H-1B Visa AI Researcher Jobs
AI Researcher roles qualify as H-1B visa specialty occupations under the computer and mathematical sciences category, typically requiring at least a master's degree or equivalent in machine learning, computer science, or a related field. Most sponsoring employers file in the annual April lottery, so timing your job search to land an offer by February or March is critical.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory is hiring an AI Research Software Engineer. This position is within the Advanced Light Source (ALS) Accelerator Physics Group (APG), part of the Accelerator Technology & Applied Physics (ATAP) Division. The APG is responsible for ensuring the operation, performance, and continuous improvement of the ALS accelerator complex.
The role advances artificial intelligence and machine learning for accelerator operations, spanning both applied research and the software that puts it into practice. The objective is to develop AI/ML methods, and the software that supports them, that make the ALS accelerator accessible to modern AI systems — enabling real-time machine optimization, AI-assisted operations, and intelligent automation of accelerator tuning and diagnostics. The work combines investigation of new approaches with their deployment in an operational environment.
The person in this position will connect accelerator control systems with modern AI/ML capabilities, supporting both existing optimization tools and next-generation autonomous agent systems for accelerator operations. The role is especially timely with the upcoming ALS Upgrade (ALS-U) commissioning, which offers the opportunity to establish these methods and tools correctly from the start.
YOU WILL:
- Conduct applied research in artificial intelligence and machine learning methods for accelerator optimization, diagnostics, and operations.
- Develop and deploy machine learning models and autonomous AI agent systems for accelerator optimization, diagnostics, and operations.
- Design and develop the software and interfaces that connect accelerator control systems with AI/ML applications.
- Contribute to the group’s software and computing environment, including control-system integration and operational tools.
- Collaborate with accelerator physicists, controls engineers, and operations staff to identify opportunities for automation and to translate physics requirements into working solutions.
- Disseminate results through publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at relevant conferences and workshops.
- Apply sound development practices to produce reliable, well-documented, and maintainable software.
- Support the operation of the ALS accelerator systems, including availability during off-hours as needed.
- Participate in the commissioning activities of the ALS Upgrade as they relate to AI/ML systems.
- Comply with LBNL/ALS Environment, Safety, and Health (EH&S) practices and requirements.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Master’s degree in computer science, physics, engineering, or a related field with at least 3 years of related experience; or a Bachelor’s degree with at least 5 years; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. A Ph.D. in a relevant field is preferred and counts toward the experience requirement.
- Demonstrated experience developing and deploying software systems in a scientific or engineering environment.
- Strong programming skills, including proficiency in Python and familiarity with modern development practices (version control, testing, documentation).
- Working knowledge of machine learning methods and their application to scientific or engineering problems.
- Demonstrated ability to design and build complex software systems.
- Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team alongside physicists, engineers, and operations staff.
- Good command of written and oral English and communication skills.
- Ability to foster constructive, respectful, and cooperative workplace relationships.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience working at an accelerator facility or similar large-scale scientific instrumentation environment.
- Experience with accelerator control systems (e.g., EPICS) and real-time data acquisition.
- Experience with machine learning frameworks (e.g., PyTorch, TensorFlow) and scientific computing libraries (e.g., NumPy, pandas).
- Familiarity with accelerator control system frameworks (e.g., EPICS, Bluesky, ophyd) and real-time data systems.
- Experience with LLM-based agent architectures, tool-use patterns, and autonomous AI systems.
- Experience with containerization (Docker), CI/CD pipelines, and production deployment practices.
- Experience with distributed systems, API design, and real-time data streaming.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- Application date: Priority consideration will be given to candidates who apply by July 2, 2026. Applications will be accepted until the job posting is removed.
- Appointment type: This is a full-time career appointment, non-exempt (hourly paid), eligible for overtime pay.
- Salary range: The full salary range for this position is $9,761/month to $16,473/month and is expected to pay between the targeted range of $9,761 to $13,422/month. Salary for this position will be commensurate with the final candidate’s qualification and experience, including skills, knowledge, relevant education, certifications, and aligned with the internal peer group. It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the range for a position.
- Background check: This position is subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
- Work modality: This position is eligible for a hybrid work schedule - a combination of teleworking and performing work on site at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA. Work schedules are dependent on business needs. Individuals working a hybrid schedule must reside within 150 miles of Berkeley Lab.
Join our team and YOU will play a supporting role in our goal to address global challenges! Have a high level of impact and work for an organization associated with 17 Nobel Prizes!
Why join Berkeley Lab?
We invest in our employees by offering a total rewards package you can count on:
- Exceptional health and retirement benefits, including pension or 401K-style plans
- Opportunities to grow in your career - check out our Tuition Assistance Program
- A culture where you’ll belong - we are invested in our teams!
