Machine learning engineer

Have you ever wondered how Youtube or Netflix make recommendations for you? That’s machine learning! It's when computers and machines take actions without humans direction each time.

In this job, you'd be the person who teaches the computer or machine how to take these actions. You'd do this by writing code, algorithms and programmes to help the machine learn.

For example, each time a user watches a video or searches for a product, a site’s algorithm gets more data. As the amount of data grows, the recommendations to the user for other content become more accurate. This doesn't rely on human intervention.

What you’ll do

• write and create machine learning algorithms and tools

• develop machine learning applications that operate computers or machines

• run machine learning tests and experiments on what you’ve created

• perform statistical analysis and fine-tuning based on test results

• train and retrain systems when necessary

• work with colleagues and stakeholders to understand business needs

• communicate and explain complex processes to people who have little or no knowledge of programming

• keep up to date with developments in the field

You could work in a variety of industries. Whether it's creating algorithms for self driving cars or improving the chatbot a bank uses to serve its customers.

• Society for the Study of Artificial Intelligence and Simulation of Behaviour

• Tomorrow's Engineers – information on careers in engineering

• Institution of Engineering and Technology - routes into engineering

• K Force – AI in financial technology a career on the rise