12 In-Demand AI Jobs and High-Paying Careers in 2024
Discover the current top AI careers. Explore job descriptions, education requirements, job prospects, and average salaries in AI fields.
Artificial intelligence allows computers to mimic human intelligence when performing tasks like decision-making, problem-solving, speech recognition, content generation, language translation, and many more business integrations.
Rapid technological advancements have allowed AI to get better and better with time. Today, integrating artificial intelligence in business workflows can lead to benefits like enhanced productivity and creativity, fast decision-making, and better customer service. Using AI to automate monotonous tasks like data collection can also save time and enable employees to focus on other activities with greater added value.
Due to these massive benefits, many companies worldwide are adopting and integrating artificial intelligence into their operations. As a result, the demand for AI professionals is high.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts the computer and information technology occupation (the field with AI jobs) will increase by 15% between 2021 and 2031. In May 2021, the median annual wage for this group amounted to $97,430, more than double the median annual wage of $45,760 for all occupations.
Whether in the manufacturing, marketing, finance, or health care sector, organizations need AI professionals to help develop and integrate AI systems, perform tests, write prompts, troubleshoot and repair, and train other personnel on using AI applications.
If you're a highly motivated individual without a tech degree, don't worry. While many employers prefer candidates with bachelor’s or master’s degrees for AI jobs, you can still make your way into the field.
By combining training from bootcamps, certifications, or associate's degrees with practical experience through freelance jobs, you can build the necessary skills and gain valuable hands-on experience. It's a great way to get started in AI while pursuing a degree or even to establish a solid foundation for your future in the field.
Working in AI through freelance, contract, or contract-to-hire roles can be a fantastic way to gain valuable experience and build your skills. Since many job links on platforms like Upwork are for one-time projects, you have the opportunity to work on various tasks, industries, and technologies, allowing you to expand your expertise and reputation.
Additionally, taking on sequential freelance projects enables you to refine your skills, increase your wage rate, and make meaningful progress toward your career goals in AI.
If you’re interested in AI but just starting out or a seasoned professional looking for a better-paying job, you’re in the right place. Here are the in-demand AI jobs in 2024.
Top AI careers:
- Machine learning engineer
- Data scientist
- AI research scientist
- AI ethics consultant
- Robotics engineer
- AI product manager
- AI solutions architect
- Software engineer
- Data analyst
- Computer vision engineer
- NLP engineer
- Prompt engineer
1. Machine learning engineer
A machine learning engineer researches, designs, and builds artificial intelligence models and systems. This expert uses huge datasets to train models and neural networks to make accurate predictions, recognize patterns and images, recommend products, and catch malware, among other functions. An ML engineer also performs statistical analyses and uses the results to enhance AI model performance.
Education requirements: A bachelor’s degree in software engineering, computer science, data science, or any related field. Some employers may prefer candidates with a master’s degree in artificial intelligence, or a certificate in machine learning.
Job prospects: Machine learning engineers are computer and information research scientists whose role is set to grow by 21% between 2021 and 2031.
Average salary: $109,265 per year
Launch your machine learning career by finding freelance ML jobs on Upwork.
Related: Machine Learning Techniques and how To Use Them
2. Data scientist
As the name suggests, a data scientist collects and analyzes data. This professional also interprets results from statistical analyses, thus gaining valuable insights for business intelligence. Data scientists utilize different data visualization techniques to present information, making it more understandable to various stakeholders. They are also involved in creating machine learning models and predictive algorithms.
Education requirements: The data scientist role requires a bachelor’s degree in computer science, statistics, mathematics, or a related field.
Job prospects: The data scientist occupation is expected to grow by 36% between 2021 and 2031.
Average salary: $104,090 per year
As a data scientist, you can meet potential clients and find data science work on Upwork.
Related: Data Analyst vs. Data Scientist: Key Differences Explained
3. AI research scientist
An AI research scientist helps develop artificial intelligence systems by conducting studies, running experiments, and recommending solutions to various AI-related issues. The goal of AI research scientists is to assist in creating AI systems capable of functioning just like the human brain. An AI research scientist achieves this objective by working with data scientists to collect data, train models, and document results.
Education requirements: This role requires a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as data science, computer science, or information technology, but some employers may prefer candidates with a master’s degree.
Job prospects: As part of computer and information research scientists, the AI research scientist occupation is expected to grow by 21% between 2021 and 2031.
Average salary: $92,677 per year
Earn extra income by finding AI research projects on Upwork.
4. AI ethics consultant
An AI ethics consultant ensures that AI systems comply with established ethical policies and guidelines. The consultant performs ethical impact assessments to identify bias and other implications. This professional also advises other team members on ethical implications and works with the legal department to ensure laws and regulations are followed.
