ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Machine Learning Researcher Jobs in Pittsburgh, PA

Motional

Machine Learning Systems Engineer

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site +1

$144K - $192K/yr

You will work at the intersection of machine learning research and high-performance systems engineering. Your work will directly impact our ability to scale large-scale distributed model training and ...

Motional

Machine Learning Systems Engineer

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$144K - $192K/yr

You will work at the intersection of machine learning research and high-performance systems engineering. Your work will directly impact our ability to scale large-scale distributed model training and ...

Cmu

Machine Learning Engineer - Autonomy Lab

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$99K - $131K/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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsMachine Learning Researcher JobsMachine Learning Researcher Jobs in Pittsburgh, PA

Machine Learning Researcher information

See Pittsburgh, PA salary details

$28K

$105.7K

$153.7K

How much do machine learning researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for machine learning researcher in Pittsburgh, PA is $105,685.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,600.00 and $143,900.00 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 Pittsburgh, PA? For Machine Learning Researcher jobs in Pittsburgh, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Machine Learning Researcher jobs in Pittsburgh, PA look for? The top searched job categories for Machine Learning Researcher jobs in Pittsburgh, PA are:
What cities near Pittsburgh, PA are hiring for Machine Learning Researcher jobs? Cities near Pittsburgh, PA with the most Machine Learning Researcher job openings:
Machine Learning Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Learning Researcher job openings in Pittsburgh, PA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,685 per year, or $50.8 per hour.
Senior Machine Learning Research Scientist - Secure AI Lab

Senior Machine Learning Research Scientist - Secure AI Lab

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

$95K - $121K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Carnegie Mellon University rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

67th of 612 rated colleges and universities

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 to provide leap-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, and maintaining AI capabilities

  • identify and 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 a Senior Machine Learning Research Scientist, you will specialize in conducting research into the vulnerabilities of AI and ML algorithms and securing against those vulnerabilities.
The Secure AI Lab 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, the Secure AI Lab conducts and applies cutting-edge research to protect AI systems from adversaries who aim to manipulate the system to learn, do, or reveal something it isn't supposed to.
The Secure AI Lab 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 models targeting AI and ML algorithms, understand the behaviors of AI algorithms, identify weak points, and design novel ways to subvert AI and ML systems.

  • AI and ML Algorithm Defense Research: Create practical mitigations and defenses for observed attacks affecting AI and ML algorithms and evaluate the effectiveness of defensive techniques.

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

Your day-to-day research tasks will include:
  • Identifying and investigating emerging AI and AI-adjacent technologies.

  • Performing and publishing impactful original research in the field of AI and ML algorithm vulnerabilities and securing against those vulnerabilities.

  • Adapting and applying existing research in the field to solve real-world problems.

  • Transitioning and providing guidance onAI capabilities to government sponsors.

Duties:
  • Hands-on research: You'll conduct and lead novel research in applied machine learning and artificial intelligence.

  • Solution development: You'll work with and lead interdisciplinary teams to turn research results into prototype operational capabilities for government customers and stakeholders.

  • Strategy: You'll work with the leadership team and colleagues to plan, develop, and carry out an overall research strategy, and to influence the national research agenda regarding future technology.

  • Collaboration: You'll actively participate on teams of software developers, researchers, designers, and technical leads. You'll build relationships and collaborate with researchers, government customers, and other stakeholders to understand challenges, needs, possible solutions, and research directions.

  • Mentoring: You'll contribute to improving the overall technical capabilities of the Division by mentoring and teaching others, participating in design (software and otherwise) sessions, and sharing insights and wisdom across the SEI AI Division.

Knowledge and Experience
  • Comprehensive knowledge of machine learning; previous experience in adversarial machine learning preferred but not required

  • A track record of conducting research and applying scientific methods to solve difficult problems

  • Experience leading research projects in novel areas with limited previous work to build upon

  • Ability to work with leadership to plan, develop, and deliver an overall research strategy

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to convey complex technical ideas in a layperson's terms

  • Proficiency in writing funding proposals or pitching ideas for new research projects

  • Ample experience with publishing written or technical artifacts showcasing your work

  • Strong collaboration skills for working with colleagues and sponsors

  • Willingness to guide and mentor junior team members

Requirements
  • A bachelor's degree in computer science, statistics, machine learning, electrical engineering, or related discipline with ten (10) years of experience; OR MS in the same fields with eight (8) years of experience; OR PhD with five (5) years of experience
  • Willingness to work onsite at an SEI facility 5 days per week.

  • Be able to obtain and maintain an 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.

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits.
Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits, take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays, and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance.
Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and much more!
For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page.
At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it's about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.
Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!
Location
Arlington, VA, Pittsburgh, PA
Job Function
Software/Applications Development/Engineering
Position Type
Staff - Regular
Full Time/Part time
Full time
Pay Basis
Salary
More 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

What Carnegie Mellon University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply