Interested in becoming a machine learning engineer but don’t know where to start? Although this technical career is not entry-level, it can be exciting and rewarding.
Machine learning is an interesting field of artificial intelligence that predicts and adapts results as more data is received. Machine learning and other AI engineering career paths are growing rapidly around the world. India ranks among the top countries with opportunities for professionals with the right skills and experience.
What is machine learning?
Machine learning is a part of the computer science field that specifically relates to artificial intelligence. It uses algorithms to interpret data in a way that replicates how humans learn. The purpose of the machine is to improve the accuracy of its learning and provide data to the user based on that learning. [1].
Machine learning includes everything from video surveillance to facial recognition on smartphones. However, customer-facing companies also use it to understand consumer patterns and preferences and to design direct marketing and advertising campaigns.
Social media platforms like Meta use machine learning to serve ads to users based on their preferences, likes, and posts on websites. Similarly, Amazon and other shopping websites use algorithms to suggest products to purchase based on a customer’s purchase and browsing history. [2].
What does a machine learning engineer do?
Machine learning engineers serve as critical members of data science teams. Their duties include researching, building, and designing machine learning and artificial intelligence, which is responsible for maintaining and improving existing artificial intelligence systems.
Machine learning engineers are often also key communicators with other data science team members, working directly with data scientists who develop models to build AI systems and with the people who build and run AI systems.
Machine learning engineer job responsibilities vary, but often include:
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Implementing machine learning algorithms
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Run experiments and tests on AI systems
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Machine learning system design and development
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Performing statistical analysis
Are machine learning engineers and AI engineers the same?
Machine learning engineers are A system that makes predictionsrecommendation algorithms, price predictions, data patterns, and more. While machine learning creates the foundation for AI, AI engineers Systems that perform intelligent tasks customer service, autonomous driving, natural language processing, etc.
Machine learning engineer jobs
Over the past several decades, the field of computer science has continued to grow. Machine learning engineers remain in high demand due to the power of technology to transform industries and drive innovation across multiple sectors in the public and private sectors. Machine learning engineer is one of the most popular jobs in the field of AI.
job outlook
According to Fortune Business Insights, experts expect the global market for machine learning to grow from USD 47.99 billion in 2025 to USD 309.68 billion by 2032. [3]. With this growth comes a sustained demand for machine learning engineers. Due to changes in society after the COVID-19 pandemic, the need to strengthen the automation of daily tasks is also increasing.
Machine Learning Engineer Salary in India
Like many high-tech and computer science jobs, salaries for machine learning engineers are well above the national average and often exceed six figures. In fact, according to Glassdoor India, as of July 2025, the average base salary for a Machine Learning Engineer in India is ₹1,000,000 with additional compensation in the form of bonuses, commissions and profit sharing of ₹2,00,000. [4].
How to become a machine learning engineer: Machine learning engineer roadmap
The path to becoming a machine learning engineer takes time. The following three important steps will help you make that possible.
1. Earn a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field
Machine learning is part of the computer science field, so a strong background in computer programming, data science, and mathematics is essential for success. Jobs in machine learning engineering typically require at least a bachelor’s degree, so starting a course of study in a closely related field such as computer science or statistics is a great first step.
2. Gain entry-level work experience
Once you have a degree in computer science, the next step is to start working in data science and gain experience working with machine learning and artificial intelligence. Entry-level positions that can lead to a career in machine learning include:
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computer engineer
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data scientist
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software developer
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software engineer
3. Obtaining advanced qualifications
With a bachelor’s degree, you can work in data science and artificial intelligence. However, earning a level 7 or 8 qualification in computer science, data science, or software engineering can help you learn the more complex tasks required of a machine learning engineer. It can also help you apply for jobs, especially if you have strengthened your studies by doing a lot of internships and practicums.
Learn more about becoming a machine learning engineer on Coursera
Artificial intelligence and machine learning continue to grow in the field of computer and data science. Becoming a machine learning engineer requires years of experience and education, but you can start today.
Expand your knowledge of software development, learn different programming languages, and earn your first bachelor’s degree. Coursera hosts a variety of certifications and computer science degree pathways to help you prepare for an exciting career in machine learning.
Stanford University’s Machine Learning Specialization is also a great introduction to machine learning. Covers everything you need to know about supervised and unsupervised learning.