Education requirements: This role requires a bachelor’s degree in computer science, ethics, or philosophy. Some employers may also prefer a graduate degree.
Job prospects: Specific job growth projections for AI ethics consultants aren’t yet available, but AI ethics is gaining attention and investment. This momentum is creating a positive outlook for AI ethics consultants. You can find opportunities in consulting firms, research organizations, technology companies, government agencies, and other AI-related entities.
Average salary: $101,540 per year
Improve AI safety by advising clients on AI ethical policies and guidelines on Upwork.
5. Robotics engineer
A robotics engineer designs, builds, and tests robotic prototypes. This professional also ensures robotic machines operate as required. A robotics engineer also troubleshoots and rectifies problematic areas if and when they arise.
Other functions include creating documentation of the development process, providing technical support to other team members, and assisting in project cost calculations. A robotics engineer can also play a supervisory role, helping other technicians complete assigned tasks effectively.
Education requirements: This field requires a bachelor’s degree in robotics engineering, computer science, mechanical engineering, or a related subject.
Job prospects: The robotics engineering field falls under the mechanical engineering occupation, which is expected to grow by 2% from 2021 to 2031.
Average salary: $86,521 per year
Are you a robotics engineer looking for work? Meet clients and earn extra income on Upwork today.
Related: What Is RPA? 6 Things to Know About Robotic Process Automation
6. AI product manager
AI product managers are involved in all product life cycle stages, from development to distribution. They research various industry trends and use this information to identify market gaps. These experts then determine how machine learning and artificial intelligence can help solve certain problems.
They also develop a product vision and communicate it to other team members. Other functions include managing a product roadmap, working with other professionals to develop the product, assisting the marketing team in launching the product, and ensuring the product is used correctly.
Education requirements: A bachelor’s degree in business, data science, information technology, computer science, marketing, project management, or a related field.
Job prospects: While specific job growth projections for AI product managers may not be available, the broader field of product management is experiencing growth and transformation due to rapid technological advancements. As AI becomes more prevalent, the demand for product managers with AI expertise will likely rise.
Average salary: $131,481 per year
Help clients manage their product lifecycle on Upwork.
Related: Product Marketing vs. Product Management and How They Work Together
7. AI solutions architect
AI solutions architects help resolve AI-related challenges facing an organization. They work with other IT professionals, including software developers, data engineers, and data scientists, to manage different AI initiatives. These experts gather stakeholder input to improve AI products and processes.
AI solutions architects are responsible for the overall AI pipeline, so they must know how to work with cutting-edge AI technologies and manage workflows.
Education requirements: AI solutions architects require a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field.
Job prospects: Although we don't have exact numbers, the field of solutions architecture is growing as businesses seek technology-driven solutions. With AI gaining momentum, the demand for AI solutions architects will likely increase.
Average salary: $121,819 per year
Help clients solve AI-related issues and access numerous solutions architect career opportunities on Upwork.
Related: What Is a Software Architect and Does Your Company Need One?
8. Software engineer
A software engineer is in charge of the software development life cycle, including key stages like designing, programming, and testing applications. This expert collaborates with other engineers to implement and test new features in existing applications.
Software engineers also perform code reviews to ensure applications meet quality and security standards. Apart from the coding aspect, software developers may also be required to write documentation for software applications.
Education requirements: Software engineers require a bachelor’s degree to land many roles. However, some organizations are also hiring those who are self-taught or who have acquired the necessary skills from various boot camps.
Job prospects: The software developer or engineer role is expected to grow by 25% from 2021 to 2031.
Average salary: $91,114 per year
Accomplish your career goals and gain real-world experience by finding top freelance software development jobs on Upwork.
Related: Software Developer vs Software Engineer: What Are the Main Differences?
9. Data analyst
A data analyst is primarily responsible for collecting, analyzing, and gaining valuable insight from data. These professionals also develop data visualization presentations to make extracting useful information from data easy for non-experts. Other roles include evaluating data quality, cleaning and converting data into appropriate formats, and writing reports based on data analysis results.
Education requirements: This role requires a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information systems, finance, mathematics, or data science.
Job prospects: The employment outlook for operations and research analysts, which includes data analysts, looks promising. According to the BLS, this field is expected to grow 23% from 2021 to 2031—much faster than the average growth rate for all occupations.
Average salary: $65,499 per year
Kick-start your data analyst career on Upwork, meet potential clients, and build long-term relationships.
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10. Computer vision engineer
A computer vision engineer designs and trains machine learning models to analyze and extract valuable insights from digital images and videos. They delve into extensive research to gain a deep understanding of visual recognition systems and identify enhancement opportunities.
