1. The Current Situation of AI Engineers in Japan
✅ 1.1 The Role of AI Engineers
As global demand for AI (Artificial Intelligence) engineers continues to rise, competition for AI talent in Japan is also intensifying. Regardless of company size, many Japanese firms are seeking AI engineers, and foreign professionals are actively considered in hiring.
The main responsibilities of AI engineers are developing AI-based systems and analyzing data accumulated through AI. Since this is still a relatively new field, job titles can vary depending on the company or industry.
In job listings, positions may be advertised as “Machine Learning Engineer” or “Data Scientist”, which are both types of AI engineers.
- Machine Learning Engineer: Specialists who develop systems using AI.
- Data Scientist: Professionals who analyze AI-collected data and improve model accuracy.
✅ 1.2 Differences Between AI Engineers in Japan and Overseas
There are no major differences between the roles of AI engineers in Japan and those abroad.
In both cases, engineers handle data, design AI models, test and verify them, and consider how to apply them effectively in business contexts.
✅ 1.3 Average Annual Salary of AI Engineers
Because AI engineers require highly specialized skills, their salaries tend to be higher than those of general IT engineers.
In Japan, the average annual salary for AI engineers ranges from about ¥6 million to ¥12 million, depending on experience and expertise.
Those with practical experience in AI development are in particularly high demand, and salaries over ¥10 million are not uncommon.
In recent years, Japanese AI “unicorn” companies such as Preferred Networks have emerged.
Major corporations like Sony, Toyota, and Toshiba are also actively investing in AI, further expanding demand for AI engineers.
For foreign AI engineers, Japan is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for employment.
✅ 1.4 Now Is the Best Time to Become an AI Engineer in Japan!
According to the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry’s report “Survey on Supply and Demand of IT Human Resources” (2019), Japan faced a shortage of 34,000 AI engineers in 2018.
This shortage is expected to grow to around 97,000 by 2025 and about 145,000 by 2030.
Given this persistent talent gap, foreign engineers are highly valued, and job opportunities in Japan continue to expand.
2. Skills Required for AI Engineers
AI engineers need more advanced technical expertise than general IT engineers.
Below are the essential skills required to work as an AI engineer in Japan.
✅ 2.1 Knowledge of Machine Learning and Deep Learning
The most critical skill for AI engineers is a solid understanding of machine learning and deep learning.
Without a proper grasp of AI concepts and mechanisms, it’s difficult to build accurate and effective AI models.
While general IT engineers build systems according to specifications, AI engineers repeatedly discover patterns in data, build models, and improve them.
This demands a deep technical understanding of AI.
✅ 2.2 Programming Skills
Programming is essential for AI engineers.
Python is the most widely used language for AI development, thanks to its rich libraries and frameworks.
- Python: The most common programming language for AI development.
- R, Java: Also used for data analysis and AI model implementation.
Mastering these languages allows engineers to efficiently develop AI models.
✅ 2.3 Mathematics and Statistics
Mathematical knowledge is indispensable for AI.
Linear algebra, probability theory, and statistics are frequently used when designing models and developing algorithms.
A solid foundation in mathematics-based modeling and data analysis enhances an AI engineer’s credibility and capability.
✅ 2.4 Databases and SQL Knowledge
Because AI engineers handle large volumes of data, understanding database management is vital.
Skills in SQL or NoSQL are particularly useful, enabling efficient data retrieval and processing.
3. Ideal Career Paths
There are various career paths for AI engineers. The two most common are:
✅ 3.1 AI Engineer in a Major Corporation
In large companies, AI engineers often work on large-scale projects and focus on research and development.
These positions offer stable income and comprehensive employee benefits.
✅ 3.2 AI Engineer in a Startup
In startups, AI engineers tend to take on a wide range of responsibilities, providing abundant opportunities for technical growth.
Although there is more risk, startups offer a dynamic environment to challenge new technologies and innovate quickly.
4. Summary
In Japan, demand for AI engineers is rapidly increasing, creating many opportunities for foreign professionals.
To succeed in an AI career, one needs:
- Knowledge of machine learning and deep learning
- Strong programming skills
- Mathematical and statistical understanding
- Database management ability
Now is the perfect time to build a career as an AI engineer in Japan!