AI Jobs Leeds
At Benchmark, we’re passionate about supporting candidates on every step of their unique career journeys. At Benchmark, we’re passionate about supporting candidates on every step of their unique career journeys.
AI Jobs Leeds
At Benchmark, we’re passionate about supporting candidates on every step of their unique career journeys. At Benchmark, we’re passionate about supporting candidates on every step of their unique career journeys.
AI Jobs LeedsIntroduction
Leeds is quickly becoming one of the UK’s most exciting tech hubs for artificial intelligence careers. Currently, the most in-demand AI roles in Leeds include Data Engineers, Python Engineers, and Machine Learning Specialists. Companies are also heavily recruiting for Machine Learning & AI Engineering roles, where skills in model development, computer vision, and cloud deployment are highly valued. AI jobs in Leeds is thriving!
Data Science, analytics, and architecture are also in high demand. As the demand for AI continues to grow, organisations are investing in building robust data platforms to power AI innovation.
Leeds is at the forefront of UK AI growth. Many employers in Leeds, from major financial services start-ups to tech businesses, are offering competitive salaries and career progression for professionals with AI and data expertise.
AI Jobs Leeds Introduction
Leeds is quickly becoming one of the UK’s most exciting tech hubs for artificial intelligence careers. Currently, the most in-demand AI roles in Leeds include Data Engineers, Python Engineers, and Machine Learning Specialists. Companies are also heavily recruiting for Machine Learning & AI Engineering roles, where skills in model development, computer vision, and cloud deployment are highly valued. AI jobs in Leeds is thriving!
Data Science, analytics, and architecture are also in high demand. As the demand for AI continues to grow, organisations are investing in building robust data platforms to power AI innovation.
Leeds is at the forefront of UK AI growth. Many employers in Leeds, from major financial services start-ups to tech businesses, are offering competitive salaries and career progression for professionals with AI and data expertise.
Skills Requiredfor AI Jobs in Leeds
AI employers in Leeds are prioritising candidates with strong technical foundations. Professionals with Python are essential, alongside skills in libraries like TensorFlow, PyTorch, and scikit learn which are commonly used for building and deploying models. Knowledge of R for statistical analysis and data visualisation also adds real value. For data heavy roles, expertise in SQL, Spark, and big data pipelines is in high demand. There is also a clamour for knowledge of cloud platforms such as Google Cloud, AWS, or Azure.
Machine learning specialists are expected to understand deep learning, natural language processing (NLP), and computer vision techniques. At the same time, data engineers must be skilled in ETL processes, data warehousing, and API integration. Employers also look for experience with version control (Git), containerisation (Docker, Kubernetes), and MLOps practices to scale AI solutions.
By combining these technical skills with problem-solving and clear communication, AI professionals in Leeds can stand out in a rapidly growing job market.
Skills Required for AI Jobs in Leeds
AI employers in Leeds are prioritising candidates with strong technical foundations. Professionals with Python are essential, alongside skills in libraries like TensorFlow, PyTorch, and scikit learn which are commonly used for building and deploying models. Knowledge of R for statistical analysis and data visualisation also adds real value. For data heavy roles, expertise in SQL, Spark, and big data pipelines is in high demand. There is also a clamour for knowledge of cloud platforms such as Google Cloud, AWS, or Azure.
Machine learning specialists are expected to understand deep learning, natural language processing (NLP), and computer vision techniques. At the same time, data engineers must be skilled in ETL processes, data warehousing, and API integration. Employers also look for experience with version control (Git), containerisation (Docker, Kubernetes), and MLOps practices to scale AI solutions.
By combining these technical skills with problem-solving and clear communication, AI professionals in Leeds can stand out in a rapidly growing job market.
Leading Employers andStartups in Leeds AI Sector
Leeds is fast emerging as one of the main leaders for AI innovation, anchored by homegrown success stories – Crisp Thinking leads in AI powered brand and social media risk protection model, while BigChange scaled into a £100m+ field service tech leader. Synap, an adaptive learning platform born in Leeds, now supports global exam delivery and professional training. Bolser excels in digital consultancy, integrating platforms like OpenAI, Anthropic, and Google for clients. Oakland stands out as a specialist data & AI consultancy, helping businesses strategise with generative AI and build robust data infrastructure.
Many businesses local to Leeds highlight the strength and diversity of the AI sector. Risk tech, SaaS, edtech, and consultancy firms, are making the city one of the UK’s most exciting destinations for AI and data professionals.
Leading Employers andStartups in Leeds AI Sector
Leeds is fast emerging as one of the main leaders for AI innovation, anchored by homegrown success stories – Crisp Thinking leads in AI powered brand and social media risk protection model, while BigChange scaled into a £100m+ field service tech leader. Synap, an adaptive learning platform born in Leeds, now supports global exam delivery and professional training. Bolser excels in digital consultancy, integrating platforms like OpenAI, Anthropic, and Google for clients. Oakland stands out as a specialist data & AI consultancy, helping businesses strategise with generative AI and build robust data infrastructure.
