Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming a bigger deal on government contracts. We’ve seen this with the AI Training for the Acquisition Workforce Act, as well as in the job listings for large GWACS like CIO-SP4. But what are the different AI roles needed for government projects?
Let’s take a quick look at three titles that showed up on CIO-SP4.
AI Analyst vs. AI Engineer vs. AI Programmer
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a broad and interdisciplinary field that involves creating and developing intelligent systems and applications. Within this domain, there are various specialized roles that contribute to the development and implementation of AI systems, including AI Analysts, AI Engineers, and AI Programmers. While there is some overlap among these roles, each has its distinct responsibilities and focus areas.
Artificial Intelligence Analyst
An AI Analyst is responsible for understanding and evaluating AI technologies, algorithms, and systems to identify potential opportunities, risks, and applications within an organization or industry. They focus on the strategic and business aspects of AI, conducting research, analysis, and providing recommendations for integrating AI solutions.
CIO-SP4 used this description:
Reviews, analyzes, and evaluates user needs to create systems solutions that support overall business strategies. Documents system requirements, defines scope and objectives, and assists in the creation of system specifications that drive system development and implementation. Can function as a liaison between IT and users and have both business and AI technical expertise. Reports to a manager. Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job. Works under immediate supervision. Works on projects/matters of limited complexity in a support role.
Key tasks include:
- Evaluating AI market trends and developments
- Assessing the feasibility and impact of AI technologies on the organization’s operations and goals
- Identifying opportunities for leveraging AI to improve processes, products, or services
- Providing guidance on AI project selection, prioritization, and implementation
Also check out our full write-up on the role AI Analysts play on Government Contracts.
Artificial Intelligence Engineer
An AI Engineer is responsible for designing, building, and deploying AI systems and applications. They work closely with AI Analysts and other stakeholders to understand the requirements and develop AI solutions that meet those needs. They have a strong technical background in machine learning, deep learning, and other AI subdomains, as well as expertise in software engineering and programming languages.
CIO-SP4 used this description:
Develop operating software that can be used for robots, artificial intelligence programs or other artificial intelligence applications. Work closely with other professions (e.g., electrical engineers, robotics engineers, machine learning, statistics, etc.) in order to produce systems that utilize artificial intelligence. Capability to adapt or change operating environments based on adding data. Programming systems to look for or seek out specific conditions and respond based on those factors. Clarify their objectives to others in their team and may be responsible for supervising other programmers as part of their duties.
Key tasks include:
- Designing AI system architectures and selecting appropriate algorithms or models
- Developing, training, and refining machine learning or deep learning models
- Implementing AI solutions, integrating them with existing systems and infrastructure
- Ensuring the performance, scalability, and reliability of AI applications
Also check out our full write-up on the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Engineer role on government contracts.
Artificial Intelligence Programmer
An AI Programmer focuses on writing code and developing software to implement AI algorithms and models. They work closely with AI Engineers to create applications that integrate AI capabilities, such as natural language processing, computer vision, and predictive analytics. AI Programmers typically have strong programming skills in languages like Python, Java, or C++ and are familiar with various AI frameworks and libraries.
CIO-SP4 used this description:
Develop operating software that can be used for robots, artificial intelligence programs or other artificial intelligence applications. Work closely with other professions (e.g., electrical engineers, robotics engineers, machine learning, statistics, etc.) in order to produce systems that utilize artificial intelligence. Capability to adapt or change operating environments based on adding data. Programming systems to look for or seek out specific conditions and respond based on those factors. Clarify their objectives to others in their team and may be responsible for supervising other programmers as part of their duties.
Key tasks include:
- Writing code to implement AI algorithms and models
- Debugging and optimizing AI code for performance and efficiency
- Developing user interfaces and APIs for AI applications
- Collaborating with AI Engineers and other team members to integrate AI functionality into software solutions
Conclusion:
In summary, AI Analysts primarily focus on evaluating and strategizing the application of AI technologies within an organization, while AI Engineers design, build, and deploy AI systems. AI Programmers, on the other hand, concentrate on coding and implementing AI algorithms within software applications. Although these roles have distinct responsibilities, they often work together in a collaborative manner to ensure the successful development and deployment of AI solutions.