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Reinforcement Learning Engineer Jobs in Michigan

Machine Learning Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$120K - $180K/yr

Our internal platform uses the same reinforcement learning toolkits that power self-driving ... Engineer Out Requirements, then Automate. We simplify, optimize, and then automate for scale. Share ...

Theoretical understanding and practical experience applying reinforcement learning techniques for ... advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. Our primary ...

Theoretical understanding and practical experience applying reinforcement learning techniques for ... Howmet Aerospace is hiring a Machine Learning Engineer with expertise in deep learning to join our ...

... reinforcement learning, virtual assistants and specialized programming. Responsibilities * Understand business requirements and develop AI algorithms, models and programs to solve complex problems ...

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Reinforcement Learning Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$33.1K

$101K

$166.9K

How much do reinforcement learning engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for reinforcement learning engineer in Michigan is $100,987.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,300.00 and $132,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a reinforcement learning engineer?

Reinforcement Learning Engineers are specialized professionals who design, develop, and implement algorithms based on reinforcement learning, a type of machine learning where agents learn to make decisions by receiving rewards or penalties. They work on building models that enable machines to learn optimal actions through trial and error in complex environments. Their responsibilities often include developing RL architectures, tuning hyperparameters, running simulations, and applying RL methods to real-world problems like robotics, gaming, or recommendation systems. RL Engineers typically have strong backgrounds in computer science, mathematics, and deep learning, along with experience in programming languages like Python and frameworks such as TensorFlow or PyTorch.

What are some common challenges faced by reinforcement learning engineers when deploying models in real-world environments?

One of the main challenges Reinforcement Learning (RL) Engineers face is bridging the gap between simulation and real-world deployment. Models that perform well in controlled environments may struggle with unpredictable data, safety constraints, or limited feedback in production. Additionally, RL algorithms often require significant computational resources and careful tuning to avoid instability. Collaboration with domain experts and software engineers is essential to address these issues and ensure successful integration of RL solutions into existing systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a reinforcement learning engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Reinforcement Learning Engineer, you need a strong background in machine learning, mathematics (especially probability and statistics), and programming languages like Python, often supported by a relevant degree in computer science or engineering. Familiarity with deep learning frameworks (such as TensorFlow or PyTorch), RL libraries (like OpenAI Gym), and cloud computing platforms is typically required. Problem-solving skills, creativity, and effective collaboration help set outstanding engineers apart in this field. These competencies enable the design and deployment of advanced RL solutions that address real-world challenges and drive innovation.

What is the difference between Reinforcement Learning Engineer vs Machine Learning Engineer?

AspectReinforcement Learning EngineerMachine Learning Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's/Master's in CS, AI, or related; experience with RL frameworksBachelor's/Master's in CS, Data Science, or related; experience with ML algorithms
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, AI startups, tech companies focusing on RL applicationsTech companies, data-driven firms, AI departments across industries
Industry UsageSpecialized in RL projects like robotics, game AI, autonomous systemsBroader applications including predictive modeling, NLP, computer vision

Reinforcement Learning Engineers focus on developing algorithms that learn through interactions with environments, often in robotics or gaming. Machine Learning Engineers work on a wider range of models and applications. While both roles require strong programming and math skills, RL Engineers specialize in sequential decision-making, whereas ML Engineers handle diverse data-driven tasks across industries.

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Reinforcement Learning Engineer jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Reinforcement Learning Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Reinforcement Learning Engineer job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,987 per year, or $48.6 per hour.

Machine Learning Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 7 hours ago


Job description

Job Summary:
Mariana Minerals is a software-first, vertically integrated minerals company focused on supplying critical minerals for modern energy and technology. They are seeking a Machine Learning Engineer to develop and improve machine learning systems for mineral refining facilities, working with real data to enhance operational efficiency.
Responsibilities:
• Run reinforcement learning experiments in our physically realistic simulators of mineral processing operations, and help turn the results into better controllers.
• Build and refine pieces of our training environments—reward functions, observations, and action logic—with guidance from senior engineers.
• Train control models, track and interpret their performance, and dig into why a model underperforms.
• Help close the gap between simulation and reality by comparing model behavior against real plant data and flagging where the physics diverges.
• Write clean, well-tested code and contribute to the services that put models into production.
• Partner with process and chemistry experts to understand the unit operations you're modeling.
Qualifications:
Required:
• 0–4 years of experience (including internships or research) in machine learning, reinforcement learning, or scientific computing—or a strong recent graduate with demonstrated project depth.
• Solid grounding in machine learning fundamentals, with working knowledge of modern deep learning; exposure to reinforcement learning is a strong plus.
• Proficiency in Python and comfort reading and debugging an existing codebase.
• Curiosity about physical, industrial systems and eagerness to learn chemistry and process engineering from experts who will challenge your assumptions.
• A self-starter who asks good questions, ships, and escalates blockers early.
Company:
Mariana Minerals develops mineral projects using technology to supply critical minerals for energy, AI, and defense applications. Founded in 2024, the company is headquartered in Houston, USA, with a team of 51-200 employees. The company is currently Growth Stage.