TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
3–5 Years Experience Machine Learning Engineer Salary in Seattle
2026 · Professionals with 3–5 years building toward senior-level expertise.
$165,470/yr
Typical range: $138,995 – $219,808
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Machine Learning Engineer salary by experience level in Seattle
Machine Learning Engineer Salary Progression in Seattle
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 | $118,859 | $9,905 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $146,825 | $12,235 | +24% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $165,470 | $13,789 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $191,572 | $15,964 | +61% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $258,692 | $21,558 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $324,414 | $27,035 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $340,844 | $28,404 | +187% |
Current Salary
$165,470
3–5 Years Experience · 3–5 years
Hourly: $80/hr
Next Level Target
$191,572
Senior · 6
+$26Kpotential 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 Seattle, WA?
3–5 Years Experience Machine Learning Engineers in Seattle, WA earn approximately $165K 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 Seattle, WA?
Based on $165K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $80/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from 3–5 years experience to senior Machine Learning Engineer in Seattle, WA?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Machine Learning Engineer in Seattle, WA earns $220K–$270K/yr.