How is AI affecting the job market?

The outlook is bright for artificial intelligence jobs. Here are some in-demand jobs amid the AI boom that you could consider pursuing a career in.

Artificial intelligence (AI) could replace the equivalent of three hundred million full-time jobs. It could replace a quarter of work tasks in the US and Europe but may also mean new jobs and a productivity boom.

Goldman Sachs Report

The outlook is bright for artificial intelligence jobs, which is good news for anyone interested in the growing field of AI. In fact, machine learning engineers and data scientists have held a position on Indeed’s Best Jobs list for years.

As the prevalence of AI has risen due to ChatGPT and other recent generative technology, you may be wondering what jobs are available in this field and how to land one.

We'll take a look at the most in-demand jobs amid the AI boom that you might want to consider pursuing a career in.

AI, robotics and other forms of smart automation have the potential to bring great economic benefits, contributing up to $15 trillion to global GDP by 2030.

This extra wealth will also generate the demand for many jobs, but there are also concerns that it could displace many existing jobs.

PriceWaterhouseCoopers

7 jobs to consider:

➡️ 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. AI engineering focuses on developing the tools, systems, and processes that enable AI to be applied to real-world problems. Algorithms are “trained” by data, which helps them to learn and perform better. Ai engineers can help cut costs, increase productivity and profits, and make business recommendations.

➡️ Machine learning engineer

Machine learning engineers are professionals who research, build, and design the AI responsible for machine learning. They maintain and improve existing AI systems. A machine learning engineer often serves as a liaison with other data science team members, collaborating with the data scientists who develop models for building AI systems. They run experiments and tests, perform statistical analyses, and develop machine learning systems.

➡️ Data engineer

Data engineers build systems that collect, manage, and convert raw data into usable information for data scientists, business analysts, and other data professionals to interpret. They make data accessible so that organizations can use it to evaluate and optimize their performance. Data engineering is a broad field with applications in nearly every industry.

➡️ Robotics engineer

Robotics engineers develop robotic applications for many industries, including automotive, manufacturing, defence, and medicine. A robotics engineer designs new products or assembles prototypes for testing. Some may work on-site at a manufacturing plant overseeing robots as they are being produced, while others monitor their performance in the real world. Robotics engineering combines elements of mechanical and electrical engineer with computer science.

➡️ Data scientist

Data scientists determine what questions an organization or team should be asking and help them figure out how to answer those questions using data. They often develop predictive models used to theorize and forecast patterns and outcomes. A data scientist might use machine learning techniques to improve the quality of data or product offerings.

➡️ Software engineer

Software engineers, sometimes called developers, create software for computers and applications. They use programming languages, platforms, and architectures to develop anything from a computer game to network control systems. A software engineer may 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.

➡️ Product Manager

If you’re not a technical individual, don’t worry. There are roles in AI for non-techincal people too! A product manager is less of a scientist or engineer, and more of a sales and marketing person. Often responsible for leading the development and launch of tech products and services, they understand customer needs and market trends. They set product strategy and working with cross-functional teams to bring those products to market.

The combination of significant labor cost savings, new job creation, and a productivity boost for non-displaced workers raises the possibility of a labor productivity boom, like those that followed the emergence of earlier general-purpose technologies like the electric motor and personal computer.

Forbes - How to make a career in AI

How to get a job in AI

When it comes to landing an AI job, you’ll want to consider the requirements and skills associated with a specific job role. These are the common ways to get a job in AI, but keep in mind that your path will vary depending on job type, level, and industry.

➡️ Consider earning a degree

Many jobs in AI require a bachelor’s degree or higher. For some entry-level positions, you may only need an associate degree or equivalent skills and work experience. Often, AI professionals obtain undergraduate degrees in computer science, mathematics, or a related field.

➡️ Build practical AI skills

If you already have your undergraduate degree in a field related to AI, consider enrolling in courses to learn the technical skills. Even if you don’t have a degree, certifications demonstrate to potential employers that you’re serious about your career goals and investing in your skills. Some AI certifications and certificate programs to consider include:

Content courtesy of Coursera, Forbes and Goldman Sachs.