- In addition to accruing vacation and sick time, we also have a Winter Holiday Shutdown every year.
- Parental bonding leave (for both mothers and fathers)
- Pet insurance
Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: The foundation of Berkeley Lab is our Stewardship Values: Team Science, Service, Trust, Innovation, and Respect; and we strive to build community with these shared values and commitments. Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We heartily welcome applications from all who could contribute to the Lab's mission of leading scientific discovery, excellence, and professionalism. In support of our rich global community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories under State and Federal law.
Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.
INTRODUCTION
Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory is hiring an AI Research Software Engineer. This position is within the Advanced Light Source (ALS) Accelerator Physics Group (APG), part of the Accelerator Technology & Applied Physics (ATAP) Division. The APG is responsible for ensuring the operation, performance, and continuous improvement of the ALS accelerator complex.
The role advances artificial intelligence and machine learning for accelerator operations, spanning both applied research and the software that puts it into practice. The objective is to develop AI/ML methods, and the software that supports them, that make the ALS accelerator accessible to modern AI systems — enabling real-time machine optimization, AI-assisted operations, and intelligent automation of accelerator tuning and diagnostics. The work combines investigation of new approaches with their deployment in an operational environment.
The person in this position will connect accelerator control systems with modern AI/ML capabilities, supporting both existing optimization tools and next-generation autonomous agent systems for accelerator operations. The role is especially timely with the upcoming ALS Upgrade (ALS-U) commissioning, which offers the opportunity to establish these methods and tools correctly from the start.
YOU WILL:
- Conduct applied research in artificial intelligence and machine learning methods for accelerator optimization, diagnostics, and operations.
- Develop and deploy machine learning models and autonomous AI agent systems for accelerator optimization, diagnostics, and operations.
- Design and develop the software and interfaces that connect accelerator control systems with AI/ML applications.
- Contribute to the group’s software and computing environment, including control-system integration and operational tools.
- Collaborate with accelerator physicists, controls engineers, and operations staff to identify opportunities for automation and to translate physics requirements into working solutions.
- Disseminate results through publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at relevant conferences and workshops.
- Apply sound development practices to produce reliable, well-documented, and maintainable software.
- Support the operation of the ALS accelerator systems, including availability during off-hours as needed.
- Participate in the commissioning activities of the ALS Upgrade as they relate to AI/ML systems.
- Comply with LBNL/ALS Environment, Safety, and Health (EH&S) practices and requirements.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Master’s degree in computer science, physics, engineering, or a related field with at least 3 years of related experience; or a Bachelor’s degree with at least 5 years; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. A Ph.D. in a relevant field is preferred and counts toward the experience requirement.
- Demonstrated experience developing and deploying software systems in a scientific or engineering environment.
- Strong programming skills, including proficiency in Python and familiarity with modern development practices (version control, testing, documentation).
- Working knowledge of machine learning methods and their application to scientific or engineering problems.
- Demonstrated ability to design and build complex software systems.
- Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team alongside physicists, engineers, and operations staff.
- Good command of written and oral English and communication skills.
- Ability to foster constructive, respectful, and cooperative workplace relationships.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience working at an accelerator facility or similar large-scale scientific instrumentation environment.
- Experience with accelerator control systems (e.g., EPICS) and real-time data acquisition.
- Experience with machine learning frameworks (e.g., PyTorch, TensorFlow) and scientific computing libraries (e.g., NumPy, pandas).
- Familiarity with accelerator control system frameworks (e.g., EPICS, Bluesky, ophyd) and real-time data systems.
- Experience with LLM-based agent architectures, tool-use patterns, and autonomous AI systems.
- Experience with containerization (Docker), CI/CD pipelines, and production deployment practices.
- Experience with distributed systems, API design, and real-time data streaming.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- Application date: Priority consideration will be given to candidates who apply by July 2, 2026. Applications will be accepted until the job posting is removed.
- Appointment type: This is a full-time career appointment, non-exempt (hourly paid), eligible for overtime pay.
- Salary range: The full salary range for this position is $9,761/month to $16,473/month and is expected to pay between the targeted range of $9,761 to $13,422/month. Salary for this position will be commensurate with the final candidate’s qualification and experience, including skills, knowledge, relevant education, certifications, and aligned with the internal peer group. It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the range for a position.
- Background check: This position is subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
- Work modality: This position is eligible for a hybrid work schedule - a combination of teleworking and performing work on site at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA. Work schedules are dependent on business needs. Individuals working a hybrid schedule must reside within 150 miles of Berkeley Lab.
Join our team and YOU will play a supporting role in our goal to address global challenges! Have a high level of impact and work for an organization associated with 17 Nobel Prizes!
