AI Developer vs Machine Learning Engineer: What's the Difference?
A detailed comparison of ai developer and machine learning engineer freelancers — key differences, rates, and when to hire each for your project in Canada.
If you're looking to hire a freelancer for your next project, you may be wondering whether you need a ai developer or a machine learning engineer. While both roles are valuable and sometimes overlap, they serve distinct purposes and bring different strengths to a project. Understanding the differences between a ai developer and a machine learning engineer will help you make the right hiring decision, save time, and get better results for your budget. In this guide, we break down what each role does, how they differ, what they cost, and when to hire one over the other.
Role Overview
AI Developer
A ai developer is a professional who specializes in their specific domain, bringing focused expertise to projects. They typically work on tasks that require deep knowledge and specialized tools within their area. Canadian freelance ai developers often work with startups, agencies, and established businesses across the country, delivering targeted solutions that drive results. Their focused skill set means they can dive deep into complex problems within their specialty.
Machine Learning Engineer
A machine learning engineer brings a different but complementary perspective to projects. Their expertise lies in their specific domain, with a focus on delivering value through their unique skill set. In the Canadian freelance market, machine learning engineers are sought after for projects that require their particular blend of skills and experience. They excel at tackling challenges that fall squarely within their area of specialization.
Key Differences
Rate Comparison
When it comes to rates, both roles command competitive freelance rates in the Canadian market. Mid-level freelance ai developers typically charge between $82 and $140 per hour, while senior professionals can earn up to $220/hr. In comparison, mid-level machine learning engineers charge between $85 and $145 per hour, with senior rates reaching $225/hr. The difference in rates often reflects the level of specialization required and market demand for each skill set in Canada.
AI Developer Rates (CAD/hr)
Machine Learning Engineer Rates (CAD/hr)
When to Hire Each
Hire a ai developer when your project specifically requires their area of expertise and you need deep, focused skill in that domain. This is the right choice when the deliverables are clearly within the ai developer discipline and you need someone who can hit the ground running with specialized knowledge.
Choose a machine learning engineer when your project aligns more closely with their particular skill set and requires their specific type of expertise. If your needs span both areas, consider hiring both professionals to work in tandem — their complementary skills often produce the best results for complex projects.
Sample Freelancers
AI Developer freelancers on Freel
Madame Lefebvre I Réviseure
🎓 ✨ Madame Lefebvre — Réviseure | Correction et Optimisation de Textes Étudiants
Marissa Brandsma
Content Creator | Social Media Reels, Photography & Short-Form Video
JAPPONJOT SINGH
Analytics and Governance Professional
Machine Learning Engineer freelancers on Freel
Koushik Sivarama Krishnan
Machine Learning Engineer | NLP, Computer Vision & Speech | GenAI, RAG, Agents & RL
FRANCK HAPI KAMGANG
Data scientist
Marc Mbianda
IT Consultant
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between a ai developer and a machine learning engineer?
The main difference lies in their area of focus and core skill set. A ai developer specializes in their specific domain, while a machine learning engineer focuses on their particular area of expertise. While there can be overlap, each brings unique value to projects within their specialty.
Can a ai developer do the work of a machine learning engineer?
While there may be some overlap in skills, a ai developer and a machine learning engineer are distinct roles with different specializations. Some professionals may have cross-functional skills, but for best results, it's usually better to hire the specialist whose expertise matches your specific project needs.
Should I hire a ai developer or a machine learning engineer for my project?
It depends on your project requirements. If your needs align more closely with ai developer expertise, hire a ai developer. If your project requires machine learning engineer skills, go with a machine learning engineer. For large or complex projects, you may benefit from hiring both.
Who earns more in Canada: a ai developer or a machine learning engineer?
Freelance rates vary based on experience, specialization, and location. Both roles command competitive rates in the Canadian market. Check the detailed rate comparison above for current hourly rate data by experience level.
Do I need both a ai developer and a machine learning engineer?
For complex projects that span both domains, hiring both can deliver superior results. Each specialist brings focused expertise that ensures quality work in their area. For smaller projects with a clear scope, one specialist is usually sufficient.
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