Artificial intelligence engineer
Solve problems using data and technology to build AI systems that shape the future. You'll develop complex algorithms to turn ideas into real-world solutions.
About the job
Career insights – AI engineer
What it's like
Want to shape the future of Scotland? Artificial intelligence (AI) is the way to do it. As an AI engineer, you'll be at the forefront of innovation. You'll program and train intelligent systems that tackle real-world challenges.
You might work with self-driving cars, making them safe for use on Scotland's roads. Or you could build healthcare models used to predict and prevent disease outbreaks. Many industries would look to your expertise to help take them into the future.
It's a role where you'll need a lot of technical knowledge. By writing code, you'll develop algorithms that use AI. You'll use data analytics to unlock insights. Machine learning will help you design systems that become smarter and more efficient the more they're used.
This career is perfect for creative problem-solvers who love working with technology. If you want to make a lasting difference, unleash your potential through a career in AI.
Your tasks might include:
designing, testing and developing AI models
working with large amounts of data to train AI models
creating and improving machine learning algorithms whilst maintaining and improving existing AI systems
explaining complex information to others
writing code in a variety of languages
collaborating with data scientists and software engineers
Explore more information about this job
Here are some useful links to learn more about this career:
The Institution of Engineering and Technology – explore routes to an engineering career
The Society for the Study of Artificial Intelligence and Simulation of Behaviour
Codecademy – find learning tools, resources and opportunities
The Institution of Engineers in Scotland (IES) – get more information about engineering careers
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Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
Engineering and manufacturing Transport Construction and built environment Digital technologies
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- verbal communication
- researching
- problem solving
- making decisions
- ethical
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Computing Science
Maths (Mathematics)
Physics
English
You'll likely need a degree in Computer Science or an engineering field to work as an AI engineer. Some roles will ask for postgraduate qualifications.
But it's possible to get into the career without a degree if you have the right skills and knowledge.
Let's look at some of the routes you could take to work towards this career.
Apprenticeship
Modern Apprenticeships (MAs) mean you learn on the job. You get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time. After you qualify, you'd be able to study further or move into a role where you can build experience. You might want to consider an MA in areas such as:
Graduate Apprenticeships (GAs) are designed for industry. You'll spend most of your time learning on the job but you'll also go to uni or college. You'll have a job, get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time.
You might want to consider a GA in areas such as:
College
There are a variety of subjects you could study at college that'll help in this career. You could progress to university or move into entry-level positions to build your knowledge and experience. Useful subjects include:
Computer Science
Data Science
Engineering
IT
Software Development
University
A degree or postgraduate qualification will give you the skills and knowledge to work as an AI engineer. Useful subjects include:
AI and Data Science
Computer Science
Data Science
Engineering
Software Development
Software Engineering
Work
To be an AI engineer, you'll need a lot of knowledge and experience. While formal qualifications are a great way to get this, they're not the only way.
You could apply for an entry-level or trainee position in engineering, IT, data or software development. You'd be able to learn skills, build experience and work towards becoming an AI engineer.
You can also supplement work experience with other types of learning and training. Use our search to find free online courses related to AI.
Getting work experience in a relevant role can help you build the skills and experience you’ll need to become an artificial intelligence engineer. Search for opportunities on Volunteer Scotland.
You’ll need a wide range of technical knowledge to be an AI engineer. Employers will look for skills in areas like AI and deep learning techniques, machine learning algorithms and advanced skills in C++ and Python programming.
Many artificial intelligence engineers also have skills in image processing, computer vision fundamentals and SQL and NoSQL databases.
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