Why join Berkeley Lab?
We invest in our employees by offering a total rewards package you can count on:
- Exceptional health and retirement benefits, including pension or 401K-style plans
- Opportunities to grow in your career - check out our Tuition Assistance Program
- A culture where you’ll belong - we are invested in our teams!
- In addition to accruing vacation and sick time, we also have a Winter Holiday Shutdown every year.
- Parental bonding leave (for both mothers and fathers)
- Pet insurance
Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: The foundation of Berkeley Lab is our Stewardship Values: Team Science, Service, Trust, Innovation, and Respect; and we strive to build community with these shared values and commitments. Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We heartily welcome applications from all who could contribute to the Lab's mission of leading scientific discovery, excellence, and professionalism. In support of our rich global community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories under State and Federal law.
Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.
See all 775+ H-1B Visa AI Researcher Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new H-1B Visa AI Researcher Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding H-1B Visa Sponsorship in AI Researcher
Align your degree to the SOC code
USCIS evaluates specialty occupation by matching your degree field to the role's Standard Occupational Classification code. For AI Researcher positions, a degree in computer science, statistics, or a directly related field strengthens the petition and reduces RFE risk.
Search LCA filings before applying
Employers must file a Labor Condition Application with DOL before sponsoring you. Use Migrate Mate to filter AI Researcher roles by verified LCA filing history, so you're only targeting companies that have already committed to the sponsorship process.
Verify the prevailing wage tier before negotiating
Your offered salary must meet the DOL prevailing wage for your role and location. Use the OFLC Wage Search to check the Level I through Level IV wage for AI Researcher positions in your target metro before entering any salary discussion.
Confirm the employer files cap-subject petitions
Universities, nonprofit research organizations, and government research entities are cap-exempt, meaning they can sponsor you outside the April lottery. If you're targeting industry labs, confirm the employer files cap-subject H-1B petitions and has done so recently.
Request premium processing if your start date is fixed
USCIS offers premium processing for H-1B petitions, with a decision guaranteed within 15 business days. If your research role has a hard start date tied to a grant cycle or product launch, ask your employer to elect premium processing to avoid a status gap.
Document publications and patents before the petition
USCIS officers increasingly scrutinize AI Researcher petitions by reviewing whether the role requires theoretical and applied research skills. Compile your publications, conference presentations, and any patent filings now. They won't appear in the petition directly but prepare you to respond to an RFE quickly.
H-1B Visa AI Researcher: Frequently Asked Questions
Does an AI Researcher role qualify as an H-1B specialty occupation?
Yes. AI Researcher positions fall under computer and mathematical occupations in the DOL classification system and routinely satisfy the H-1B specialty occupation standard. USCIS requires that the role normally requires at least a bachelor's degree in a specific, directly related field. A degree in computer science, machine learning, statistics, or a closely related discipline typically meets this standard, though USCIS may issue an RFE if the job description is broad enough to accept unrelated degrees.
Which employers sponsor H-1B visas for AI Researchers?
Both large technology companies and university research labs sponsor AI Researcher H-1B petitions regularly. Universities and affiliated nonprofit research institutions are cap-exempt, which means they can file year-round rather than waiting for the April lottery. Industry employers, including cloud platforms and AI-focused product companies, are cap-subject and must enter the lottery. Browse Migrate Mate to see which employers have active LCA filings for AI Researcher and related research roles.
How does the H-1B lottery affect my timeline as an AI Researcher?
Cap-subject H-1B petitions can only be filed in April for an October 1 start date, following a March registration window. If you're not selected, you must wait until the next lottery cycle unless your employer qualifies as cap-exempt. AI Researchers at universities or government-funded research centers can bypass the lottery entirely. Plan your job search so you have a signed offer and completed LCA by late March to be included in that year's filing.
What documentation should I prepare for an AI Researcher H-1B petition?
Your employer's immigration attorney will build the petition, but you'll need to provide educational transcripts and degree certificates, a detailed description of your research responsibilities, and evidence that the role requires a degree in a specific field. If your degree is from outside the U.S., a credential evaluation is required. Publications, patents, or conference proceedings aren't filed with the petition but can be critical supporting evidence if USCIS issues an RFE questioning whether the position is a specialty occupation.
Can I switch employers mid-project on an H-1B as an AI Researcher?
Yes. H-1B portability under AC21 lets you change employers after your petition has been pending for at least 180 days, as long as the new role is in the same or a similar occupational classification. For AI Researchers, moving between research labs or from a research role to an applied research engineering position typically qualifies. Your new employer must file an H-1B transfer petition before your last day with the current employer to maintain continuous work authorization.