1

Principal Machine Learning Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Principal Machine Learning Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site +1

$228K - $253K/yr

Ibotta is seeking a Principal Machine Learning Engineer to join our Core Data & Analytics team and contribute to our mission to Make Every Purchase Rewarding. We're looking for someone who has a ...

$228K - $253K/yr

Ibotta is seeking a Principal Machine Learning Engineer to join our Core Data & Analytics team and contribute to our mission to Make Every Purchase Rewarding. We're looking for someone who has a ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Principal Machine Learning Engineer information

See salary details

$74K

$147.2K

$212.5K

How much do principal machine learning engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal machine learning engineer in the United States is $147,220.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects and responsibilities can a Principal Machine Learning Engineer typically expect in this role?

Principal Machine Learning Engineers are often tasked with leading the design, development, and deployment of large-scale machine learning models and systems that address key business challenges. In this role, you will collaborate closely with data scientists, engineers, and product managers to define project requirements, architect solutions, and ensure high-quality delivery. You may also guide research initiatives, oversee code and model reviews, and mentor junior engineers, helping to shape the technical direction of the team. Typical responsibilities can range from prototyping and optimizing algorithms to ensuring models are scalable, reliable, and aligned with organizational goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Principal Machine Learning Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Principal Machine Learning Engineer, you need advanced expertise in machine learning algorithms, statistical analysis, software engineering, and a strong background in computer science or related fields, often supported by a master's or PhD degree. Familiarity with tools such as Python, TensorFlow, PyTorch, cloud platforms (AWS, GCP, Azure), and relevant certifications strengthens technical capability. Leadership, strategic thinking, effective communication, and mentorship are vital soft skills for guiding teams and collaborating across departments. These competencies are essential for driving innovation, ensuring technical excellence, and influencing organizational AI initiatives.

What does a Principal Machine Learning Engineer do?

A Principal Machine Learning Engineer leads the design, development, and deployment of machine learning models and systems. They set technical strategy, mentor engineers, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to solve complex AI challenges. Their role often includes researching new algorithms, optimizing model performance, and ensuring scalability in production environments. Additionally, they work closely with data scientists, software engineers, and product managers to align ML initiatives with business objectives.

What engineers make $500,000?

Principal Machine Learning Engineers and senior AI specialists with extensive experience, advanced skills in deep learning, and proficiency with tools like TensorFlow or PyTorch can reach or exceed $500,000 in total compensation, especially in high-cost-of-living areas or within large tech companies. Achieving this level often requires a strong track record, leadership responsibilities, and sometimes stock options or bonuses.

How much do principal AI engineers make?

Principal AI engineers typically earn between $130,000 and $200,000 annually, with salaries varying based on experience, location, and industry. They often have advanced skills in machine learning, deep learning, and data science, and may receive bonuses or stock options as part of compensation packages.

What is the salary of principal machine learning engineer?

The salary of a principal machine learning engineer typically ranges from $130,000 to $200,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and company size. Senior roles often include bonuses, stock options, and other benefits, reflecting the high level of expertise required in machine learning, data analysis, and software development tools.

Which 5 jobs will survive AI?

Principal Machine Learning Engineers are likely to continue playing a vital role as AI advances, focusing on developing and deploying complex models that require deep expertise in algorithms, data science, and software engineering. Jobs that involve creative problem-solving, strategic decision-making, and tasks requiring human judgment—such as healthcare professionals, educators, and skilled trades—are also expected to persist. Roles emphasizing emotional intelligence, interpersonal skills, and adaptability will remain resilient despite AI automation.
More about Principal Machine Learning Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Principal Machine Learning Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Principal Machine Learning Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Principal Machine Learning Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Principal Machine Learning Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Principal Machine Learning Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 84% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,220 per year, or $70.8 per hour.
Principal Machine Learning Engineer

Principal Machine Learning Engineer

Ibotta

Denver, CO • On-site, Remote

$228K - $253K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Ibotta is seeking a Principal Machine Learning Engineer to join our Core Data & Analytics team and contribute to our mission to Make Every Purchase Rewarding. We're looking for someone who has a passion for building scalable machine learning solutions using technologies and tools such as Python, Spark, Databricks, AWS, Sagemaker, etc. As a Principal Machine Learning Engineer, you will act as a technical leader and delivery owner for complex, high-impact ML initiatives spanning foundation models, data systems, and large-scale ML platforms. This role will immediately define ML strategy and drive impact through the support, guidance, and collaboration with multiple teams as part of our analytics organization. You'll advance your technical leadership skills by establishing best practices for the team and company, while mentoring other Machine Learning Engineers and Data Scientists on the team.

