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Machine Learning Researcher Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Track the latest advancements with machine learning research to bring new techniques and methodologies to MORSE * Conduct experiments and perform rigorous evaluations to assess the effectiveness and ...

Conduct research to identify new approaches and methods for machine learning and AI. * Stay updated with the latest trends and advancements in machine learning and AI. * Document processes, codes ...

Conduct research to identify new approaches and methods for machine learning and AI. * Stay updated with the latest trends and advancements in machine learning and AI. * Document processes, codes ...

Stay current with the latest research and advancements in machine learning and AI. * Participate in code reviews, team meetings, and contribute to a collaborative development environment. * Document ...

Machine Learning Engineer

Arlington, VA · Hybrid

$110K - $160K/yr

Kitware is a leader in advanced research and algorithm development in artificial intelligence (AI ... Machine learning experience using visual data * Understanding of a variety of machine learning ...

Kitware is a leader in advanced research and algorithm development in artificial intelligence (AI ... Machine learning experience using visual data * Understanding of a variety of machine learning ...

Machine Learning Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$110K - $160K/yr

Kitware is a leader in advanced research and algorithm development in artificial intelligence (AI ... Machine learning experience using visual data * Understanding of a variety of machine learning ...

Machine Learning Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site +1

$115K - $150K/yr

Stay updated with the latest research and trends in AI to implement cutting-edge solutions ... with machine learning frameworks and libraries such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, or scikit-learn.

Stay updated with the latest research and trends in AI to implement cutting-edge solutions ... with machine learning frameworks and libraries such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, or scikit-learn.

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Showing results 1-20

Machine Learning Researcher information

See Washington salary details

$34K

$128.1K

$186.3K

How much do machine learning researcher jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for machine learning researcher in Washington is $128,099.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,900.00 and $174,400.00 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 popular job titles related to Machine Learning Researcher jobs in Washington? For Machine Learning Researcher jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Machine Learning Researcher job openings in Washington as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 48% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $128,099 per year, or $61.6 per hour.
Machine Learning Research Engineer

Machine Learning Research Engineer

Anduril Industries

Washington, DC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Anduril rating

9.4

Company rating: 9.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Summary:
Anduril Industries is a defense technology company dedicated to enhancing military capabilities through advanced technology. The Machine Learning Research Engineer will work on developing and maintaining AI systems to improve autonomy and reduce cognitive burden on military personnel, focusing on edge-compatible generative AI systems.
Responsibilities:
• Distill and fine-tune transformer architectures so they can be deployed onto edge devices or compute denied environments
• Propose and prototype LLM-based Agentic systems that help solve real world problems, leveraging the latest state-of-the-art techniques in the field
• Develop and maintain mission relevant benchmarks
• Work cross-functionally with different business lines across Anduril to help discover and scope new research problems
Qualifications:
Required:
• BS in Computer Science, Machine Learning, Electrical Engineering, or related field
• 5+ years experience developing and benchmarking ML algorithms
• Experience pushing and maintaining ML algorithms in production
• Strong Python skills with experience in ML frameworks such as PyTorch
• Must be a U.S. Person due to required access to U.S. export controlled information or facilities
Preferred:
• Experience fine-tuning transformer-based model
• Experience deploying deep-learning based models to edge devices or air gapped environments
• Prior experience in defense tech or start-up
Company:
Anduril Industries is a defense technology company that specializes in developing advanced autonomous systems to enhance national security. Founded in 2017, the company is headquartered in Costa Mesa, USA, with a team of 1001-5000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

Anduril Industries logo

About Anduril Industries

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Anduril Industries is a trailblazer in the technology industry based in Costa Mesa, CA, US. Founded in 2017 by Palmer Luckey, the creator of Oculus VR, the company focuses on developing innovative technology to equip and empower those in the defense sector. Its primary products include cutting-edge autonomous systems and AI software that assist in combating threats to national and global security. The mission of Anduril Industries is to integrate technology and defense by building transformative, scalable solutions that ensure a safer world.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Costa Mesa, CA, US

Year founded

2017

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