Machine Learning Engineer Salary in India (2026): Freshers vs Experts

In India, there were approximately 17,000 AI/ML engineers, out of which a whopping 3,500 professionals were based in Bengaluru alone. These figures were based on data collected till June 2024, and the numbers are expected to increase with the growing popularity of AI (Artificial Intelligence) and ML (Machine Learning). This can be attributed to its rising demand, promising future career prospects, and lucrative salary.

Read on to learn about relevant job trends, machine learning engineer salary insights, and more.

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AI and ML Jobs: Types and Salary

Though used interchangeably, the terms AI and ML differ in their scope of work. The three central AI and ML job types are given below:

• AI Engineer

AI engineers build, program, and train the AI algorithm’s complex networks to function like the human brain. They employ various techniques and tools for data processing, as well as the development, maintenance, and optimisation of AI systems.

Salary Range (approx.): Rs. 6 Lakhs- Rs. 16 Lakhs p.a.

• ML Engineer

ML engineers build, design, and study AI to automate predictive models. They implement ML algorithms, test AI systems, develop ML systems, and perform statistical analysis.

Salary Range (approx.): Rs.7 Lakhs- Rs. 20 Lakhs p.a.

• AI ML Engineer

AI ML engineers are skilled professionals with experience in both machine learning and AI. Primarily, they design, develop, and deploy machine learning models, as well as AI solutions, for various applications. They also help ensure the security, efficiency, and scalability of AI and machine learning solutions.

Salary Range (approx.): Rs. 5 Lakhs- Rs. 13.1 Lakhs p.a.

Factors Affecting the Pay Scale for AI/ML Engineers

The ML/AI engineer salary in India is undoubtedly quite impressive. However, the following factors affect the same:

• Professional Experience

High professional experience indicates high exposure in the field. Hence, those with years of experience in AI/ML engineering are often offered a high salary package. However, the salary for AI/ML engineers fresh out of college is also rewarding.

• Certifications and Skills

A diverse skill set, along with regular honing, ensures you are up-to-date with all the advancements in your field. Additionally, upskilling using short-term certification courses also improves your employability.

• Geographical Location

The location also impacts the salaries offered to ML and Artificial Intelligence professionals in India. The key considerations are the market demand for AI/ML engineers and the associated cost of living in different regions.

• Industry and Size of Business

The salary offered also depends on the chosen industry and business size. Specific industry sectors, such as e-commerce, IT (Information Technology), and finance, tend to pay comparatively higher salaries. Similarly, the larger the business size, the higher the salary.

• Range of Expertise

If you are skilled in both AI and ML, there are greater chances that your salary would be higher than those proficient in just one field. Moreover, this dual expertise enables you to apply for jobs that require expertise in either.

Also Read:- How to Build a Career as an AI Consultant in India: Salary & Scope in 2026

Annual Salary for AI/ML Engineers in Top Cities

Strong IT ecosystems, rapidly growing startups, and the presence of tech companies—these factors make some cities tech hubs, where AI/ML engineers get lucrative salaries. The annual ML/AI engineer pay scale in India in the top cities is tabulated below:

AI and Machine Learning Job Trends 2026

Apart from being an AI engineer or ML engineer, there are several other job roles that you can explore in the 2026 job trends. Some of these are as follows:

• NLP Engineer

NLP (Natural Language Processing) engineers design models, algorithms, and applications to enable computer systems to interpret and understand human language.

Salary Range (approx.): Rs. 3 Lakhs- Rs. 25.5 Lakhs p.a.

• AI Product Manager:

AI Product Managers monitor the design and launch of AI products to ensure that they meet the client’s requirements. They look after the entire product development process.

Salary Range (approx.): Rs. 17.4 Lakhs - Rs. 37.3 Lakhs p.a.

• Data Scientist:

Data scientists collect, analyse, and interpret substantial amounts of data to derive valuable insights. These insights help make strategic decisions for business growth.

Salary Range (approx.): Rs. 4 Lakhs- Rs. 29.4 Lakhs p.a.

• Computer Vision Engineer

Computer vision engineers use their knowledge of ML algorithms and models to design and automate computer vision models for image search, facial recognition, surveillance, etc.

Salary Range (approx.): Rs. 3.2 Lakhs- Rs. 22 Lakhs p.a.

• Deep Learning Engineer

Deep learning engineers research, make, and maintain deep learning systems and models. Additionally, they also handle large data sets, model training, and optimisation.

Salary Range (approx.): Rs. 3 Lakhs- Rs. 24 Lakhs p.a.

Best AI Machine Learning Courses and Programmes in India

For a successful AI/ML career, the following academic pursuits help develop a strong knowledge base and ensure skill development:

Conclusion

The career prospects and salary growth in AI/ ML are on the rise. Moreover, the excellent job opportunities in this field offer the desired stability. To propel your career forward and become a successful AI/ML engineer, you can start early by exploring some of the best programs and courses at Amity University Online to realise your dream career.