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Junior Machine Learning Engineer Jobs in DeKalb, IL

Systems Engineer

Rockford, IL · On-site

$97K - $120K/yr

Provide field service, startup assistance, and warranty support following machine installation. * Train customers and mentor junior systems engineers during commissioning activities. * Document ...

Systems Engineer

Rockford, IL · On-site

$97K - $120K/yr

Provide field service, startup assistance, and warranty support following machine installation. * Train customers and mentor junior systems engineers during commissioning activities. * Document ...

Apprentice Machinist

Cortland, IL · On-site

$10 - $12/hr

Clean, modern and progressive Machine Shop concentrating on prototypes, design, engineering and ... A candidate needs to possess openness to learning new skills and collaborating with other team ...

Apprentice Machinist

Cortland, IL · On-site

$10 - $12/hr

Clean, modern and progressive Machine Shop concentrating on prototypes, design, engineering and ... A candidate needs to possess openness to learning new skills and collaborating with other team ...

Cryogenic Engineer

Batavia, IL · On-site

$88K - $116K/yr

What your day-to-day as a Cryogenic Engineer at Fermilab will look like: * Operating Helium ... Knowledge of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning tools, preferred Physical Activity and ...

Software Engineer - AI Trainer

Aurora, IL · On-site +1

$50 - $100/hr

As a DataAnnotation's coder, you'll be part of a growing community of over 100,000 professionals -- including front-end, back-end, full-stack, machine learning, and other engineers -- who are driving ...

New

CNC Machinist

Elgin, IL · On-site

$28 - $40/hr

Opportunities for junior operators, developing machinists, experienced setup machinists, leads, and programmers. * Training & Development: Come in with the skills you have today and train into setups ...

CNC Machinist

Elgin, IL · On-site

$28 - $40/hr

Opportunities for junior operators, developing machinists, experienced setup machinists, leads, and programmers. * Training & Development: Come in with the skills you have today and train into setups ...

CNC Machinist

Elgin, IL · On-site

$28 - $40/hr

Opportunities for junior operators, developing machinists, experienced setup machinists, leads, and programmers. * Training & Development: Come in with the skills you have today and train into setups ...

Data Science Tutor

Dekalb, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of statistical analysis, data wrangling, exploratory data analysis, machine learning, data visualization, SQL, Python or R programming, hypothesis testing, and communication of data ...

Showing results 21-40

Junior Machine Learning Engineer information

See DeKalb, IL salary details

$32.9K

$70.5K

$107.5K

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

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior machine learning engineer in DeKalb, IL is $70,471.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,600.00 and $78,500.00 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 cities near DeKalb, IL are hiring for Junior Machine Learning Engineer jobs?

Cities near DeKalb, IL with the most Junior Machine Learning Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Junior Machine Learning Engineer job openings in DeKalb, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,471 per year, or $33.9 per hour.

Senior Controls Engineer

MSI Express, Inc.

Saint Charles, IL • On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


MSI Express rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

254th of 443 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Job Description:

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $100,000.00 - $140,000.00 per year

Benefits:

  • Health insurance

  • Paid time off

  • Dental Insurance

  • Vision Insurance

  • 401K Matching

  • Bonus Eligible

Schedule:

  • First Shift

Work Location: In person

ROLE PURPOSE/ POSITION SUMMARY

The Senior Controls Engineer will lead the design, implementation, and optimization of sophisticated controls and automation systems, serving as a principal figure in advancing the company's operational efficiency and technical capabilities. This role entails overseeing complex and critical industrial automation projects, including advanced PLCs, HMIs, robotics, motion control systems, and comprehensive process and discrete manufacturing environments. The Senior Controls Engineer is expected to provide strategic direction in the selection and deployment of automation technologies, mentor junior engineers, and drive innovation in controls engineering practices.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES/PRIMARY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Advanced System Design and Strategic Integration:

  • Lead the development and integration of advanced control systems for industrial automation, ensuring alignment with the company's strategic objectives.
  • Champion the deployment of cutting-edge control strategies and technologies to enhance operational efficiency and expand automation capabilities.

Complex Troubleshooting and Optimization:

  • Oversee advanced troubleshooting efforts, providing expert guidance to resolve intricate system issues and improve process reliability and performance.
  • Direct the optimization of control systems to achieve superior efficiency, quality, and safety standards.

Advanced Programming and Software Development Leadership:

  • Guide the programming of PLCs, HMIs, robots, and other control devices, ensuring systems meet complex requirements.
  • Lead collaboration efforts with the corporate engineering team on advanced programming and software development projects.

Strategic Collaboration and Continuous Improvement:

  • Drive cross-functional collaboration to support strategic continuous improvement and automation initiatives.
  • Lead the development and implementation of breakthrough automation technologies and practices.

Documentation Standardization and Compliance Leadership:

  • Set standards for and oversee the creation and maintenance of comprehensive control system documentation, ensuring best practices in record-keeping and compliance.

Advanced Training and Mentorship:

  • Develop and deliver advanced training programs for technical teams, enhancing their capabilities in control systems operation and maintenance.
  • Mentor junior controls engineers and technical staff, fostering a culture of continuous learning and development.

Project Management Excellence:

  • Provide senior leadership in managing controls-related projects, from conceptualization through to implementation, ensuring excellence in execution and adherence to strategic objectives.

Research, Innovation, and Technology Evaluation:

  • Champion the evaluation and adoption of emerging technologies, leading research into advanced control and automation solutions aligned with industry trends.

QUALIFICATIONS/ CAPABILITY PROFILE

Minimum Education and Experience

  • Bachelor's or master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation, or a related field; or equivalent comprehensive work experience - Required
  • 8+ years of experience in advanced controls engineering roles in manufacturing environments or with systems/machine integrators, including leadership experience - Preferred

Minimum Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

  • Expert knowledge of advanced control system design principles and state-of-the-art industrial automation technologies - Required
  • Excellent programming skills for sophisticated PLCs, HMIs, and robotics systems - Required
  • Proven ability to lead complex engineering projects, from inception to completion, with a track record of innovation and success - Required
  • Outstanding communication, interpersonal, and team leadership skills - Required
  • Experience with advanced Allen Bradley control systems and a deep understanding of process controls, remote operations, and SCADA systems - Preferred
  • High proficiency in AutoCAD and/or other system design software for advanced system design - Preferred
  • Demonstrated ability to mentor and develop technical teams - Required

MSI Express is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.


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