Machine Learning Engineer

About The Company Scale AI is a leading provider of data infrastructure and high-quality datasets that enable the development and deployment of reliable artificial intelligence systems. Our mission is to accelerate the adoption of AI by delivering accurate, annotated data and comprehensive tools that support enterprise and government clients worldwide. With a focus on innovation and excellence, Scale AI collaborates with industry partners and government agencies to push the boundaries of what is possible with AI technology, ensuring impactful solutions across various sectors.

About The Role Scale AI’s Robotics business unit is dedicated to addressing the data bottleneck in Physical AI. We are seeking a highly skilled and innovative Computer Vision Research Scientist to join our team. This role offers an exciting opportunity to lead applied research initiatives, develop advanced machine learning pipelines, and contribute to the evolution of Scale’s robotics offerings. As a key contributor, you will work on pioneering core computer vision algorithms, focusing on 2D and 3D data modalities such as point clouds, RGB-D sensors, and LiDAR. Your expertise will help shape the future of robotics perception systems, enabling real-time environmental understanding, object detection, tracking, and scene reconstruction.

In this position, you will collaborate with cross-functional teams including software engineering, hardware, and product management to define technical requirements, optimize models for deployment, and ensure the solutions meet performance and scalability targets. You will have the opportunity to publish cutting-edge research, file patents, and influence the strategic direction of Scale’s robotics technology. The role demands a blend of deep technical expertise, innovative thinking, and leadership in advancing robotics perception capabilities.

Qualifications

• A Ph.D. in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related quantitative field such as Mathematics or Electrical Engineering, or a Master’s degree with over 4 years of relevant professional experience in applied research.
• At least 5 years of hands-on experience in developing algorithms for 2D and 3D computer vision and deep learning applications.
• Proficiency in major deep learning frameworks such as PyTorch, TensorFlow, or Jax.
• Strong programming skills in Python for machine learning and C++ for performance-critical implementations.
• Deep understanding of classical and modern computer vision fundamentals, including multi-view geometry, camera calibration, projective geometry, and 3D graphics/rendering principles.
• Experience in building real-time and batch machine learning systems capable of analyzing structured and unstructured signals.
• Proven ability to rapidly prototype, iterate, and deploy machine learning systems in dynamic environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead the research, design, and implementation of novel computer vision and deep learning algorithms, with a focus on 2D and 3D data modalities such as point clouds and multi-modal sensor inputs.
• Drive innovation in perception areas including 3D reconstruction, simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM), hand and body tracking, object detection, and video processing.
• Optimize computationally intensive models for deployment on edge devices with low power and latency constraints, as well as on large-scale cloud infrastructure.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers and cross-functional teams, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
• Stay abreast of state-of-the-art academic research, evaluate recent publications, and contribute to the intellectual property portfolio through patents and publications.
• Collaborate closely with software engineering, hardware, and product teams to define requirements, integrate vision systems, and meet performance benchmarks.

Benefits Scale AI offers comprehensive compensation packages that include a competitive base salary, equity, and a suite of benefits designed to support our employees’ well-being and professional growth. Salary ranges are determined based on location, skills, experience, and other relevant factors. Our benefits package includes health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement plans, a learning and development stipend, and generous paid time off. Additionally, eligible employees may receive benefits such as commuter stipends and other perks aimed at enhancing work-life balance and career development.

Location and Salary

This full-time position is based in San Francisco, with a salary range of $218,400 to $273,000 USD, commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Notes

Please note that our policy requires a 90-day waiting period before reconsidering candidates for the same role, ensuring a thorough and fair evaluation process for all applicants.

About Us At Scale AI, our mission is to develop reliable AI systems that empower the world’s most critical decisions. We provide high-quality data, comprehensive annotation services, and full-stack technological solutions that enable enterprises and governments to build, deploy, and oversee AI applications with confidence. Our innovative approach and commitment to excellence have positioned us as a leader in AI infrastructure, driving impactful advancements across industries.

Equal Opportunity

We are an inclusive and equal opportunity workplace committed to fostering diversity and ensuring fair employment practices. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic. Our goal is to create a welcoming environment where all employees can thrive and contribute to our mission.

Accessibility

We are dedicated to providing reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. If you