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Machine Learning Research Jobs in Maryland (NOW HIRING)

Learn and understand a large body of research in deep learning and machine learning * Participate in cutting-edge research for medical applications of computer vision Must Have Experience

Learn and understand a large body of research in deep learning and machine learning * Participate in cutting-edge research for medical applications of computer vision Must Have Experience

Learn and understand a large body of research in deep learning and machine learning * Participate in cutting-edge research for medical applications of computer vision Must Have Experience

Learn and understand a large body of research in deep learning and machine learning * Participate in cutting-edge research for medical applications of computer vision Must Have Experience

Learn and understand a large body of research in deep learning and machine learning * Participate in cutting-edge research for medical applications of computer vision Must Have Experience

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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 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine learning research in Maryland is $21.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.78 and $23.08 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Learning Research jobs in Maryland?

The most popular types of Machine Learning Research jobs in Maryland are:

Infographic showing various Machine Learning Research job openings in Maryland as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,860 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Research Scientist - RF Machine Learning

College Park, MD • On-site

Peraton
IT Services • 10K+ employees

$135K - $216K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


Key responsibilities

  • Lead the design, development, prototyping, and evaluation of RF/ML algorithms for wireless, spectrum, and communications applications

  • Research and implement machine learning approaches for RF signal detection, classification, characterization, anomaly detection, emitter identification, spectrum sensing, or waveform analysis

  • Develop software prototypes and analyze RF signals, wireless protocol behavior, modulation characteristics, channel effects, interference, noise, and system performance


Peraton rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

52nd of 226 rated it services


Job description

Responsibilities
Peraton Labs is seeking a poly cleared Senior Research Scientist to support cleared research and development efforts for a Maryland-based IC customer. This role will focus on leading the design, development, prototyping, and evaluation of RF Machine Learning algorithms and signal processing techniques for advanced wireless, spectrum, cyber, and communications research.
You'll work on mission-focused R&D efforts that move from research concepts to working prototypes and operationally relevant capabilities. You will collaborate with researchers, software engineers, signal processing experts, and customer stakeholders to solve complex problems involving RF sensing, signal characterization, waveform analysis, spectrum awareness, and machine learning-enabled wireless systems.
This position requires full-time on-site work at a customer site near College Park, MD.
Key responsibilities may include
  • Lead the design, development, prototyping, and evaluation of RF/ML algorithms for wireless, spectrum, and communications applications
  • Research and implement machine learning approaches for RF signal detection, classification, characterization, anomaly detection, emitter identification, spectrum sensing, or waveform analysis
  • Develop and evaluate algorithms using modern machine learning frameworks such as PyTorch, TensorFlow, Keras, scikit-learn, JAX, or similar tools
  • Apply strong digital signal processing and RF domain knowledge to develop, train, test, and validate models against real-world or simulated RF data
  • Design data collection, labeling, preprocessing, feature extraction, training, evaluation, and experimentation workflows for RFML research
  • Develop software prototypes using Python, C/C++, MATLAB, GNU Radio, or similar tools
  • Analyze RF signals, wireless protocol behavior, modulation characteristics, channel effects, interference, noise, and system performance
  • Work with RF datasets, signal captures, IQ data, SDR platforms, and lab or field-collected spectrum data
  • Support integration of RFML capabilities into larger research prototypes, testbeds, cyber experimentation platforms, or operationally relevant systems
  • Communicate research findings, technical approaches, experiment results, and prototype capabilities through customer briefings, technical reports, whitepapers, and publications
  • Provide technical leadership, mentor junior researchers or engineers, and help shape future RFML research direction

*This position may be eligible for an increased sign-on bonus. Eligibility, bonus amount, and applicable terms and conditions will be discussed during the recruiting process*
#MDFSP
#PLABS26
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications
  • Minimum of 6+ years of experience with a Bachelor's degree, 4+ years of experience with a Master's degree, or 2+ years of experience with a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Physics, or a related discipline. In lieu of a Bachelors, an additional 4 years of experience is required for a total of 10+ years.
  • Strong background in Radio frequency Machine Learning, digital signal processing, wireless communications, or RF systems research
  • Experience designing, developing, training, testing, or evaluating machine learning models for RF, wireless, spectrum, signal processing, or communications applications
  • Experience with modern machine learning frameworks such as PyTorch, TensorFlow, Keras, scikit-learn, or similar tools
  • Strong Experience programming in Python and at least one additional language such as C/C++, Java, or similar
  • Experience working with RF data, signal captures, IQ samples, simulated waveforms, or real-world wireless datasets
  • Experience working in Linux-based dev environments
  • Ability to develop, test, troubleshoot, document, and demonstrate research prototypes
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present technical concepts and research results to technical stakeholders
  • US Citizenship is a requirement for this position
  • This position requires an active/current TS/SCI w/ Polygraph

Desired Additional Qualifications
  • Advanced degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Physics, or a related technical field is preferred
  • Demonstrated history of research in Machine Learning and RF spectrum domains, including publications, prototypes, proposals, patents, technical reports, or customer-facing research briefings
  • Experience with RFML applications such as signal classification, modulation recognition, emitter identification, spectrum sensing, anomaly detection, interference detection, protocol inference, or RF fingerprinting
  • Experience with SDR platforms such as Ettus USRP, HackRF, BladeRF, LimeSDR, or similar hardware
  • Familiarity with SDR software and RF development tools such as GNU Radio, UHD/USRP, MATLAB, Simulink or similar tools
  • Experience with wireless systems or protocols such as LTE, 5G, Wi-Fi, SATCOM, MANET, tactical radio systems, mesh networks, or custom waveform environments
  • Experience with RF test equipment such as spectrum analyzers, signal generators, oscilloscopes, vector signal analyzers, channel emulators, or RF front-end equipment
  • Experience with deep learning approaches for signal processing, including CNNs, RNNs, transformers, autoencoders, contrastive learning, self-supervised learning, or generative models
  • Experience with data engineering for RFML, including dataset generation, augmentation, labeling, synthetic data, simulation, model evaluation, and experiment tracking
  • Experience with tools such as NumPy, SciPy, Pandas, cuSignal, CUDA, MLflow, Weights & Biases, DVC, or similar tools
  • Experience integration ML models into deployable prototypes, edge systems, containers, testbeds, or cyber/radio experimentation environments
  • Experience with RF cyber research, wireless security, electronic warfare, spectrum operations, protocol reverse engineering, or adversarial ML
  • Ability to serve as a technical lead, task lead, or principal investigator on DoD/IC research efforts

Peraton Overview
Peraton is a next-generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. As the world's leading mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider, we deliver trusted, highly differentiated solutions and technologies to protect our nation and allies. Peraton operates at the critical nexus between traditional and nontraditional threats across all domains: land, sea, space, air, and cyberspace. The company serves as a valued partner to essential government agencies and supports every branch of the U.S. armed forces. Each day, our employees do the can't be done by solving the most daunting challenges facing our customers. Visit peraton.com to learn how we're keeping people around the world safe and secure.
Target Salary Range
$135,000 - $216,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual's experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.
EEO
EEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.

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About Peraton

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Peraton, we re at the forefront of delivering the next big thing every day. We re the partner of choice to help solve some of the world s most daunting challenges, delivering bold, new solutions to keep people around the world safer and more secure.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

2017