Artificial intelligence is a unique career field that combines computer science and cognitive science theory to create technological advancements that improve quality of life. AI is already present in our daily lives in the form of virtual assistants, chatbots, self-driving cars, recommended searches, and manufacturing robots. To join this exciting field, you need to know how to get a job in AI today.
Getting a job in artificial intelligence requires a lot of determination, time, and skill. Once you succeed, you will find it a highly rewarding and lucrative career. This guide outlines how to get into AI and land exciting artificial intelligence jobs. Read on to learn more about how to get a job in AI.
1. Research Artificial Intelligence Jobs
The first step to take to start a career in AI is to research what type of artificial intelligence jobs are available. There are a wide range of roles available to work in artificial intelligence, and the field is growing. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects job growth of 21 percent through 2031 for computer and information research professionals, which includes those working in AI.
The typical artificial intelligence career path starts with entry-level roles such as junior data analyst, associate data scientist, or information systems analyst. These roles will help you develop your skills and give you the hands-on experience required to take on higher positions. Later in your career, you might work as an AI research scientist, data engineer, or AI engineer. After many years in the field, you will be ready for senior-level positions such as a senior software engineer, senior ML engineer, or senior AI engineer.
The 5 Highest-Paying Artificial Intelligence Jobs
| Artificial Intelligence Jobs | Average Salary | Projected Growth |
|---|---|---|
| Software Architect | $170,848 | 4% |
| AI Engineer | $160,845 | 21%* |
| Software Engineer | $139,952 | 25% |
| Machine Learning Engineer | $127,448 | 21%* |
| Data Scientist | $127,128 | 36% |
*Based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data on Computer and Information Research Scientists
AI Engineer
AI engineers are responsible for developing software programs that can think like the human brain. This involves combining math, science, and engineering skills with software development, data science, and programming to develop software that can solve problems and make life easier. The AI engineer career path involves starting as a junior AI engineer and moving into a senior AI engineer role with years of experience.
Software Architect
Software architects use computer code to design software applications. They are in charge of the planning, designing, building, and installing of features of a software program.
Data Scientist
Data scientists collect, analyze, and interpret large data sets to develop solutions to problems, often specifically business problems. They build data models to help solve business issues, present the information through data visualization, and make well-informed business decisions.
Software Engineer
Software engineers design, build, test, and install software applications that meet user needs. They combine the principles of engineering, mathematics, and software development to create computer software programs that solve problems. This career is a common entry-level artificial intelligence job and has many opportunities to pivot into other roles with further training.
Machine Learning Engineer
Machine learning engineers develop self-running AI software to automate predictive models like chatbots, speech recognition, driverless cars, virtual assistants, and market forecasting. They design machine learning and deep learning systems using machine learning algorithms to get accurate predictions.
2. Complete the Artificial Intelligence Education Requirements
Getting a bachelor’s degree is one of the most popular ways of starting a career in AI. Many people pursue this education path by studying a program in computer science, computer engineering, information technology, statistics, mathematics, data science, or another related field. Any of these programs are accepted by employers and will teach you the skills you need to work in AI.
Can I Get an AI Job Without a Degree?
Yes, you can get an artificial intelligence job without a degree, but you will need some other type of formal education. A great option is to attend a coding bootcamp for artificial intelligence, machine learning, or a similar field. Coding bootcamps are accepted education credentials by many employers today and coding bootcamp graduates are hired by top companies in the technology industry.
Education Pathways to Work in Artificial Intelligence
There are different educational paths that you can choose from to start a career in AI, so it’s important to weigh your options to pick one that is the best fit for you. For example, artificial intelligence education requirements can depend on your career goals, with some mid-level and senior positions requiring a bachelor’s or even master’s degree. Read more on the available options below.
Coding Bootcamp
Bootcamps are a great way to start a career in AI. Coding bootcamps are short-term, fast-paced schools that teach students the relevant knowledge and skills required for a tech career. Bootcamp courses help you build a portfolio to demonstrate your skills to potential employers, and many bootcamps also partner with top tech companies to help their graduates in the job market.
Whether you want to become a software developer or an artificial intelligence engineer, bootcamps are a reasonable alternative to traditional college programs because they are more affordable, offer financial aid, and make you job-ready by graduation.
Community College
Community colleges are two-year institutions that equip students with the knowledge required to start a career in a particular field. They are similar to four-year colleges, except they offer shorter, technical programs in the form of an associate degree instead of a bachelor’s degree. You can also transfer to a four-year school after completing your associate degree.
College Degree
College degrees typically take four years to complete as a full-time student, but it could take up to five years depending on the program, school, and location. Many students choose to continue their education with a master’s degree after a few years of work experience for career growth. Getting a master’s degree is not required for a career in artificial intelligence, but it could help you achieve your career goals.
3. Perfect Your Artificial Intelligence Skills
After you have completed the educational requirements, you can now develop and perfect your skills. You can do this by working on projects to discover your strengths and work on your weaknesses. These projects make up your professional portfolio and showcase your skills to potential employers.
You can also develop your skills and gain valuable work experience by applying for an artificial intelligence apprenticeship or internship. You can find these opportunities through your school, bootcamp, or independent research. This experience will boost your resume and impress potential employers.
Key Artificial Intelligence Skills to List on Your Resume
As an AI professional, there are specific skills that potential employers expect you to have. For example, demonstrating on your resume that you have solid mathematics skills will prove to your potential employer that you have what it takes to deliver results. Listing the following key artificial intelligence skills on your resume could make a difference for you in the job market.
