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Machine Learning Researcher Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Spear AI

Machine Learning Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site +1

We're seeking a skilled Machine Learning Engineer to build and deploy production ML systems for the ... Contributions to open-source ML projects or research publications * Experience in defense ...

MORSE Corp

Machine Learning Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$90K - $210K/yr

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 ...

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Machine Learning Researcher information

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$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:
What job categories do people searching Machine Learning Researcher jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Machine Learning Researcher jobs in Washington are:
Machine Learning Researcher jobs near you
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.

Senior Data Scientist / AI Machine Learning Research Engineer

CACI bv

Sterling, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
CACI is seeking a Senior Data Scientist / AI Machine Learning Research Engineer to apply machine learning and statistics to develop algorithms for challenging problems in signal processing and computer networking. The role involves leveraging expertise in machine learning, data science, and signal processing to solve complex challenges in the RF domain.
Responsibilities:
• Strong mathematical foundation in statistics, linear algebra, and calculus with demonstrated ability to understand and implement machine learning algorithms from first principles rather than solely relying on pre-built libraries.
• Proficiency in designing and building data pipelines, including experience with ETL processes, data warehousing solutions, and optimizing workflows for large-scale data processing.
• Hands-on experience with cloud-based infrastructure (e.g., AWS, Azure, GCP) for deploying ML solutions, including containerization, orchestration, and CI/CD pipelines for model deployment.
• Programming expertise in Python and SQL, with experience using data engineering frameworks (e.g., Spark, Airflow) and ML libraries (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn).
• Demonstrated experience in establishing ML governance practices, including version control for datasets and models, experiment tracking, model monitoring, and implementing reproducible research principles.
Qualifications:
Required:
• Master’s degree in quantitative field with mathematical underpinnings and at least 7 years’ experience.
• Experience developing models.
• Strong background in machine learning, mathematics and statistics.
• Comfortable using Linux operating systems and commonly used Linux utilities.
• Must be a US Citizen with the ability to obtain, maintain and/or transfer the required security clearance as dictated by the contract.
• Must have active Top Secret Clearance with the ability to obtain SCI with Polygraph.
Preferred:
• Ph.D. in computer science, computer engineering, or machine learning, Statistics, applied mathematics or Physics.
• Experience applying machine learning to signal processing and/or other time-series data analysis applications.
• Knowledge of or experience with information theory, probability theory, parametric and non-parametric statistical tests.
• Familiarity with concepts and techniques associated with adversarial AI and AI/ML assurance.
• Active Top Secret/SCI clearance preferred.
Company:
CACI levert, implementeert en beheert bedrijfskritische oplossingen voor het Hoger Onderwijs: het StudentInformatieSysteem OSIRIS en LISA voor zaakgericht werken. Founded in 1997, the company is headquartered in Amsterdam, NLD, with a team of 51-200 employees. The company is currently Growth Stage.

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