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Senior Machine Learning Scientist Jobs in California

Cotality

Senior Machine Learning Scientist

Irvine, CA · Hybrid

The Senior Machine Learning Scientist develops advanced algorithms and models to extract valuable insights from complex data sets. This role combines deep technical expertise in machine learning with ...

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Senior Machine Learning Scientist information

See California salary details

$65.6K

$109.1K

$162.3K

How much do senior machine learning scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior machine learning scientist in California is $109,097.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,300.00 and $123,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Senior Machine Learning Scientist vs Data Scientist?

AspectSenior Machine Learning ScientistData Scientist
CredentialsMaster's or PhD in CS, ML, or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in CS, Statistics, or related field
Work EnvironmentFocus on developing ML models, algorithms, and researchData analysis, visualization, and business insights
Industry UsageUsed in AI-driven companies, tech firms, research labsCommon across industries for data analysis and reporting

While both roles involve working with data, Senior Machine Learning Scientists focus on developing advanced ML models and algorithms, often requiring research and deep technical expertise. Data Scientists typically analyze data to generate insights and support decision-making. The roles overlap but differ mainly in technical depth and focus area.

What is a senior machine learning scientist?

Senior Machine Learning Scientists are experienced professionals who design, develop, and implement advanced machine learning models to solve complex business or research problems. They are responsible for leading projects, mentoring junior team members, and staying updated on the latest AI and data science technologies. Their work often involves analyzing large datasets, selecting the right algorithms, and optimizing model performance for real-world applications. In addition to technical expertise, they often collaborate cross-functionally to align machine learning solutions with organizational goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior machine learning scientist?

To thrive as a Senior Machine Learning Scientist, you need expertise in machine learning algorithms, statistical analysis, programming (usually in Python or R), and an advanced degree (often a Ph.D.) in a quantitative field. Experience with tools such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn, cloud platforms, and version control systems is typically expected, along with knowledge of deploying models in production environments. Exceptional problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills help you translate complex data insights into actionable business solutions and mentor junior team members. These skills are crucial for developing innovative models, ensuring robust deployment, and driving impactful data-driven decisions.

What are some common challenges senior machine learning scientists face when deploying models to production environments?

Senior Machine Learning Scientists often encounter challenges such as ensuring model scalability, maintaining model performance over time, and addressing data drift once models are deployed to production. Collaborating closely with engineering and operations teams is crucial to streamline deployment pipelines and monitor models for real-world reliability. It’s also important to communicate findings and potential risks to stakeholders, and to regularly update models based on new data or business requirements. These aspects make strong cross-functional teamwork and problem-solving skills essential in this role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Learning Scientist jobs in California? The most popular types of Machine Learning Scientist jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Senior Machine Learning Scientist jobs in California? For Senior Machine Learning Scientist jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Senior Machine Learning Scientist jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Machine Learning Scientist jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Senior Machine Learning Scientist jobs? Cities in California with the most Senior Machine Learning Scientist job openings:
Senior Machine Learning Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Machine Learning Scientist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,097 per year, or $52.5 per hour.

Machine Learning Scientist / Senior Machine Learning Scientist

Calico Life Sciences

South San Francisco, CA • On-site

$109K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
Calico is a research and development company focused on understanding human aging through advanced technologies. They are seeking a Senior Machine Learning Scientist to develop deep learning models for biological sequence analysis and collaborate with experimental scientists to translate computational findings into biological insights.
Responsibilities:
• Design and train deep learning models for biological sequence analysis, with emphasis on gene regulation, single-cell genomics, and variant interpretation
• Partner with experimental scientists to connect model predictions to biological mechanisms — designing validation experiments, analyzing large-scale genomics data, and translating computational findings into actionable biological insights
• Communicate research through publications, open-source software, and public-facing tools
Qualifications:
Required:
• PhD in computational biology, bioinformatics, computer science, or a related field, and 0-5 years (for Scientist level) or 5+ years (for Senior Scientist level) of additional training in an industry or academic setting, with a strong publication record
• Deep expertise in machine learning with solid grounding in algorithms, data structures, and statistics
• Substantive knowledge of molecular biology and genetics; familiarity with genomic data types and public data resources
• Hands-on experience analyzing genomics sequencing data, ideally including single-cell assays
• Fluency with modern AI-assisted development and research tools (e.g., LLM-based coding assistants, literature synthesis), with a habit of proactively integrating new tools to accelerate scientific workflows
• A collaborative disposition, strong follow-through, and comfort working at the interface of computation and experiment
• Must be willing to work onsite at least four days per week
Company:
Calico is an Alphabet-founded research and development company whose mission is to harness advanced technologies. Founded in 2013, the company is headquartered in South San Francisco, USA, with a team of 201-500 employees. The company is currently Growth Stage.

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