The Top Skills You Need for AI Jobs in 2024

Professionals with AI expertise pursue careers in a broad range of sectors. For example, the marketing sector uses generative AI to create personalised content(opens new window) and automate tasks. This versatile technology also has numerous applications in e-commerce, finance, manufacturing, and other industries.

However, many organisations need more skilled talent to take full advantage of AI. In 2023, over 60% of businesses(opens new window) surveyed by McKinsey had difficulty hiring Machine Learning Engineers, AI Data Scientists, Data Architects, and other AI professionals.

You can help fill this demand by developing essential skills for AI jobs in 2024. Below, we’ll explore the top AI career paths, must-have skills, and strategies to land your first AI job.

The demand for AI has exploded in the last decade, and this trend shows no signs of slowing down. Bloomberg Intelligence(opens new window) predicts that the generative AI market will grow from $40 billion in 2022 to $1.3 trillion in 2032. This rapid expansion will create new job opportunities and transform industries worldwide.

Several factors have contributed to the high demand for AI careers. Many businesses use AI to drive innovation and increase productivity. For example, this technology allows organisations to hyper-personalise customer experiences and develop new products. Businesses can also use AI to automate repetitive tasks like data entry and credit scoring. Organisations need skilled AI professionals to leverage these capabilities and create innovative solutions.

The exponential growth of big data has also fueled the need for AI skills. Between 2020 and 2025, the amount of data generated and consumed globally(opens new window) is expected to triple from 64 zettabytes to 180 zettabytes. Businesses can use AI algorithms to process, analyse, and gain insights from this big data.

Spend a few minutes browsing job boards, and you’ll find many artificial intelligence careers. However, some positions have more lucrative salaries and better growth prospects than others. Here are the top AI jobs for 2024.

A Machine Learning (ML) Engineer creates and implements self-learning AI models and systems. They design algorithms–or sets of instructions–that allow machines to interpret and learn from data in a human-like manner.

ML Engineers often work in healthcare, finance, tech, and other industries that depend on data to make decisions.

Salary data

Source: Glassdoor(opens new window)

A Data Scientist collects, analyses, and visualises raw data to gain novel insights and inform decision-making. They also use ML algorithms and statistical models to classify data, uncover hidden trends, and predict future outcomes.

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts that the demand for Data Scientists will grow by 35% between 2022 and 2032—and growth is also expected to be high for these professionals in the UK. Data Scientists often work in e-commerce, healthcare, insurance, and telecommunications, among other industries.

Salary data

Source: Glassdoor(opens new window)

A Robotics Engineer designs, codes, builds, and maintains robotic systems. They develop algorithms that allow robots to perform complex tasks autonomously or semi-autonomously. For example, Robotics Engineers program robots to interact with humans and navigate the ocean floor.

Robotics Engineers play vital roles in the agriculture, automotive, healthcare, and manufacturing sectors.

Salary data

Source: Glassdoor(opens new window)

A Software Engineer develops, tests, and updates software applications. They can use AI to automate repetitive tasks, write code, and troubleshoot bugs.

According to the BLS, the demand for software development will increase by 26% from 2022 to 2032(opens new window) in the US. Across the pond, there are ample reasons to believe the UK will continue to be a top destination for Software Engineers(opens new window) in Europe. Many industries hire Software Engineers, including business, finance, healthcare, retail, and tech.

Salary data

Source: Glassdoor(opens new window)

A Business Intelligence Developer uses data analytics and software to collect, interpret, and visualise business data. AI-powered software can help them analyse data and design business interfaces more efficiently.

Many Business Intelligence Developers work for consulting firms, government agencies, financial institutions, and large corporations.

Salary data

Source: Glassdoor(opens new window)

Employers expect candidates to have a broad range of technical and soft skills for AI jobs. Here are the essential abilities you’ll need to succeed in these roles.

AI professionals use data and algorithms to develop and train ML models that learn and improve without human input. ML requires a strong understanding of probability and statistics. You’ll use these mathematical concepts to analyse data, design predictive models, and assess their performance. You can also use ML libraries like PyTorch and TensorFlow to create and deploy models.

Natural language processing (NLP) is a subfield of AI that uses ML algorithms to understand and respond to complex human language. AI professionals use many techniques to develop NLP models like ChatGPT. For example, sentiment analysis involves assessing text or speech for emotional tone. Topic modelling is another method used to identify themes in data.

AI specialists can streamline the development of NLP models with spaCY, NLTK, TextBlob, and other libraries and frameworks.

Every AI career path requires knowledge of programming languages. Python’s simple syntax and vast libraries make it the most popular choice for data analysis and ML. Other useful languages for AI professionals include:

You don’t need to master all these languages, especially for entry-level AI careers. Instead, you should research the requirements for careers you're interested in to determine which programming languages to learn.

