Machine Learning Researcher

BCforward is currently seeking a highly motivated Perception/Machine Learning Researcher for an onsite role at Redmond, WA

Position Title: Perception/Machine Learning Researcher

Location: Redmond, WA-Onsite

Anticipated Start Date: ASAP

Please note this is the target date, and it is subject to change. BCforward will send official notice ahead of a confirmed start date.

Expected Duration: 12 Months

Job Type: Onsite

Pay Range: $80/hr.- $85/hr.

Please note that actual compensation may vary within this range due to factors such as location, experience, and job responsibilities, and does not encompass additional non-standard compensation (e.g., benefits, paid time off, per diem, etc.).

Job Summary:

The team is looking for Machine Learning or Computer Vision Engineers. This role focuses on developing and deploying advanced machine learning systems for egocentric human behavior understanding in AR and VR — including gaze direction, head orientation, and speaker identification in challenging, noisy environments.

An ideal candidate will be passionate about adapting state-of-the-art machine learning, computer vision, and AI systems into egocentric machine perception on the one hand and developing advanced proof-of-concept demonstration platforms and frameworks on the other.

Responsibilities

• Implement time-domain, multi-modal, and related multi-sensory machine learning models, primarily via adaptation of existing models and algorithms from literature, open source, and existing team frameworks.
• Work with peers and collaborators to develop multi-view geometry, tracking, and localization frameworks for early prototyping and testing of novel machine learning and computer vision algorithms.
• Support prototyping and R&D demonstration teams in deploying algorithms to wearable form factors such as smart glasses.
• Leverage AI-native platforms for code development and fast build-and-test of novel algorithms, with coding primarily in Python/PyTorch and limited C++.

Minimum Qualifications

• M.S. in a relevant field such as Deep Learning, Machine Learning, Computer Vision, Computer Science, Statistics, or equivalent work experience.
• 3+ years of experience with development and implementation of machine learning, computer vision, or deep learning algorithms.
• 3+ years of experience with deep learning frameworks such as PyTorch or TensorFlow.
• 3+ years of experience with scientific programming languages such as Python and C++.
• Demonstrated ability to independently build, train, and evaluate machine learning models.
• Demonstrated ability to implement and evaluate working, end-to-end prototypical learning systems.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate across groups and cultures.

Additional Preferred Qualifications

• Currently has, or is in the process of obtaining, a PhD in Deep Learning, Machine Learning, Computer Vision, Computer Science, Statistics, or a related field.
• Experience applying machine learning to motion capture data, such as OptiTrack, Vicon, or similar systems.
• Experience with eye-tracking systems, such as Tobii or comparable technologies.
• Experience applying machine learning to human behavior analysis, including:
• Gaze estimation
• Head pose estimation
• Speaker identification/diarization
• Experience building tracking and localization systems, such as SLAM.

Ideal Candidate Profile

The three things that actually matter:

1. AI model development — Can build and train models.
2. AI/ML model testing and adoption — Can take existing models/algorithms from literature or open source and make them work.
3. Hands-on orientation — Comfortable doing practical, iterative build work, not just designing.

Experience Bar

• 2–3 years of experience can be sufficient with an M.S.
• Fresh graduates are acceptable if we find a strong PhD graduate.
• Do not screen out candidates based on tenure alone; focus on demonstrated build/adapt capability.

Core Technical Focus

Analyzing human behavior from sensor data, including:

• Gaze direction
• Head orientation
• Speaker identification in noisy environments
• Human behavior modeling
• Sensor-based perception

Required Technical Exposure

• ML models in time-domain, multimodal, or vision learning.
• Some exposure to running ML models in real-time setups or interfaces — limited experience is acceptable, but a minimal understanding is needed.

Benefits:

BCforward offers all eligible employees a comprehensive benefits package including, but not limited to major medical, HSA, dental, vision, employer-provided group life, voluntary life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, and 401k.

About BCforward:

Founded in 1998 on the idea that industry leaders needed a professional service, and workforce management expert, to fuel the development and execution of core business and technology strategies, BCforward is a Black-owned firm providing unique solutions supporting value capture and digital product delivery needs for organizations around the world. Headquartered in Indianapolis, IN with an Offshore Development Center in Hyderabad, India, BCforward’s 6,000 consultants support more than 225 clients globally.