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Reinforcement Learning Engineer Jobs in Rensselaer, NY

Reinforcement Learning Engineer information

See Rensselaer, NY salary details

$37.7K

$115K

$190.1K

How much do reinforcement learning engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for reinforcement learning engineer in Rensselaer, NY is $115,035.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,400.00 and $150,400.00 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 are popular job titles related to Reinforcement Learning Engineer jobs in Rensselaer, NY?

For Reinforcement Learning Engineer jobs in Rensselaer, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Rensselaer, NY are hiring for Reinforcement Learning Engineer jobs?

Cities near Rensselaer, NY with the most Reinforcement Learning Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Reinforcement Learning Engineer job openings in Rensselaer, NY as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 31% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,035 per year, or $55.3 per hour.

Control System Engineer

Niskayuna, NY • On-site

$94K - $148K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Naval Nuclear Laboratory rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Working at the Naval Nuclear Laboratory we foster pride in belonging to an organization whose culture is made up of these core values: Trust, Empowerment, and Collaboration. Our company promotes a positive culture while ensuring the safety and reliability of our nation's naval nuclear reactors, and training the Sailors who operate those reactors in the U.S. Navy's submarines and aircraft carrier Fleets. Looking for a lifetime career? Apply today! Job Description The Integrated Power System's unit within Submarine Programs is seeking a highly skilled control system engineer with expertise in designing, implementing, and optimizing control systems for complex dynamic systems that integrate coupled mechanical, electric, fluid dynamic disciplines. This role requires strong foundations in control theory, modeling and simulation, and real-time implementation. The engineer will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to design control strategies, validate performance, and support integration into hardware or embedded environments. The position requires a balance of theoretical knowledge, practical hands on skills, and the ability to collaborate with engineers from diverse technical backgrounds. The work location for this position is full time at the Knolls site. Key Responsibilities Develop advanced feedback and feedforward control solutions using adaptive, nonlinear, robust, and optimal control methods for coupled mechanical, electric, fluid dynamic systems. Build and validate dynamic system models; performing system identification when required. Lead the system integration of components such as actuators, sensors, and real time processing for distributed control platforms. Conduct stability, performance, and robustness analyses using modern control techniques. Implement real?time control algorithms on embedded platforms, microcontrollers or DSPs. Perform simulation, verification, and validation using MATLAB/Simulink or equivalent tools. Support hardware?in?the?loop testing, data acquisition, and tuning of controllers. Collaborate with electrical, mechanical, software, and systems engineering teams. Troubleshoot system behavior and optimize control performance during integration and testing. Document models, design decisions, test results, and control strategies clearly and accurately. Required Combination of Knowledge and Skill Bachelors degree from an accredited college or university in electrical, mechanical or systems engineering and a minimum of 6 years of relevant experience; or Masters degree from an accredited college or university in electrical, mechanical or systems engineering and a minimum of 4 years of relevant experience; or Doctorate degree from an accredited college or university in electrical, mechanical or systems engineering and a minimum of 1 year of relevant experience. Preferred Skills Academic background featuring a concentration, track, or elective sequence in control systems. Relevant experience with advanced control methods such as adaptive control (e.g., Filtered X LMS), optimal control (LQR, MPC), robust control, or nonlinear control. Relevant experience with system modeling and simulation tools such as MATLAB/Simulink, Simscape, or similar platforms. Relevant experience with real?time control implementation on embedded systems using MATLAB/Simulink environments. Experience with HIL systems, digital twins, or real?time simulation platforms. Familiarity with optimization techniques and advanced estimation methods. Background in robotics, electromechanical systems, power systems, propulsion, or automation. Knowledge of machine learning or reinforcement learning applied to control systems. Experience with data acquisition, sensor/actuator interfacing, and lab testing environments Compensation and Benefits Health, Dental, Vision & Voluntary Benefits Disability, Life & Accident Insurance 401(k) Savings program & Capital Accumulation Plan Personal & Medical Time Off Paid Parental Leave Flexible Work Schedules Tuition Assistance for Eligible Employees Student Debt Benefit Personal Time Off Sell Program Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Wellness Program Visit us online to view all NNL benefits! Pay Range $94,800.00 - $148,200.00 annually Salary information provided is a general guideline only. Annual salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations. The Naval Nuclear Laboratory is operated for the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) by Fluor Marine Propulsion, LLC (FMP), a wholly owned subsidiary of Fluor Corporation. Naval Nuclear Laboratory personnel are FMP employees who work at four DOE facilities: Bettis Atomic Power Laboratory, Knolls Atomic Power Laboratory, Kenneth A. Kesselring Site, and Naval Reactors Facility, and at the U.S. Department of Defense-owned Nuclear Power Training Unit-Charleston. FMP employees also have an established presence at numerous shipyards and vendor locations. For nearly 70 years, the Naval Nuclear Laboratory has developed advanced nuclear propulsion technology, provided technical support, and trained world-class nuclear operators to ensure the safe and reliable operation of our nation's submarine and aircraft carrier Fleets. The Naval Nuclear Laboratory is a national asset solely dedicated to the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program. We rely on the dedication and innovation of our nearly 8000 engineers, scientists, technicians, and support personnel. All candidates must be U.S. citizens. Applicants selected will be subject to a Federal background investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified matter. FMP is a government contractor and maintains a drug free workplace and workforce. All candidates must be able to pass a drug test in compliance with FMP company policy and 10 CFR 707. Marijuana is a Federal Schedule I controlled substance and illegal under Federal Law. Therefore, FMP is required to test for marijuana. Fluor Marine Propulsion, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/vets. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, sex, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other criteria protected by federal, state, or local law.

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