Machine Learning Associate

Overview

Position Overview

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. 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.

Job Description

Machine Learning Associate (MLA)

The Vector Institute is seeking Machine Learning Associates (MLAs) to join the FastLane MLA Program. MLAs will be matched with Canadian SMEs to work on applied projects focused on Generative 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 : May 11, 2026

End date : August 28, 2026

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 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 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; and,
• Break down complex problems into minimal milestones and develop a project plan that ensures value delivery within the project timeline.
• Develop Proof-of-Concept (POC) : 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; and,
• Rapidly design, develop, and deliver AI solutions tailored to the company’s use case.

Deliver Business Value

Profile of the Ideal Candidate

NICE TO HAVE

Compensation

$25 / hour.

Position Status

This posting is for an existing vacancy.

Use of Artificial Intelligence

Vector may use both internal and external third party AI-based tools to assist in the screening of applications for this posting. Any data collected will be used solely for recruitment purposes and handled in accordance with Vector’s External Privacy Policy and Use of AI-Based Tools in Recruitment and Selection Policy.

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 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.

How To Apply

If you\'re interested in this opportunity, please carefully review the key responsibilities and requirements outlined above.

Submit your application through this application portal before 11 : 59 p.m. ET on Monday, February 16, 2026.

Applicants may receive an invitation to complete a brief (10-minute) virtual interview on our AI interviewing platform, ribbon.ai, to be completed within 48 hours of receipt, as part of the next stage of the screening process.

We thank all applicants for their interest in this exciting opportunity and will be in touch with those whose qualifications most closely match with our needs. Please note that all meetings are currently being held remotely.

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