Principal Machine Learning Engineer

We're seeking a Principal Machine Learning Engineer to lead the evolution of a large-scale AI and machine learning platform, driving the architecture, deployment, and operation of both conventional ML systems and…

Outside IR35 IT
Contract type Contract
Posted 30 September 2026

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About this contract

We're seeking a Principal Machine Learning Engineer to lead the evolution of a large-scale AI and machine learning platform, driving the architecture, deployment, and operation of both conventional ML systems and next-generation agentic AI solutions.

This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who still enjoys coding but can also define technical strategy, make architecture decisions, and provide direction across a growing engineering function. You'll own the platform roadmap, establish engineering best practices, and ensure AI systems are secure, scalable, observable, and production-ready.

What you'll be doing

Define and lead the architecture for ML and agentic AI platforms.
Design and own MLOps and LLMOps practices across production environments.
Build standards for CI/CD, Infrastructure as Code, deployment automation, and platform reliability.
Lead the implementation of agent-to-agent communication and orchestration frameworks.
Drive Azure-based AI infrastructure decisions and platform evolution.
Integrate modern AI capabilities with complex enterprise and legacy systems.
Mentor engineers and act as the senior escalation point for platform and production issues.

What we're looking for

8+ years' experience in Machine Learning Engineering, Platform Engineering, MLOps, or AI Infrastructure.
Strong Python expertise and a track record of shipping production ML systems.
Deep Azure experience (AWS also considered).
Strong knowledge of Terraform, Docker/Kubernetes, CI/CD, and Infrastructure as Code.
Experience with MLOps, LLMOps, observability, monitoring, and production support.
Hands-on experience with agentic AI, multi-agent systems, MCP, A2A, or similar orchestration frameworks.
Experience working within enterprise environments where integration with existing systems is critical.This is an excellent opportunity for a Staff or Principal-level engineer who wants to shape the future of enterprise AI while remaining close to the technology.

Disclaimer:

This vacancy is being advertised by either Advanced Resource Managers Limited, Advanced Resource Managers IT Limited or Advanced Resource Managers Engineering Limited ("ARM"). ARM is a specialist talent acquisition and management consultancy. We provide technical contingency recruitment and a portfolio of more complex resource solutions. Our specialist recruitment divisions cover the entire technical arena, including some of the most economically and strategically important industries in the UK and the world today. We will never send your CV without your permission. Where the role is marked as Outside IR35 in the advertisement this is subject to receipt of a final Status Determination Statement from the end Client and may be subject to change

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