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Junior Machine Learning Engineer Jobs in Santa Barbara, CA

Toyon

AI/ML Software Engineer

Goleta, CA · On-site

$120K - $200K/yr

Toyon is seeking highly qualified AI/ML Software Engineer candidates to develop software in the Python or C++ languages in support of Artificial Intelligence (AI) / Machine Learning (ML) applications.

Toyon

Algorithm Developer

Goleta, CA · On-site

$120K - $200K/yr

We are looking for algorithm and software developers with experience and/or an educational background in: signal processing, machine learning, estimation theory, computer vision, computational ...

Toyon Research Corporation

Algorithm Developer

Goleta, CA · On-site

$120K - $200K/yr

We are looking for algorithm and software developers with experience and/or an educational background in: signal processing, machine learning, estimation theory, computer vision, computational ...

Umbra

Staff Data Platform Engineer

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$200 - $250/hr

... machine learning applications, and operational decision-making * Build and operate analytics and ... Experience with Infrastructure-as-Code, DevOps, Identity and Access Management, and Developer ...

Umbra

Staff Data Platform Engineer

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$127K - $153K/yr

... machine learning applications, and operational decision-making * Build and operate analytics and ... Experience with Infrastructure-as-Code, DevOps, Identity and Access Management, and Developer ...

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All JobsMachine Learning Engineer JobsJunior Machine Learning Engineer JobsJunior Machine Learning Engineer Jobs in Santa Barbara, CA

Junior Machine Learning Engineer information

See Santa Barbara, CA salary details

$37.3K

$79.9K

$121.8K

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

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior machine learning engineer in Santa Barbara, CA is $79,890.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,000.00 and $89,000.00 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 are the most commonly searched types of Machine Learning Engineer jobs in Santa Barbara, CA?

The most popular types of Machine Learning Engineer jobs in Santa Barbara, CA are:

What job categories do people searching Junior Machine Learning Engineer jobs in Santa Barbara, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Junior Machine Learning Engineer jobs in Santa Barbara, CA are:

What cities near Santa Barbara, CA are hiring for Junior Machine Learning Engineer jobs?

Cities near Santa Barbara, CA 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 Santa Barbara, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,890 per year, or $38.4 per hour.

AI/ML Software Engineer

Toyon

Goleta, CA • On-site

$120K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Description

U.S. Citizenship Required. Ability to qualify for a US Department of Defense security clearance required.


This position is in-person.


Toyon is seeking highly qualified AI/ML Software Engineer candidates to develop software in the Python or C++ languages in support of Artificial Intelligence (AI) / Machine Learning (ML) applications. Our software engineers work closely with our researchers and customers to create state-of-the-art solutions. Experience with Computer Vision (CV), Reinforcement Learning (RL), Large Language Models (LLMs), other AI/ML techniques, or video or signal processing is a plus. Experience working in a collaborative environment with configuration management and version control tools is also desired. Candidates should possess strong math and physics knowledge to enable developing advanced AI/ML software to solve sensor data processing or control problems.


Requirements

Candidates for the AI/ML Software Engineer position should have a strong background in engineering, computer science, physics, and/or mathematics. An advanced degree (M.S./Ph.D.) or a Bachelor's degree and at least two years of industry experience are required. 


WE OFFER AN EXCEPTIONAL EMPLOYEE BENEFITS PACKAGE!

  • Competitive Industry Pay
  • 100% Employer-Paid Medical Insurance Premium
  • HSA with Employer Contributions
  • Dental and Vision Coverage Options
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Vacation and Sick leave
  • Company Funded 401(k) and Profit Sharing Plans
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
  • Life and Disability Insurance  
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Discretionary Bonus Eligibility

The annual pay range for the AI/ML Software Engineer position is $120,000 to $200,000.


The posted pay range values provide the candidate with guidance on annual base compensation for the position, at a full time level of effort, exclusive of overtime, bonus, and benefits-related compensation, over a range of qualifications that may fit hiring objectives. Toyon Research Corporation will consider the individual candidate's education, work experience, applicable knowledge, skills and training, among other factors, when preparing an offer of employment. 


Equal Opportunity Employer including Disability and Veterans   


Applicant Privacy Notice 


Learn more about our company in our latest video, We are Toyon. 


The application window for this posting will remain open until the position is filled. 


Ref #2670-C

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