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Artificial intelligence (AI) engineer

Alternative titles for this job include Machine learning engineer

Artificial intelligence (AI) engineers develop programs and algorithms which teach a machine or computer to carry out tasks and learn from them.

Average salary (a year)

£35,000 Starter

to

£75,000 Experienced

Typical hours (a week)

37 to 40 a week

You could work

9am to 5pm

How to become

Explore the different ways to get into this role.

How to become Artificial intelligence (AI) engineer

You can get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • an apprenticeship

University

You could do a degree in a subject like:

  • artificial intelligence (AI)
  • software engineering
  • computer science
  • data science
  • mathematics

Some employers may also look for a postgraduate qualification in a related subject like machine learning.

You could sign up to do a free UCAS Subject Spotlight to learn more about AI and machine learning.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
  • a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

More Information

Apprenticeship

You could apply to do an apprenticeship, for example:

  • Artificial Intelligence Data Specialist Level 7 Higher Apprenticeship
  • Digital and Technology Solutions Specialist (integrated degree) Level 7 Apprenticeship

These apprenticeships are equivalent to postgraduate level study and take between a year and a half and 2 years to complete.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

More Information

More Information

Career tips

It will be helpful if you have knowledge and experience of computer programming languages, such as Python, SQL or JavaScript.

You might be able to apply to do a Skills Bootcamp in AI or machine learning.

Skills Bootcamps are free, flexible courses that last up to 16 weeks. You should check specific entry requirements with the course provider.

Professional and industry bodies

You could join The Society for the Study of Artificial Intelligence and Simulation of Behaviour (AISB) for training opportunities and to make industry contacts.

Further information

You can keep up to date with new technological advances and industry information from:

What it takes

Find out what skills you’ll use in this role.

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

  • maths knowledge
  • analytical thinking skills
  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail
  • knowledge of engineering science and technology
  • the ability to write computer programs
  • the ability to come up with new ways of doing things
  • knowledge of systems analysis and development
  • persistence and determination
  • to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications

What you’ll do

Discover the day to day tasks you’ll do in this role.

What you'll do

Day-to-day tasks

Artificial intelligence (AI) engineers work in many different parts of the economy.

For example in healthcare, you might develop screening tools to detect disease, while in manufacturing you could program robotic systems to learn new ways to improve production.

Generally, as an AI engineer, you'll:

  • work with businesses to understand the problems they want to solve
  • develop machine learning models and algorithms
  • run tests on prototypes and analyse data to make improvements
  • find and fix problems or 'bugs'
  • assess the risks associated with new machine learning programs
  • work as part of a team to roll out AI solutions
  • stay up to date with the latest advancements in AI

Working environment

You could work in an office, at a client's business or remotely.

Career path and progression

Look at progression in this role and similar opportunities.

Career path and progression

With experience, you could:

  • move into a more senior role
  • take responsibility for your team or a project
  • set up your own business
  • work as a consultant

You may find opportunities to work internationally by travelling overseas or working remotely.

Current opportunities

Find apprenticeships, courses and jobs available near you.

Current opportunities

Apprenticeships In England

Graduate Apprentice Transformation Analyst

  • Wage: Competitive Annually
  • Location: Eckington, Sheffield
Find apprenticeships near you

Courses In England

Machine learning intermediate

  • Provider: THE CITY LITERARY INSTITUTE
  • Start date: 05 March 2025
  • Location: London

Data Science and Machine Learning with Python

  • Provider: RICHMOND AND HILLCROFT ADULT AND COMMUNITY COLLEGE
  • Start date: 03 June 2025
  • Location: Richmond
Find courses near you

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