AI/Machine Learning Engineer
O*NET 15-2099.90 · SOC 15-2099
AI/Machine Learning Engineer is a strong career choice. Median pay is $140k a year with +21.8% projected growth through 2035 (much faster than average) and about 2,900 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Design, train, and deploy machine learning models for production systems
- →Preprocess and engineer features from large-scale datasets
- →Evaluate model performance and iterate on architecture and hyperparameters
- →Build ML pipelines and infrastructure for model training and serving
- →Stay current with research papers and implement state-of-the-art techniques
Education & How to Get In
AI/Machine Learning Engineer roles typically require a master's degree, doctorate, or professional degree. This is a long-term investment, expect 6–10 years of post-secondary education, but the depth of expertise commands strong compensation and career stability.
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Work Environment
Analytical, research labs, offices, or remote
Independent, focused deep work with periodic team check-ins
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as an AI/Machine Learning Engineer involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as AI/Machine Learning Engineer?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open AI/Machine Learning Engineer Roles
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Job Outlook
Employment of AI/Machine Learning Engineer is projected to grow 21.8% from 2025 to 2035, much faster than average for all occupations. The BLS flags this as a Bright Outlook occupation.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·31% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace
- ·Strong projected growth suggests AI-complementary demand
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does an AI/Machine Learning Engineer make?
The median AI/Machine Learning Engineer earns $140k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace AI/Machine Learning Engineer jobs?
Our model puts AI/Machine Learning Engineer at 28 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 31% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace; strong projected growth suggests AI-complementary demand.
Is AI/Machine Learning Engineer a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 21.8% between 2025 and 2035, which is much faster than average. That works out to roughly 2,900 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be an AI/Machine Learning Engineer?
AI/Machine Learning Engineer roles generally require a master's, doctorate or professional degree, so plan for graduate study rather than a bachelor's alone.
How long does it take to become an AI/Machine Learning Engineer?
Typically six to ten years, typically a master's, doctorate or professional degree. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 5 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is an AI/Machine Learning Engineer career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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