Machine Learning Associate

Vector Institute•Toronto, ON

8d•CA$0 - CA$25•Hybrid

About The Position

The Vector Institute is seeking Machine Learning Associates (MLAs) to join the FastLane MLA Program. In this role, MLAs will be matched with Canadian small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to work on applied projects focused on Generative AI and Agentic AI. Working in teams of two to three individuals, MLAs will design, develop, and deliver proof-of-concept AI solutions that address real-world business challenges. This position may be remote, hybrid, or onsite, and offered in either full-time (36.25 hours/week) or part-time (20 hours/week) formats. Specific work arrangements will be discussed during the interview based on company requirements and MLA availability. MLAs will receive technical mentorship and structured support from Vector’s Technical Advisors and Project Specialists throughout the project cycle. The FastLane MLA Program is a four-month, cohort-based initiative led by the Vector Institute and 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.

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
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

Nice To Haves

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 your work in AI
Experience with software development practices, tools, or workflows
Experience with LLM application frameworks, backend deployment (e.g., FastAPI), and cloud platforms (AWS, GCP, or Azure)

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