AI Jobs on the Rise: What to Study and Where to Start in 2025

In recent years, AI jobs have grown from niche tech roles into some of the most sought-after careers in the U.S. job market.

From healthcare to transportation, and retail to finance, companies are racing to integrate Artificial Intelligence into their operations — and they need skilled professionals to make it happen.

But for many Americans, especially those from middle and lower-middle-income backgrounds, a key question remains: Are these careers within reach?

The good news is that many AI jobs are not limited to PhD holders or elite engineers. With the right training and mindset, workers from all backgrounds can find a place in this fast-growing field.

This article will walk you through the most in-demand roles in Artificial Intelligence, the skills you need to get started, and what kind of salary you can expect.

Why AI Jobs Are Booming in the U.S.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and LinkedIn’s 2024 “Jobs on the Rise” report, roles involving Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence are among the top 10 fastest-growing job sectors in the country.

AI technologies are reshaping how businesses operate, leading to a sharp rise in demand for professionals who can build, train, and manage these systems.

Industries leading the AI charge include:

• Healthcare (predictive diagnostics, AI-assisted surgeries)
• Finance (fraud detection, algorithmic trading)
• E-commerce and Retail (personalized recommendations, inventory automation)
• Transportation (autonomous vehicles, route optimization)

The potential isn’t just in big tech companies like Google, Amazon, or Meta — AI jobs are opening up in startups, government agencies, hospitals, and even schools.

Entry-Level AI Jobs That Don’t Require a Master’s Degree

One of the biggest myths about AI jobs is that you need years of academic research to qualify.

While some roles are highly technical, there’s a growing number of entry-level positions that require only foundational knowledge in Machine Learning, coding, or data analysis — skills you can learn online or at a community college.

Here are a few AI-related jobs you can access without a master’s degree:

• Data Analyst – Prepares and interprets data used to train AI models.
• AI/ML Technician – Supports engineers in testing and monitoring AI systems.
• Junior Machine Learning Engineer – Assists in building and refining algorithms.
• AI Support Specialist – Offers customer and product support in AI-powered software.

These positions are perfect for career changers, tech-savvy individuals, or those willing to go through a short-term certification course or bootcamp.

Mid- to High-Level AI Jobs: Roles With Strong Earning Potential

As you gain experience or continue your education, new opportunities open up in the AI space. Many AI jobs at this level combine programming, problem-solving, and domain-specific knowledge (like finance or biology).

Here are some of the most in-demand roles in the mid to senior range:

1. Machine Learning Engineer

A Machine Learning engineer designs and implements algorithms that allow computers to learn from and act on data. They work with large datasets, train models, and constantly improve system performance.

• Average Salary: $120,000 – $160,000/year (Source: Glassdoor, 2024)
• Typical Requirements: Strong Python or Java skills, experience with TensorFlow or PyTorch, and knowledge of statistics.

2. Data Scientist

Data scientists collect, clean, and interpret large volumes of data to drive strategic decisions. In AI, they help develop predictive models and uncover patterns that machines can learn from.

• Average Salary: $110,000 – $150,000/year
• Typical Requirements: Python or R, SQL, and tools like Jupyter or pandas. A background in math or statistics is a big plus.

3. AI Researcher / Research Scientist

This role focuses on pushing the boundaries of Artificial Intelligence. AI researchers often work in labs or universities, developing new algorithms and exploring advanced topics like reinforcement learning or natural language processing.

• Average Salary: $130,000 – $180,000/year (can go higher with experience)
• Typical Requirements: Master’s or PhD in Computer Science, Mathematics, or related fields.

4. Computer Vision Engineer

Specializes in teaching machines to “see” and interpret images or videos. This technology powers everything from facial recognition to autonomous driving.

• Average Salary: $115,000 – $165,000/year
• Typical Requirements: Deep learning libraries, image processing frameworks, and strong understanding of neural networks.

5. Natural Language Processing (NLP) Engineer

These professionals build systems that allow machines to understand and generate human language. Think chatbots, voice assistants, and language translation tools.

• Average Salary: $120,000 – $170,000/year
• Typical Requirements: Linguistics knowledge, experience with NLP libraries like spaCy, NLTK, or Hugging Face.

Key Skills to Land an AI Job

While AI jobs vary widely, some core skills are consistently in demand. Here’s what recruiters and employers are looking for in both entry-level and advanced roles:

Many of these skills can be learned online, with free or low-cost courses available on platforms like Coursera, edX, Udemy, and even YouTube.

Career Paths in Artificial Intelligence: From Entry-Level to Expert

Getting started in AI jobs doesn’t require you to jump straight into a senior role. Many successful professionals have built their careers step by step, starting in support or analytical roles and gradually gaining experience.

A Common AI Career Path Might Look Like:

1. Data Entry or Support Role – Learn how data is structured and used in business systems.
2. Junior Data Analyst – Start interpreting data using Excel, SQL, or Tableau.
3. Machine Learning Assistant or Technician – Learn how algorithms work and assist with training models.
4. Machine Learning Engineer or Data Scientist – Build and refine AI models based on real-world data.
5. AI Product Manager or Researcher – Oversee AI-driven product development or explore cutting-edge innovations.

What’s important to remember is that you don’t have to do it all at once. Even dedicating a few hours a week can move you closer to a career in Artificial Intelligence.

Affordable Ways to Learn AI and Machine Learning

One of the biggest barriers for many people is the perceived cost of entering a tech career. The good news? There are many affordable or free learning platforms that offer strong education in Machine Learning, AI, and data skills — often taught by industry leaders.

Top Low-Cost Learning Platforms:

Many of these platforms offer financial aid or scholarships. Community colleges and local workforce development programs may also offer free or low-cost certificates in data and tech fields.

Tips for Breaking Into AI on a Budget

If you’re working a full-time job or caring for a family, transitioning into AI might seem overwhelming. But with a plan, it’s possible — even on a tight schedule or limited income.

1. Start Small, but Start Now

Even 30 minutes a day adds up. Set a consistent schedule to learn Python or take an online course. Free resources like YouTube (e.g., freeCodeCamp, StatQuest) offer beginner-friendly content.

2. Join Online Communities

Sites like Reddit (r/learnmachinelearning), Stack Overflow, and AI-focused Discord servers are great for learning from others, asking questions, and staying motivated.

3. Build a Portfolio

Apply your learning to small personal projects — like predicting weather patterns, analysing stock trends, or building a simple chatbot. These examples show employers that you can apply Artificial Intelligence to real problems.

4. Look for Entry-Level AI Jobs at Non-Tech Companies

You don’t need to work at Google or Meta to get started. Many hospitals, retailers, logistics firms, and even city governments are hiring for junior data roles — often with on-the-job training.

5. Stay Updated With Industry News

Follow newsletters or YouTube channels that break down AI developments in plain English. Understanding current trends helps you talk confidently in interviews and applications.

For more information on careers, see our other articles on this site.