive benefits, and valuable educational and training programs for continual career growth at every stage of your career.
Together we are working to ensure a future where everyone can be free and thrive.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or mental disability, age, or veteran status or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law.
Do You Need Assistance?
If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to buildyourcareer@hii-co.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Reasonable accommodations are considered on a case-by-case basis. Please note that only those inquiries concerning a request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this email address. Additionally, you may also call 1-844-849-8463 for assistance. Press #3 for HII Mission Technologies.

Working at Huntington Ingalls Industries

About Huntington Ingalls Industries, in their own words

From Huntington Ingalls Industries

Our 44,000-strong team includes skilled tradespeople; artificial intelligence and machine learning experts; engineers; technologists; scientists; logistics experts; and business administration professionals. Recognized as one of America's top large employers, we are a values and ethics driven organization that puts people's safety and well-being first. Here you'll find a collaborative environment, competitive benefits, and valuable educational and training programs that span our shipbuilding apprentice schools in Virginia and Mississippi to tuition reimbursement programs that support continual career growth at every stage of your career.

Our values of integrity, safety, respect, engagement, responsibility and performance are the foundation of HII's ethical culture that inspires employees to do the right thing each day, regardless of the circumstances.


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