How much does a Machine Learning Engineer make?
Machine Learning Engineers earn a competitive salary that reflects their specialized skills and the growing demand for their expertise. On average, these professionals make about $183,301 per year. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the specific industry. For those just starting, salaries can be lower, but they grow with experience and additional qualifications.
The salary range for Machine Learning Engineers can be quite broad. Entry-level positions might start around $60,000 annually. As experience increases, so does the salary. Mid-level engineers can earn between $125,000 and $160,000. Senior-level professionals, with several years of experience and advanced skills, often make over $200,000 per year. Some top-tier positions in leading tech companies can exceed $250,000 annually. This wide range shows that there are many opportunities for growth and advancement in this field.
What are the highest paying cities for a Machine Learning Engineer?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $208,391
In San Francisco, tech giants like Google and Salesforce offer exciting opportunities. The city's vibrant tech scene provides many chances to work on cutting-edge projects. Professionals here enjoy a dynamic work environment and a high standard of living.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $197,444
Seattle is home to tech leaders like Amazon and Microsoft. Working here means being part of a thriving tech community. Employees benefit from a strong focus on innovation and a balanced lifestyle.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $187,256
Los Angeles offers a mix of entertainment and tech industries. Companies like Uber and Airbnb provide diverse roles. The city's warm climate and diverse culture make it an attractive place to work.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $177,482
San Jose, the heart of Silicon Valley, is a hub for tech companies. Working here means collaborating with top talent at firms like Intel and Apple. The city offers a dynamic and fast-paced environment.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $174,735
San Diego combines tech innovation with a great quality of life. Companies like Qualcomm and Illumina offer exciting projects. The city's beautiful beaches and mild weather add to the appeal.
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Austin, TX
Average Salary: $166,586
Austin is known for its vibrant tech scene and live music. Companies like Dell and IBM provide many opportunities. The city's friendly atmosphere and outdoor activities make it a great place to live and work.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $163,341
Washington, DC, offers a unique blend of tech and government. Working here means being part of a diverse and influential industry. Companies like Amazon and Google offer exciting roles.
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Hartford, CT
Average Salary: $159,845
Hartford provides a mix of tech and insurance industries. Companies like Aetna and Eversource offer stable and innovative work. The city's rich history and cultural attractions add to the appeal.
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Boulder, CO
Average Salary: $159,600
Boulder combines outdoor adventure with tech innovation. Companies like Google and Facebook offer exciting projects. The city's beautiful landscapes and active lifestyle make it a desirable place to work.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $158,102
Boston is a historic city with a strong tech presence. Companies like IBM and Fidelity offer many opportunities. The city's rich academic environment and cultural attractions make it an attractive place to work.
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What are the best companies a Machine Learning Engineer can work for?

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Netflix
Average Salary: $418,958
Netflix offers exciting Machine Learning Engineer jobs. They work on projects that improve the user experience. Netflix operates in many countries, including the United States, Canada, and Europe.
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SAP
Average Salary: $268,607
SAP provides opportunities for Machine Learning Engineers to innovate. They focus on creating intelligent enterprise software. SAP has offices worldwide, including Germany, the United States, and India.
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Pinterest
Average Salary: $258,694
At Pinterest, Machine Learning Engineers develop tools to enhance user experience. They work on projects that improve search and recommendations. Pinterest operates globally, with major offices in the United States and Europe.
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National Basketball Association
Average Salary: $255,000
The NBA offers Machine Learning Engineer jobs that focus on data analysis. They use data to improve game strategies and fan engagement. The NBA operates in the United States and Canada.
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Snap Inc.
Average Salary: $248,707
Snap Inc. provides Machine Learning Engineer positions that work on AR technologies. They develop features that enhance user interaction. Snap Inc. operates in the United States and Europe.
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Waymo
Average Salary: $235,791
Waymo offers Machine Learning Engineer jobs focused on autonomous vehicles. They work on projects that improve self-driving technology. Waymo operates in the United States.
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Genentech
Average Salary: $234,903
Genentech provides Machine Learning Engineer jobs in the biotech field. They work on projects that improve drug discovery and development. Genentech operates in the United States and Switzerland.
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Samsung Electronics
Average Salary: $234,365
Samsung Electronics offers Machine Learning Engineer jobs that focus on consumer electronics. They work on projects that enhance product features and user experience. Samsung operates globally, with major offices in South Korea and the United States.
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Coupang
Average Salary: $230,600
Coupang provides Machine Learning Engineer jobs that focus on e-commerce. They work on projects that improve recommendation systems and logistics. Coupang operates in South Korea and the United States.
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NVIDIA
Average Salary: $223,836
NVIDIA offers Machine Learning Engineer jobs that focus on graphics and AI technologies. They work on projects that improve gaming and data center solutions. NVIDIA operates globally, with major offices in the United States and Taiwan.
How to earn more as a Machine Learning Engineer?
A Machine Learning Engineer can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. Specialization in a high-demand field such as computer vision or natural language processing can lead to higher-paying opportunities. Gaining expertise in these areas allows engineers to tackle complex problems and deliver innovative solutions that companies value.
Another factor is obtaining advanced certifications and degrees. Advanced degrees like a Master’s or Ph.D. in Machine Learning or related fields can open doors to higher-paying roles. Certifications from recognized institutions also enhance credibility and marketability. Continuous learning and staying updated with the latest technologies and methodologies in machine learning can significantly boost earning potential. Networking with industry professionals and participating in relevant conferences and workshops can also lead to better job offers and salary increases. Finally, gaining experience with popular machine learning frameworks and tools such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, and scikit-learn can make a candidate more attractive to employers.
Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a Machine Learning Engineer:
- Specialize in high-demand areas such as computer vision or natural language processing.
- Obtain advanced certifications and degrees to enhance credibility.
- Stay updated with the latest technologies and methodologies in machine learning.
- Network with industry professionals and participate in relevant events.
- Gain experience with popular machine learning frameworks and tools.



