TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
3–5 Years Experience Machine Learning Engineer Salary in Los Angeles
2026 · Professionals with 3–5 years building toward senior-level expertise.
$221,787/yr
Typical range: $186,301 – $294,620
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Machine Learning Engineer salary by experience level in Los Angeles
Machine Learning Engineer Salary Progression in Los Angeles
From entry-level through staff — based on BLS OEWS percentile data
| Experience Level | Years | Percentile | Annual Salary | Monthly | vs Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | 0 yrs | 0 yrs | $159,312 | $13,276 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $196,797 | $16,400 | +24% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $221,787 | $18,482 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $256,773 | $21,398 | +61% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $346,737 | $28,895 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $434,827 | $36,236 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $456,850 | $38,071 | +187% |
Current Salary
$221,787
3–5 Years Experience · 3–5 years
Hourly: $107/hr
Next Level Target
$256,773
Senior · 6
+$35Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
94/100
Exceptional
+45% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 3–5 years experience Machine Learning Engineer salary in Los Angeles, CA?
3–5 Years Experience Machine Learning Engineers in Los Angeles, CA earn approximately $222K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P25–P50 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a 3–5 years experience Machine Learning Engineer make per hour in Los Angeles, CA?
Based on $222K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $107/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from 3–5 years experience to senior Machine Learning Engineer in Los Angeles, CA?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Machine Learning Engineer in Los Angeles, CA earns $295K–$362K/yr.