Your Guide to Finding Entry-Level AI Jobs (2023)
Are you fascinated by the world of artificial intelligence (AI) and looking to break into this rapidly growing industry? With the increasing demand for AI professionals, finding entry-level and remote AI jobs can be a game-changer for your career. But where do you start?
In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of finding the right opportunities as an entry-level AI talent in the industry with the skills and experience you have. We will also talk about how to reskill and upskill if you wish to move up in the AI industry over time.
Ready? Let the excitement begin!
Guide to Entry-Level AI Jobs in 2023
Whether you are a recent graduate or looking to make a career transition, this guide is designed to help you navigate the job market and stand out from the competition. From refining your resume to leveraging your network, we will provide you with practical tips and advice for landing that coveted entry-level AI position including remote options as well.
Join us as we explore the various paths you can take to break into the AI industry, including internships, online courses, and networking events. By following our step-by-step guide, you’ll be well-equipped to kickstart your AI career and make your mark in this exciting field.
So, get ready to embark on a journey towards a rewarding career in the world of AI and unleash your potential in a rapidly evolving industry.
Why pursue a career in AI?
Artificial intelligence has become one of the most exciting and sought-after fields in the tech industry. From self-driving cars to virtual assistants, AI is transforming the way we live and work. The demand for AI professionals is on the rise, with companies across various sectors looking to integrate AI into their operations. Pursuing a career in AI not only offers exciting and challenging opportunities but also provides a chance to make a meaningful impact on the world.
To succeed in the AI industry, you need a combination of technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and a passion for innovation. Many AI professionals are involved in developing algorithms, machine learning models, and deep learning systems. They work on cutting-edge projects that push the boundaries of what is possible. With the right skills and qualifications, you can be at the forefront of this rapidly evolving field.
Skills and qualifications needed for entry-level AI jobs in development
To secure an entry-level AI position in development (machine learning models, deep learning systems, etc.), you need to have a solid foundation in computer science and mathematics. Programming languages such as Python, R, and Java are commonly used in AI development, so proficiency in these languages is essential. Familiarity with machine learning frameworks like TensorFlow and PyTorch is also highly desirable. Additionally, having a good understanding of statistics and linear algebra is crucial for building and training AI models.
A strong background in mathematics and programming is a great starting point, but it is not enough on its own. AI professionals in development and deep learning also need to possess critical thinking and problem-solving skills. They must be able to analyze complex data sets, identify patterns, and develop innovative solutions. Furthermore, staying updated with the latest advancements in AI technology is crucial for staying relevant in the industry.
While a degree in computer science or a related field is often preferred by employers, it is not the only path to a career in AI. Many professionals have successfully transitioned into AI roles through online courses (such as Coursera), bootcamps, and self-study. It’s important to showcase your skills and knowledge through projects and practical experience, regardless of your educational background.
Building a strong portfolio of AI projects can help you stand out from the competition and demonstrate your capabilities to potential employers. These projects can be personal projects that are small in size, or small business projects that demonstrate meaningful business results. It’s the thought and articulation of such a project that can help you stand out from the crowd.
Other types of AI jobs available (not just development)
AI is a diverse field that offers a variety of roles besides just development. Here are 10 areas or examples of other AI-related jobs outside of development and deep learning for entry-level positions.
- Research Scientist: Entry-level positions in research often start as research assistants or junior researchers. They support senior scientists, help with experiments, and data collection, and sometimes even co-author papers.
- AI Ethics Researcher: As this is a relatively new and evolving field, many people enter with backgrounds from other disciplines like philosophy, sociology, or law. An entry-level position might involve research assistance, literature review, or supporting ethics review boards.
- AI Product Manager: Entry-level candidates might start as associate or junior product managers, working under a more experienced PM to learn the ropes of managing AI-driven products.
- Data Annotation Specialist: This is inherently an entry-level role in many cases. It requires meticulousness and attention to detail but doesn’t necessarily demand advanced AI knowledge.
- Machine Learning Operations (MLOps): Junior MLOps engineers or associates might work closely with senior engineers to gain experience. Their tasks might include monitoring deployed models, supporting deployment pipelines, or managing infrastructure.
- AI Trainer: Entry-level roles are common here, as it often involves guiding AI through repetitive tasks or providing feedback. It’s crucial, however, that trainers receive good guidelines and understand the context of the AI’s intended function.
- AI Sales and Business Development: Entry-level roles here might be titled as sales or business development representatives. They’d typically support senior salespeople, help with lead generation, and gradually get acquainted with AI solutions to effectively communicate value to potential clients.
- Technical Writer (AI domain): Junior technical writers can start by assisting senior writers, creating smaller documentation pieces, or updating existing documents.
