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Principal Machine Learning Engineer Jobs in Illinois

IMC

Hardware Machine Learning Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$127K - $167K/yr

... engineers to implement, verify, and deploy ML inference solutions from proof-of-concept through production * Track and evaluate emerging research in neural architecture search, machine learning ...

IMC

Hardware Machine Learning Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$200K - $225K/yr

... engineers to implement, verify, and deploy ML inference solutions from proof-of-concept through production * Track and evaluate emerging research in neural architecture search, machine learning ...

Caterpillar

Senior Machine Learning Engineer

Mossville, IL · On-site

$112K - $183K/yr

As a Machine Learning Infrastructure Engineer, you will be responsible for developing and deploying a robust full-stack pipeline that can support various perception/planning/prediction projects. In ...

PayPal, Inc.

Sr Machine Learning Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$57.50 - $76/hr

D.) in a quantitative discipline such as Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field. * Strong knowledge of statistical and machine learning techniques, including but ...

IMC

Hardware Machine Learning Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$200K - $225K/yr

... engineers to implement, verify, and deploy ML inference solutions from proof-of-concept through production * Track and evaluate emerging research in neural architecture search, machine learning ...

PayPal

Sr Machine Learning Engineer

Chicago, IL

$57.50 - $76/hr

D.) in a quantitative discipline such as Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field. * Strong knowledge of statistical and machine learning techniques, including but ...

The Hartford

Sr AI Machine Learning Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$117K - $175K/yr

The Hartford is seeking Senior AI Machine Learning Engineer to build Machine Learning Operations (MLOps) services for the Global Specialty Applied AI team. The Hartford is developing industryleading ...

Quora

$139K - $168K/yr

Our team of Machine Learning Engineers have high impact by advancing the current Machine Learning systems, building performant and reliable LLM applications and collaborating with our product team to ...

Posted today

Quora

$139K - $168K/yr

Our team of Machine Learning Engineers have high impact by advancing the current Machine Learning systems, building performant and reliable LLM applications and collaborating with our product team to ...

Posted today

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All JobsPrincipal Machine Learning Engineer JobsPrincipal Machine Learning Engineer Jobs in Illinois

Principal Machine Learning Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$71.7K

$142.7K

$205.9K

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

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal machine learning engineer in Illinois is $142,660.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $114,800.00 and $167,600.00 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.

Will MLE be replaced by AI?

Principal Machine Learning Engineers design, develop, and oversee AI and machine learning systems, and their roles involve understanding complex algorithms, data management, and model deployment. While AI automates certain tasks, MLE roles focus on building and maintaining AI infrastructure, which requires human expertise, critical thinking, and ongoing innovation that AI cannot fully replace. The role is expected to evolve alongside advancements in AI technology but remains essential for guiding AI development and ensuring ethical, effective implementation.

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.

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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Principal Machine Learning Engineers and senior data scientists in the tech industry often earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills in deep learning and AI, and working at large technology companies or startups with competitive compensation packages. High salaries may also include bonuses, stock options, and other benefits.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

A Principal Machine Learning Engineer can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills in deep learning and data science, and working at large tech companies or in high-demand industries. Compensation often includes base salary, bonuses, and stock options, reflecting their seniority and expertise.
What are popular job titles related to Principal Machine Learning Engineer jobs in Illinois? For Principal Machine Learning Engineer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Principal Machine Learning Engineer jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Principal Machine Learning Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
Principal Machine Learning Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Machine Learning Engineer job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $142,660 per year, or $68.6 per hour.
Engineer II, Machine Learning Ops CBM Lab

