Machine Learning Associate

Vector Institute; Toronto; Hybrid; CAD 39,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

Vector Institute seeks Machine Learning Associates (MLAs) for the FastLane MLA Program in Canada. Teams of 2–3 work on Generative AI and Agentic AI projects, delivering POCs and value for SMEs. Start Jan 18, 2027; end May 7, 2027.

Remote, hybrid, or onsite options with full-time or part-time formats, mentorship throughout the cycle. Participants gain practical experience deploying AI solutions, with technical guidance from Vector Advisors and Project Specialists.

Qualifications

• Student or recent graduate of an AI-focused Master’s or PhD program in Canada.
• Completed at least one machine learning project involving design, development, and deployment.
• Proficient in Python programming.
• Knowledge of Generative AI and Agentic AI techniques.
• Hands-on experience with ML frameworks and tools such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, OpenAI APIs, Transformers, LangChain, Streamlit or Gradio.
• Experience deploying AI solutions in real-world or production environments.
• Experience with backend deployment (FastAPI) and cloud platforms (AWS, GCP, Azure) is an asset.
• Available for the full duration of the cohort, with no more than 20 hours/week for part-time.

Responsibilities

• Understand Business Case and frame AI problems based on business needs.
• Research and design AI solutions aligned with company goals, data readiness, and infrastructure constraints.
• Break down problems into milestones and a project plan for value delivery within the timeline.
• Develop Proof-of-Concept (POC), preprocess data, build and evaluate models and pipelines.
• Deploy AI solutions on company infrastructure (GCP, AWS, or Azure).
• Refine and optimize solutions through iterative experimentation.
• Deliver business value with regular Vector/company touchpoints and clear documentation.

Skills

Python programming

Generative AI

Agentic AI

ML frameworks

Education

Master’s/PhD in AI (Canada)

Tools

TensorFlow

PyTorch

OpenAI APIs

Transformers

LangChain

Streamlit

Gradio

FastAPI

AWS

GCP

Azure

Job description

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.

Start date: January 18, 2027

End date: May 7, 2027

FASTLANE MLA PROGRAM AT VECTOR

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.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Understand Business Case
• Work with a 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; and,
• Break down complex problems into minimal milestones and a project plan that ensures value delivery within the project timeline.

Develop Proof-of-Concept (POC)

• Pre-process 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 an AI solution through iterative experimentation; and,
• Rapidly design, develop, and deliver AI solutions tailored to the company’s use case.

Deliver Business Value

• 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; and,
• Perform other duties as required to ensure project success.

PROFILE OF THE IDEAL CANDIDATE

• You are a 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.
• You have completed at least one machine learning project involving design, development, and deployment in either an academic or professional setting.
• You are proficient in Python programming.
• You have knowledge of AI techniques related to Generative AI and Agentic AI , such as prompt engineering, fine-tuning, autonomous agents, memory and tools integration.
• You have 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 .
• You have 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.
• You are 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 HAVE

• You have a portfolio of ML/AI projects across academic, professional, or personal contexts.
• You have participated in rapid AI development settings such as various AI-themed hackathons, the AI4Good Lab, etc.
• You have published research or conference papers related to artificial intelligence.
• You achieved professional certifications related to ML/AI solution development.
• You have received scholarships or awards in recognition of your work in AI.
• You have experience with software development practices, tools, or workflows.

COMPENSATION: $32/hour.

POSITION STATUS : This posting is for an existing vacancy.

INCLUSION AND EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYMENT

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.

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 [e-mail] . The Vector Institute team will be happy to work with you to ensure your experience is as inclusive and accessible as possible.