AI Lead Salary in United States during 2024

Salary details

The average AI Lead salary lies between USD 110,000 and USD 210,000 in the United States. It represents the overall compensation/gross salary amount for the working year (before deductions like social security, taxes and other contributions), not including equity/stock options or similar benefits.

Region represents the primary country of residence of an employee during the year (or residence for tax purposes). All data shown are full-time equivalent (FTE) salaries. Part-time salary information has been extrapolated to its FTE value.

Last updated: Dec. 1, 2024

Top 20 Job Tags for AI Lead roles

The three most common job tag items assiciated with AI Lead job listings are Machine Learning, Engineering and Computer Science. Below you find a list of the 20 most occuring job tags in 2024 and the number of open jobs that where associated with them during that period:

Machine Learning | 63 jobs Engineering | 62 jobs Computer Science | 54 jobs Python | 41 jobs Generative AI | 39 jobs Research | 32 jobs Consulting | 32 jobs Security | 31 jobs Deep Learning | 30 jobs Azure | 27 jobs GCP | 24 jobs Agile | 24 jobs AWS | 23 jobs NLP | 22 jobs PyTorch | 21 jobs Finance | 20 jobs R | 18 jobs TensorFlow | 18 jobs SQL | 18 jobs Architecture | 18 jobs

Top 20 Job Perks/Benefits for AI Lead roles

The three most common job benefits and perks assiciated with AI Lead job listings are Career development, Health care and Flex hours. Below you find a list of the 20 most occuring job perks or benefits in 2024 and the number of open jobs that where offering them during that period:

Career development | 76 jobs Health care | 33 jobs Flex hours | 25 jobs Startup environment | 20 jobs Equity / stock options | 19 jobs Competitive pay | 19 jobs Team events | 18 jobs Salary bonus | 18 jobs Medical leave | 12 jobs Insurance | 11 jobs Parental leave | 9 jobs Wellness | 8 jobs Flex vacation | 6 jobs Conferences | 6 jobs 401(k) matching | 4 jobs Transparency | 4 jobs Relocation support | 4 jobs Lunch / meals | 2 jobs Fitness / gym | 2 jobs Fertility benefits | 2 jobs

Salary Composition for an AI Lead Role

The salary for an AI Lead in the United States typically comprises a base salary, performance bonuses, and additional remuneration such as stock options or equity, especially in tech companies. The base salary is the fixed component and usually forms the largest part of the total compensation package. Bonuses can vary significantly depending on the company's performance and individual achievements, often ranging from 10% to 20% of the base salary. Additional remuneration might include stock options, which are more common in larger tech firms or startups, and can significantly increase the total compensation package, especially if the company performs well. The composition can vary by region, with tech hubs like Silicon Valley offering higher base salaries and more substantial equity packages compared to other regions. Industry also plays a role; for instance, finance and healthcare sectors might offer higher bonuses, while tech companies might provide more in stock options. Company size can influence the package, with larger companies often providing more comprehensive benefits and smaller startups offering more equity.

Steps to Increase Salary from an AI Lead Position

To increase your salary from an AI Lead position, consider the following strategies:

• Skill Enhancement: Continuously update your skills in emerging AI technologies and methodologies. Specializing in niche areas like deep learning, natural language processing, or AI ethics can make you more valuable.
• Leadership Development: Enhance your leadership and management skills. Pursuing leadership roles in larger projects or teams can position you for higher-level roles.
• Networking: Build a strong professional network within the AI community. Attend conferences, participate in forums, and engage with thought leaders to increase your visibility and opportunities.
• Advanced Education: Consider pursuing advanced degrees or certifications that are relevant to your field, which can make you more competitive for higher-paying roles.
• Negotiation Skills: Improve your negotiation skills to better advocate for higher compensation during performance reviews or when considering new job offers.

Educational Requirements for an AI Lead

Most AI Lead positions require at least a bachelor's degree in computer science, data science, engineering, or a related field. However, a master's degree or Ph.D. is often preferred, especially for roles that involve complex problem-solving and research. Advanced degrees demonstrate a deeper understanding of AI/ML concepts and can be a differentiator in competitive job markets. Additionally, coursework in statistics, mathematics, and programming is highly beneficial.

Helpful Certifications for an AI Lead

While not always mandatory, certain certifications can enhance your credibility and expertise in the field. Some valuable certifications include:

• Certified Artificial Intelligence Practitioner (CAIP)
• Google Professional Machine Learning Engineer
• AWS Certified Machine Learning – Specialty
• Microsoft Certified: Azure AI Engineer Associate

These certifications demonstrate proficiency in specific AI tools and platforms, which can be advantageous in technical interviews and when negotiating salaries.

Experience Required for an AI Lead Role

Typically, an AI Lead role requires significant experience in the field, often ranging from 5 to 10 years. This experience should include hands-on work with machine learning models, data analysis, and AI system deployment. Experience in leading projects, managing teams, and collaborating across departments is also crucial. Demonstrated success in previous roles, such as delivering impactful AI solutions or innovations, is often a key requirement.

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