- AI Policy and Regulation Expert: Entry-level positions could be research-focused, helping collate data on AI incidents, tracking global AI policies, or assisting in policy draft preparations.
- AI User Experience Designer: Junior or associate UX designers can support more experienced designers in tasks like user research, wireframing, and usability testing, specifically for AI-driven products.
It’s worth noting that for many of these roles, entry-level does not necessarily mean no experience. Internships, relevant coursework, capstone projects, or even personal projects can be invaluable for demonstrating applicable skills and knowledge.
How to build a strong AI resume and portfolio
Your resume and portfolio play a vital role in getting noticed by employers in the AI industry. When crafting your resume, highlight your technical skills, relevant coursework, and any AI-related projects or research you have completed. Be sure to include any internships or work experience that demonstrates your ability to apply AI concepts in a real-world setting.
In addition to your resume, having a strong portfolio of AI projects is essential. This could include machine learning models you have developed, AI applications you have built, or research papers you have authored. A well-documented portfolio showcases your expertise and gives potential employers a glimpse into your capabilities.
When creating your portfolio, focus on quality over quantity. Choose projects that align with the specific AI domain you are interested in, whether it’s computer vision, natural language processing, robotics, AI education, research or ethics. Be sure to provide clear explanations of the problem you were solving, the approach you took, and the results you achieved. Including links to code repositories or live demos can also be beneficial.
Consider contributing to open-source AI projects as well. This not only allows you to gain practical experience but also demonstrates your ability to collaborate with others in the AI community. Employers value candidates who are actively engaged in the field and contribute to its growth.
Networking and building connections in the AI industry
Networking plays a crucial role in finding job opportunities in the AI industry. Building connections with professionals already working in AI can provide valuable insights, mentorship, and potential job leads. Here are a few strategies for expanding your network:
1. Attend AI conferences and events
Conferences and events focused on AI provide excellent opportunities to meet industry experts and like-minded professionals. An example would be Microsoft Envision The Tour: Discover How AI Can Help You Create New Business Opportunities. Take advantage of networking sessions and engage in conversations with attendees and speakers. Don’t forget to exchange contact information and follow up with any connections you make. Speaking of exchanging information, I wrote this article to help brush up on these skills: How to Create Digital Business Cards for Networking Events (2023).
2. Join AI communities and online forums
Participating in online communities such as Reddit’s r/MachineLearning or joining AI-focused forums can help you connect with AI enthusiasts and professionals. Engage in discussions, ask questions, and share your knowledge to establish yourself as a valuable member of the community.
3. Reach out to AI professionals on LinkedIn
LinkedIn is a powerful platform for professional networking. Search for AI professionals in your desired field or company and send them personalized connection requests. Be sure to introduce yourself, mention your interest in AI, and express your desire to learn from them. Personalized and genuine messages are more likely to receive a positive response.
To do this, simply search for “AI” or “Artificial Intelligence” and filter on “People” – usually the first dropdown.
Remember, networking is a two-way street. Be willing to offer help and support to others in your network. Building genuine relationships and providing value to others can lead to future opportunities and collaborations.
4. Don’t forget “cold-commenting”
The technique of cold-commenting isn’t yet widely used but it’s a game-changer on LinkedIn and other social media platforms. After you follow say a few AI professionals on LinkedIn, don’t just like their posts, leave comments! People who post regularly are content creators, and they love engagement in the form of comments. Comments not only drive up their social score on the platform but also make their content instantly more visible to more people.
The best part is that they get to know you: seeing your name, and your profile picture, reading your comments, and providing a reply will in some cases cement the digital relationship. Don’t be surprised if they follow you back as well. 🙂
Finding entry-level AI positions
When searching for entry-level AI positions, it’s important to cast a wide net and explore various avenues. Here are a few strategies to help you find the right opportunities:
1. Internships and co-op programs
Many companies offer internships and co-op programs specifically for AI students. These programs provide valuable hands-on experience and can often lead to full-time positions. Check with your university’s career services department or directly reach out to companies to inquire about internship opportunities.
2. AI job boards and websites
There are several job boards and websites dedicated to AI and machine learning positions. Some popular ones include OpenAI Careers, Kaggle, AI Jobs, and Indeed. Set up job alerts and regularly check these platforms for new opportunities.
3. Company career pages
Research companies that are actively working on AI projects and visit their career pages. Many companies list their open positions on their websites before posting them on external job boards. Tailor your application to the specific company and role to increase your chances of getting noticed.
4. Networking referrals
Leverage your network to find out about hidden job opportunities. Let your connections know that you are actively seeking an entry-level AI position and ask if they can refer you to any relevant openings. Employee referrals often carry more weight and can increase your chances of getting an interview.
Remember to customize your resume and cover letter for each application, highlighting the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the position. Tailoring your application to each opportunity demonstrates your genuine interest and commitment to the role.
