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Machine Learning Research Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Machine Learning Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$115K - $140K/yr

The Role As a Machine Learning Engineer, you will help develop and integrate cutting-edge AI/ML ... Working as part of a multidisciplinary team of researchers, engineers, and domain experts, you will ...

Machine Learning Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes - 10% of the time Minimum ... S. Government (USG). SAIC provides research, engineering, design, analysis, acquisition ...

We are seeking a Machine Learning Engineer to join our team and support our client in Ashburn, VA. The ideal candidate will bring hands-on experience in machine learning, advanced analytics, and AI ...

We are seeking a Machine Learning Engineer to join our team and support our client in Ashburn, VA. The ideal candidate will bring hands‑on experience in machine learning, advanced analytics, and ...

Senior Machine Learning Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$105K - $145K/yr

Research, evaluate, and select appropriate machine learning approaches and architectures based on ... Feature engineering and preprocessing * Data augmentation strategies for training robustness

Senior Machine Learning Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$105K - $145K/yr

Research, evaluate, and select appropriate machine learning approaches and architectures based on ... Feature engineering and preprocessing * Data augmentation strategies for training robustness

Senior Machine Learning Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$105K - $145K/yr

Research, evaluate, and select appropriate machine learning approaches and architectures based on ... Feature engineering and preprocessing * Data augmentation strategies for training robustness

Showing results 41-60

Machine Learning Research Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$36.7K

$105.1K

$141.3K

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

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for machine learning research engineer in Virginia is $105,103.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $103,100.00 and $103,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a machine learning research engineer do?

A Machine Learning Research Engineer develops and improves 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a machine learning research engineer?

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 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.

Infographic showing various Machine Learning Research Engineer job openings in Virginia 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 $105,103 per year, or $50.5 per hour.

AI/Machine Learning Engineer Principal

Chantilly, VA

SAIC
IT Services • 10K+ employees

$120K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Support the development of program acquisition packages including statements of work, RFI, RFP, and briefing materials.

  • Evaluate advanced AI/ML concepts, systems, and architectures for integration into space and ground systems.

  • Assist USG Program Office with analysis of alternatives and provide technical and programmatic support throughout the project life cycle.


SAIC rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 82 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job ID: 2615978

Location: Chantilly, VA, US

Date Posted: 2026-08-25

Category: Engineering and Sciences

Subcategory: Machine Learning Engineer

Schedule: Full-Time

Shift: Day Job

Travel: Yes - 10% of the time

Minimum Clearance Required: TS.SCI_wPoly

Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: None

Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE


Description

SAIC seeks an Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning Systems Engineer to join our team of professionals providing technical and program services to the U.S. Government (USG). SAIC provides research, engineering, design, analysis, acquisition, development, integration, test, and operations support USG Intelligence Community (IC) and Department of Defense (DoD) customers.

The AI/ML systems engineer sought here serves a USG Program Office leading Research & Development (R&D) of evolutionary, revolutionary, and transformational artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms. This position provides Systems Engineering & Technical Advisory (SETA) support services.

Job Description:

  • Work with government technical and contracts staff developing program acquisition packages including but not limited to statement of work, Justification & Approval, development of Request for Contract Action Package (RCAP) artifacts, Request For Information (RFI), Request For Proposal (RFP), and executive briefing materials
  • Provide acquisition advisory services during technical and cost evaluations of RFIs and/or proposals in support of source selection
  • Evaluation of advanced AI/ML concepts, systems, technologies, designs, architectures, interfaces into space and ground systems
  • Support Agile SAFe program development processes and activities such as Program Increment (PI) Planning, development of epics, features, and demo coordination
  • Assist USG Program Office with analysis of alternatives to optimize technical, cost, and schedule performance considerations and improve knowledge and understanding of system, technology, and architecture tradeoffs
  • Technical and programmatic support through the entire project life cycle including concept development, system definition, acquisition planning, source selection, system design, development, integration and test, system delivery, and deployment
  • Support systems engineering activities such as risk management, schedule management, and technical performance management
  • Briefings and reports including technical and programmatic assessments presenting analysis, results, conclusions, and recommendations
  • Assessment of white papers and vendor marketing materials

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

  • Active TS/SCI clearance with Poly
  • Assist in Interoffice and Interagency coordination and collaboration
  • Must have bachelor’s degree in science, technology, engineering, or math discipline with minimum of nine (9) years of relevant work experience or seven (7) years with master’s degree
  • Demonstrated acquisition support experience of 5 or more years
  • AI/ML experience
  • Proficient skills using Microsoft Office applications (i.e., Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint)
  • Proficient skills using Jira and Confluence tools
  • Critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills
  • Interpersonal and communication skills for written reports, group discussion, and oral presentations

Desired Qualifications:

  • Knowledge, skills, abilities, and/or experience in one of more of the following:
    • Systems engineering and integration applied to spacecraft, ground, and launch systems
    • R&D of artificial intelligence/machine learning agents
    • System acquisition, design, development, integration, test, and/or flight operations
    • Artificial Intelligence and/or Machine Learning technologies applied to space systems
    • IC mission, organizations, disciplines, systems, and/or processes
  • Experience working as a SETA
  • General understanding of satellite architecture (payloads and bus sub-systems)
  • General understanding of satellite operations (planning & scheduling, mission management, and command and control

Target salary range: $120,001 - $160,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.

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