The D. E. Shaw group seeks a machine learning researcher to creatively apply their knowledge of ML and software engineering to design and build computational architectures for high-performance, large-scale knowledge discovery in financial data. In this dynamic role, the engineer will leverage cutting-edge ML research to turn new ideas into proof-of-concept implementations, solve tough low-level engineering problems, and set up infrastructure for broader, longer-term impact. This position will play a key role in improving the efficiency, scalability, and reliability of the firm’s ML efforts, and will directly impact the firm’s systematic research through ML engineering contributions, all within a collaborative and engaging environment.

What you’ll do day-to-day

• Rapidly prototype, implement, and evaluate state-of-the-art machine learning techniques.
• Drive the computational agenda for ongoing and future ML projects.
• Tackle complex engineering problems across software and hardware layers, setting technical direction and anticipating architectural needs.
• Deploy ML models into real-world systems where they have direct, measurable impact on decision-making and trading.
• Create compelling proof-of-concept systems, demonstrate them internally, and collaborate with others for development.
• Partner with researchers to design and implement efficient training workflows, enabling rapid experimentation with deep learning models.

Who we’re looking for

• Bachelor’s degree or higher is required.
• Proven track record of collaborating with researchers to translate ML ideas into high-performance solutions.
• Experience driving computational and architectural innovation by rapidly prototyping and demonstrating novel ML ideas within a high-performance environment.
• Interest in staying current with ML research and swift application of new techniques.
• Expertise in performance optimization, low-level engineering, GPU programming and libraries (e.g., Pytorch, JAX, CUDA, XLA, Triton, or PTX).
• Demonstrated ability to quickly solve complex computational problems, create inspiring technical demos, and transition work to broader teams.
• Proactive approach in driving agendas and anticipating engineering bottlenecks in large systems.
• Proficiency in modern ML frameworks, facility with deep learning tooling, and a solid understanding of hardware and architectural challenges.
• The expected annual base salary for this position is $250,000 to $350,000. Our compensation and benefits package includes substantial variable compensation in the form of a year-end bonus, guaranteed in the first year of hire, a sign-on bonus, and benefits including medical and prescription drug coverage, 401(k) contribution matching, wellness reimbursement, family building benefits, and a charitable gift match program.

The D. E. Shaw group is an equal opportunity employer.

The applicable annual base salary or hourly rate paid to a successful applicant will be determined based on multiple factors, including without limitation the nature and extent of prior experience and educational background.