Many businesses local to Leeds highlight the strength and diversity of the AI sector. Risk tech, SaaS, edtech, and consultancy firms, are making the city one of the UK’s most exciting destinations for AI and data professionals.
Entry-Level AI Roles andGraduate Schemes in Leeds
Leeds offers strong opportunities for those starting a career in artificial intelligence. Entry level AI roles often include Data Analyst, Junior Machine Learning Engineer, and AI Research Assistant, where graduates gain hands on experience with data pipelines, model training, and analytics. Employers like TPP, KPMG, and leading tech firms in the city run graduate schemes designed to develop skills in software engineering, data science, and AI deployment.
AI graduate pathways tend to require a degree in computer science, mathematics, statistics, or related STEM fields. Strong coding skills in Python or R and knowledge of machine learning frameworks are also needed. For those without a direct technical background, roles in AI training, data annotation, and analytics support provide an excellent entry point.
With AI demand in Leeds outpacing supply, graduate schemes and junior positions are a great pathway into long term, high growth careers.
Entry-Level AI Roles and Graduate Schemes in Leeds
Leeds offers strong opportunities for those starting a career in artificial intelligence. Entry level AI roles often include Data Analyst, Junior Machine Learning Engineer, and AI Research Assistant, where graduates gain hands on experience with data pipelines, model training, and analytics. Employers like TPP, KPMG, and leading tech firms in the city run graduate schemes designed to develop skills in software engineering, data science, and AI deployment.
AI graduate pathways tend to require a degree in computer science, mathematics, statistics, or related STEM fields. Strong coding skills in Python or R and knowledge of machine learning frameworks are also needed. For those without a direct technical background, roles in AI training, data annotation, and analytics support provide an excellent entry point.
With AI demand in Leeds outpacing supply, graduate schemes and junior positions are a great pathway into long term, high growth careers.
Typical Salaries andBenefits in Leeds AI Jobs
AI professionals in Leeds can expect competitive salaries that reflect the city’s growing demand for tech talent. Entry level roles such as Data Analysts or Junior AI Engineers typically start around £28,000 – £35,000, while graduate schemes at firms like TPP can reach £45,000 – £60,000. Mid level specialists, including Data Scientists and Machine Learning Engineers, often earn £50,000 – £70,000, with senior positions in AI engineering or data architecture reaching £80,000 – £120,000+. Alongside pay, many employers offer attractive benefits packages, including hybrid or remote working, private healthcare, pensions, performance bonuses, and ongoing training budgets. Career progression is strong, with clear pathways into senior leadership, such as Head of Data Science or AI Engineering Manager.
Typical Salaries and Benefitsin Leeds AI Jobs
AI professionals in Leeds can expect competitive salaries that reflect the city’s growing demand for tech talent. Entry level roles such as Data Analysts or Junior AI Engineers typically start around £28,000 – £35,000, while graduate schemes at firms like TPP can reach £45,000 – £60,000. Mid level specialists, including Data Scientists and Machine Learning Engineers, often earn £50,000 – £70,000, with senior positions in AI engineering or data architecture reaching £80,000 – £120,000+. Alongside pay, many employers offer attractive benefits packages, including hybrid or remote working, private healthcare, pensions, performance bonuses, and ongoing training budgets. Career progression is strong, with clear pathways into senior leadership, such as Head of Data Science or AI Engineering Manager.
How to Land an AI Job in Leeds: Tips & Resources
Landing an AI job in Leeds takes a balance of preparation and connections. Start with a focused CV that highlights your technical expertise, including Python, machine learning frameworks, data analytics, backed up with real world projects or academic work. Employers value evidence of real world projects or internships that you have worked on.
Networking is also a ‘cheat-code’ to get ahead. Attending local AI meetups, Leeds Digital Festival, and university tech events can help you connect with the right employers in the Leeds AI space. Another powerful route is partnering with a specialist tech recruiter like Benchmark Recruit. At Benchmark Recruit we understand the Leeds market and can connect you with the most exclusive and sought-after AI opportunities.
Finally, make the most of online platforms such as LinkedIn and Indeed to track new roles. You’ll maximise your chances of landing a rewarding AI career in Leeds by combining strong applications, networking, and using our expertise in the sector.
How to Land an AI Job in Leeds: Tips & Resources
Landing an AI job in Leeds takes a balance of preparation and connections. Start with a focused CV that highlights your technical expertise, including Python, machine learning frameworks, data analytics, backed up with real world projects or academic work. Employers value evidence of real world projects or internships that you have worked on.
Networking is also a ‘cheat-code’ to get ahead. Attending local AI meetups, Leeds Digital Festival, and university tech events can help you connect with the right employers in the Leeds AI space. Another powerful route is partnering with a specialist tech recruiter like Benchmark Recruit. At Benchmark Recruit we understand the Leeds market and can connect you with the most exclusive and sought-after AI opportunities.
Finally, make the most of online platforms such as LinkedIn and Indeed to track new roles. You’ll maximise your chances of landing a rewarding AI career in Leeds by combining strong applications, networking, and using our expertise in the sector.
Remote, Hybrid, and On-Site AI Jobs: What to Expect in Leeds
An AI jobs in Leeds can offer you a flexible work balance. You can expect a wide range of working set ups, reflecting the city’s flexible tech culture. Many employers provide hybrid arrangements, allowing staff to split time between home and office.
Fully remote AI jobs are also on the rise, particularly in roles like data annotation, AI training, and software engineering, where productivity is not tied to location.
Some employers, especially in healthcare, finance, or consulting still favour on site positions, valuing collaboration, security, and access to in house systems. For candidates, the key is flexibility. Whether remote, hybrid, or office based, Leeds offers AI professionals a variety of working options tailored to your skills, lifestyle and career goals.
Remote, Hybrid, and On-Site AI Jobs: What to Expect in Leeds
An AI jobs in Leeds can offer you a flexible work balance. You can expect a wide range of working set ups, reflecting the city’s flexible tech culture. Many employers provide hybrid arrangements, allowing staff to split time between home and office.
Fully remote AI jobs are also on the rise, particularly in roles like data annotation, AI training, and software engineering, where productivity is not tied to location.
Some employers, especially in healthcare, finance, or consulting still favour on site positions, valuing collaboration, security, and access to in house systems. For candidates, the key is flexibility. Whether remote, hybrid, or office based, Leeds offers AI professionals a variety of working options tailored to your skills, lifestyle and career goals.
Upskilling and Training forAI Careers in Leeds
Leeds offers great upskilling opportunities for anyone looking to break into the AI sector. The University of Leeds, and Leeds Beckett University, run short courses and accredited programmes in data science, machine learning, and AI applications. The above courses offer both theoretical and practical training. Here is a link to both:
https://courses.leeds.ac.uk/i071/data-science-and-analytics-msc
https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/courses/data-science-msc/
Local Skills Bootcamps, funded by the government, offer intensive training in AI, data analytics, and cloud computing which is ideal for career changers or recent graduates. Specialist providers also run coding and AI focused bootcamps across West Yorkshire, helping learners build job ready skills quickly.
Self study is another powerful option. Platforms like Coursera, edX, and Udacity provide globally recognised certificates in Python, R, machine learning, and deep learning, which are often taught by leading universities.
Combining local courses, bootcamps, and online resources, professionals in Leeds can develop the in demand AI skills employers are looking for.
Upskilling and Training for AI Careers in Leeds
Leeds offers great upskilling opportunities for anyone looking to break into the AI sector. The University of Leeds, and Leeds Beckett University, run short courses and accredited programmes in data science, machine learning, and AI applications. The above courses offer both theoretical and practical training. Here is a link to both:
https://courses.leeds.ac.uk/i071/data-science-and-analytics-msc
https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/courses/data-science-msc/
Local Skills Bootcamps, funded by the government, offer intensive training in AI, data analytics, and cloud computing which is ideal for career changers or recent graduates. Specialist providers also run coding and AI focused bootcamps across West Yorkshire, helping learners build job ready skills quickly.
Self study is another powerful option. Platforms like Coursera, edX, and Udacity provide globally recognised certificates in Python, R, machine learning, and deep learning, which are often taught by leading universities.
Combining local courses, bootcamps, and online resources, professionals in Leeds can develop the in demand AI skills employers are looking for.
Future Trends: The Outlook for AI Employment in Leeds
The future for AI employment in Leeds looks highly promising, with demand for skilled professionals growing faster than the available talent pool. AI related job postings in the UK have risen by 200% year on year, while Leeds itself is seeing AI firms expand their workforces by over 20% annually, one of the fastest growth rates outside London. Key growth areas include machine learning engineering, data architecture, natural language processing (NLP), and computer vision, driven by adoption across healthcare, financial services, and digital innovation.As technologies evolve, employers are investing in cloud based AI, generative AI applications, and MLOps, creating new career paths for both technical and strategic roles. Leeds is positioning itself as a northern AI hub, benefiting from strong university research and a collaborative digital ecosystem.
Compared with other UK cities, Leeds is rapidly closing the gap with London and Manchester, offering competitive salaries, hybrid working models, and a lower cost of living. For AI professionals, this combination makes Leeds one of the most attractive locations in the UK for long term career prospects.
