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.
$181,826/yr
Typical range: $208,626 – $256,535
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 | $112,812 | $9,401 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $139,356 | $11,613 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $157,052 | $13,088 | +39% |
| SeniorThis page | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $181,826 | $15,152 | +61% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $245,532 | $20,461 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $307,910 | $25,659 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $323,505 | $26,959 | +187% |
Current Salary
$181,826
Senior · 6–10 years
Hourly: $87/hr
Next Level Target
$245,532
Staff · 10
+$64Kpotential 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 $182K 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 $182K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $87/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 $209K–$257K/yr.