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Junior Machine Learning Engineer Jobs in DeKalb, IL

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Controls Engineers

Elgin, IL

$160K/yr

Controls Engineer - Automation Location: Elgin, IL Job Type: Full-Time Compensation: Up to $160,000 ... machine build environments, enjoys learning new technologies, and takes pride in delivering robust ...

Meta

Critical Facility Engineer

Dekalb, IL · On-site

$88K/yr

The Critical Facility Engineer will be a part of the Facility Operations team responsible for ... Please note that Meta may leverage artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies in ...

DataAnnotation

Programmer - 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

DataAnnotation

Software Developer - 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

Varsity Tutors

Python Tutor

Dekalb, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes readable, maintainable code and connects Python to machine learning, web scraping, scientific computing, and DevOps applications. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar ...

Hydraulic Technologies USA, LLC

Machinist

Rockford, IL · On-site

$25 - $38/hr

Operate any single machine tool such as manual or CNC lathe/mills/machining centers and be able to ... Process work orders via SAP in a timely manner. * Assist manufacturing engineering in process ...

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All JobsMachine Learning Engineer JobsJunior Machine Learning Engineer JobsJunior Machine Learning Engineer Jobs in DeKalb, IL

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.
More about Junior Machine Learning Engineer jobs

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:

Junior Machine Learning Engineer jobs near you
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.

Network Engineer, Optical Deployment

Meta

Aurora, IL

$135K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Meta rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

138th of 247 rated software companies

Job description

Meta is looking for an Optical Network Deployment & Support Engineer to join the team responsible for planning and executing network deployments to build one of the world's largest optical backbone networks. In this role, you will have a unique opportunity to work on cutting-edge Optical and IP networking technologies owning the deployment planning, implementation, and scaling of Meta's AI network infrastructure.
Network Engineer, Optical Deployment Responsibilities:
  • Lead the technical deployment, architecture, and execution for your team’s projects within Edge Network Services (ENS) on network deployment, ensuring alignment with organizational direction and goals
  • Provide hands-on technical contributions (design, deployment, migrate, code reviews, troubleshooting, etc.) on large scale complex programs demonstrating domain expertise and technical impact
  • Contribute to strategic objectives by executing six-month to multi-year roadmaps that support business growth and transformation. Balance high-level strategic direction with hands-on leadership to deliver results across a broad portfolio of initiatives
  • Apply established engineering standards for reliability, scalability, and performance to deliverables, driving continuous improvement in engineering processes and technical quality
  • Collaborate cross-functionally across Network Engineering, Data Center, Network Investments, and Planning teams to ensure successful execution of shared goals on network delivery
  • Deploy, migrate and support our global production network including edge, backbone, and data center infrastructure
  • Mentor and onboard new team members, raising the team’s overall technical acumen and building internal community
  • 10% to 30% of travel

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, relevant technical field, or equivalent practical experience
  • 6+ years of Network Engineering, including hands-on responsibility for planning, building, deployment or migrating production network environments
  • 3+ years experience working in Optical Network Engineering
  • Hands-on experience with enterprise and carrier class routing, switching, and optical transport platforms
  • Knowledge of data center design and operational best practices
  • Proven experience leading and executing network deployment and migration projects
  • Experience interacting with vendors and external parties to drive projects to completion

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience with process improvement and systems development, leveraging automation to streamline repetitive workflows
  • Demonstrated ongoing AI skill development (e.g., prompt/context engineering, agent orchestration) and staying current with emerging AI technologies
  • Experience in data center, edge, or large-scale network environments
  • Demonstrated ability to integrate AI tools to optimize/redesign workflows and drive measurable impact (e.g., efficiency gains, quality improvements)
  • Proficiency in automation (Python, Go, etc.) and network configuration management tooling
  • Experience adhering to and implementing responsible, ethical AI practices (e.g., risk assessment, bias mitigation, quality and accuracy reviews)

About Meta:
Meta builds technologies that help people connect, find communities, and grow businesses. When Facebook launched in 2004, it changed the way people connect. Apps like Messenger, Instagram and WhatsApp further empowered billions around the world. Now, Meta is moving beyond 2D screens toward immersive experiences like augmented and virtual reality to help build the next evolution in social technology. People who choose to build their careers by building with us at Meta help shape a future that will take us beyond what digital connection makes possible today—beyond the constraints of screens, the limits of distance, and even the rules of physics.
Meta is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, sexual stereotypes, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable federal, state and local law. Meta participates in the E-Verify program in certain locations, as required by law. Please note that Meta may leverage artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies in connection with applications for employment.
Meta is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities in our recruiting process. If you need any assistance or accommodations due to a disability, please let us know at accommodations-ext@meta.com.
$135,000/year to $191,000/year + bonus + equity + benefits
Individual compensation is determined by skills, qualifications, experience, and location. Compensation details listed in this posting reflect the base hourly rate, monthly rate, or annual salary only, and do not include bonus, equity or sales incentives, if applicable. In addition to base compensation, Meta offers benefits. Learn more about benefits at Meta.

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