Future Trends: The Outlook for AI Employment in Leeds
The future for AI employment in Leeds looks highly promising, with demand for skilled professionals growing faster than the available talent pool. AI related job postings in the UK have risen by 200% year on year, while Leeds itself is seeing AI firms expand their workforces by over 20% annually, one of the fastest growth rates outside London. Key growth areas include machine learning engineering, data architecture, natural language processing (NLP), and computer vision, driven by adoption across healthcare, financial services, and digital innovation.
As technologies evolve, employers are investing in cloud based AI, generative AI applications, and MLOps, creating new career paths for both technical and strategic roles. Leeds is positioning itself as a northern AI hub, benefiting from strong university research and a collaborative digital ecosystem.
Compared with other UK cities, Leeds is rapidly closing the gap with London and Manchester, offering competitive salaries, hybrid working models, and a lower cost of living. For AI professionals, this combination makes Leeds one of the most attractive locations in the UK for long term career prospects.
Frequently Asked Questions.
- All
- Candidate
- Client
What are the benefits of using Benchmark when I am looking for a new role?
We will be with you every step of the way! We will spend time getting to know you to ensure that we find a role that perfectly fits you both culturally and based on your skill set. We will be a sounding board throughout the process including when it comes to offer stage.
Will Benchmark send my CV onto employers without telling me?
No – Benchmark firmly believes that you should be in charge of your job search and that it’s important for you to know which companies have your details. We will always ask for your permission to send your CV onto one of our clients. If you have applied for a role via our website or an online job board we will contact you to discuss your application further – please note that you applying for the role does not automatically mean it has been forwarded on for review.
Will Benchmark charge me for their service?
No – we charge our clients (the businesses that we represent) for our services and therefore the recruitment service that we offer candidates is completely free of charge.
Will you write or make changes to my CV?
No – we do not offer a CV writing service. We will always offer you guidance and support on your CV to give you the best chance possible in securing your dream role, but we will never make these changes ourselves. We believe that it’s of upmost importance that the CV we send across to our clients is a true reflection of you and your experience.
How long will it take you to find me a new role?
It’s impossible for us to give you a timeframe in which we will be able to successfully find you your new dream role. The timescales for each candidate are different as it depends on the market, roles available and your skill set. Sometimes we have a role for you already, or one lands quickly, for other candidates it can take a little longer.
Am I able to use your services confidentially?
Yes – you can trust that we will handle your job search confidentially at all times. We understand the sensitivity around looking for a new role and will ensure that you remain in control of which businesses see your CV. We will never send your CV to a business without your permission.
What kind of roles do you recruit for?
Benchmark specialises in commercial, office-based roles. We recruit roles from office junior right up to Director level. Our main specialisms are office support, finance, HR, marketing, IT, sales, and management.
How much does it cost to use your recruitment services?
We offer package options to all of our clients and these must be agreed prior to us working on your recruitment campaign. We offer a selection of package options to suit all business types from 13% to 20%.
Will we get our money back if the candidate doesn’t stay in the role?
Depending on which package option you have chosen you are likely to have a refill period where we will refill the candidate for you free of charge if the placement does not work out. There are terms and conditions that need to be satisfied (as per our terms which will always be sent to you ahead of starting a recruitment
campaign).
We are a charity; do you offer a discounted rate for your service?
We are lucky to work with many brilliant charities across the Sheffield city region and beyond. We offer a flat discounted rate with a refill period to all charities. Please contact the team who will be delighted to send these across to you for your review.
What roles do Benchmark recruit for?
Benchmark specialises in commercial roles from junior to Director level. Our main specialisms are office support, finance, HR, marketing, IT, sales and management.
Will you attend our offices to meet us in person?
We believe that we are an extension of your business when we are working on your vacancy. It’s really important that we don’t just find you the right skill-set but also the right cultural fit. It would always be our preference to attend a meeting at your offices so we can get a real feel for your people, the culture of your business and the role that we are supporting you with.
Where will you advertise our vacancy?
All vacancies are advertised on Benchmark’s website and the local and national job boards that we subscribe to. This gives us the best chance in helping you find the perfectly matched candidate for your role.
Will you send us lots of CVs for review?
If you are looking to work for an agency that will send you lots and lots of CVs then we are not going to be perfectly matched to you. We firmly believe that by using our skills and experience we should not be sending you a huge number of CVs for review – we thoroughly vet all of the candidates that we represent so you will receive a shortlist of the best candidates that we have been able to find. If you are looking to receive lots of CVs you might be best placing an advert online.
Are you able to help us recruit for a role that is confidential?
We completely understand that not all recruitment campaigns are straightforward. We are able to manage your recruitment campaign confidentially when needed. This may include not advertising your vacancy publicly or asking candidates to sign a NDA.