TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1006–10 years
Senior Machine Learning Engineer Salary in Los Angeles
2026 · Senior-level professionals in the top quarter of the market.
$144,982/yr
Typical range: $166,352 – $204,552
P75 · 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 | $89,952 | $7,496 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $111,118 | $9,260 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $125,228 | $10,436 | +39% |
| SeniorThis page | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $144,982 | $12,082 | +61% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $195,779 | $16,315 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $245,517 | $20,460 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $257,952 | $21,496 | +187% |
Current Salary
$144,982
Senior · 6–10 years
Hourly: $70/hr
Next Level Target
$195,779
Staff · 10
+$51Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
94/100
Exceptional
+45% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the senior Machine Learning Engineer salary in Los Angeles, CA?
Senior Machine Learning Engineers in Los Angeles, CA earn approximately $145K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P75 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a senior Machine Learning Engineer make per hour in Los Angeles, CA?
Based on $145K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $70/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from senior 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 $166K–$205K/yr.