Each month we take a look at one of the 650 career pathways featured within Indigo. This month we’re exploring the role of an Artificial Intelligence Engineer.
Find out what’s involved in the role from in this excerpt from the career profile on the Indigo Careers module.
So what is an Artificial Intelligence Engineer?
An AI engineer designs and develops advanced AI software and individual roles vary depending on your area of specialisation. Tasks include software design, programming computer smart systems, writing documentation, maintenance of software systems, and security testing.
You will create code and algorithms, make frameworks for artificial emotions and ideas, prepare data, and write clear technical documentation. You must have an understanding of machine learning toolsets and how to integrate them into bigger projects.
The majority of AI engineers specialise in applied AI, but it is possible to work in fields such as medicine, law, geology, sports, finance and accounting.
Hours
You will work normal office hours of 9–5, Monday–Friday. Holiday allowances are usually generous in this line of work.
Location
Artificial intelligence engineers work in research centres, AI development companies, as well as other large companies.
You will work inside at a desk with computing technologies. In some roles, there are opportunities to work from home.
Type of work
An AI engineer designs and develops advanced AI software and individual roles vary depending on your area of specialisation. Tasks include software design, programming computer smart systems, writing documentation, maintenance of software systems, and security testing.
You will create code and algorithms, make frameworks for artificial emotions and ideas, prepare data, and write clear technical documentation. You must have an understanding of machine learning toolsets and how to integrate them into bigger projects.
The majority of AI engineers specialise in Applied AI, but it is possible to work in fields such as medicine, law, geology, sports, finance and accounting.
Things to consider
Can specialise
There are opportunities to use your skills in many sectors, such as medicine, geology and law.
Exciting projects/opportunities
You will be at the forefront of new technologies that may change the way we live.
Demanding training
You must be able to retain a lot of information and able to develop your skills constantly as this profession is always evolving.
Well-paid
In large companies, such as Facebook and Google, you can earn a yearly salary of £170,000.
Most people have an undergraduate degree and you will need further professional training
To become an artificial intelligence (AI) engineer, you will first need to gain an undergraduate degree in artificial intelligence, mathematics, computer science, statistics or information technology. The normal minimum entry requirements for degrees are 2 A levels/3 H grades and 5 GCSEs/National 5s (C or above, or 4 or above in England). Required subjects usually include Maths and Physics. The number of universities offering courses in artificial intelligence is growing, and, if you studied something other than AI at undergraduate level, it is advisable to gain a postgraduate qualification in AI.
Employers will expect a strong understanding of at least some of the following: Java, Python, and C++, with knowledge of STL, OpenGL, PhysX, TensorFlow, Torch, Cafe, R, Spark and LISP being a bonus.
Many degree courses offer a year in industry. This will give you a first-hand experience of the industry and will lift your CV.
Salary progression
Graduates starting a career in artificial intelligence can earn a salary of around £35,000. With experience, artificial intelligence engineers earn an average of £52,000 per year. This can rise to £170,000 a year, especially if you gain a job with companies such as Google and Facebook!
Amazing – thank you
Amazing – thank you