AI Jobs You Can Start Preparing for Right Now

By Nevash N

If you’re reading this, you’re already doing something many people overlook. Thinking ahead.

The world is changing fast and artificial intelligence (AI) is at the centre of that transformation. The good news? You don’t have to wait for job ads that say “AI Expert” to start preparing. The path to AI begins long before your first job application.

One of the smartest ways to get started is by building strong tech fundamentals, and University Malaysia of Computer Science and Engineering (UNIMY) gives you exactly that foundation.

Why Software Engineering is Still the Best Launchpad into AI

For all the hype around AI, one thing hasn’t changed: it’s built on software. If you know how to code, understand systems and can solve problems logically, you’re already ahead of 90% of people trying to enter the field.

A software engineering background trains you to:

Think like a builder and problem-solver
Understand how digital systems work under the hood
Create, test and deploy real applications
Blend creativity with technology
Work in teams to build bigger things than you could alone

In other words, it gives you the mindset and skills that AI careers rely on, even if you’re not studying “AI” on day one.

Bachelor of Software Engineering (Honours)

Trending AI Careers You Can Aim for

These are the roles attracting the most buzz today, especially among younger generations who want impact, innovation and creativity in their careers.

1. Machine Learning Engineer

You design the “brains” behind AI — recommendation algorithms, predictive tools, intelligent features and more. It’s one of the most in-demand and highest-paid roles in tech.

Why it appeals: You literally teach machines how to learn.

2. AI Engineer / AI Developer

A broader version of the ML Engineer, focusing on building AI-powered applications like chatbots, speech recognition tools or image analysis systems.

Why it appeals: You get to create the futuristic tools people actually use.

3. AI App Creator (Mobile/Web)

Think apps that talk to you, apps that recommend things automatically, apps that adapt to your behaviour. AI-powered mobile and web apps are exploding in demand.

Why it appeals: You get to combine creativity, design and AI to build cool, user-facing experiences.

4. MLOps Specialist

AI isn’t just about building models. Someone has to make them stable, scalable and fast in real-world environments. That’s where MLOps comes in.

Why it appeals: It’s behind-the-scenes, powerful and high-value.

5. AI Product Designer / AI UX Designer

AI needs to be understandable and human-centred. UX designers who know how AI works can craft intuitive, ethical, people-friendly products.

Why it appeals: Perfect for creative tech-minded students who love design.

6. AI Ethics & Governance Specialist

Governments and companies are now hiring people to ensure AI is safe, fair and trustworthy. This is one of the fastest-growing non-technical career pathways.

Why it appeals: You help shape the future of responsible AI — a meaningful, socially impactful role.

7. AI Data Annotator / Model Trainer (Entry-Level)

Before AI becomes “smart,” it needs clean data. These roles help label, sort and prepare data for training — an easy entry point for fresh grads or students.

Why it appeals: A simple way to break into AI even with minimal experience.

8. AI Research Assistant

If you enjoy experimenting, reading research papers or discovering new tech breakthroughs, this path opens doors to advanced AI research and postgraduate studies.

Why it appeals: You get to be part of the frontier of innovation.

What Employers Are Really Looking For

Yes, AI careers require technical confidence. But employers are now just as interested in your mindset as your coding skills. They want:

Curiosity
Problem-solving
Ethical awareness
Clear communication
Teamwork
Creativity

AI is more than algorithms. It affects society, businesses and daily life. People who understand the human side of technology are becoming incredibly valuable.

When you combine strong software engineering skills with these soft skills, you make yourself employable across both technical and human-focused AI roles.

How You Can Start Preparing Today

Here’s a simple roadmap to begin your AI journey. No matter where you are right now:

1. Build your foundation with a strong degree

A programme like UNIMY’s Bachelor of Software Engineering (Hons) sets you up with the fundamentals AI jobs rely on.

2. Strengthen your coding skills

Python, Java, C++, JavaScript — start small but stay consistent.

3. Develop your analytical and mathematical thinking

AI is powered by logic and patterns. The stronger your reasoning, the easier AI becomes.

4. Work on personal projects

Try:

Small AI experiments
AI-powered mobile apps
Chatbots
Simple recommendation tools
Fun open-source contributions

Even tiny projects make a big impact on your portfolio.

5. Build your soft skills

Clear communication, teamwork and ethical reasoning will set you apart.

6. Stay curious

Follow AI news, trends, tools and communities. The field evolves quickly — and the best AI professionals grow with it.

You don’t need an “AI degree” to start your AI career. What you need is solid technical training, curiosity and the willingness to explore. By choosing a future-focused programme like UNIMY’s Bachelor of Software Engineering (Hons), you’re already laying the groundwork for high-growth, exciting roles in AI.

Start preparing now. Because the future isn’t waiting.

References

https://www.unimy.edu.my/unimy/bachelor-of-software-engineering-hons/?utm_source=
https://www.itpro.com/business/careers-and-training/enterprises-are-concerned-about-critical-shortages-of-staff-with-ai-ethics-and-security-expertise?utm_source=