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Machine Learning Researcher Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

As a Machine Learning Engineer, you will have the unique opportunity to support research, design, and implement cutting edge algorithms for a program focused on building robust computer vision ...

Senior Machine Learning Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$105.60K - $145.10K/yr

Research, evaluate, and select appropriate machine learning approaches and architectures based on the problem definition * Supervised, unsupervised, and reinforcement learning * Neural networks ...

As a Machine Learning Engineer, you will have the unique opportunity to support research, design, and implement cutting edge algorithms for a program focused on building advanced simulations using 3D ...

As a Machine Learning Engineer, you will have the unique opportunity to support research, design, and implement cutting edge algorithms for a program focused on building advanced simulations using 3D ...

Senior Machine Learning Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$105.60K - $145.10K/yr

Research, evaluate, and select appropriate machine learning approaches and architectures based on the problem definition * Supervised, unsupervised, and reinforcement learning * Neural networks ...

As a Machine Learning Engineer, you will have the unique opportunity to support research, design, and implement cutting edge algorithms for a program focused on building robust computer vision ...

... research, internships, or real-world projects involving applied machine learning. #LI-WA1 #LI ... HYBRID Compensation Employee Type: Salaried Currency: USD Salary Minimum: 130,000 Salary Maximum ...

Senior Machine Learning Engineer

Mclean, VA

$105.60K - $145.10K/yr

Research, evaluate, and select appropriate machine learning approaches and architectures based on the problem definition * Supervised, unsupervised, and reinforcement learning * Neural networks ...

What We Do At the SEI AI Division, we conduct research in applied artificial intelligence and the ... As our government customers adopt AI and machine learning (ML) toprovideleap-ahead mission ...

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Showing results 1-20

Machine Learning Researcher information

See Virginia salary details

$29.7K

$112.1K

$163.1K

How much do machine learning researcher jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for machine learning researcher in Virginia is $112,132.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,400.00 and $152,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Machine Learning Researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Machine Learning Researcher, you need deep expertise in mathematics, statistics, programming (typically Python), and a strong academic background in computer science or related fields. Familiarity with frameworks like TensorFlow or PyTorch and experience with tools for data analysis and model development are standard, often supported by advanced degrees or relevant certifications. Critical thinking, creativity, and effective communication are vital soft skills for developing novel solutions and collaborating across interdisciplinary teams. These skills enable researchers to design innovative algorithms, validate models rigorously, and contribute impactful advancements in the field.

What are some common challenges Machine Learning Researchers face when transitioning from academic research to industry roles?

Machine Learning Researchers often find that transitioning to industry involves adapting to faster project timelines, collaborative workflows, and a focus on scalable, real-world solutions rather than theoretical advances alone. In industry, you'll likely work closely with cross-functional teams, such as software engineers and product managers, to ensure models are both practical and maintainable. Balancing innovation with business objectives, handling production constraints, and communicating complex findings to non-technical stakeholders are some of the key challenges you may encounter.

What does a Machine Learning Researcher do?

A Machine Learning Researcher designs, develops, and tests algorithms and models that allow computers to learn from and make decisions based on data. They often work on advancing the field by exploring new methods, improving existing algorithms, and publishing their findings. These researchers collaborate with engineers and data scientists to apply their research to practical problems in areas like computer vision, natural language processing, and robotics. Their work typically involves a combination of mathematics, statistics, programming, and experimentation.

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

AspectMachine Learning ResearcherData Scientist
Required CredentialsAdvanced degrees in CS, ML, or related fields; research experienceDegree in CS, statistics, or related; strong analytical skills
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academia, R&D departmentsBusiness environments, tech companies, consulting
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutions, tech firmsCorporations, startups, finance, healthcare
Common Search & ComparisonFocus on theoretical ML advancementsFocus on data analysis & business insights

While both roles involve working with data and algorithms, Machine Learning Researchers primarily focus on developing new algorithms and advancing ML theory, often in research or academic settings. Data Scientists apply these techniques to analyze data, generate insights, and support business decisions in industry environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Learning Researcher jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Machine Learning Researcher jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Machine Learning Researcher jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Machine Learning Researcher job openings:

Associate Machine Learning Engineer - Secure AI Lab

Cmu

Arlington, VA

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

At the SEI AI Division, we conduct research in applied artificial intelligence and the engineering questions related to the practical design and implementation of AI technologies and systems. We currently lead a community-wide movement to mature the discipline of AI Engineering for Defense and National Security.

