Machine Learning Jobs in Chicago, IL

Entry‑level ML Engineer: $90k–$120k; Mid‑level ML Engineer or Data Scientist: $120k–$160k; Senior ML Engineer or Research Scientist: $160k–$220k; Lead ML Engineer or Principal Research Scientist: $200k–$280k; AI Product Manager: $130k–$180k depending on experience and market.

Core language: Python; Deep learning frameworks: TensorFlow, PyTorch; Scikit‑learn for classical models; SQL and NoSQL databases for data ingestion; Docker and Kubernetes for deployment; Cloud AI services such as AWS SageMaker, GCP Vertex AI, Azure ML. Certifications: TensorFlow Developer Certificate, AWS Certified Machine Learning – Specialty, GCP Professional Machine Learning Engineer.

Over 70% of ML roles allow full remote or hybrid arrangements. Startups and fintech firms tend to offer 100% remote options, while larger enterprises often provide hybrid models with occasional on‑site data‑center visits. Remote work is especially prevalent for roles focused on model training and research.

Typical paths: ML Engineer → Senior ML Engineer → Lead ML Engineer → ML Manager; Data Scientist → Senior Data Scientist → Lead Data Scientist → Head of Data; Research Scientist → Senior Research Scientist → Principal Scientist → Chief Data Scientist; ML Ops Engineer → Senior ML Ops Engineer → Lead ML Ops Engineer → Director of MLOps. Progression often involves moving from coding to architecture, then to leadership and strategy.

Key trends: reinforcement learning for autonomous systems; federated learning for privacy‑preserving models; edge AI for IoT devices; AutoML platforms speeding model deployment; MLOps practices for scalable pipelines; explainable AI and ethics compliance; and increased demand for AI governance roles.