How to become an AI engineer
Interested in a career as an AI engineer? Learn about the skills, education, and experience that can help you prepare for your first role.
Key takeaways
- To become an AI engineer, you typically need a bachelor's degree in software engineering, computer science or a related field.
- edX offers AI courses and professional certificates that build skills in machine learning, data processing, and AI systems through flexible online learning.
- AI engineering roles draw on high-demand skills in automation and machine learning, with strong growth tied to a 20% increase in computer and information research roles from 2024 to 2034, according to the BLS.
What does an AI engineer do?
AI engineers are responsible for developing, implementing, and managing systems for data analysis, application development, machine learning, and other related tasks.
Their responsibilities may include:
- Algorithm design
- Data processing management
- Machine learning development and administration
- Systems and network setup and supervision
What do you need to become an AI engineer?
To qualify for an AI engineer role, you need to gain the requisite experience and education. Typically, entry-level AI engineer jobs require a bachelor's degree in computer science or a closely related field. Depending on the specific role, companies may prefer a candidate with a graduate degree.
Employers also look for evidence of applied AI engineering experience, so keep a portfolio of your AI-related projects and document the skills you used to complete them.
Skills
- Programming languages like Python, C++, or R
- Machine learning and algorithms
- Prompt engineering
Education
Bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field like information technology or software engineering
Experience
1-3 years of experience interning in an AI-related role, conducting research, or developing personal or open-source AI projects
How to become an AI engineer
With training and hands-on experience, it's possible to forge a career in artificial intelligence even if you don't have a degree. However, some employers may only consider candidates with relevant formal education.
Step 1: Explore AI engineering through an online course
In our spring 2025 survey, more than 50% of respondents said AI skills were important for remaining competitive in their careers. If you're among those who want to explore AI but aren't sure where to start, edX AI courses may be the answer.
If you want to deepen your knowledge, you can stack multiple related AI courses into a professional certificate in the fundamentals of AI. An edX program can help you build AI skills and determine if this career path is a good fit for you without the time and financial commitment of a traditional degree program.
Step 1: Explore AI engineering through an online course
In our spring 2025 survey, more than 50% of respondents said AI skills were important for remaining competitive in their careers. If you're among those who want to explore AI but aren't sure where to start, edX AI courses may be the answer.
If you want to deepen your knowledge, you can stack multiple related AI courses into a professional certificate in the fundamentals of AI. An edX program can help you build AI skills and determine if this career path is a good fit for you without the time and financial commitment of a traditional degree program.
Programs that can help you prepare for an AI engineering role
AI engineer salary and job outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) does not offer specific salary data for AI engineers, but it does provide information on computer and information research scientists.
In 2024, the median salary for computer and information research scientists was $140,910.
The Bureau projects employment for computer and information research scientists will grow by 20% from 2024 to 2034, significantly faster than the 3% average for all occupations.
Is becoming an AI engineer right for you?
People who love programming, data science, and constant problem-solving may enjoy working as an AI engineer.
This role may suit lifelong learners who enjoy collaboration and teamwork. Because AI continues to develop rapidly, engineers need to stay current on industry trends. Additionally, prospective AI engineers should have a knack for collaboration and teamwork.
If you aren't sure whether or not you would enjoy working as an AI engineer, try an online course in artificial intelligence first.
AI engineer vs. AI developer
There is some overlap between AI engineers and developers, but these careers are not identical.
Both roles require strong communication and problem-solving skills as well as knowledge of programming languages and application programming interfaces (APIs). However, they differ in the following ways:
