1

Nlp Researcher Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

LLM Research Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$90 - $121.86/hr

Conduct research on cutting-edge techniques in natural language processing (NLP) and machine learning to improve model performance. * Explore advancements in transformer architectures, multi-modal ...

NLP Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$72K - $130K/yr

The Sr NLP Engineer works closely with other NLP engineers, NLP developers, software engineers, and ... The successful candidate will be comfortable contributing to research and design in addition to ...

NLP Engineer

San Diego, CA · Remote

$72K - $130K/yr

The Sr NLP Engineer works closely with other NLP engineers, NLP developers, software engineers, and ... The successful candidate will be comfortable contributing to research and design in addition to ...

PhD focus on NLP or Masters with 5 years of industrial NLP research experience * Multiple publications on topics related to the pre-training of large language models (e.g. technical reports of pre ...

PhD focus on NLP or Masters with 5 years of industrial NLP research experience * Multiple publications on topics related to the pre-training of large language models (e.g. technical reports of pre ...

PhD focus on NLP or Masters with 5 years of industrial NLP research experience * Multiple publications on topics related to the pre-training of large language models (e.g. technical reports of pre ...

PhD focus on NLP or Masters with 5 years of industrial NLP research experience * Multiple publications on topics related to the pre-training of large language models (e.g. technical reports of pre ...

PhD focus on NLP or Masters with 5 years of industrial NLP research experience * Multiple publications on topics related to the pre-training of large language models (e.g. technical reports of pre ...

PhD focus on NLP or Masters with 5 years of industrial NLP research experience * Multiple publications on topics related to the pre-training of large language models (e.g. technical reports of pre ...

PhD focus on NLP or Masters with 5 years of industrial NLP research experience * Multiple publications on topics related to the pre-training of large language models (e.g. technical reports of pre ...

PhD focus on NLP or Masters with 5 years of industrial NLP research experience * Multiple publications on topics related to the pre-training of large language models (e.g. technical reports of pre ...

PhD focus on NLP or Masters with 5 years of industrial NLP research experience * Multiple publications on topics related to the pre-training of large language models (e.g. technical reports of pre ...

PhD focus on NLP or Masters with 5 years of industrial NLP research experience * Multiple publications on topics related to the pre-training of large language models (e.g. technical reports of pre ...

PhD focus on NLP or Masters with 5 years of industrial NLP research experience * Multiple publications on topics related to the pre-training of large language models (e.g. technical reports of pre ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Nlp Researcher information

See California salary details

$29.6K

$111.6K

$162.3K

How much do nlp researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for nlp researcher in California is $111,621.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,100.00 and $152,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an NLP researcher do?

An NLP (Natural Language Processing) researcher studies and develops algorithms, models, and systems that enable computers to understand, interpret, and generate human language. Their work often involves areas such as machine learning, linguistics, data analysis, and deep learning. NLP researchers typically conduct experiments, analyze results, and publish findings to advance the state of the art in language technologies. They may work in academia, industry, or research labs, focusing on tasks like machine translation, sentiment analysis, question answering, and more.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an NLP researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as an NLP Researcher, you need a strong foundation in computer science, linguistics, machine learning, and a relevant advanced degree (often a master's or PhD). Familiarity with programming languages like Python, deep learning frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch), and NLP libraries (such as NLTK, spaCy, or Hugging Face Transformers) is typically required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for developing innovative solutions and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills and tools enable NLP Researchers to create state-of-the-art models, drive impactful research, and advance natural language technologies.

What are some common challenges faced by NLP researchers when working with real-world language data?

NLP Researchers often encounter challenges such as dealing with noisy, unstructured, and diverse language data that may include slang, typos, or code-mixed languages. Additionally, ensuring models perform well across different dialects and domains can be complex, requiring significant data preprocessing and model adaptation. Collaborating closely with data engineers and domain experts is common to address these issues, and staying updated with the latest research helps in applying cutting-edge solutions to practical problems.

What is the difference between Nlp Researcher vs Data Scientist?

AspectNlp ResearcherData Scientist
Required CredentialsMaster's or PhD in Computer Science, Linguistics, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Data Science, Statistics, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academia, tech companies focusing on NLP projectsBusiness environments, analytics teams, diverse industries
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, research institutions, AI startupsFinance, healthcare, e-commerce, tech firms
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

While both roles involve data analysis and machine learning, Nlp Researchers specialize in developing and improving natural language processing algorithms, often working in research settings. Data Scientists focus on analyzing data to derive insights and support decision-making across various industries. The roles overlap in skills like programming and statistical analysis but differ in their primary focus and work environment.