As our government customers adopt AI and machine learning toprovideleap-ahead mission capabilities, we

  • build real-world, mission-scale AI capabilities through solving practical engineering problems

  • discover and define the processes, practices, and tools to support operationalizing AI for robust, secure, scalable, and human-centered mission capabilities

  • prepare our customers to be ready for the unique challenges of adopting, deploying, using, andmaintainingAI capabilities

  • identifyand investigate emerging AI and AI-adjacent technologies that are rapidly transforming the technology landscape

Are you creative, curious, energetic, collaborative, technology-focused, and hard-working? Are you interested in making a difference by bringing innovation to government organizations and beyond? Apply to join our team.

Overview:As an Associate Machine Learning Engineer,you will specialize in engineering solutions that supportresearchinto the vulnerabilities of AIandML algorithms and securing against those vulnerabilities.

TheSecure AILab within the SEI's AI Division focuses on improving the security and robustness of AI systems. As part of the world-class research community at Carnegie Mellon University, theSecure AILabconducts and appliescutting-edgeresearch toprotectAI systems fromadversaries who aim to manipulatethe systemto learn, do, or revealsomething itisn'tsupposed to.

TheSecure AILab consists of machine learning research scientists, machine learning engineers, and software developers who work together to solve problems in the following areas:

  • Counter AI Research:Study threat modelstargeting AIandML algorithms,understand the behaviors of AI algorithms,identifyweak points, and design novel ways to subvert AIandMLsystems.

  • AIandMLAlgorithm DefenseResearch:Createpractical mitigations and defenses forobservedattacksaffecting AIandML algorithmsand evaluate the effectiveness ofdefensivetechniques.

  • Applied Adversarial Machine Learning:Advance the state of the art in adversarial machine learning by developing and transitioning capabilities to government sponsors.

As an engineer, you will solve problems for government sponsors by analyzing, designing, and building responsible AI systems.

Your day-to-day engineering tasks will include:

  • Identifyingandinvestigatingemerging AI and AI-adjacent technologies.

  • Defining andrefiningprocesses, practices, and tools for working with AI.

  • Designing andbuildingwell-engineered prototypes of AI systems.

  • Transitioning andprovidingguidance onAI capabilities to government sponsors.

Duties

  • Building Machine Learning Models and Systems:You will work with machine learning frameworks such as TensorFlow,PyTorch, Torch, and Caffe and modern programming languages including Python, C/C++, and Java. You will build and work with datapipelines, ETL processes, and backend systems. You will work with, extend, and implementstate-of-the-artmachine learning methods.

  • Technical Experimentation:You will experiment with modern and emerging machine learning frameworks, methods, and algorithms in application domains that include computer vision, natural language processing,planningand scheduling, robot control, and engineering safe, trusted, and reliable machine learning systems.

  • Testingand evaluation.You'llconduct rapid prototyping todemonstrateand evaluate technologies in relevant environments.You'llevaluate systems for performance and security.You'lltest capabilities using novel testing and analysis techniques.

  • Collaboration.You'llactivelyparticipateon teams of developers, researchers, designers, and technical leads.You'llcollaborate with researchers and our government customers to understand challenges, needs, andpossible solutions.

  • Mentoring.You'llcontribute to improving the overall technical capabilities of the Division by mentoring and teaching others,participatingin design (software and otherwise) sessions, and sharing insights and wisdom across the SEI.

Knowledge andExperience

  • Comprehensiveknowledge ofmachine learning;previousexperiencein adversarial machine learningdesirablebut notrequired

  • A track recordofusingwell-establishedengineering practices to solvedifficult problems

  • An understanding ofhow toconvertresearch resultsintofunctioning prototypesor capabilities

  • Experienceleadingtechnicalprojectsinnovelareaswith limitedpreviouswork to build upon

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills;able to convey complex technical ideasinalayperson's terms

  • Ampleexperience with publishingwritten or technicalartifactsshowcasingyour work

  • Strong collaboration skills for working with colleagues and sponsors

  • Willingnesstoguide andmentorjunior team members

Requirements

  • A bachelor's degree in computer science, statistics, machine learning, electrical engineering, or related discipline with three (3) years of experience; OR MS in the same fields with one (1) year of experience; OR PhD in a relevant discipline.

  • Willingness to work onsite 5 days per week at SEI offices in Pittsburgh, PA or Arlington, VA.

  • You will be subject to a background investigation and must be able to obtain andmaintainan active Department of War security clearance.

  • Willing to travel up to 25% of the time to locations outside of your home location. Travel sites include SEI offices in Pittsburgh and Washington, D.C., sponsor sites, and conferences.

Location

Arlington, VA, Pittsburgh, PA

Job Function

Software/Applications Development/Engineering

Position Type

Staff - Regular

Full time/Part time

Full time

Pay Basis

SalaryMore Information:
  • Please visit "Why Carnegie Mellon" to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world.

  • Click here to view a listing of employee benefits

  • Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran.

  • Statement of Assurance


About CMU

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Offices of mental health practitioners

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Harrisburg, PA, US