Careers in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics
Artificial Intelligence

Careers in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics

Mandi D 8 November 2023
Table of contents

AI and robotics fields offer exciting tech careers like engineering, programming, data science. Most roles need a bachelor’s degree in computer science, math, statistics. Skills in Python, TensorFlow, ML, data analysis critical. Salaries very competitive, $100k+ for many jobs, $200-300k+ leadership. Job prospects positive due to automation, smart devices, big data, new AI apps. Great time to start a career in these transforming fields.

Introduction

Artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics are rapidly growing fields that are transforming many industries. From healthcare to transportation, finance to manufacturing, AI and robots are being integrated to automate processes, enhance efficiency, and provide insights from data. This growth is creating a wide range of exciting career opportunities for those interested in technology, computing, engineering, math, and science.

In this article, we will provide an extensive overview of the top careers in AI and robotics, the education and skills required, potential salaries, and future job prospects. Whether you are considering an entry-level position or more senior role, there are diverse options across research, development, programming, machine learning, data science, engineering, design, and business strategy. Read on to learn more about forging a career in these dynamic fields.

AI and Robotics Career Paths

Robotics Engineer

Robotics engineers design, develop, and program robotic systems and machines. They combine knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and software engineering to build robots and automated systems. A robotics engineer may focus on:

  • Industrial robots used in manufacturing and warehouses
  • Service robots for healthcare, retail, hospitality, or personal assistance
  • Autonomous robots and vehicles used for delivery, transportation, mining, or exploration
  • Artificial limbs and assistive robots for rehabilitation and improving quality of life

The role involves designing hardware like sensors, motors, and processors, developing robotic operating systems and programming languages, integrating artificial intelligence and machine learning capabilities, modeling and simulation, prototyping, testing, and analyzing performance.

AI Scientist

AI scientists research and develop new techniques and algorithms to advance artificial intelligence. They work on cutting-edge innovations in machine learning, neural networks, robotics, computer vision, natural language processing, expert systems, and cognitive science.

Responsibilities include designing AI models and architectures, training and testing systems, publishing research papers, detecting biases or errors in code, and collaborating across engineering, product, and business teams. AI scientists require a deep understanding of statistics, data science, math, and programming languages like Python, R, and Java.

Machine Learning Engineer

Machine learning engineers develop and optimize sophisticated algorithms and neural networks so AI systems can learn from data to make predictions, identify patterns and insights, or perform human-like cognitive functions. They require strong skills in machine learning frameworks like TensorFlow, programming languages like Python, data modeling, statistics, algorithms, and math.

Machine learning engineers work closely with data scientists and AI experts to build and deploy robust deep learning and machine learning systems across applications like computer vision, speech recognition, and natural language processing. They are involved in developing, testing, monitoring, and maintaining machine learning models to ensure optimal and continued performance.

AI Product Manager

AI product managers oversee the development and launch of AI-powered products and features. They identify opportunities to incorporate AI advancements into new or existing products. AI product managers define requirements, set project timelines, coordinate resources, develop test plans, and communicate with stakeholders.

Strong communication skills are vital as AI product managers work cross-functionally with engineering, design, marketing, sales, and executive teams. They combine technical knowledge of AI with business acumen and user empathy.

Robotics Software Engineer

Robotics software engineers specialize in developing the programs, operating systems, interfaces, sensors, and embedded software that allow robots to function, make decisions, interact with the environment, and complete tasks. They work with electrical engineers and robotics technicians to integrate hardware and software components into workable robotic systems.

Programming languages commonly used include C++, Python, and MATLAB. Knowledge of AI, machine learning, computer vision, and navigation algorithms is often required as robots become more autonomous and intelligent. Testing, debugging, maintenance, and documenting code are key responsibilities.

Computer Vision Engineer

Computer vision engineers develop algorithms that enable artificial intelligence systems to interpret, understand, and derive insights from visual data like digital images and videos. This involves working with massive image datasets to train deep neural networks and machine learning models to identify, categorize, or label objects, actions, scenes, and patterns.

Skills in AI, machine learning, and programming languages like Python and C++ are required. Computer vision engineering roles can be found across autonomous vehicles, facial recognition, medical imaging, drones and robotics, augmented reality, and photo/video analytics.

AI Ethicist

AI ethicists study the moral, societal, and philosophical implications of artificial intelligence systems, research, and applications. They identify ethical risks like bias, discrimination, loss of privacy, lack of transparency, and dangers from super-intelligent AI.

AI ethicists make recommendations on governance frameworks, policies, and best practices companies and institutions should adopt to ensure AI positively benefits humanity. They also conduct research on AI philosophy and work closely across technical and leadership teams. Expertise in technology ethics and philosophy is required.

