The #1 barrier to implementing AI today is accessing top data engineering talent. In fact, 52% of businesses are struggling to hit the ground running with AI due to a lack of expertise.
Fortunately, discovering AI talent doesn’t have to be an uphill battle.
Here we’ll reveal how to seamlessly hire AI developers. We’ll analyze the current talent market, key AI developer skills, hiring methods and more! Plus, we’ll give you an insider’s look into why LatAm devs are your best choice for AI project development.
Why AI Developers Are in High Demand
72% of companies have already incorporated AI in at least one business function. And it’s no wonder why: AI has huge potential to create more efficient processes and stronger experiences.
In particular, AI is in high demand for certain industries where data is key to driving growth. Ecommerce, healthcare and media are adopting AI at rapid rates, with fintech spending the most on AI last year.
Yet despite company efforts, a whopping 85% of AI models may fail.
That’s why companies are so eager to capture specialized AI development services. Businesses everywhere are seeking the best of the best to ensure high-quality data integration, automation and innovation for their AI models.
Key AI Developer Skills
AI software developers may hold a variety of specializations. That said, the strongest candidates will have a solid foundation in AI developer skills such as:
- Core programming languages: Python, R, Java, C++.
- Machine learning frameworks: TensorFlow, PyTorch, Scikit-learn.
- Data science and analytics capabilities.
- Experience with cloud AI services: AWS, Google AI, Azure.
- Soft skills: Problem-solving, adaptability, teamwork.
Additionally, AI developers need more than just technical skills. They must be able to communicate their expertise and collaborate with the greater engineering team. That’s why it’s important to verify both hard and soft skills before you hire AI software developers.
Where and How to Hire AI Developers
Discovering the right AI developers requires planning ahead. First you’ll want to think through the best hiring method for your business.
If you have permanent AI requirements, you may choose to add in-house developers. Keep in mind that you may face downsides with this model, including:
- In-house job packages are expensive.
- Talent is limited locally.
- It’s not ideal for flexible projects you wish to scale.
Alternatively, you can seek nearshore AI developers beyond your borders. Nearshoring eliminates these disadvantages in several key ways, which we’ll discuss below.
The Benefits of Hiring Nearshore AI Developers
Nearshoring – i.e. when you hire AI developers within shared time zones – is a more versatile option for businesses. When you choose AI software outsourcing in nearby regions, you can expect:
- Cost savings. Cut your budget by 40-50% by choosing talent in Latin America.
- Shared time zones and cultural alignment. Enhance real-time collaboration without any misunderstandings.
- Strong talent pool. Access artificial intelligence experts who lead tech world rankings in a variety of data specializations.
- Agility and scalability. Unlock scalability through flexible engagement models that let you speed up or slow down as needed.
- Minimal risks. Eliminate missed deadlines, scant security and more with partners who meet top standards.
Hiring nearshore is especially suitable for AI projects, where real-time collaboration is a must for strong model training, feedback and optimization.
Popular Platforms for Hiring AI Engineers
Recruiting global AI and machine learning engineers can be tricky on your own. You may struggle to tap into networks and parse cultural practices, developer profiles and more.
For this reason, maximize hiring by using a platform such as LinkedIn, GitHub or TECLA. As a general rule, you’re more likely to find top candidates on a platform specializing in engineering.
In particular, a talent partner can boost outcomes, as well as reduce recruitment cycles and costs. Plus, if you’re interested in AI team hiring, a partner can handle large-scale and unique set-ups.
Cost Considerations for Hiring AI Engineers
Overall, hiring AI software developers may require a big budget. Just consider that a typical AI engineer will earn between $161,000-$267,000 in the U.S.
However, you can hire AI developers in LatAm and reduce costs by an impressive 40-50%. You won’t sacrifice quality either, as these professionals are top-ranked worldwide.
Exact salary rates will depend on the developer’s experience level, AI specializations and project complexity, as well as their location in Latin America.
AI Budgeting Strategies
Typically, AI is a large investment for businesses, though ROI can get as high as 13%. Even so, there are some opportunities to minimize the costs of AI development services:
- Save on salaries by going nearshore. Reduce your budget by up to half with competitive talent in LatAm.
- Equip your data for AI. Undertake pre-AI investments to clean and integrate your data.
- Start with a small, high-value area. Don’t try to do everything at once. Select a small AI project as your pilot to save resources. You can always build up from here.
- Plan for long-term costs. Determine all your costs into the future, including data storage, maintenance and so on.
- Stay nimble with fractional hiring. Full-time isn’t the only way. Use fractional hiring to set part-time schedules or modify hours as you go.
How TECLA Can Help You Hire the Best AI Developers
To hire AI developers with minimal friction, lean on our expertise. At TECLA, we have 12+ years of experience connecting U.S. businesses with elite devs in LatAm.
1. Our Pre-Vetted AI Developers From 18+ LatAm Countries
We have a robust, pre-vetted talent pool of 50,000+ developers from 18+ countries in Latin America. Our nearshore AI developers top the charts of skilled professionals worldwide. At the same time, our talent specialists undertake a rigorous screening process for technical and soft skills to ensure a white-glove fit.
2. Our Seamless Hiring Process and Support
At TECLA, we’re your virtual bridge to hire and retain diverse AI software developers in LatAm. We’re proud to deliver end-to-end recruitment services aimed at reducing your recruitment costs and filling your teams in record time.
To that end, we provide expertise beyond hiring – including talent vetting, compensation package design, talent nurturing and more. Past clients have described our style as “highly responsive” and “uniform and smooth.”
3. Our Strong Track Record of AI Talent Placement
TECLA is a trusted voice in the talent industry, with a record of successful developer placements across diverse industries and at big-name companies. As one client recently reported, we provide “high-quality and fitting candidates” for your needs. From data engineers, architects, analysts and more, our AI professionals are already achieving excellence.
4. Our Personalized, Long-Term Talent Strategies
We’re not a “one-and-done” type of partner. At TECLA, we’re keen to support your talent needs in the long term. Together we craft a personalized retention strategy that fits your technologies and team composition as your business evolves.
Seamlessly Hire AI Developers on TECLA
Often AI talent is the missing link to get started on critical development initiatives. In our ultimate guide above, we’ve discussed how you can navigate the AI talent market. By knowing where to find skilled AI engineers, you’re well on your way to kicking off your project.
At TECLA, we have a sterling reputation for empowering businesses with tech professionals in Latin America. We have a decade of experience finding best-fit developers that meet your business goals – and your budget. Reach out to us to connect with top-tier AI talent today!