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Natural Language Understanding Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Add features to the NLU software to empower skill developers to continuously improve the coverage and the accuracy of the natural language understanding system * Work with the team to push the ...

Lead Developer | Kore.AI | Dallas

Addison, TX · On-site

$112.30K - $140.90K/yr

Implement natural language processing (NLP) and natural language understanding (NLU) capabilities to enable intelligent and context-aware conversations. * Ensure code quality and adherence to best ...

Lead Developer | Kore.AI | Dallas

Addison, TX · On-site +1

$112.30K - $140.90K/yr

Implement natural language processing (NLP) and natural language understanding (NLU) capabilities to enable intelligent and context-aware conversations. * Ensure code quality and adherence to best ...

Implement natural language processing (NLP) and natural language understanding (NLU) capabilities to enable intelligent and context-aware conversations. * Ensure code quality and adherence to best ...

Implement natural language processing (NLP) and natural language understanding (NLU) capabilities to enable intelligent and context-aware conversations. * Ensure code quality and adherence to best ...

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Natural Language Understanding information

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$24.5K

$104.1K

$189.5K

How much do natural language understanding jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for natural language understanding in the United States is $104,067.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $145,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Natural Language Understanding (NLU) Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an NLU Engineer, you need a solid background in computational linguistics, machine learning, and programming (typically Python), often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with NLP frameworks (like spaCy, NLTK, or Hugging Face), deep learning libraries (such as TensorFlow or PyTorch), and experience with large language models are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and effective collaboration set standout candidates apart. These skills and qualities are crucial for developing accurate, efficient NLU systems that interpret human language for real-world applications.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in Natural Language Understanding (NLU) roles?

Professionals in Natural Language Understanding often encounter challenges such as handling the ambiguity and complexity of human language, managing large and diverse datasets, and ensuring models accurately interpret context, sentiment, and intent. Collaborating closely with data scientists, linguists, and software engineers is essential to refine algorithms and improve model performance. Additionally, staying updated with rapid advancements in NLP research and integrating state-of-the-art models into production systems are ongoing aspects of the role.

What is Natural Language Understanding (NLU)?

Natural Language Understanding (NLU) is a subfield of artificial intelligence that focuses on enabling computers to understand, interpret, and respond to human language in a meaningful way. NLU involves processing text or speech input to extract intent, meaning, and context, which allows machines to interact with people naturally. It is commonly used in applications like virtual assistants, chatbots, and translation services to bridge the gap between human communication and computer interpretation.

What is the difference between Natural Language Understanding vs Natural Language Processing?

AspectNatural Language UnderstandingNatural Language Processing
FocusInterpreting and comprehending human languageProcessing and analyzing language data
Skills & CertificationsMachine learning, linguistics, AI certificationsData analysis, programming, NLP tools
Work EnvironmentAI research, tech companies, NLP development teamsData science, software development, AI projects

Natural Language Understanding (NLU) focuses on interpreting the meaning behind human language, enabling machines to comprehend context and intent. In contrast, Natural Language Processing (NLP) encompasses a broader set of techniques for processing, analyzing, and manipulating language data. While NLU is a subset of NLP, both roles often overlap in AI and language technology fields, but NLU emphasizes understanding, whereas NLP includes processing and generation tasks.

More about Natural Language Understanding jobs
2026 Fall Applied Science Internship - Natural Language Processing and Speech Technologies - Unit...

2026 Fall Applied Science Internship - Natural Language Processing and Speech Technologies - Unit...

Amazon

Seattle, WA • On-site

$17 - $22.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 14 days ago


Amazon rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 6,788 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 39 rated national retailers