This position is available in multiple locations:

Denver, Colorado - if you are in or willing to relocate to the Denver area, this is a hybrid position requiring 3 days in office (Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday).

Remote options are available for the following states - AZ, AR, CA, FL, GA, IL, IN, IA, KS, MD, MA, MI, MN, MO, MT, NV, NJ, NY, NC, OH, OK, PA, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WI. Not based in one of these areas? We will offer a relocation bonus to help make your move to the Mile High City a smooth one.

What you will be doing:

  • Research, design, and deploy the next generation of Ibotta's ML architectures, workflows, and standards that seamlessly integrate with key product features across the organization.

  • Work with Ibotta architecture and Machine Learning Platform teams to ensure integration of machine learning services and pipelines in larger technology infrastructure.

  • Be the leading contributor, voice, and thought leader in a growing community of machine learning practitioners.

  • Identify, research, prototype and evaluate cutting edge big data and machine learning technologies.

  • Act as a liaison between technical teams and non-technical stakeholders to communicate complex concepts clearly.

  • Lead the design, development, and deployment of production-grade ML systems across the organization.

  • Communicate complex machine learning solutions, concepts and the results of analyses in a clear and effective manner to business stakeholders and technology leaders to maximize the effectiveness of machine learning initiatives.

  • Mentor ML Engineers and Data Scientists, fostering a culture of technical ownership, rigorous experimentation, and best practices.

What we are looking for:

  • 10+ years of professional industry experience as a Machine Learning Engineer or Software Engineer, focused on deploying machine learning systems at scale.

  • Advanced knowledge of multiple ML frameworks like: Sklearn, TensorFlow, Sagemaker, Spark ML.

  • Expertise working with distributed big-data tools and event-based architectures, ideally Spark and Kafka.

  • Deep hands-on experience prototyping, building, releasing, and monitoring mission-critical machine learning models in high traffic applications.

  • Extensive experience working within a cloud-based infrastructure, ideally AWS.

  • Experience driving org-wide ML strategy or setting technical standards across teams.

  • Track record of mentoring senior engineers or leading cross-functional initiatives.

  • Comfort operating with ambiguity and influencing without direct authority.

About Ibotta ("I bought a...")

Ibotta (NYSE: IBTA) is a leading performance marketing platform allowing brands to deliver digital promotions to over 200 million consumers through a network of publishers called the Ibotta Performance Network (IPN). The IPN allows marketers to influence what people buy, and where and how often they shop - all while paying only when their campaigns directly result in a sale. American shoppers have earned over $2.6 billion through the IPN since 2012. The largest tech IPO in history to come out of Colorado, Ibotta is headquartered in Denver, and is continually listed as a top place to work by The Denver Post and Inc. Magazine.

To learn more about what our Tech teams are doing day to day, visit Building Ibotta on Medium.com.

Additional Details:

  • This position is located in Denver, CO and includes competitive pay, flexible time off, benefits package (including medical, dental, vision), Lifestyle Spending Account, Employee Stock Purchase Program, and 401k match. Denver office perks include paid parking, snacks, and occasional meals.

  • Base compensation range: $228,000 - $253,000 Equity is included in overall compensation package. This compensation range is specific to the United States labor market and may be adjusted based on actual experience.

  • Ibotta is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Ibotta's employment decisions are made without regard of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, marital status, ancestry, physical or mental disability, veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected status.

  • Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.

  • Applicants are accepted until the position is filled.

  • For the security of our employees and the business, all employees are responsible for the secure handling of data in accordance with our security policies, identifying and reporting phishing attempts, as well as reporting security incidents to the proper channels.

Recruiting Agency Notice
Ibotta does not accept agency resumes and is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes. Please do not forward resumes to any Ibotta employees.

#LI-Remote

#BI-Remote

#BI-Hybrid