Does NLP research pay well?

NLP research roles are generally well-paying, especially for those with advanced degrees and strong technical skills in machine learning and linguistics. Salaries vary by industry, experience, and location but tend to be competitive within the tech sector, with opportunities for growth as expertise in deep learning and large language models increases.

What job categories do people searching Nlp Researcher jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Nlp Researcher jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Nlp Researcher jobs?

Cities in California with the most Nlp Researcher job openings:

Infographic showing various Nlp Researcher job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,621 per year, or $53.7 per hour.

Research Scientist - NLP

Institute of Foundation Models

Sunnyvale, CA • On-site

$250/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

About the Institute of Foundation Models

We are a dedicated research lab for building, understanding, using, and risk‑managing foundation models. Our mandate is to advance research, nurture the next generation of AI builders, and drive transformative contributions to a knowledge‑driven economy.

As part of our team, you’ll have the opportunity to work on the core of cutting‑edge foundation model training, alongside world‑class researchers, data scientists, and engineers, tackling the most fundamental and impactful challenges in AI development. You will participate in the development of groundbreaking AI solutions that have the potential to reshape entire industries. Strategic and innovative problem‑solving skills will be instrumental in establishing MBZUAI as a global hub for high‑performance computing in deep learning, driving impactful discoveries that inspire the next generation of AI pioneers.

The Role

As a Research Scientist specializing in Natural Language Processing (NLP) with a focus on large language models and deep learning, your role will be crucial in advancing cutting‑edge language processing technologies and contributing to the development of intelligent systems. You will be responsible for a wide range of tasks encompassing research, development, and implementation of NLP solutions, with a particular emphasis on Python coding, machine learning techniques, and deep learning methodologies.

Key Responsibilities
  • Lead the research of technology for improving the efficiency of Large Language Model (LLM) while performing target capabilities or supporting many capabilities, such as novel architectures and improved pre‑training.
  • Design and implement NLP algorithms for model training and prediction, leverage ML infrastructure, and contribute to model optimization and data processing, using PyTorch or other frameworks.
  • Integrate and improve LLM algorithms to work with other models such as computer vision models.
  • Identify defined problems/gaps in existing technology and engage other Research teams, stakeholders and leaders to expand efficient LLM technology.
  • Collaborate with peers and stakeholders through design and code reviews to ensure best practices amongst available technologies.
  • Write up results in design documents, technical reports, and papers for publication.
  • Represent MBZUAI at industry conferences and events, showcasing the institution’s cutting‑edge HPC and deep learning capabilities and establishing MBZUAI as a global leader in AI research and innovation.
  • Perform all other duties as reasonably directed by the line manager that are commensurate with the functional objectives.
Academic Qualifications
  • Minimum: Master’s in Computer Science, a related technical field, or equivalent practical experience
  • Preferred: PhD or equivalent research experience in Natural Language Processing
Professional Experience – Minimum
  • Experience with state‑of‑the‑art Gen AI techniques and models (e.g., LLMs, Multi‑Modal, Large Vision Models) or with Gen AI‑related concepts (e.g., language modeling, computer vision).
  • Experience with software development in one or more programming languages (e.g., Python, C++), and with data structures/algorithms.
  • Excellent problem‑solving and troubleshooting skills to address complex technical challenges.
  • Effective communication and collaboration skills to work with cross functional teams.
  • Ability to effectively navigate ambiguity.
Professional Experience – Preferred
  • Experience leading research efforts and influencing other researchers.
  • Experience with efficiency, modularity or related topics for LLMs.
  • Experience with ML infrastructure (e.g., model deployment, model evaluation, optimization, data processing, debugging).
  • Experience with design and optimization of algorithms in performance‑constrained environments (e.g., mobile).
  • Experience in innovative research, contributing to research communities including publishing in forums (e.g., ACL, EMNLP, NAACL, EACL, COLING, ICLR, AAAI, NeurIPS).
Compensation

$150,000 - $450,000 a year.

Salary depends on level.

Visa Sponsorship

This position is eligible for visa sponsorship.

Benefits Include
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits
  • Bonus
  • 401K Plan
  • Generous paid time off, sick leave and holidays
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Life insurance and disability
#J-18808-Ljbffr