What are some job types in AI that I could do? Could you describe some technical roles and some that are not technical?

Tech and Non-Tech Jobs in AI: Career Options for 2024

Technical AI Jobs: Data Scientists, Machine Learning Engineers, Etc.

So you're thinking about a career in AI, huh? We feel you. Artificial intelligence is one of the hottest fields out there. But here's the thing - not all AI jobs require a computer science degree. You may be surprised by the variety of roles open to both tech and non-tech professionals. In this article, we'll walk through some of the technical and non-technical AI positions that are expected to be in high demand over the next few years. Whether you're a coder, a creative thinker, or something in between, there are opportunities to leverage your unique skills in this exciting space. We'll break down key job responsibilities, required backgrounds, and growth projections so you can find your niche. AI is the future, and the future is now. Let's explore where you might fit in.

Non-Technical AI Jobs: Product Managers, Business Analysts, Etc.

Data Scientists

Data scientists analyze huge amounts of data to uncover insights and patterns that can help companies solve problems or gain a competitive advantage. They use statistical techniques and write algorithms to extract meaning from data. Data scientists typically have a bachelor’s degree in statistics, computer science, information technologies, or a related field.

Machine Learning Engineers

Machine learning engineers build the algorithms and systems that allow machines to learn how to perform tasks without being explicitly programmed. They develop machine learning models, train and retrain systems, and are involved in tasks like data mining, data analysis, and model optimization. Machine learning engineers usually have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field.

Artificial Intelligence Researchers

AI researchers focus on developing new AI techniques and technologies. They study and implement new methods for machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and more. AI researchers typically hold a Ph.D. in computer science, mathematics, cognitive science, or a related discipline. AI researchers work for tech companies, research labs, and universities.

Robotics Engineers

Robotics engineers design, develop, test, and maintain robots and automated systems. They analyze user needs and requirements, determine system specifications, and build prototypes. Robotics engineers typically have at least a bachelor’s degree in robotics, computer engineering, electrical engineering, or a related field. Robotics engineers work for companies manufacturing industrial robots, self-driving cars, drones, and consumer robots.

With many job opportunities and career paths in AI, there are lots of ways to get involved in this exciting and fast-growing field. Whether you prefer a more technical role like machine learning engineer or a non-technical position such as a project manager, AI has something for you.

AI Job Skills: Technical vs. Soft Skills

AI is revolutionizing businesses in all sectors, creating many new job opportunities that don't require a technical background. Product managers, for example, work with engineers and designers to determine what features and products should be built to meet customer needs. They typically have degrees in business, marketing or related fields. If you're interested in how AI can improve business processes, a career as a business analyst could be a great fit. Business analysts evaluate how companies can become more efficient and productive, then recommend and help implement solutions like automation, data analysis, and AI tools.

Marketing and sales professionals are also in high demand in the AI field. AI has transformed areas like customer relationship management, personalized marketing and predictive analytics. Professionals with experience in content creation, digital marketing, SEO, social media marketing and email marketing are well positioned to incorporate AI tools and strategies. Similarly, recruiters and HR professionals are using AI for everything from screening resumes to analyzing employee feedback. Experience in sourcing, screening, interviewing and employee development is extremely useful.

The key to success in any of these roles is keeping your skills up to date with the latest AI technologies and best practices. While the technical details of AI may remain in the background, professionals in non-technical roles drive how AI is applied to solve real-world problems. The future is wide open if you're excited to shape how AI transforms businesses and the customer experience. With some ongoing self-education, non-technical professionals can build rewarding careers at the forefront of AI.

Getting Started in an AI Career: Education and Experience

Technical Skills

Technical skills refer to the specialized knowledge and abilities required to work in AI. This could include software engineering, data science, and machine learning. As an AI engineer, you’ll need to be highly proficient in languages like Python and SQL to build systems and work with data. Data scientists should be familiar with statistics, data visualization, and modeling techniques to gain insights from data. These roles typically require at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field.

Soft Skills

Soft skills, like communication, critical thinking, and problem solving, are equally important in AI. Project managers, for example, need to be able to translate complex topics to non-technical stakeholders and lead collaborative teams. UX designers rely on empathy, creativity and an understanding of human behavior to create interfaces that feel natural and helpful.

While technical skills get you in the door, soft skills help you advance your career. No matter your role, you’ll need to explain AI concepts to others, identify and resolve issues, and make important judgment calls. Strong soft skills, combined with a learning mindset, will serve you well as technology continues to evolve.

The good news is, you don’t necessarily need an advanced degree or highly technical background to start a career in AI. Roles like project managers, UX designers, and data analysts value soft skills and on-the-job experience. They provide an opportunity to gain exposure to AI and build up your technical abilities over time. The key is finding the right balance of technical and soft skills for the job you want. With AI transforming every industry, the possibilities for rewarding work are endless.

AI Job Market Outlook and Salaries in 2024

Technical Roles

If you have a background in computer science, software engineering, or mathematics, you may be well suited for a technical AI role. Data scientists and machine learning engineers are in high demand. These jobs require skills in statistics, data analysis, and programming. Many data scientists start with a master’s or Ph.D. in a technical field. Machine learning engineers typically have a bachelor’s in computer science or software engineering. Experience with languages like Python, SQL, and JavaScript is important for both roles.

Non-Technical Roles

There are many career options in AI that don’t require a technical background. As an AI ethicist, you would evaluate how AI systems impact society and ensure they are fair, unbiased, and safe. This role requires knowledge of ethics, policy, and in some cases, law. User experience (UX) researchers study how people interact with AI systems and work to improve the overall user experience. Strong communication, research, and design thinking skills are essential.

AI project managers oversee the development of AI systems and products. They coordinate teams, set deadlines, and ensure projects meet key objectives. While technical knowledge is helpful, a project management certification or degree and experience leading complex projects are more important.

Sales professionals work to sell AI tools, platforms, and services to businesses. They match companies with solutions that meet their needs and help them deploy and manage the technology. A degree in business, marketing, or a related field combined with experience selling enterprise software solutions is typically required.

There are many paths into an AI career. With the right education and experience, you can land an exciting role in this fast-growing field, whether you have a technical background or not. The key is developing relevant skills and knowledge, which you can do through courses, bootcamps, certifications, and hands-on practice.