As of June 01, 2026, the average salary for a Machine Learning Engineer III in the United States is $121,953 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $59.
However, a Machine Learning Engineer III's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Machine Learning Engineer III'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.
Experience is a primary driver of a Machine Learning Engineer III'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:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Algorithm Engineer I | 0-2 years | $92,669 |
| Algorithm Engineer II | 2-4 years | $108,471 |
| Machine Learning Engineer III | 4-7 years | $121,932 |
| Principal Algorithm Engineer | 7+ years | $158,358 |
| Lead Algorithm Engineer | 7-10 years | $176,156 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Machine Learning Engineer IIIs. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Analysis | 2.97% |
| Data Science | 4.67% |
| Artificial Intelligence | 1.5% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Commitment
|
$126,831 |
4%
|
|
Team Building
|
$126,831 |
4%
|
|
Active Learning
|
$126,831 |
4%
|
|
Presentation
|
$126,831 |
4%
|
|
Continuous Learning
|
$125,612 |
3%
|
|
Data Structure
|
$124,392 |
2%
|
Understanding how a Machine Learning Engineer III'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 June 01, 2026For a Machine Learning Engineer III, the most direct path to higher earnings is advancing to the Principal Algorithm Engineer role. This promotion typically comes with a significant pay increase, bringing the average annual salary to $158,400 - a projected growth of 30% over your current level.
Salaries for a Machine Learning Engineer III can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $135,539 in 2023 to around $132,375 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Machine Learning Engineer III salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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|
| 2023 | $135,539 |
| 2024 | $134,120 |
| 2025 | $132,375 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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Learning machine learning in 2024 is definitely worth it, as positions in this field offer impressive salaries. For instance, Machine Learning Engineers earn between $114,853 and $145,283, with a median salary of $129,673. This lucrative earning potential, along with the growing demand for skilled professionals, makes it an attractive career choice.
Given the rapid pace of technological advancement and the sluggish rate of skill acquisition, a shortage of machine learning engineers is likely to persist for some time. With salaries ranging from $114,853 to $145,283, the demand for skilled professionals in this field continues to grow, making it a lucrative career choice.
Machine learning engineering is a promising career choice, offering competitive salaries. With a minimum salary of $114,853, a mid-range salary of $129,673, and a maximum salary of $145,283, professionals in this field can expect to earn a substantial income. This makes it an attractive option for those interested in technology and data science.
Machine learning pays well due to the high demand for specialized skills and expertise. With a salary range for Machine Learning Engineers between $114,853 and $145,283, those proficient in areas like deep learning, computer vision, and natural language processing can command higher earnings. Their advanced knowledge allows them to negotiate better compensation in a competitive job market.
Apple AI ML engineers typically earn between $114,853 and $145,283 annually, with a median salary around $129,673. This reflects a competitive compensation structure, aligning with industry standards for machine learning roles. Salary data is based on various sources, providing a comprehensive view of earnings in this field.
Yes, ML engineers are well-compensated. Based on current data, they typically earn between $114,853 and $145,283 annually, with a mid-salary of $129,673. Those in senior roles with significant experience can expect higher salaries, reflecting the demand for their expertise in the industry.
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