Engineer II, Machine Learning Ops CBM Lab

Shirley Ryan AbilityLab

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Shirley Ryan AbilityLab rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Shirley Ryan AbilityLab is the global leader in physical medicine and rehabilitation for adults and children with the most severe, complex conditions. By joining our team, you'll be part of our life-changing mission and vision. You'll contribute to an innovative, multifaceted culture that is second to none - one that embraces collaboration, excellence, discovery and compassion. You'll play a role in something that's never been done before as we integrate science and clinical care to help patients achieve better, faster outcomes - as we Advance Human Ability, together.
Job Description Summary
The Machine Learning Ops Engineer II works under general supervision and plays an active role in the design, development, and/or operationalization of machine learning models. This position involves responsibility in planning and managing artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) lifecycle processes and contributing to the efficiency and effectiveness of deployed models.
The Machine Learning Ops Engineer II will consistently demonstrate support of the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab statement of Vision, Mission and Core Values by striving for excellence, contributing to the team efforts and showing respect and compassion for patients and their families, fellow employees, and all others with whom there is contact at or in the interest of the institute.
The Machine Learning Ops Engineer II will demonstrate Shirley Ryan AbilityLab Core Attributes: Communication, Accountability, Flexibility/Adaptability, Judgment/Problem Solving, Customer Service and Core Values (Hope, Compassion, Discovery, Collaboration, and Commitment to Excellence) while fulfilling job duties.
Job Description
The Machine Learning Engineer II will:
  • Actively participates in deploying, monitoring, and scaling machine learning models in production and big data research.
  • Evaluate data sets to determine suitability for applying machine learning models and techniques.
  • Guide and assist with the collection and curation of clinical datasets.
  • Assist in the implementation and evaluation of machine learning algorithms.
  • Develop and maintain continuous integration and continuous deployment pipelines for automated training and deployment of machine learning models.
  • Manage machine learning infrastructure and optimizes resource utilization.
  • Implement monitoring solutions for model performance and health.
  • Lead small projects or initiatives related to machine learning operations.
  • Work collaboratively with data scientists to optimize model performance.
  • Advocate for best practices in machine learning operations within the team.
  • Participate in maintaining a safe work environment through adherence to policies and procedures relative to safety, fire prevention, hazard communications, security, equipment use and maintenance, infection control and vehicle safety.
  • Perform all other duties that may be assigned in the best interest of the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab.

Reporting Relationships:
  • Reports directly to a designed engineering manager.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Required
  • A professional level of knowledge in computer science, engineering or a related field, typically acquired through a Bachelor's Degree.
  • Minimum of 3 years of related experience working on problems of moderate scope where analysis of situations or data requires a review of a variety of factors.
  • Continues to develop professional expertise, applying institute policies and procedures to resolve a variety of issues.
  • Proficient in using version control systems, especially Git.
  • Able to manage branches, handle merge conflicts, and understand the importance of commit history and reverting changes.
  • Strong skills in Python and experience with machine learning frameworks.
  • Working proficiency with Linux and Windows operating systems.
  • Familiarity with tools for deploying machine learning pipelines (eg Docker, Kubenates).
  • Familiarity with cloud based production pipelines offered by leading manufacturers (eg Microsoft Azure, Amazon Web Services, Google Cloud, etc).
  • Ability to work independently on assigned tasks and lead small projects. Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot complex issues.
  • Good communication skills in both written and verbal forms. Able to work with research subjects and clinicians in a clinical setting.
  • Able to take direction and complete defined tasks in addition to anticipating and executing follow-up actions.
  • Able to perform assignments by receiving general instructions on routine work, and detailed instructions on new projects or assignments.
  • Able to exercise judgment within defined procedures and practices to determine appropriate action.
  • Able to build stable working relationships with multidisciplinary team.

Working Conditions
  • Normal office environment with little or no exposure to dust or extreme temperature.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified.
Pay and Benefits*:
Pay Range:
$72,600.00 - $120,600.00
Benefits:
Shirley Ryan AbilityLab offers a comprehensive benefits program that is competitive with our industry peers in our geographic locations: https://www.sralab.org/benefits
*Benefits and benefits' eligibility can vary by position. Actual compensation will be determined by equity and qualifications of the role.
Equal Employment Opportunity Employer
Shirley Ryan AbilityLab is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. All applicants will be afforded equal employment opportunity without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, marital status, national origin or ancestry, citizenship status, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military status, order of protection status, unfavorable discharge from military service, or any other characteristics protected by law.
EEO is the Law | EEO is the Law - Know Your Rights | View our Full Policy
Shirley Ryan AbilityLab is an Affirmative Action Employer as required by law.

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