About the Role
The Vector Institute is seeking Machine Learning Associates (MLAs) to join the FastLane MLA Program. MLAs will be matched with Canadian small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to work on applied projects focused on Generative AI and Agentic AI. MLAs will design, develop, and deliver proof-of-concept AI solutions that address real-world business challenges, with technical mentorship and structured support from Vector’s Technical Advisors and Project Specialists.
Responsibilities
- Work with the company and MLAs to frame the AI problem based on business needs.
- Research and design effective AI solutions aligned with the company’s business goals, data readiness, and infrastructure constraints.
- Break down complex problems into minimal milestones and develop a project plan that ensures value delivery within the project timeline.
- Preprocess data to meet the quality and format needs of the AI model or pipeline.
- Develop, test, and evaluate models and pipelines to deliver robust, scalable AI solutions.
- Deploy AI solutions on company-provided infrastructure, such as GCP, AWS, or Azure.
- Refine and optimize the AI solution through iterative experimentation.
- Rapidly design, develop, and deliver AI solutions tailored to the company’s use case.
- Engage in regular touchpoints with Vector and the company to align with business needs.
- Utilize learning sessions and office hours to transfer knowledge and support the company’s AI adoption efforts.
- Create project documentation, including a Showcase Day presentation, and Final Report.
- Ensure seamless handover to the company through clear and well-documented deliverables.
- Perform other duties as required to ensure project success.
Requirements
- Student or recent graduate of an AI-focused Master’s or PhD program in Canada, or conducting research under the supervision of a Vector Institute Faculty Member.
- Completed at least one machine learning project involving design, development, and deployment in either an academic or professional setting.
- Proficient in Python programming.
- Knowledge of AI techniques related to Generative AI and Agentic AI, such as prompt engineering, fine-tuning, autonomous agents, memory and tools integration.
- Hands-on experience with leading ML frameworks and tools commonly used in multimodal AI and agentic workflows, such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, OpenAI APIs or equivalent, Transformers library, LangChain, and Streamlit or Gradio.
- Prior experience deploying AI solutions in real-world or production environments.
- Experience with LLM application frameworks, backend deployment (e.g., FastAPI), and cloud platforms (AWS, GCP, or Azure) is an asset.
- Available for the full duration of the cohort, with no more than 20-hours per week of other commitments if part-time, or no other ongoing commitments if full-time.
- Portfolio of ML/AI projects across academic, professional, or personal contexts.
- Participated in rapid AI development settings such as various AI-themed hackathons, the AI4Good Lab, etc.
- Published research or conference papers related to artificial intelligence.
- Achieved professional certifications related to ML/AI solution development.
- Received scholarships or awards in recognition of work in AI.
- Experience with software development practices, tools, or workflows.
Skills
- Generative AI
- Agentic AI
- Prompt Engineering
- Fine-tuning
- Autonomous Agents
- Memory and Tools Integration
- TensorFlow
- PyTorch
- OpenAI APIs
- Transformers library
- LangChain
- Streamlit
- Gradio
- LLM application frameworks
- FastAPI
- AWS
- GCP
- Azure
- Python
Location
- Remote
- Hybrid
- Onsite
Work Type
- Full-time (36.25 hours/week)
- Part-time (20 hours/week)
Experience Level
- Early-stage AI professionals
- Graduate-level AI talent
Education Level
- Master’s degree in AI
- PhD in AI
Salary/Compensations
- $25/hour
About the Company
- The FastLane MLA Program is a four-month, cohort-based initiative led by the Vector Institute designed to support the career growth of early-stage AI professionals while accelerating AI adoption in Canada’s small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
- The program connects graduate-level AI talent with innovative companies to deliver applied AI solutions that create real business value.
- Vector believes AI powers possibility by advancing cutting-edge research and translating it into real-world impact through collaboration with research, industry, and government.
- Vector is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive culture that reflects its values.
Equal Opportunity
- The Vector Institute welcomes applications from all qualified candidates, including those who are Indigenous, 2SLGBTQIA+, racialized persons/visible minorities, women, and people with disabilities.
- If you require an accommodation at any stage of the recruitment or selection process, please contact hr@vectorinstitute.ai. The Vector Institute team will be happy to work with you to ensure your experience is as inclusive and accessible as possible.