AI experts work with complex and cutting-edge technologies, so it’s normal to encounter obstacles during projects. For instance, your algorithm may make wildly inaccurate predictions, or you might struggle to find high-quality data. Strong problem-solving skills will help you troubleshoot issues and develop creative solutions.

AI professionals often work on complex projects that require expertise in multiple disciplines. For example, they may work with Data Scientists, Project Managers, and Product Developers. Strong collaboration skills will enable you to tackle these projects in cross-functional teams. Practice sharing your knowledge with people from different backgrounds and resolving conflicts.

AI and ML are complex topics that involve advanced technical concepts and specialised jargon. Strong communication skills will allow you to explain these ideas to stakeholders from various backgrounds. For instance, you may need to present your findings to non-technical clients and Project Managers. You can prepare for these situations by practising simplifying complex ideas and translating jargon into plain language.

Many challenging ethical dilemmas surround AI, leading to widespread concerns about this technology.

You can help assuage these fears by following ethical AI practices. Always obtain consent before using data, and practice transparency by documenting the methodologies and sources used.

Here are four possible avenues to develop the necessary skills for AI jobs.

Some people obtain a degree in computer science, data science, mathematics, or statistics. This path allows you to gain relevant skills through a structured curriculum. But, you may not have the opportunity to develop AI-specific projects and experience. A university degree also requires a significant investment of money and time.

A boot camp is an intensive program that focuses on work-ready skills. Participants also gain hands-on experience with AI projects. Some boot camps have low placement rates and high price tags, so research programs carefully before enrolling.

Multiverse's AI Taster Modules are free for all learners through our platform. Benefit from fast, action-oriented lessons on AI core concepts, including prompt engineering and AI ethics. Start learning today(opens new window).

Many websites offer free online classes, tutorials, and other resources. Aspiring AI professionals can use these materials to learn about data science, ML, programming languages, and other key concepts. Self-studying lets you learn at your own pace, but the lack of structured guidance can lead to knowledge gaps.

An apprenticeship allows you to acquire hands-on experience and follow a structured curriculum designed by AI experts. Apprentices also earn a competitive salary and build a professional network in their chosen industry.

Looking to get a start in AI? Learn how to leverage AI responsibly while driving business value with Multiverse’s AI Apprenticeship Program.

You don’t need a university degree to pursue a career in AI, but you’ll need to show potential employers you have the right skills. Developing an online portfolio is the most effective way to showcase your abilities.

Start by developing hands-on projects that use a diverse array of AI skills. Here are a few project ideas:

These projects allow you to apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios. You can also gain practical experience by using real, free datasets to develop and train your AI models. Potential sources for datasets include Kaggle, GitHub, Data.gov, and the r/datasets subreddit.

As you create projects, assemble them into an online portfolio. Some tech professionals build a website from scratch to house their projects. You can also use a portfolio hosting website like Carrd, Notion, and Webflow.

Provide context with detailed descriptions, screenshots, and other supporting materials for each project. Link this portfolio in your application materials so potential employers can assess your skills.

AI is reshaping the future of work across industries. For example, in the US, 19% of American workers(opens new window) have careers that AI technologies could significantly impact. These employees may have some or most of their current duties replaced by AI soon.

This prediction may sound scary, but many companies won’t eliminate these jobs completely. Instead, AI can enhance existing roles and allow workers to focus on complex tasks that require human minds.

AI will also open new career opportunities for many employees. 36% of employers(opens new window) are already making a strong effort to reskill workers affected by generative AI. This percentage will likely grow as emerging technologies(opens new window) like multimodal AI and small language models create new roles.

Developing AI skills now can help you future-proof your career and gain a competitive advantage in this shifting landscape. As you gain experience, you may qualify for more advanced–and often more lucrative–roles in AI.

Developing the skills for AI jobs will help you become a competitive applicant, but you’ll still need to put in the legwork to land your first position.

Networking is one of the best ways to learn about AI job openings and connect with other professionals. Consider joining professional organisations like the International Machine Learning Society and the AI Association. These associations often organise conferences, webinars, and other networking events.

You should also continuously learn about AI advancements so you can discuss cutting-edge developments during job interviews. Stay in the loop by following thought leaders on social media, reading industry news, and joining online AI communities.

There’s never been a better time to launch a career in artificial intelligence. Many employers are excited to leverage this new technology and eager to hire talent with the right skills.

Prepare for opportunities in this rapidly growing field by developing or expanding AI skills. The top AI jobs in 2024 require excellent technical and interpersonal abilities. You’ll need a strong foundation in programming languages, machine learning, and natural language processing. Many careers also require soft skills like communication and collaboration.

Multiverse’s free apprenticeships will help you develop the necessary AI skills and gain hands-on experience. Learn how to leverage data or drive business value with our Advanced Data Fellowship program or AI Apprenticeship. All Multiverse apprentices get access to our exclusive AI Jumpstart module.

Fill out our fast apprenticeship application(opens new window) to start your journey.