The job outlook for artificial intelligence is bright, which is good news for those interested in the growing field of AI. India’s artificial intelligence sector is expected to reach USD 17 billion by 2027, with an annual growth rate of 25-35% from 2024 to 2027 [1]. Additionally, the demand for AI professionals in India is expected to grow by 15% annually until 2027 [1].
As AI becomes more popular with ChatGPT and other recent generation technologies, you may be wondering what jobs are available in this field and how you can get one. Read on to get an overview of careers in artificial intelligence and the skills and education required to pursue them.
6 Artificial Intelligence Jobs to Consider
This field includes a variety of jobs, from AI engineers to data scientists. Learn more about specific AI jobs and the average annual base salary you can expect.
1. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Engineer
AI engineers use AI and machine learning techniques to develop applications and systems that help organizations become more efficient. They focus on developing tools, systems, and processes that enable the application of AI to real-world problems. Data trains algorithms and helps them learn and improve performance. AI engineers can help reduce costs, increase productivity and profits, and make business recommendations.
Average annual base salary: ₹11,00,000 [2]
2. Machine learning engineer
Machine learning engineers research, build, and design the AI responsible for machine learning. They maintain and improve existing AI systems. Machine learning engineers often serve as liaisons with other data science team members and collaborate with data scientists who develop models to build AI systems. They perform experiments and tests, perform statistical analysis, and develop machine learning systems.
Average annual base salary: ₹10,80,000 [3]
3. Data Engineer
Data engineers build systems that collect, manage, and transform raw data into usable information that can be interpreted by data scientists, business analysts, and other data professionals. By making data accessible, organizations can use it to evaluate and optimize performance. Data engineering is a broad field with applications in almost every industry.
Average annual base salary: ₹10,00,000 [4]
4. Robot engineer
Robotics engineers develop robotic applications for many industries, including automotive, manufacturing, defense, and medical. They design new products or build prototypes for testing. Some people supervise robots during production on the factory floor, while others monitor robot performance in the real world. Robotics combines elements of mechanical and electrical engineering with computer science.
Average annual base salary: ₹5,00,000 [5]
5. Software engineer
Software engineers, also called developers, create software for computers and applications. They use programming languages, platforms, and architectures to develop everything from computer games to networked control systems. Software engineers can also test, improve, and maintain software built by other engineers. If you’re an analytical thinker who enjoys solving problems and enhancing digital systems, you may find this career rewarding.
Average basic salary: ₹9,00,000 [6]
6. Data Scientist
Data scientists help organizations and teams decide what questions to ask and understand how to use data to answer those questions. They often develop predictive models to theorize and predict patterns and outcomes. Data scientists may also use machine learning techniques to improve the quality of data and products.
Average basic salary: ₹15,00,000 [7]
Salary range and job outlook
The job outlook for AI is bright, which is good news for those working in the growing field of AI. To foster leadership, excellence and an integrated AI ecosystem, the Government of India launched INDIAai, India’s national AI portal, to provide a central hub of cutting-edge knowledge and opportunities for aspiring professionals, students and others.
Additionally, in 2021, the US-India Artificial Intelligence (USIAI), a joint US-India initiative, was launched to increase opportunities for collaboration and eliminate barriers to AI growth in India. [8]. India’s growing momentum for AI also presents opportunities for job growth in high-wage industries. Average annual salary for a computer scientist is ₹30,00,000 [9].
How to get an AI-related job
If you’re looking to land an AI job, you’ll need to consider the educational requirements and skills associated with the specific job. These are common ways to land an AI job, but keep in mind that paths vary by job, level, and industry.
1. Research AI work.
The first step to getting started is researching what job you want to pursue in the AI field so you can customize your education and build your skills. In addition to the six jobs listed above, you’re likely to come across roles such as:
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Analysis Director: He will lead the data analysis and data warehousing departments and be responsible for the research, development, and implementation of related data systems.
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Principal researcher: As part of a research team, you will design, execute, and document research experiments in a variety of fields and industries.
2. Consider getting a degree.
Many AI jobs require a bachelor’s degree. AI professionals often have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, mathematics, or a related field. However, while not required, earning a master’s degree can enhance your skill set and increase your earning potential.
3. Build your AI skills.
As you prepare to work in AI, you can expect to develop several skills. Although you can explore different areas of AI, you’ll find that most AIs have some core similarities. Many of these skills can be built through self-directed practice, learned through online courses and boot camps, or developed through coursework during a degree.
technical skills
You’ll find that many AI jobs rely on proficiency in programming languages and coding. Coding is usually one of the first skills that many people interested in this field learn. It is also expected to work with various computer systems. Important technical skills to build include:
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General purpose languages: Python and C/C++
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Database management: Apache Cassandra, Couchbase, DynamoDB
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Data analysis and statistics: MATLAB, R, Pandas
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AI platforms: Microsoft Azure AI, Google Cloud AI, IBM Watson
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Data acquisition system: physical and wireless sensors
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Digital marketing goals and strategies
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industry knowledge
skills at work
Workplace skills can’t necessarily be learned through courses, but through experience. When considering pursuing a career in AI, consider working on the following skills:
4. Get certified.
If you already have a bachelor’s degree in an AI-related field, consider enrolling in a course to learn technical skills. Even if you don’t have a degree, a certification proves to potential employers that you’re serious about your career goals and invested in your skills. Some AI certifications and certification programs to consider include:
5. Apply for entry-level jobs.
Once you feel confident in your level of training, it’s time to do your research and start applying for jobs. Many entry-level positions in AI, such as software engineers and developers, include “entry level” or “junior” in the job description. If you require less than three years of experience, you are usually a good candidate.
If you need help finding a job, apply for an internship or start a freelance project or hackathon to hone your skills. You can receive feedback on your work and develop relationships that may be beneficial in the future.
Start preparing for a career in AI today with Coursera
AI is a developing field that is changing the way technology is used. To learn about AI before others, consider programs like IBM AI Developer or AI Engineering Professional Certificates, which can help you land a job within months. Learn Python, build chatbots, and explore machine learning with technology industry leaders.
Alternatively, if you plan to earn a degree online, you’ll find several options available through Coursera. You can also earn a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from the University of London or a Master of Science in Data Science from the University of Colorado Boulder.
