3–5 Years Experience Machine Learning Engineer Salary in San Francisco
2026 · Professionals with 3–5 years building toward senior-level expertise.
Typical range: $224,000 – $354,237
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Machine Learning Engineer salary by experience level in San Francisco
Machine Learning Engineer Salary Progression in San Francisco
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 | $191,549 | $15,962 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $236,620 | $19,718 | +24% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $266,667 | $22,222 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $308,732 | $25,728 | +61% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $416,901 | $34,742 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $522,817 | $43,568 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $549,296 | $45,775 | +187% |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 3–5 years experience Machine Learning Engineer salary in San Francisco, CA?
3–5 Years Experience Machine Learning Engineers in San Francisco, CA earn approximately $267K 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 San Francisco, CA?
Based on $267K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $128/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from 3–5 years experience to senior Machine Learning Engineer in San Francisco, CA?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Machine Learning Engineer in San Francisco, CA earns $354K–$436K/yr.