Systems and methods for processing Machine Learning (ML) algorithms in a MapReduce environment are described. In one embodiment of a method, the method includes receiving a ML algorithm to be executed in the MapReduce environment. The method further includes parsing the ML algorithm into a plurality of statement blocks in a sequence, wherein each statement block comprises a plurality of basic operations (hops). The method also includes automatically determining an execution plan for each statement block, wherein at least one of the execution plans comprises one or more low-level operations (lops). The method further includes implementing the execution plans in the sequence of the plurality of the statement blocks.