Parkdale Secondary College Newsletter

Careers Corner

By The Pathways Team - Laura Della Fortuna, Carolyn Jenkins and Tracey Seach

Create ground-breaking new technologies – Job Spotlight AI Engineer

 

What do AI Engineers do?

Artificial intelligence (AI) Engineers are responsible for developing and programming new applications and systems for use in smart software and machines. AI uses algorithms, such as logic and probability, as well as other processes such as speech- and face-recognition, to operate and problem-solve without the assistance of people.

If you love technology and science, have a great knack for problem-solving, and want a career in one of the fastest-growing markets in the world, becoming an AI Engineer could be perfect for you.

 

About you:

  • Excellent problem solver
  • Great analytical skills
  • Fantastic with technology
  • Proficient in coding
  • Good attention to detail
  • Can work independently and in teams
  • Great communicator
  • Critical thinker

 

The job:

  • Managing the AI development process
  • Building and coding AI models
  • Testing models and reporting on results
  • Implementing AI models within a business or organisation
  • Gathering and interpreting data
  • Using data to guide business decisions
  • Explaining why businesses should use AI 

 

Lifestyle Impact: Low

  • Part Time opportunities: Very low – only around 11% of AI Engineers work part-time (source: joboutlook.gov.au).
  • Average hours for full-time workers: 43 hours a week, which is average (source: joboutlook.gov.au).
  • AI Engineers’ salary (average) $110,000* per year (source: joboutlook.com.au). *Salaries vary depending on your skills and experience.
  • Future career growth: Strong (source: joboutlook.gov.au).
  • You will most likely be doing most of your work indoors, though depending on the specific industry you may also get to do some work on-site.

 

AI Engineers are most in demand in these locations:

As this is a fairly new job, there isn’t much information out there on numbers. However, roles in AI are becoming increasingly popular world-wide, especially with large tech companies such as Microsoft, IBM and Google. Within Australia, you will most likely have better luck finding roles in capital cities, or within government.

AI Engineers are also in demand across many industries, as there are thousands of ways AI can be used to improve our lives. Some examples include:

  • Aviation & Transport – developing self-driving cars and drones.
  • Agriculture – using AI to predict weather patterns and crop growth.
  • Manufacturing – AI-driven robots can increase efficiency and production.
  • Health – AI machines can automatically scan medical images, provide correct medication dosages, and perhaps one day even perform surgery.
  • Marketing – AI is commonly used to predict user behaviour and provide tailored suggestions and advertisements.
  • Sports – AI machines can use predictive technology to forecast the outcome of games.

 

How to become an AI Engineer in Australia

You will need to complete a minimum undergraduate level qualification in order to work as an AI Engineer in Australia.

Step 1 – Complete Year 12 with a focus on English, Maths, STEM, and IT.

Step 2 – Find a relevant undergraduate degree you would like to study. You can choose from a variety of degrees, including computer science, engineering, IT, mathematics, or even finance.

Step 3 – Consider undertaking a postgraduate qualification in data science, mathematics, or AI to boost your knowledge and employability. You can even look for online courses and certificates.

Step 4 – Make sure you have proficient knowledge in other essential areas, such as programming and coding, Big Data, cloud services, and machine learning.

Step 5 – Find roles in AI or software development, and start working as an AI Engineer

 

Junior Engineers

Junior Engineers deliver fun, engaging and educational programs in STEM, coding and robotics for kids aged 7+ both in person and online. Junior Engineers offer after school, holiday camps and private tutoring Australia-wide via a network of qualified instructors. The curriculum is developed by experienced educators and covers the fundamentals of coding and teaches problem-solving skills, collaboration, ideation and critical thinking through real-world applications and small projects.

Find out more: https://jnrengineers.com.au/Email: admin@jnrengineers.comPhone 1300 089 344

 

CodeFlixAn online STEM, coding, robotics and digital technologies education platform for kids. Create real games, software apps, and animations with today’s leading coding languages by following step-by-step tutorials for beginners through to advanced experience levels.

Find out more: https://codeflix.com.au/Email: codeflix@jnrengineers.comPhone: 1300 089 344