Senior Machine Learning Engineer (PhD Early Career, 2027)

Roblox; San Mateo (CA); On-site; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Roblox is seeking a research-focused engineer to own high‑impact projects from ideation to production deployment and academic publication. You will tackle deep learning and multimodal challenges at world‑scale, influencing daily user experiences across the platform.

The role requires deep expertise in AI domains, a PhD or equivalent progress, and a strong track record of publications. Proficiency in Python, C++, Go, and Java is essential for building scalable systems.

Qualifications

• Deep expertise in deep learning, computer vision, NLP, reinforcement learning or distributed systems.
• Possess or pursuing a PhD in CS/engineering with thesis aligned to Roblox’s research areas.
• Strong research track record with publications/presentations in peer‑reviewed venues.
• Proficiency in programming languages (Python, C++, Go, Java) and building/optimising large‑scale systems.

Responsibilities

• Own high-impact research projects end-to-end from ideation to production deployment and publication.
• Prototype and implement advanced AI/ML solutions that drive core platform features at scale.
• Develop and deploy cutting‑edge models (deep learning, generative AI, multimodal) to solve complex challenges.
• Collaborate with applied researchers, engineers, and product teams to translate research into production‑ready systems.
• Translate research into scalable, robust infrastructure impacting hundreds of millions of DAU.

Skills

Python

C++

Go

Java

Deep learning

Computer vision

NLP

Reinforcement learning

Distributed systems

Education

PhD in computer science, engineering, or related field

Job description

• At Roblox, we believe advanced research belongs in production, driving core algorithmic advances at a global scale. In this role, you’ll own high-impact projects end-to-end, from initial ideation to production deployment and academic publication, while solving complex, high-dimensional challenges at world-scale concurrency
• Your expertise, across research areas including Computer Vision and Graphics, multimodality, NLP, or recommendation systems, will directly shape the experience for millions of daily active users. Come build the AI-driven infrastructure powering the future of immersive entertainment
• Prototype and implement advanced AI and machine learning solutions that drive core platform features and innovation at scale
• Develop and deploy cutting‑edge models (e.g., deep learning, generative AI, multimodal architectures) to solve complex, high-impact technical challenges
• Collaborate with applied researchers, engineers, and product teams to translate advanced research concepts into production‑ready systems
• Translate complex research into scalable, robust infrastructure that directly impacts hundreds of millions of daily active users
• Work backward from user and product needs to architecture, and deliver ML solutions that improve platform engagement, safety, and content ecosystem growth

Deep expertise and curiosity in a relevant technical domain, such as deep learning, computer vision, NLP, reinforcement learning, or distributed systemsPossess or pursuing a PhD in computer science, engineering, or a related field, with a thesis aligned to Roblox’s research areasA strong research track record, evidenced by multiple publications and presentations in rigorous peer-reviewed venuesProficiency in one or more programming languages (e.g., Python, C++, Go, Java) and experience building and optimizing large-scale systems