For example, if you are looking for a specific role in AI, it should be immediately visible. At the same time, don’t box yourself in too deep. You can list other related AI roles and functions that interest you.
Remote work opportunities in the AI industry
If you are looking for remote work opportunities in the AI industry, you’re in luck. Many companies now offer remote positions, allowing professionals to work from anywhere in the world. Remote work provides flexibility and eliminates the need for geographical constraints. Here are a few strategies to find remote AI positions:
1. Remote job boards
Websites like Remote OK, We Work Remotely, and Remote.co specializes in remote job listings across various industries, including AI. Set up job alerts and regularly check these platforms for remote AI positions.
2. Freelancing platforms
Platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, and Toptal offer opportunities for AI freelancers. These platforms allow you to work on AI projects on a contract basis, giving you the freedom to choose your clients and projects.
3. LinkedIn remote job search
LinkedIn has a remote job search option that allows you to filter job listings specifically for remote positions. Use relevant keywords like “remote AI” or “remote machine learning” to find remote opportunities in the AI industry.
When applying for remote positions, highlight your ability to work independently and effectively communicate with remote teams. Showcase any previous remote work experience or successful remote projects you have completed.
AI job boards and online platforms for job searching
In addition to the strategies mentioned earlier, there are several AI-specific job boards and online platforms that can help you find job opportunities in the AI industry. Here are a few popular ones to consider:
0. OpenAI Careers
You may have not thought of OpenAI Careers right away. Their website offers extensive selections of AI jobs at every level, including entry-level AI jobs. Their user experience is fairly basic without offering extensive filtering options. It may take some patience to make good use of the platform, but the job quality including pay are quite high.
1. Kaggle
Kaggle is a platform that hosts data science competitions and provides a community for AI enthusiasts. It also has a dedicated job board where companies post AI-related positions.
2. AI Jobs
AI Jobs is an online platform that connects AI professionals with job opportunities. It features a wide range of AI positions, from entry-level to senior roles.
3. Indeed
Indeed is a popular job search engine that aggregates job listings from various sources. It has a dedicated AI section where you can find AI-related positions from different companies and industries.
4. LinkedIn
As mentioned earlier, LinkedIn is a powerful tool for networking and job searching. Many companies post their AI positions on LinkedIn, and you can use the platform’s search filters to find relevant opportunities.
When using job boards and online platforms, make sure to read the job descriptions carefully and tailor your application accordingly. Research the company and customize your resume and cover letter to demonstrate your interest and fit for the role.
For a detailed breakdown of AI job search websites, compared and contrasted, take a look at this article.
Interview tips for AI positions
Congratulations! You have landed an interview for an AI position. Now it’s time to prepare and showcase your skills and knowledge. Here are some tips to help you succeed in your AI interview:
1. Review fundamental AI concepts
Brush up on the fundamental concepts of AI, machine learning, and deep learning. Be prepared to explain these concepts in simple terms and provide examples of how they are applied in real-world scenarios.
2. Practice coding and algorithm questions
Technical interviews for AI positions often involve coding and algorithm questions. Practice coding exercises and familiarize yourself with common algorithms and data structures. Websites like LeetCode and HackerRank offer coding challenges that can help you prepare.
3. Showcase your problem-solving skills
AI professionals are problem solvers at heart. During the interview, be prepared to discuss your approach to solving complex problems, both independently and as part of a team. Highlight any projects or experiences where you successfully tackled challenging AI problems.
4. Demonstrate your communication skills
Effective communication is crucial in the AI industry, as you will often be working with cross-functional teams. Be prepared to explain technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders and showcase your ability to collaborate and communicate effectively.
5. Stay updated with the latest AI trends
The AI industry is constantly evolving, and employers value candidates who stay updated with the latest advancements. Follow AI blogs, read research papers, and stay informed about the latest breakthroughs in the field. This demonstrates your passion for AI and your commitment to continuous learning.
Remember to ask thoughtful questions at the end of the interview to show your genuine interest in the company and the role. Follow up with a thank-you email or note expressing your gratitude for the opportunity to interview.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Congratulations! You’ve reached the end of our step-by-step guide to breaking into the AI industry. By following the tips and strategies outlined in this guide, you are well-equipped to navigate the job market and secure an entry-level or remote position in the exciting field of AI.
Remember, building a successful career in AI requires continuous learning and staying updated with the latest advancements. Embrace opportunities to expand your skills, contribute to the AI community, and build meaningful connections along the way.
Now it’s time to take action! Update your resume, build your portfolio, and start networking. With perseverance and dedication, you can make your mark in the AI industry and unleash your potential in this rapidly evolving field. Good luck on your AI journey!
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