Data Scientist

Data scientists utilize AI, machine learning and statistical methods to derive insights and predictive capabilities from structured and unstructured data. They collaborate with business leaders to identify opportunities for leveraging company data to drive strategic decisions and improvements.

Data scientists have skills in AI/machine learning programming like Python, data mining, data visualization, SQL, big data platforms like Hadoop, and statistical modeling. Strong math skills including linear algebra, calculus and probability are also required.

Education and Skills

The educational paths to entering careers in AI and robotics vary depending on the role. However, most positions require at a minimum a bachelor’s degree in a relevant technical field:

  • Computer Science or Software Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Mathematics
  • Statistics
  • Physics
  • Cognitive Science

More advanced roles like AI Scientists often require a master’s degree or PhD in machine learning, computer science, data science, statistics, electrical engineering, robotics, or a related discipline.

While formal education is important, hands-on skills and experience applying AI and building robots are equally if not more critical. Some key skills needed include:

  • Programming languages: Python, R, Java, C++
  • Frameworks: TensorFlow, PyTorch, Keras
  • Robotics: CAD, simulation software, electronics
  • Math: Calculus, Linear Algebra, Optimization
  • Statistics: Regression, Classification, Modeling
  • Machine Learning
  • Data Analysis
  • Problem Solving

Many students and career changers turn to immersive online programs, coding bootcamps, MOOCs, and real-world projects to gain the necessary skills outside of formal education. Demonstrating examples of applying AI/robotics through internships, research, hackathons or independent projects is highly valued.

Communication skills, creativity, business acumen, and ethics are also vital for those looking to advance in leadership roles managing teams or projects.

Salaries

Salaries vary significantly based on factors like job role, experience, education, company size and industry. However, AI and robotics careers pay very well compared to broader engineering and tech industry averages.

Here are examples of average salaries in the United States for some key positions:

  • Robotics Engineer – $86,460
  • AI Scientist – $114,121
  • Machine Learning Engineer – $114,856
  • AI Product Manager – $142,529
  • Robotics Software Developer – $105,590
  • Computer Vision Engineer – $108,573
  • Data Scientist – $117,345

Senior and leadership positions can expect compensation packages over $200-300k at top technology companies in innovation hubs like Silicon Valley and New York. Those with specialized expertise in hot technologies like deep learning or robotics will also command higher salaries.

Future Job Prospects

The future job growth for artificial intelligence and robotics careers looks very positive. According to the World Economic Forum’s “Future of Jobs” report, roles in Data and AI will continue increasing over the next 4-5 years, creating strong demand for expertise in these fields.

Forbes cites machine learning engineers, data scientists, robotics engineers, computer vision engineers and AI engineers among the top 10 technology jobs of the future. The rise of big data, growth of smart devices, investment in automation, and new AI applications across industries is fueling hiring demand.

Government initiatives like the National Robotics Initiative in the US and new standards development for robotics worldwide will also support job growth. Competition for top talent in AI and robotics is likely to remain very high at leading technology companies and startups. Earning advanced degrees and certifications will give candidates an edge.

Key Takeaways

  • AI and robotics are rapidly growing fields creating exciting career opportunities in technology, engineering, math, and science.
  • Top careers include robotics engineering, AI science, machine learning engineering, AI product management, robotics software development, computer vision engineering, and data science.
  • Most roles require a bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering, math, statistics or related fields. Advanced positions may need master’s and PhD degrees.
  • Important skills are programming languages like Python, machine learning frameworks like TensorFlow, math, statistics, data analysis, and communication abilities.
  • Salaries for AI and robotics careers are very competitive, averaging over $100k for many roles and over $200-300k for leadership positions.
  • Job prospects look extremely positive due to growth of big data, automation, smart devices and new AI applications across industries.
  • With proper education, skills and experience, there are many exciting and rewarding career paths in artificial intelligence and robotics. The future is now for these transforming fields.

Conclusion

There is no better time than now to start a career in artificial intelligence or robotics. The rapid pace of technological advancement is unlocking applications across virtually every industry and field. With skyrocketing demand for expertise in AI, data science, machine learning, robotics, and automation, those with relevant skills and experience will find no shortage of exciting, well-compensated job opportunities.

If you are mathematically inclined, passionate about technology, and love to solve real-world problems, a career in AI or robotics may be right for you. Whether you want to conduct pioneering research, bring innovations to market through new products, optimize business processes, or imagine futuristic robots, there are diverse options to consider.

Companies large and small are hungry for talent that can design, program and build intelligent systems and machines. With deliberate planning, targeted education and hands-on training, individuals from all backgrounds can find rewarding work in artificial intelligence and robotics. The future is now – start preparing today to launch your career in these dynamic fields transforming the world.