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Hourly Wage for Machine Learning Engineer I Salary in the United States

What is the highest and lowest hourly pay for Machine Learning Engineer I?

As of April 01, 2026, the average hourly rate for a Machine Learning Engineer I in the United States is $45, which translates to an annual salary of about $92,690.

However, the hourly wage can vary significantly based on several factors. Here’s a detailed look at the typical pay range per hour:

  • Top Earners (90th percentile): $47 per hour
  • Majority Range (25th-75th percentile): $40 to $46 per hour
  • Entry-Level (10th percentile): $37 per hour
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View as table View as graph 25% $40 10% $37 90% $47 75% $46 $45 50%(Median) Didn’t find job title? Click

Machine Learning Engineer I Salaries by Percentile

Annual
Salary
Monthly
Pay
Weekly
Pay
Hourly
Wage
75th Percentile $95,190 $7,933 $1,831 $46
Average $92,690 $7,724 $1,783 $45
25th Percentile $84,090 $7,008 $1,617 $40
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Key Factors That Influence Machine Learning Engineer I Salaries

A Machine Learning Engineer I's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.

How Experience Level Affects Machine Learning Engineer Salaries?

Experience is a primary driver of a Machine Learning Engineer I's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:

  • Machine Learning Engineer I (0-2 years): $92,664
  • Algorithm Engineer II (2-4 years): $108,470
  • Senior Algorithm Engineer (4-7 years): $121,959
  • Principal Algorithm Engineer (7+ years): $158,356
  • Lead Algorithm Engineer (7-10 years): $176,184
Job Role Years of Experience Average Salary
Machine Learning Engineer I0-2 years$92,664
Algorithm Engineer II2-4 years$108,470
Senior Algorithm Engineer4-7 years$121,959
Principal Algorithm Engineer7+ years$158,356
Lead Algorithm Engineer7-10 years$176,184
$92,664 Machine L...
$108,470 Algorithm...
$121,959 Senior Al...
$158,356 Principal...
$176,184 Lead Algo...
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What Am I Worth?

Top Paying Cities for Machine Learning Engineer Is

Salaries can also vary between different cities. Major metropolitan areas or cities with a high demand for technicians often offer more competitive pay. Here are a few examples of average annual salaries in different U.S. cities:

  • San Jose: $116,890
  • San Francisco: $115,790
  • Oakland: $113,190

Machine Learning Engineer I Salary: Hourly Rate, Weekly Pay, and Monthly Pay

Understanding how a Machine Learning Engineer I's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.

Last Updated on April 01, 2026

Most common benefits for Machine Learning Engineer I

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401(k)
Disability
Healthcare
Pension
Time Off (days)
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Common company salaries for Machine Learning Engineer I

Here are companies hiring for Machine Learning Engineer I and their salaries, click below for more details.

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FAQ about Machine Learning Engineer I

1. Is machine learning a stressful job?

Machine Learning Engineers often face complex challenges, from data wrangling to algorithm optimization, which can be intellectually demanding and time-sensitive. Balancing cutting-edge project demands with continuous learning can create stress. With salaries ranging from $74,090 to $89,490, the financial rewards may help mitigate some of this stress.

2. Is machine learning a stressful job?

Machine learning is a fascinating and rewarding field, but it can also be very stressful. With salaries ranging from $74,090 to $89,490, the financial rewards can be significant, which may add pressure to perform. Balancing project demands and continuous learning can contribute to stress, but many find the challenges worthwhile.

3. Who earns more AI or ML engineer?

Both AI and ML engineers are in high demand, and their compensation reflects it. Based on salary data, machine learning engineers earn between $74,090 and $89,490 annually, with a mid-salary of $83,590. In comparison, AI engineers generally earn more, averaging around $51 per hour, which can translate to a higher annual salary depending on hours worked.

4. How many hours does a ML engineer work?

Machine Learning Engineers can find full-time positions both remote and onsite. They typically work a standard 40-hour week but may occasionally work late if issues arise. Salaries for this role range from $74,090 to $89,490, with a median salary of $83,590, reflecting the demand and expertise required in the field.

5. Is machine learning a good career in USA?

A career in the Machine Learning field is an excellent choice in the USA. With salaries ranging from $74,090 to $89,490, this profession offers competitive compensation. The demand for skilled Machine Learning Engineers continues to grow, making it a promising and rewarding lifelong career.

6. Is ML engineer a good career?

A career as a Machine Learning Engineer can be quite rewarding. With a minimum salary of $74,090, a mid-range salary of $83,590, and a maximum salary of $89,490, it offers competitive compensation. The demand for skilled professionals in this field continues to grow, making it a promising choice for those interested in technology and data.

Where Does Our Salary Data Come From?

Salary.com salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons are derived from both employer job postings and third-party data sources. We also provide multiple percentiles of salary information for your reference, click here to know Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial to Getting Pay Equity Right. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target.

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