How to Get Started in Machine Learning Engineering

New technologies have always impacted the nature of human work, and today’s advances in artificial intelligence and machine learning are doing so at a rapid pace. Though applications exist across a majority of industries, advancement is most obvious in the field of technology.

In 2024, 86% of information technology leaders shared that they expected generative AI to soon play a prominent role in their organizations.¹ However, 99% also reported a desire to use the technology responsibly, with many citing concerns about data security.¹ Machine learning engineers play a crucial role in the continued evolution of this technology, both ensuring responsible use and enabling successful innovations for a range of users.

What is a Machine Learning Engineer?

Increased use of AI technology is driving higher demand for skilled machine learning (ML) engineers, with the World Economic Forum predicting around a million new positions by 2027.² This would represent a 40% increase in jobs for machine learning and AI experts.²

Professionals who pursue work in this expanding field will find exciting opportunities at the forefront of technological advancements. ML engineers design and build the software that enables artificial intelligence to learn through datasets and algorithms instead of being individually programmed for each task. Industries are constantly finding new applications for machine learning, and those interested in becoming ML engineers may have opportunities to work in health care, finance, cybersecurity, manufacturing, and even government institutions.

What Background Is Needed to Work in Machine Learning?

To pursue machine learning engineering jobs, you’ll need a strong technical background and expertise in deep learning, neural networks, data structures, and the use of algorithms. Additionally, employers look for candidates who are skilled in the following areas³:

• Computer architecture
• Data analytics and modeling
• Python, R, Java, and JavaScript languages
• Probability and statistics
• Reinforced learning
• Software engineering
• Supervised learning
• System design
• Unsupervised learning

George Mason University’s online MS in Applied Information Technology (AIT) can support you in developing the skills you need for a career in machine learning engineering. The curriculum for this program is developed with guidance from leading area employers and features a Machine Learning Engineering concentration that examines the use of data science techniques to address real-world challenges. Admission requirements include:

• A bachelor’s degree from a US institution that is accredited by one of these organizations
• A GPA of at least 3.00 in the 60 highest-level undergraduate credits
• Experience in the fundamentals of IT and quantitative methods
• One letter of recommendation

Learn more about George Mason’s online MS in AIT with a Machine Learning Engineering concentration and read the full list of admission requirements today.

Elevate Your Career as a Machine Learning Engineer 

Careers in Machine Learning Engineering

The field of machine learning offers stable employment, above-average salaries, and the opportunity to accomplish exciting, innovative work with leading-edge technology. Industry expansion can also lead to advancement opportunities for professionals who possess both specialized knowledge in emerging technologies and leadership capabilities.

Machine learning engineer job titles vary, and professionals can find employment in an array of sectors including the federal government, computer systems design, research and development, life sciences, software publishing, higher education, private insurance, consulting, and more. Explore potential machine learning engineer jobs below.

Computer and Information Research Scientist

Median Salary: $145,080/year⁴

Job Outlook: Much faster-than-average growth (26% through 2033⁴)

Computer and information research scientists are responsible for innovations in computer software and hardware. These professionals use complex algorithms to create and improve technology, leading to advancements in many areas of technology, including machine learning. Computer and information research scientists explore problems in computing and potential test solutions using techniques from both data science and machine learning. They may also specialize in programming or robotics.

Data Scientist

Median Salary: $108,020/year⁵

Job Outlook: Much faster-than-average growth (36% through 2033⁵)

Data scientists gather, clean, and analyze data to offer informed recommendations to key stakeholders. Professionals in this role use machine learning as a tool to classify and categorize the data they gather. They may also apply machine learning techniques to identify patterns and predict future trends. Professionals in data science also use software to create data visualizations that help them communicate their findings clearly to non-technical audiences.

Software Developer

Median Salary: $132,270/year⁶

Job Outlook: Much faster-than-average growth (18% through 2033⁶)

Software developers create and update computer applications to meet user needs and improve performance. These professionals need a thorough understanding of how each piece of an application will work together as a cohesive product. They may also write some or all of the code required for the software they design. Software developers who specialize in machine learning integrate algorithms and various forms of artificial intelligence into this process.

Begin Your Career Path with an MS in Applied Information Technology

George Mason University’s online MS in Applied Information Technology program prepares students to lead multidisciplinary teams to successfully support strategic initiatives in any area of IT. Complete the Machine Learning Engineering concentration for specialized skills in programming, data science, deep learning, and natural language processing (NLP). The MS in AIT also offers concentrations in Cyber Security and Data Analytics and Intelligence Methods, empowering all students to graduate with a degree that’s tailored to their professional goals.

Taught by George Mason’s prestigious faculty, this program is designed to prepare graduates for career success. Request more information about the online MS in AIT today.

Sources

1. Salesforce. “Top Generative AI Statistics for 2025.” February 2025. Retrieved March 4, 2025, from https://www.salesforce.com/news/stories/generative-ai-statistics/.
2. World Economic Forum. “Future of Jobs Report 2023.” May 2023. Retrieved February 27, 2025, from https://www3.weforum.org/docs/WEF_Future_of_Jobs_2023.pdf.
3. TechRepublic. “How to become a machine learning engineer: A cheat sheet.” April 4, 2022. Retrieved February 28, 2025, from https://www.techrepublic.com/article/how-to-become-a-machine-learning-engineer-a-cheat-sheet.
4. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. “Computer and Information Research Scientists.” August 29, 2024. Retrieved March 3, 2025, from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-and-information-research-scientists.htm.
5. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. “Data Scientists.” August 29, 2024. Retrieved March 3, 2025, from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/math/data-scientists.htm.
6. 4.U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. “Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers.” August 29, 2024. Retrieved March 3, 2025, from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm.