TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1006–10 years
Senior Machine Learning Engineer Salary in Washington DC
2026 · Senior-level professionals in the top quarter of the market.
$260,525/yr
Typical range: $298,924 – $367,569
P75 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Machine Learning Engineer salary by experience level in Washington DC
Machine Learning Engineer Salary Progression in Washington DC
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 | $161,639 | $13,470 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $199,672 | $16,639 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $225,027 | $18,752 | +39% |
| SeniorThis page | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $260,525 | $21,710 | +61% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $351,803 | $29,317 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $441,180 | $36,765 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $463,525 | $38,627 | +187% |
Current Salary
$260,525
Senior · 6–10 years
Hourly: $125/hr
Next Level Target
$351,803
Staff · 10
+$91Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
94/100
Exceptional
+45% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the senior Machine Learning Engineer salary in Washington DC, DC?
Senior Machine Learning Engineers in Washington DC, DC earn approximately $261K 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 Washington DC, DC?
Based on $261K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $125/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from senior to senior Machine Learning Engineer in Washington DC, DC?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Machine Learning Engineer in Washington DC, DC earns $299K–$368K/yr.