How to Get a Job in AI: Skills and Education Needed

AI Jobs

HOW TO GET A JOB IN AI

AI Jobs: Choosing a career in the Artificial Intelligence sector requires considering a number of options and you will need to invest some time learning the required skills.

The growth in this sector is evident and the future looks promising.  Read on to learn more about how to get a high-paying job in AI.

Table of Contents

    Can I Get an AI Job Without a Degree?

    Yes, it is possible to get an AI job without a degree, but you will require some other type of formal education. A viable option is to attend a coding bootcamp for artificial intelligence, machine learning, or a similar field.

    Coding bootcamps are accepted education credentials by many employers today and coding bootcamp graduates are hired by top companies in the technology industry.

    Can a Coding Bootcamp Help Me Get a Job in AI?

    A coding bootcamp can definitely help you get a job in artificial intelligence. Coding bootcamps are fast-paced, short-term schools that teach students the relevant skills and  knowledge required for a tech career. They are designed to quickly prepare students for a promising career in technology.

    It is important to note that during a bootcamp course, you can build a portfolio. This will help you demonstrate your acquired skills to future potential employers. Bootcamps also offer career services such as interview prep, career coaching, resume writing, and career-readiness training.

    Many bootcamps also work in conjunction with top tech companies to help their graduates succeed in the job market.

    What Education Do I Need to Become an AI Engineer?

    Normally, to become an AI engineer, you will need a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Computer Engineering, Mathematics, or other related fields.

    However, remember that you may be able to enter the AI sector with an associate degree in an IT-related program or (as mentioned above) by attending a coding bootcamp for an intensive course in AI or machine learning.

    How Long Does It Take to Get a Job in AI?

    Usually, it takes a short time to get a job in artificial intelligence, especially when you have the skills and experience demanded by employers.

    You can expect to start an entry-level job soon after graduation since many recruiters prefer applicants with less than one year of experience for these entry-level roles.

    And if you are a professional who has been in the field for a while, you can get a job quickly with your relevant experience and a strong interview.

    The AI field is expanding with projected continuous growth over the next decade, and the demand for professionals of all levels is high.

    Common AI Education Paths

    There is a variety of educational paths that you can choose from to embark on your AI career. So, you can select whichever is best for you.

    Common options include earning a college degree in computer science or joining a coding bootcamp. Learn more on each of the available options below.

    Artificial Intelligence Bootcamps

    Bootcamps are a great option to start a career in the field of Artificial Intelligence.

    Bootcamps are perhaps a more practical alternative to traditional college programs because they offer financial aid, are more affordable, and prepare graduates to be job-ready.

    Community College

    Community colleges offer two-year careers that equip students with the knowledge required to start a career in a certain field.

    Community colleges are similar to four-year colleges, except they offer shorter, technical programs. As a community college student you can earn an associate degree instead of a bachelor’s degree.

    You can also transfer to a four-year school after graduating from a two year community college with an associate degree.

    Artificial Intelligence Degrees

    Acquiring a bachelor’s degree is one of the most popular ways of starting a career in AI. There are different programs to choose from. For instance, statistics, data science, a program in data science, statistics, computer science, computer engineering, information technology, mathematics, or another related field. Any of these programs are accepted by employers and will teach you the skills you need to work in AI.

    It takes about four to five years to complete a college degree depending on the program, and school. Many graduates also choose to continue their studies with a master’s degree after a few years of work experience for career growth.

    Getting a master’s degree is not required for a career in AI, but it could help you achieve your career goals.

    Key AI Skills to List on Your Resume

    Potential employers expect AI professionals to have certain skills.

    Having these required skills listed on your resume could make a significant difference when job hunting for a AI. A few of these skills are listed below.

    Machine Learning

    Machine learning is a key component of artificial intelligence. With machine learning, computers are able to learn, adapt, and grow by themselves, which is what AI technology is striving to achieve.

    Using machine learning, for instance, AI can power apps that make accurate predictions without any human aid.

    It is a requirement to acquire machine learning skills in order to become an AI engineer. If you do not have machine learning in your resume then try to complete some machine learning certifications.

    This is to prove to potential employers that you can meet the required machine learning skills.

    Programming Languages

    In the technology sector, Programming languages are essential.

    Usually whether you want to work as a data analyst or a BI developer, you will need to know at least two coding languages. And as an AI expert, you should be highly skilled in Java and Python.

    For Machine Learning and AI, Python is the ideal coding language to know how to master. As it is an easy to learn language, plus easy to understand and work with.

    Java on the other hand, is not only considered to be one of the main languages being used in the AI sector but, it is also regarded as the best programming language for beginners.

    Other popular languages commonly used in AI include C++, Haskell, LISP, and Julia.

    Applied Mathematics

    Part of AI is working with algorithms to create models, derive solutions and define problems. This why you need to have a strong understanding of mathematics.

    Unlike several other tech careers (such as software development) which do not require strong math skills, Artificial Intelligence does. This is because AI, relies on math and its different branches.

    Showing on your resume that you have strong applied mathematics skills will prove that you have what it takes to produce the results your potential employer is demanding.

    CONCLUDING THOUGHTS…

    As an AI professional, there are specific skills that potential employers expect you to have. Having these common skills listed on your resume could make a difference for you in the job market.