Optimal Inc.
AI

Machine Learning Engineer - PhD or PhD Candidate (Near Completion)

Optimal Inc. · Warren, MI, US

Actively hiring Posted 5 days ago

**Candidates with only a Master's degree will not be considered.

Minimum qualification: PhD (completed or currently pursuing with expected completion in the near term) in a relevant technical field.

This is an urgent requirement with an anticipated start date within 2 weeks.

Priority will be given to candidates who can interview promptly and begin within two weeks of selection.**

We are seeking a highly motivated Machine Learning / Deep Learning Research Engineer with strong expertise in Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Computer Vision, and AI research. This role is intended exclusively for PhD graduates or candidates near completion from reputable universities. Candidates with a strong academic research background in Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence, Computer Vision, Data Science, or related fields are encouraged to apply.

Research experience gained during a PhD program will be considered equivalent to professional industry experience.

This is an urgent hiring requirement, and we are actively seeking candidates who can start within the next 2 weeks.

Education Requirement

PhD in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Data Science, or a related technical field

Candidates currently pursuing a PhD with anticipated graduation within the next 3-6 months are also encouraged to apply

Only PhD candidates will be considered for this role

Candidates with only a Master's degree will not be considered

Key Responsibilities

Design, develop, train, and optimize Machine Learning and Deep Learning models for real-world applications

Own the complete ML lifecycle including data collection, annotation, preprocessing, model training, fine-tuning, evaluation, optimization, and deployment

Develop and deploy advanced deep learning architectures including CNNs, LSTMs, ConvLSTMs, Graph Neural Networks (GNNs), Reinforcement Learning, and Transformer-based models

Conduct experiments, evaluate model performance, and drive continuous algorithmic improvements

Work with large-scale datasets for model training, validation, and testing

Optimize and deploy AI models for scalable and efficient real-world applications

Translate research concepts into scalable, production-ready AI systems

Collaborate with cross-functional engineering and research teams to integrate ML models into real-world applications

Document methodologies, experimental findings, and technical solutions

Contribute to technical innovation initiatives and advanced AI research activities

Required Qualifications

Strong PhD research background in Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Artificial Intelligence, Computer Vision, Data Science, or related areas

Strong programming experience with Python and C++

Hands-on experience with PyTorch, TensorFlow, Keras, Scikit-learn, or similar ML frameworks

Strong understanding of Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Neural Networks, and AI algorithms

Experience developing and training advanced deep learning models and architectures

Solid mathematical foundation in linear algebra, probability, statistics, optimization, and applied machine learning

Experience working with Linux environments, Git, Docker, and modern development workflows

Demonstrated research experience through publications, thesis work, academic research projects, or equivalent research contributions

Strong ability to independently research, prototype, and deploy AI solutions

Preferred Qualifications

Publications in leading AI, Machine Learning, or Computer Science conferences/journals

Experience transitioning AI/ML models from research environments into production systems

Experience with CUDA, GPU acceleration, distributed computing, or high-performance computing

Experience handling large-scale, real-world datasets

This role is ideal for candidates passionate about applying advanced AI research, machine learning, and deep learning techniques to solve challenging real-world problems.

Tags & focus areas

Used for matching and alerts on DevFound
Contract Ai Machine Learning Deep Learning Data Science Computer Vision

Next step

Ready to Join the Team?

Apply once with DevFound. We'll route your profile to Optimal Inc. and keep you informed when matching AI roles go live.

  • Single profile, multiple curated AI opportunities
  • No spam roles — only vetted AI positions
  • You choose which roles to apply to
Sign up to apply

No CV uploads. We never share your profile without your consent.