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Machine Learning Research Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Advatix Inc.

Machine Learning Engineer

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

Machine Learning Engineer / Research Engineer Pay: $$110,000 - $165,000 Base Salary + Equity Shift: N/A Location: San Mateo, CA (Peninsula) - Onsite Preferred Schedule: Full time, Permanent Role Visa ...

Meta

Research Scientist, Machine Learning

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$122K - $181K/yr

Meta is seeking a Research Scientist to join our Core Machine Learning Research team, where we advance the foundational AI and ML technologies that power Meta's family of products at scale. In this ...

LLNL

Machine Learning Researcher

Livermore, CA

Research, develop, implement, and evaluate new machine learning and data analysis techniques for multiple applications in a collaborative scientific environment. * Actively participate with project ...

Profluent

Machine Learning Research Engineer

Emeryville, CA · On-site +1

$237K/yr

We're looking for an experienced Machine Learning Engineer to build and improve the models and ML ... Partner with ML and protein design scientists to prototype research ideas and bring them into ...

LLNL

Machine Learning Researcher

Livermore, CA · On-site

Research, develop, implement, and evaluate new machine learning and data analysis techniques for multiple applications in a collaborative scientific environment. * Actively participate with project ...

LLNL

Machine Learning Researcher

Livermore, CA · On-site

$9.8K/wk

Research, develop, implement, and evaluate new machine learning and data analysis techniques for multiple applications in a collaborative scientific environment. * Actively participate with project ...

Qualcomm

Machine Learning Researcher

San Diego, CA · On-site

Qualcomm Engineers collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance the world of mobile, edge, auto, and IOT products through machine learning research. Minimum Qualifications: • Master's degree ...

Qualcomm

Machine Learning Researcher

San Diego, CA · On-site

Qualcomm Engineers collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance the world of mobile, edge, auto, and IOT products through machine learning research. Minimum Qualifications: • Master's degree ...

Qualcomm

Machine Learning Researcher

San Diego, CA · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

Applies Machine Learning knowledge to conduct fundamental research to create new models or training methods in various technology areas (e.g., deep generative models, Bayesian deep learning ...

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Machine Learning Research information

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How much do machine learning research jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine learning research in California is $21.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $23.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is machine learning research?

Machine learning research is the scientific study and development of algorithms and statistical models that enable computers to perform tasks without explicit instructions, instead relying on patterns and inference. Researchers in this field work on advancing the theory, design, and application of machine learning systems, exploring areas such as deep learning, reinforcement learning, and unsupervised learning. They often publish their findings, develop new techniques, and collaborate with industry to solve real-world problems. This work is foundational to progress in artificial intelligence and has wide-ranging impacts across technology, healthcare, finance, and more.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a machine learning researcher?

To thrive as a Machine Learning Researcher, you need a strong background in mathematics, statistics, and computer science, often supported by an advanced degree (Master's or PhD) in a related field. Proficiency in programming languages like Python or R, experience with machine learning frameworks (such as TensorFlow or PyTorch), and familiarity with cloud computing platforms are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, creativity, and effective communication skills help researchers devise novel solutions and collaborate within multidisciplinary teams. These skills are essential for driving innovation, solving complex problems, and advancing the field of machine learning.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in machine learning research and how can they be overcome?

One of the main challenges in Machine Learning Research is dealing with insufficient or poor-quality data, which can hinder model performance and generalizability. Additionally, keeping up with the rapid pace of advancements in the field requires continuous learning and adaptation. Collaborating effectively with multidisciplinary teams, such as data engineers and domain experts, is also crucial but can present communication challenges. Overcoming these obstacles typically involves building strong data pipelines, dedicating time for ongoing education, and honing collaboration and communication skills to bridge gaps between technical and non-technical stakeholders.

What is the difference between Machine Learning Research vs Data Scientist?

AspectMachine Learning ResearchData Scientist
Required CredentialsAdvanced degrees (Master's/PhD) in CS, ML, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in CS, Statistics, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academia, R&D departmentsBusiness environments, analytics teams, product development
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, research institutions, universitiesTech, finance, healthcare, e-commerce, and more
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Machine Learning Research focuses on developing new algorithms and advancing theoretical understanding, often in academic or R&D settings. Data Scientists apply existing ML techniques to analyze data, build models, and generate insights for business decisions. While both roles require strong technical skills, Machine Learning Research emphasizes innovation and theory, whereas Data Scientists focus on practical application and data analysis.

How to become a machine learning researcher?

To become a machine learning researcher, typically a strong foundation in mathematics, statistics, and programming is required, along with advanced degrees such as a master's or Ph.D. in computer science, data science, or related fields. Gaining experience with machine learning frameworks like TensorFlow or PyTorch, publishing research, and staying current with academic literature are also important steps.

Is machine learning research a high paying job?

Machine learning research positions are generally well-paid due to the high demand for specialized skills in algorithms, data analysis, and programming languages like Python and TensorFlow. Salaries vary based on experience, education, and location, but they tend to be higher than average for many tech roles, especially in industry or academia with strong research funding.

What does a machine learning researcher do?

A machine learning researcher develops algorithms and models that enable computers to learn from data and improve their performance over time. They analyze large datasets, experiment with different techniques, and publish findings to advance the field, often using tools like Python, TensorFlow, or PyTorch. Their work typically involves both theoretical understanding and practical implementation to solve complex problems across various industries.
Machine Learning Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Learning Research job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,616 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Machine Learning Research Engineer/Scientist

Redwood City, CA • On-site

Sunday
See more jobs at Sundayexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
Sunday is a company focused on developing personal robots to reclaim time lost to repetitive tasks, aiming to make robotics technology broadly accessible. They are seeking a Machine Learning Research Engineer to design and develop algorithms for robot manipulation and control, leveraging large-scale data to enhance robot behaviors and capabilities.
Responsibilities:
• Design and develop state-of-the-art robot learning algorithms for manipulation and controls
• Leverage large-scale in-the-wild data collection to develop generalizable robot behaviors
• Own the end-to-end loop from task definition and data curation to model training, evaluation, and on-robot deployment
• Collaborate closely with a full-stack robotics team to develop a consumer personal robot
• Write maintainable, production quality code for research and deployment
Qualifications:
Required:
• 3+ years (or equivalent) working on machine learning for robotics, controls, or perception
• Proficiency with Python and any deep learning framework (PyTorch preferred)
• Hands-on experience with robot learning for real-world tasks, including offline/online training and evaluation
• Implement tooling for visualization, debugging, and evaluation of data and learning pipelines
• Communicates clearly and collaborates effectively, thriving in fast-moving, cross-functional teams
Preferred:
• Familiarity with classical robotics fundamentals (e.g. controls, planning, state estimation)
• Comfortable profiling and optimizing for latency, memory, and compute on edge devices
• Experience with large-scale model training pipelines (LLM/VLM/VLA)
Company:
Sunday is a robotics and artificial intelligence company that develops an autonomous home robot to assist with household tasks. Founded in 2024, the company is headquartered in Mountain View, USA, with a team of 51-200 employees. The company is currently Early Stage.

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