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Machine Learning Research Engineer Jobs in Illinois

This is an opportunity to dive deep into feature engineering and focus on applying a wide range of ML models as well as to perform research on building custom models. Your Core Responsibilities:

IMC Trading is seeking a Machine Learning Research Lead with proven experience applying ... The ideal candidate will have experience working with other researchers, traders, and engineers to ...

Machine Learning Researchers work closely with Traders and Developers in an environment where problem solving, innovation and teamwork are recognized and rewarded. Your Core Responsibilities:

... machine learning & deep learning to solve challenging trading problems. This role is part of a ... This is an opportunity to dive deep into feature engineering and alpha research, and focus on ...

... Research, test and prototype new algorithmic ideas; deploy advanced ML techniques applicable to ... Required : • PhD or Master's in Engineering, Math, Statistics, Computer Science, or related ...

You will collaborate closely with cross-disciplinary R&D teams to develop and deploy machine ... D. (preferred) or M.S. in Machine Learning, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Applied ...

Machine Learning Researcher

Chicago, IL · On-site

$250K - $300K/yr

... machine learning & deep learning to solve challenging trading problems. This role is part of a ... This is an opportunity to dive deep into feature engineering and alpha research, and focus on ...

You will collaborate closely with cross-disciplinary R&D teams to develop and deploy machine ... S. in Machine Learning, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Applied Mathematics, or a closely ...

We're looking for researchers and experienced engineers from any background. Trading experience is ... Understanding of machine learning fundamentals - neural network architectures, inference ...

We're looking for researchers and experienced engineers from any background. Trading experience is ... Understanding of machine learning fundamentals - neural network architectures, inference ...

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Machine Learning Research Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$35.9K

$102.7K

$138.1K

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

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for machine learning research engineer in Illinois is $102,729.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,800.00 and $100,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a machine learning research engineer do?

A machine learning research engineer develops and improves algorithms and models that enable computers to learn from data. They often work on creating new techniques, testing prototypes, and publishing findings, using tools like Python, TensorFlow, or PyTorch. Their work supports advancing AI capabilities and typically requires strong programming, statistical, and mathematical skills.

How much do ML research engineers make?

Machine Learning Research Engineers typically earn between $90,000 and $150,000 annually, with salaries increasing based on experience, education, and location. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in deep learning, NLP, or computer vision can earn over $200,000. Compensation often includes benefits such as bonuses, stock options, and professional development opportunities.

What does a Machine Learning Research Engineer do?

A Machine Learning Research Engineer develops and improves machine learning models, conducts research to advance AI techniques, and implements scalable algorithms. They work at the intersection of applied research and engineering, leveraging mathematical and statistical methods to optimize performance. Their role involves experimenting with new architectures, analyzing large datasets, and collaborating with data scientists and software engineers to deploy models into production.

What are some common challenges faced by Machine Learning Research Engineers in their daily work?

Machine Learning Research Engineers often encounter challenges such as sourcing and preparing large, high-quality datasets, tuning complex model architectures, and ensuring reproducibility of experimental results. They work closely with cross-functional teams, including data scientists and software engineers, to deploy models in production environments and must frequently adapt to rapidly evolving research. Keeping up with the latest scientific literature and integrating new algorithms into ongoing projects can be demanding but is also rewarding. This collaborative, fast-paced environment provides constant opportunities for learning and professional development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Machine Learning Research Engineer position, and why are they important?

A Machine Learning Research Engineer typically needs a strong background in computer science, mathematics, and statistics, often with a graduate degree in a related field. Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or C++, experience with machine learning frameworks like TensorFlow or PyTorch, and familiarity with tools for data analysis are crucial, along with relevant certifications being a plus. Strong problem-solving skills, collaboration, and effective communication help drive innovative research and facilitate teamwork. These competencies are essential for developing advanced machine learning models, staying current with evolving technologies, and effectively translating research into real-world applications.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior machine learning research engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in deep learning and data science, and often working in high-demand industries or companies can earn $500,000 or more annually. Compensation typically includes base salary, bonuses, and stock options, especially in tech giants or startups with significant funding.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior machine learning research engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in deep learning and data science, and often a strong publication record can earn $300,000 or more annually. Compensation varies based on industry, location, company size, and individual expertise, with roles in tech giants and finance firms typically offering higher salaries.
What job categories do people searching Machine Learning Research Engineer jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Machine Learning Research Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
Infographic showing various Machine Learning Research Engineer job openings in Illinois as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,729 per year, or $49.4 per hour.
Machine Learning Research Lead

Machine Learning Research Lead

IMC

Chicago, IL • On-site

$250K - $300K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

IMC Trading is seeking a Machine Learning Research Lead with proven experience applying state-of-the-art machine learning to solve challenging trading problems. This role will drive the development of a centralized ML environment to be used across all areas of trading at IMC. The ideal candidate will have experience working with other researchers, traders, and engineers to build and continuously improve a research platform to drive innovation via ML. We firmly believe that success for research-driven efforts lies in bringing together skills in ML, statistics and trading intuition as well as a problem-solving mindset and pragmatism. This is an opportunity to dive deep into feature engineering and focus on applying a wide range of ML models as well as to perform research on building custom models.
Your Core Responsibilities:
  • Lead the design, development, and deployment of machine learning models to enhance trading performance across various asset classes
  • Research, test and prototype new algorithmic ideas; deploy advanced ML techniques applicable to market prediction, signal generation, and portfolio optimization
  • Collaborate with quantitative traders, researchers and developers to translate market insights into data-driven features and models
  • Oversee data acquisition, preprocessing, and feature engineering for structured and unstructured data sources
  • Mentor junior researchers and contribute to a culture of research excellence and experimentation
  • Drive strategic decisions on model architecture, experimentation pipelines, and infrastructure for scalable research

Your Skills and Experience:
  • PhD or Master's in Engineering, Math, Statistics, Computer Science, or related quantitative field
  • 4+ years of experience building applied ML models; previous experience in trading environment preferred
  • Proven expertise in developing and deploying predictive models in low-latency environments
  • Strong programming skills in Python; proficiency in ML libraries such as PyTorch, TensorFlow, and/or high-performance libraries like Jax
  • Strong understanding of theoretical foundations of state-of-the-art ML models
  • Prior people management experience preferred
  • Ability and desire to work in a collaborative team environment
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills

#LI-DNP
The Base Salary range for the role is included below. Base salary is only one component of total compensation; all full-time, permanent positions are eligible for a discretionary bonus and benefits, including paid leave and insurance. Please visit Benefits - US | IMC Trading for more comprehensive information.
Salary Range
$250,000-$300,000 USD
About Us
IMC is a global trading firm powered by a cutting-edge research environment and a world-class technology backbone. Since 1989, we've been a stabilizing force in financial markets, providing essential liquidity upon which market participants depend. Across our offices in the US, Europe, Asia Pacific, and India, our talented quant researchers, engineers, traders, and business operations professionals are united by our uniquely collaborative, high-performance culture, and our commitment to giving back. From entering dynamic new markets to embracing disruptive technologies, and from developing an innovative research environment to diversifying our trading strategies, we dare to continuously innovate and collaborate to succeed.