9 artificial intelligence jobs to watch in 2026

Important points

As the use of artificial intelligence expands, so will the number of AI jobs. This is good news for those interested in joining the growing field of AI-focused roles.

AI jobs consistently rank high in the job market. In fact, machine learning engineers and data scientists have been on Indeed’s best jobs list for years. [1].

Examples of roles in this field include AI engineer, ML engineer, data engineer, and data scientist.

Learn more about AI jobs, including what they do and how much you can expect to earn with each job. Then, if you’re ready to build a strong foundation in AI, consider enrolling in the Google AI Professional Certification Program. In just 8 hours, learn how to apply AI to essential and transferable skills such as data analysis, communication, and research.

9 Artificial Intelligence Jobs to Explore

Artificial intelligence professionals are increasingly in demand and well-paid for their hard-earned skills. If you are interested in joining this field, please consider one of the following positions:

1. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Engineer

AI engineers are professionals who 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 AI to be applied to real-world problems. The data “trains” the algorithm, helping it learn and improve performance. AI engineers can help reduce costs, increase productivity and profits, and make business recommendations.

Median total salary: $151,000 [3]

2. Machine learning engineer

Machine learning engineers are experts in researching, building, and designing AI 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.

Medina total salary: $160,000 [4]

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. Data is accessible and allows organizations to use it to evaluate and optimize performance. Data engineering is a broad field with applications in almost every industry.

Median total salary: $132,000 [5]

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 oversee the production of robots on-site at manufacturing plants, while others monitor robot performance in the real world. Robotics combines elements of mechanical and electrical engineering with computer science.

Median total salary: $143,000 [6]

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 improving digital systems, you may find this career rewarding.

Median total salary: $149,000 [7]

6. Data Scientist

Data scientists help organizations and teams determine what questions to ask and figure out how to use data to answer those questions. They often develop predictive models that are used to theorize and predict patterns and outcomes. Data scientists may also use machine learning techniques to improve the quality of data and products.

Median total salary: $155,000 [8]

7. Natural language processing engineer

Natural language processing (NLP) engineers design natural language processing systems through AI technology to add speech recognition to software and devices such as office assistants like Alexa and Google Home. It also works with text analysis and language translation for sentiment analysis.

Median total salary: $112,000 [9]

8. AI researchers

AI research scientists research, analyze, and develop new models, systems, and algorithms that support advances in AI. They often work in academic settings, such as universities or research centres, and take a theoretical approach. In addition to working on research and development, they are typically tasked with publishing papers and collaborating with other professionals such as data scientists and engineers.

Median total salary: $196,000 [10]

9. Computer Vision Engineer

Computer vision engineers are experts in using computer vision to solve problems. Generally, AI technology is used to enable computers and systems to extract information from visuals and support technologies such as facial recognition and image enhancement.

Median total salary: $164,000 [11]

How to get an AI-related job

If you’re looking to get a job in AI, you’ll need to consider the 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. Consider getting a degree.

Many AI jobs require a bachelor’s degree or higher. Some entry-level positions may only require an associate’s degree or equivalent skills and work experience. AI professionals often have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, mathematics, or a related field.

2. Build practical AI skills.

To join the AI field, you need to build the right skills. For example, programming skills are essential for AI workers. In addition to Python, you may also frequently use C++, Java, and R. You also need extensive knowledge of ML frameworks such as PyTorch and TensorFlow, as well as various ML and deep learning algorithms.

Knowledge of AI security measures is also beneficial, as AI interfaces are vulnerable to cyber-attacks. If your company plans to release new AI models for general use, you need to know about DevOps deployment techniques to make AI models available for common use.

AI career path

If you’re a team member interested in pursuing AI as a career path, you can start defining your trajectory by using AI in your team. Next, decide what functions and roles you want your AI to perform.

3. 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 AI jobs have “entry level” or “junior” listed in the job title, or require less than three years of experience.

If you’re having trouble finding a job, apply for an internship, participate in a freelance project, or participate in a hackathon to hone your skills. You can receive feedback on your work and develop relationships that may be beneficial in the future.