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ML Engineer

ML Engineer job description

The ML Engineer builds, deploys, and maintains machine learning models and automated pipelines that support analytics and operational systems across the business. The role focuses on creating scalable, production-ready ML solutions governed in line with the NZ Privacy Act and organisational data standards.

Typical ML Engineer duties

Key responsibilities of an ML Engineer include:Developing and operationalising machine learning models aligned with business requirementsBuilding automated training, testing, and deployment pipelines using MLOps practicesCollaborating with data engineers to ensure high-quality, accessible datasetsImplementing model monitoring frameworks to track accuracy, drift, and performanceEnsuring ML systems comply with NZ Privacy Act and internal governance policiesOptimising model performance through feature engineering, hyperparameter tuning, and evaluationDeploying models using cloud-native services on AWS, Azure, or GCPMaintaining documentation, testing suites, and version control for model lifecycle managementWorking with product and analytics teams to translate requirements into ML solutionsML Engineer job qualifications and requirementsA degree in computer science, machine learning, data science, or a related NZQA-recognised field is preferred. Candidates should have experience deploying machine learning models in production environments.Requirements include:Proficiency in Python, SQL, and machine learning librariesExperience with MLOps tools and cloud-based ML servicesKnowledge of NZ Privacy Act obligations and secure data handling practicesStrong experience building and maintaining ML pipelines at scaleAbility to monitor, troubleshoot, and optimise production modelsExperience collaborating with cross-functional teams across New Zealand-based stakeholdersStrong understanding of model validation, testing, and performance monitoringEffective communication skills across technical and non-technical teams

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Salary for ML Engineer

130000 - 170000

25th percentile
130000
The candidate is new to the role or has limited experience and is building necessary skills.
50th percentile
150000
The candidate has moderate experience in the role, meets most requirements or has equivalent transferable skills, and may also have relevant certifications.
75th percentile
170000
The candidate has extensive experience and advanced skills for the role, and may also have specialised certifications.
Salary range based on three percentiles The starting salaries represent gross yearly salaries. They do not include bonuses, benefits or KiwiSaver.
Projected salaries for related positions Job title 25th percentile 50th percentile 75th percentile Manual Test Analyst 70000 85000 100000 Senior Manual Test Analyst 110000 120000 130000 Automation Test Analyst 80000 95000 110000 Senior Automation Test Analyst 120000 135000 145000 Test Manager 130000 145000 160000 Junior Software Engineer 70000 80000 90000 Intermediate Software Engineer 100000 110000 125000 Senior Software Engineer 125000 140000 150000 Technical Lead - Software Engineering 150000 165000 180000 Software Developer 100000 110000 125000 Senior Software Developer 125000 140000 150000 Product Owner 100000 110000 120000 Product Manager 110000 120000 130000 Senior Product Manager 140000 150000 160000 Product Designer 80000 95000 110000 Senior Product Designer 120000 130000 140000 Principal Developer 150000 165000 180000 Staff Engineer 150000 165000 180000 AI Tech Lead 180000 200000 220000 AI Engineer 120000 140000 160000

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Our starting salary projections come from a detailed, multistep process that ensures our numbers accurately reflect the marketplace. They’re based on real compensation data for job candidates our recruiters have matched with companies across the country. The Salary Guide from Robert Half is the original. We’ve been publishing salary forecasts since 1950, and our guide has served as a trusted source for employers, job seekers, industry associations, government and educational institutions, and national and local media.