- Programming languages. As an artificial intelligence expert, you should be highly skilled in Python and Java, top languages in AI. Python and Java are coding languages used for machine learning and AI, and are among the best programming languages for beginners. Other languages commonly used in AI include C++, LISP, Julia, and Haskell.
- Applied mathematics. A key component of AI is working with algorithms to define problems, derive solutions, and create models. You don’t need to be a math genius, but you do need a foundational understanding of mathematics.
- Machine learning. Machine learning is one of the most important parts of artificial intelligence and you will need machine learning skills to become an AI engineer. If this is not already a part of your resume, consider completing machine learning certifications to prove to potential employers that you can meet their expectations for machine learning.
4. Start the Job Hunt
Artificial intelligence is a growing field which means that there is a huge demand for AI professionals. Your first artificial intelligence job is important because it will give you real-world experience that will jumpstart your career.
You can find entry-level artificial intelligence jobs through job boards, company websites, online organizations, and from bootcamp or school career services. Below are some of the best places to find your first role working in AI.
Job Boards
Job boards are online platforms that exist to share job openings from various industries, companies, and locations worldwide. Use the search function on these boards with the job title you’re interested in as well as the location, and you are guaranteed to find several options.
Some job boards are also designed to let you apply directly through their platform, while others will direct you to the company website to apply. You can also set up a specific notification that will send you similar job openings as they become available.
Company Websites
If you have specific companies that you want to work for, you can visit its career page, where you are likely to find all the available job openings at the company. If you are having trouble finding a link titled “Jobs” or “Careers” on the company website, try searching for the company name or URL and the job title to find open positions.
AI Communities
Online communities consist of a group of people from the same industry, field, or career who have similar interests and like to network with each other. They exist in almost every field and are a good way to keep updated on industry trends, build a solid professional network, and find job opportunities. You can find them by searching your field and “online community.”
Joining an online artificial intelligence community with members in your region can help with your professional growth and job search. Through this group, you may also be invited to industry events and training programs.
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5. Prepare for an AI Interview
To prepare for an artificial intelligence interview, you need to build your AI portfolio, read up on industry trends and news, get familiar with relevant terms, learn about the job position, and do your research on the company. Confidence in your skills, understanding the job role, and knowing about the company brings you one step close to landing your next job.
When preparing for the technical interview, you can find free resources online and through AI communities to help you practice technical skills based on example technical interview questions.
Another good way to prepare is by going through some common interview questions that are asked to applicants during AI interviews and practicing answering them aloud, either alone or with someone you trust to provide solid feedback. Below are some examples of common AI interview questions you may be asked during an interview.
AI Interview Questions
- What does artificial intelligence mean to you?
- What are some real-life applications of artificial intelligence?
- Explain the different domains of artificial intelligence.
- What programming languages have you used for artificial intelligence projects?
6. Earn AI Certifications and Certificates
Certifications and certificates serve as evidence of your skills. They prove to potential employers that you are capable of the skills on your resume and that you can perform the role efficiently.
There are several AI certifications and certificates available to help boost your resume and get you one step closer to landing your dream job. Below are some of the most popular artificial intelligence certifications and certificates available today.
IBM Applied AI Professional Certificate
This certification equips students with full knowledge of AI, including its application and uses. It also covers topics on machine learning, deep learning, and neural networks. This certification shows that you have practical Python and IBM Watson AI skills.
IBM AI Engineering Professional Certificate
The IBM AI Engineering professional certificate tests your knowledge and skills in machine learning and deep learning, including using Apache Spark to scale machine learning on Big Data. This certification shows that you have completed several machine learning and deep learning projects.
Artificial Intelligence Engineer (AIE) Certification Process by the Artificial Intelligence Board of America (ARTiBA)
This certification is one of the most recognized AI certifications in the industry. It gives skilled professionals comprehensive resources to increase their expertise in the field and keep them updated on the latest industry trends. It covers topics in neural networks, deep learning, and reinforcement learning.
Azure AI Engineer Associate: Certificate from Microsoft
This certificate tests AI engineers’ ability on Microsoft Azure to analyze, design, and utilize AI models in solutions. This certificate is best for AI professionals who work on Azure as it will increase their job opportunities in the field.
Should You Get a Job in AI in 2023?
Yes, you should get a job in artificial intelligence in 2023. It is an exciting career path that will grow in the coming years as technology evolves. If you like solving problems using technology, then this is a great career for you. By knowing how to get a job in AI, you can land in-demand and lucrative artificial intelligence jobs and launch your career.
How to Get a Job in AI FAQ
It isn’t hard to get into artificial intelligence, but it does take more education and training than most IT careers. To land a job working in AI, you will need a solid understanding of math and science to access the many job opportunities available.
To become an AI engineer, you usually need a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Information Technology, Mathematics, or other related fields. However, you may be able to enter the field with an associate degree in an IT-related program or by attending a coding bootcamp for an intensive course in artificial intelligence or machine learning.
Yes, you can become an AI engineer without a degree by pursuing your course of study at a coding bootcamp that offers courses in AI. They will equip you with the knowledge you need to start a career in the field.
It doesn’t take long to get a job in artificial intelligence, especially when you have the skills and experience that a recruiter is looking for. You can land an entry-level role soon after graduation, since many employers want applicants with less than one year of experience for these roles.
If you are a professional who has been in the field for a while, you can get a job quickly with your relevant experience and a strong interview. AI is a growing field with projected continuous growth over the next decade, and the demand for professionals of all levels is high.
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