Computer vision engineers collaborate closely with fellow professionals to optimize complex deep learning models and ensure their efficiency and accuracy. They also develop advanced tools for algorithm testing and work toward building scalable machine learning models to handle large-scale image- and video-processing tasks.
Education requirements: A computer vision engineer needs a bachelor’s degree to qualify for most entry-level positions.
Job prospects: The job outlook for computer vision engineers is promising. As computer vision technology becomes more widespread in industries like healthcare, automotive, robotics, surveillance, and augmented reality, the demand for skilled professionals in this field will continue to rise.
Average salary: $113,622 per year
Showcase your computer vision skills and knowledge by completing computer vision freelance jobs on Upwork.
11. NLP engineer
A natural language processing (NLP) engineer is involved in enabling computer systems to understand human language. An NLP engineer also trains machine models using large datasets, develops modeling techniques, and runs experiments on NLP technology.
Education requirements: The NLP engineering role requires a bachelor’s degree in computer science, data science, software engineering, or a related field.
Job prospects: The job outlook for NLP engineers is highly promising, with a rapidly evolving AI industry and a significant number of job postings worldwide.
The projected growth for Computer and Information Research Scientists, which includes NLP engineering, is expected to be 21% from 2021 to 2031, surpassing the average growth rate for other occupations.
Average salary: $112,493 per year
Enhance your natural language processing engineering skills and knowledge and build connections with clients through NLP freelance jobs on Upwork.
Related: What is NLP? Natural Language Processing Basics and Examples
12. Prompt engineer
Generative artificial intelligence applications require users to enter instructions, also called prompts, to generate the desired output. A prompt engineer’s role entails developing and refining AI-generated text for improved responses. Such prompts help fine-tune an ML algorithm for specific use. Prompt engineers must continuously research the latest developments in prompt development.
Education requirements: This position sometimes requires a bachelor’s degree in software engineering, computer science, or a related field.
Job prospects: As AI technology advances, there is a growing demand for experts specializing in developing and optimizing prompts for AI models. With so many industries adopting AI applications, there are plenty of opportunities for AI prompt engineers to make a significant impact and help improve AI systems’ accuracy and effectiveness.
Average salary: Since a prompt engineer is an emerging job and a subset of NLP engineering, a rough estimate is $110,000. Just note that some jobs in this field may be higher paying, and the average salary will change in the coming years as this field is better defined.
Sign up on Upwork to land prompt engineering jobs and help clients get reliable, meaningful, and accurate AI responses.
FAQ about AI careers
Artificial intelligence is a broad field encompassing numerous careers, some of which are fairly new. Here are some answers to common questions about AI careers.
Is AI a good career path?
Artificial intelligence can be an excellent career path to follow. Many companies are rapidly expanding their use of AI and reaping its benefits, creating high demand for AI engineers and experts.
AI careers offer competitive salaries, meaning you’re well-compensated for your work and effort. Plus, job security is high due to the increasing demand for tech talent. This gives you peace of mind knowing your role will remain relevant for the foreseeable future.
Which skills are important for AI professionals?
AI professionals require various technical and hands-on skills to thrive in their roles. They must have strong programming skills, particularly in R and Python. A good understanding of machine learning and statistical analysis is also necessary.
AI professionals also need problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities. Analytical and communication skills are also valuable to these experts, along with other soft skills needed for working with their clients and teams. Additionally, AI professionals must be able to pay attention to detail, manage their time well, and collaborate with other stakeholders.
Do nontechnical industries have opportunities for AI professionals?
Yes, nontechnical industries have numerous opportunities for AI professionals. AI professionals are in demand in the health care, finance, retail, and marketing sectors. Roles like prompt engineering are increasingly opening up in non-technical areas to improve AI-generated responses.
How much can I expect to earn with an AI career?
The amount you can earn with an AI career depends on your specific AI role. For instance, some careers can earn more than $196,000 per year, while some earn an average salary of $65,499.
What are the educational requirements for AI careers?
A bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering, mathematics, data science, information technology, or a related field is the most common educational requirement for entry-level AI jobs. However, some AI careers may require a graduate degree or a Ph.D.
Build your AI career on Upwork
As its benefits become more evident, artificial intelligence is becoming increasingly popular. Many organizations are looking into using AI to boost creativity and productivity.
Due to the increasing demand for AI professionals paired with competitive salaries and high job security, this could be a good time for you to enter an AI-related career. But you should know it’s not a walk in the park. You must equip yourself with the right skills and knowledge, which usually take time to build.
If you’re an AI professional looking for work, start your search on Upwork. There are hundreds of projects with varying requirements, meaning you’re likely to find something that suits you. Get started today.