Job description

Shape the Future of Human-Machine Interaction
Are you a master of natural language processing, eager to push the boundaries of conversational AI? Amazon is seeking exceptional graduate students to join our cutting-edge research team, where they will have the opportunity to explore and push the boundaries of natural language processing (NLP), natural language understanding (NLU), and speech recognition technologies.
Imagine waking up each morning, fueled by the excitement of tackling complex research problems that have the potential to reshape the world. You'll dive into production-scale data, exploring innovative approaches to natural language understanding, large language models, reinforcement learning with human feedback, conversational AI, and multimodal learning. Your days will be filled with brainstorming sessions, coding sprints, and lively discussions with brilliant minds from diverse backgrounds.
Throughout your journey, you'll have access to unparalleled resources, including state-of-the-art computing infrastructure, cutting-edge research papers, and mentorship from industry luminaries. This immersive experience will not only sharpen your technical skills but also cultivate your ability to think critically, communicate effectively, and thrive in a fast-paced, innovative environment where bold ideas are celebrated..
Join us at the forefront of applied science, where your contributions will shape the future of AI and propel humanity forward. Seize this extraordinary opportunity to learn, grow, and leave an indelible mark on the world of technology.
Amazon has positions available for Natural Language Processing & Speech Applied Science Internships in, but not limited to, Bellevue, WA; Boston, MA; Cambridge, MA; New York, NY; Santa Clara, CA; Seattle, WA; Sunnyvale, CA.
Key job responsibilities
We are particularly interested in candidates with expertise in: NLP/NLU, LLMs, Reinforcement Learning, Human Feedback/HITL, Deep Learning, Speech Recognition, Conversational AI, Natural Language Modeling, Multimodal Learning.
In this role, you will work alongside global experts to develop and implement novel, scalable algorithms and modeling techniques that advance the state-of-the-art in areas at the intersection of Natural Language Processing and Speech Technologies. You will tackle challenging, groundbreaking research problems on production-scale data, with a focus on natural language processing, speech recognition, text-to-speech (TTS), text recognition, question answering, NLP models (e.g., LSTM, transformer-based models), signal processing, information extraction, conversational modeling, audio processing, speaker detection, large language models, multilingual modeling, and more.
The ideal candidate should possess the ability to work collaboratively with diverse groups and cross-functional teams to solve complex business problems. A successful candidate will be a self-starter, comfortable with ambiguity, with strong attention to detail and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, ever-changing environment.
A day in the life
- Develop novel, scalable algorithms and modeling techniques that advance the state-of-the-art in natural language processing, speech recognition, text-to-speech, question answering, and conversational modeling.
- Tackle groundbreaking research problems on production-scale data, leveraging techniques such as LSTM, transformer-based models, signal processing, information extraction, audio processing, speaker detection, large language models, and multilingual modeling.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to solve complex business problems, leveraging your expertise in NLP/NLU, LLMs, reinforcement learning, human feedback/HITL, deep learning, speech recognition, conversational AI, natural language modeling, and multimodal learning.
- Thrive in a fast-paced, ever-changing environment, embracing ambiguity and demonstrating strong attention to detail.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Are enrolled in a PhD
- Can relocate to where the internship is based
- Experience programming in Java, C++, Python or related language
- Experience with one or more of the following: Natural Language Processing/Understanding, Large Language Models, Reinforcement Learning, Human Feedback/HITL, Deep Learning, Speech Recognition, Conversational AI, Natural Language Modeling, Multimodal Learning
- Must be available for full-time (40 hours per week) internship for the whole duration of the internship
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Have publications at top-tier peer-reviewed conferences or journals
- Experience in designing experiments and statistical analysis of results
- Experience in building speech recognition, machine translation and natural language processing systems (e.g., commercial speech products or government speech projects)
Amazon is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected veteran status, disability, or other legally protected status.
Our inclusive culture empowers Amazonians to deliver the best results for our customers. If you have a disability and need a workplace accommodation or adjustment during the application and hiring process, including support for the interview or onboarding process, please visit https://amazon.jobs/content/en/how-we-hire/accommodations for more information. If the country/region you're applying in isn't listed, please contact your Recruiting Partner.
The starting pay for this position is listed below. Final starting pay will be based on factors including experience, qualifications, and location. Starting Day 1 of employment, Amazon offers EAP, Mental Health Support, Medical Advice Line, 401(k) matching. Learn more about our benefits at https://hiring.amazon.com/why-amazon/benefits.
USA, WA, Seattle - 142,800.00 - 193,200.00 USD annually

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About Amazon

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Amazon.com, Inc., commonly known as Amazon, is an American multinational technology company. It was founded by Jeff Bezos in 1994 and initially started as an online marketplace for books. Since then, Amazon has expanded its operations and become one of the largest e-commerce companies in the world. Amazon's primary business is its online retail platform, where customers can purchase a vast array of products, including electronics, clothing, books, home goods, and much more. The company offers a convenient and user-friendly shopping experience, with features such as fast shipping, customer reviews, and personalized recommendations. In addition to its e-commerce platform, Amazon has diversified its business into various other areas. One of its notable ventures is Amazon Web Services (AWS), a comprehensive cloud computing platform that provides services such as storage, compute power, and database management to individuals and businesses. AWS has become a leader in the cloud computing industry, powering many websites and applications worldwide. Amazon has also developed its own consumer electronics, including the popular Amazon Kindle e-reader, Fire tablets, Fire TV streaming devices, and the Alexa-powered Echo smart speakers. The Alexa voice assistant, integrated into these devices, allows users to interact with their devices using voice commands, perform tasks, and access information. Furthermore, Amazon has expanded into media and entertainment. It operates Prime Video, a streaming service that offers a wide range of movies, TV shows, and original content. Amazon Music provides a platform for streaming and purchasing digital music, while Audible offers audiobooks and other audio content. The company's commitment to customer satisfaction and convenience is demonstrated by its membership program, Amazon Prime. Prime members receive various benefits, including free two-day shipping, access to streaming services, exclusive deals, and more.

Industry

It services, book publishers, retail, real estate and computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Seattle, WA, US