In the fast-changing world of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML) is the top choice for jobs, especially for mid and senior-level experts. New data from job sites and staffing companies show that ML is the most wanted skill, with more than 2,000 job listings in the last year. This is even more than other AI skills like data science and Python.
India, in particular, has witnessed a notable rise in AI job opportunities, with approximately 3,000 active positions. Over the past year, the number of AI professionals has surged by 125 percent. Notably, Python, a key language for AI applications, has seen its skilled workforce double to over 224,000, while ML professionals have increased by 90 percent to 220,000.
Among AI job roles, ML engineers hold the top spot, constituting 23 percent of postings, followed by AI scientists (15 percent) and data engineers (11 percent).
However, interpreting these figures requires caution, as professionals possessing these skills may not necessarily work exclusively in AI-related roles. For instance, of the 2.4 million Python professionals, only 10 percent are engaged in AI-related work.
Companies across various sectors are actively seeking AI talent. SAP Labs India, Samsung’s HARMAN Digital Transformation Solutions, Tredence and Compunnel are among those recruiting AI experts. Tredence, for instance, is particularly interested in professionals with expertise in AI/ML and cloud data platforms.
Despite the abundance of skilled professionals, there remains a shortage of mid- to senior-level experience in the AI domain. While many newcomers enter the field, the demand lies in experienced talent with 10-30 years of relevant experience.
In the future, there will be a lot more jobs because AI will be used in several industries like banking, healthcare, stores and making things.