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Machine Learning Researcher Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Machine Learning/AI Engineer Location: Hybrid in Vienna, VA or Remote Pay Rate: Open to Both W2 and ... I. framework and Large Language Models (LLMs). • Experience and/or willing to research, develop ...

Senior Machine Learning Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$105K - $145K/yr

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

Senior Machine Learning Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$105K - $145K/yr

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

Senior Machine Learning Engineer

Mclean, VA

$105K - $145K/yr

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

... 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 ...

Machine Learning Engineer - Autonomy Lab

Arlington, VA · On-site

$117K - $155K/yr

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 ...

Senior Machine Learning Engineer

North Bethesda, MD · Hybrid

$104K - $143K/yr

At Xometry, you will play a crucial role in exploring new machine learning opportunities, researching and performing proof of concepts, and bringing new machine learning and AI solutions into Xometry ...

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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 Jul 9, 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 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 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 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 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 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $128,099 per year, or $61.6 per hour.
Machine Learning/AI Engineer

Machine Learning/AI Engineer

System One

Merrifield, VA • Remote

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Machine Learning/AI Engineer Location: Hybrid in Vienna, VA or Remote Pay Rate: Open to Both W2 and established 1099 options (no c2c) Position Type: Multiyear Contract

We are looking for candidates with 5-10 years of professional experience with a combination of data science and machine learning expertise with knowledge of AI governance, MLOps, and emerging AI technologies. Candidates must live in the United States and be able to pass both a criminal and credit background check. We are open to W2 and established 1099 candidates – no c2c. This position is for a Machine Learning/AI Engineer or Data Scientist focused on designing, developing, deploying, and securing advanced AI/ML solutions (more of an AI/ML Engineer and less of data scientist). The role involves building machine learning models throughout their lifecycle, analyzing large-scale structured and unstructured data, developing AI-powered solutions using cloud platforms, and collaborating with data engineers and data scientists. A key aspect of the role is evaluating AI safety, security, and risk, including reviewing AI architectures, conducting risk assessments, and ensuring secure deployment and monitoring of AI systems. The position also emphasizes experience with Computer Vision, NLP, Deep Learning, LLMs, Agentic AI, and cloud-based AI infrastructure. Responsibilities • Build and enhance machine learning models through all phases of development including design, training, validation, and implementation etc. • Unlock insights by analyzing large scale of complex numerical and textual data and identifying trends. • Review A.I. system architectures and data flows to identify exposure to risks and evaluate identified A.I. safety and security risks. • Perform A.I. risk assessments across the full lifecycle, including data security, model development, deployment, and ongoing monitoring. • Partner with a cross-functional team of data engineers, data scientists, and data visualization to deliver projects. • Research and evaluate emerging technologies. • Develop data science solutions based on tools and cloud computing infrastructure. • Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements • Advanced degree in in computer science, mathematics, physics, statistics. • Strong experience with applying expertise in model design, training, validation, and monitoring. • Excellent understanding of machine learning, statistical modeling, and algorithms as well as their benefits and drawbacks. • Experience with cloud computing infrastructure. • Experience with Computer Vision, image processing and video analytics. • Experience with Natural Language Processing/ Natural Language Understanding. • Experience with deep learning framework and infrastructure like TensorFlow or PyTorch. • Experience and/or willing to learn advanced techniques in Agentic A.I. framework and Large Language Models (LLMs). • Experience and/or willing to research, develop, implement, and fine-tune LLMs in terms of specific domains knowledge and user cases. • Ability to work individually, and as part of a team. • Advanced verbal, written, interpersonal, and presentation skills to communicate clearly and concisely technical and non-technical information to all levels of management.

Desired: • Experience with reviewing A.I. system architectures and data flows to identify exposure to risks and evaluate identified A.I. safety and security risks. • Experience with performing A.I. risk assessments across the full lifecycle, including data security, model development, deployment, and ongoing monitoring. • A.I. Model Optimization on GPU architecture. Leveraging C++, CUDA. • Knowledge of Machine Learning Ops and CI/CD tools for automation of build, test, and deploy models in production environments. • Knowledge on principles of A.I. Security and Safety. • Experience with Advance Reinforcement Learning Paradigms. • Experience with Speech Recognition. • Experience with Microsoft Azure services.

System One, and its subsidiaries including Joulé and Mountain Ltd., are leaders in delivering outsourced services and workforce solutions across North America. We help clients get work done more efficiently and economically, without compromising quality. System One not only serves as a valued partner for our clients, but we offer eligible employees health and welfare benefits coverage options including medical, dental, vision, spending accounts, life insurance, voluntary plans, as well as participation in a 401(k) plan.

System One is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, family care or medical leave status, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

#M- #LI- Ref: #851-Rockville-S1