Confused if I should continue with Computer Vision or get into Software Engineering

pragya·May 14, 2022

Posted in:Software Engineering Advice Job Hunting Career Growth

Hello. I have been in the Data Science/Machine learning field for the last 5 years. I started as a Data Scientist. then moved towards a more Machine learning engineering role. For the last two years I have been working as a Computer Vision Engineer and I enjoyed the experience.

My employer is shutting down their business now so I will be out of job soon 😅 Looking at the market, it seems difficult to get a Computer Vision job (there are less jobs and most of them require PHDs). I am confused. Should I still look for jobs in the Computer Vision space, or should I just look for a Software Engineering job as they are easier to come by? I will have to prepare for interviews in both the cases anyway, but I am just wondering if I should spend all the time just preparing for a software engineering role where I might have a higher chance of getting a job soon.

I was wondering if people have been in this (or similar) situation before and can share advice or their experience.

Thank you

Iynna·May 14, 2022

Do you like Software Engineering and how much experience do you have with it? I am all for exploring your options and casting a wide net so I'd encourage you to explore Software Engineering!

PopBee·May 15, 2022

Computer vision is super interesting imo. I would suggest that you actually *apply* for computer vision jobs even if there are less jobs and then if you can't get a job, reconsider. If you don't even know the area of software engineering you'd like to focus on I wouldn't bother starting with a whole new learning track right now. You are making an assumption that you haven't yet proven so the next step is to see how far you get in the job market.There is a lot of growth in machine learning and computer vision I wouldn't necessarily give it up just yet.For example I am building an application that uses computer vision frameworks but i am not working on the underlying machine learning part. AR uses computer vision .... some medical technology uses it too. Software for self-driving cars also. The list goes on and on.

rachelserwetz·May 17, 2022

Hi @pragya, you do want to consider how quickly you need a job, and the easiest way to get a job quickly is by searching for the role you've had in the past. Its personal, but if you share how many months you'd be okay without a job, it could help me give you some perspective on whether you can look for the Vision roles or not, as you said they are more niche, so it does depend on how quickly you want to go. Also, having guidance as to how to spend your time wisely during your job search will help you be strategic and effective. BTW, I'm Rachel, a Career Coach (iamwoken.com), and I offer a ton of free videos and blogs on my website here - iamwoken.com/resources. I help with: a) seeking clarity on your best fit/ideal career path or next step/direction, b) debating upskiling opportunities, c) improving your personal branding, d) pursuing a strategic job search (for similar roles or for bigger pivots) or e) advancing along your path and navigating your current workplace and more! Let me know if you'd like a free initial career coaching call --> calendly.com/woken/demo