Hyderabad or Pune: Where Opportunities in AI Careers Are Growing Faster

As the demand for Artificial Intelligence professionals continues to rise across India, cities like Hyderabad and Pune have emerged as key hubs for AI career growth. Hyderabad, with its rapidly expanding IT ecosystem and strong presence of tech giants, offers numerous opportunities for AI enthusiasts in machine learning, data science, and automation roles. On the other hand, Pune, known for its vibrant startup culture and educational institutions, is steadily becoming a hotspot for AI innovation and research-driven projects. Both cities present unique advantages for professionals looking to build a successful career in AI.

Choosing the right city can significantly impact career growth, networking, and long-term opportunities in the AI domain. Here, we will compare Hyderabad and Pune across various parameters such as job availability, industry growth, and career prospects to help you determine which city offers better opportunities for your AI career journey.

Artificial Intelligence Career Growth in Hyderabad and Pune

Hyderabad and Pune are witnessing significant growth in Artificial Intelligence careers, attracting professionals from across India. Both cities provide diverse opportunities in AI, from advanced research to industry-focused applications.

Hyderabad is rapidly emerging as a hotspot for Artificial Intelligence careers, with a highly proactive workforce preparing for the AI-driven future. According to The Hans India, 90% of professionals in the city plan to upskill in FY 2025–26 in key areas like AI/ML, data science, generative AI (LLMs), Python, and NLP. Impressively, 77% view AI as a powerful tool to future-proof their careers, and over 60% are already leveraging generative AI tools such as ChatGPT and Bard in daily tasks. With Hyderabad leading other metros in upskilling initiatives, professionals are actively exploring new opportunities to grow their AI expertise, boost career prospects, and stay ahead in the competitive tech landscape.

The Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) recently conducted a specialized Artificial Intelligence training workshop aimed at helping its officers adopt modern digital tools in daily governance. The session focused on how AI, machine learning, and data analytics can streamline workflows, enhance decision-making, and improve administrative efficiency across public departments. Led by an expert from Savitribai Phule Pune University, the workshop saw strong participation from senior officials, demonstrating the city’s commitment to technological advancement and digital transformation in government services.

This initiative highlights Pune’s growing focus on AI-driven development and its expanding relevance in shaping future career opportunities in the field.

Artificial Intelligence Job Opportunities in Hyderabad and Pune

Artificial Intelligence job opportunities are growing rapidly in Hyderabad and Pune as companies increase adoption of AI technologies, creating strong demand for skilled professionals in machine learning, data science, and automation.

AI Job Opportunities in Hyderabad

Hyderabad has emerged as one of India’s strongest markets for Artificial Intelligence careers, supported by a thriving IT ecosystem and rapid digital transformation across industries. The city continues to attract tech talent due to its advanced infrastructure, innovation-friendly environment, and rising demand for AI professionals.

Why Hyderabad is a Strong AI Hub

Hyderabad has become a major AI destination because:

• It has a large and skilled technology workforce
• Government initiatives like T-Hub and Hyderabad AI Mission encourage startups and innovation
• Global companies and leading Indian IT firms have established large AI development centers
• AI adoption is growing across healthcare, finance, e-commerce, IT services, and manufacturing
• Professionals pursuing top IT courses in Hyderabad strengthen the city’s position as a leading AI hub.

Top companies hiring AI talent in Hyderabad include major global and Indian technology leaders such as Microsoft, Google, Amazon, TCS, Infosys, Accenture, Tech Mahindra, Deloitte, Wipro, Capgemini, NVIDIA, and HSBC. In addition to these established organizations, many emerging startups and product-based companies are also expanding their AI teams, creating a wide range of career opportunities for skilled professionals in the city.

Refer to these articles:

• Learn about the Types of Machine Learning Algorithms
• Guide to Artificial Intelligence Career
• What is the Difference Between AI Engineer and AI Expert Course?

AI Job Opportunities in Pune

Pune has steadily grown into one of India’s most promising cities for Artificial Intelligence careers, driven by its strong IT presence, educational institutions, and expanding startup culture. Known as a major technology and engineering hub, Pune offers an ideal environment for AI professionals looking to build long-term careers in data science, machine learning, automation, and advanced analytics.

Why Pune is Rising as an AI Destination

Pune is gaining prominence in AI due to several strong advantages:

• Presence of leading engineering and technical talent from top universities
• Growth of IT parks such as Hinjewadi and Magarpatta with increasing AI-based projects
• Rapid adoption of automation and analytics by manufacturing, automotive, finance, healthcare, and IT companies
• Strong startup ecosystem supported by incubators and tech initiatives
• Aspirants pursue IT courses in Pune to gain practical AI skills, highlighting the city’s growing AI hub status.

Top companies hiring AI talent in Pune include IBM, Infosys, Wipro, Accenture, Tech Mahindra, Capgemini, Cognizant, TCS, Persistent Systems, and Zensar Technologies. Alongside these major firms, the city’s rapidly growing startup and SaaS ecosystem is also creating new opportunities for innovation-driven AI roles.

Salary Insights for AI Roles in Hyderabad vs Pune

Here is a well-organized overview of the most in-demand AI and data-focused job roles across Hyderabad and Pune, along with salary insights sourced from AmbitionBox. Actual pay ranges may differ based on experience, skill sets, industry specialization, and the organization you work for.

1. Machine Learning Engineer

Designs and implements algorithms that enable systems to learn from data and make predictions. Works on recommendation systems, predictive analytics, and automation solutions.

• Machine Learning Engineer salary in Hyderabad ranges from ₹3.5 LPA to ₹25 LPA, with an average of ₹11.4 LPA for 1–5 years of experience, as per AmbitionBox.
• Machine Learning Engineer salary in Pune ranges from ₹3.6 LPA to ₹18 LPA, with an average of ₹9.9 LPA for 1–5 years of experience as per AmbitionBox.

2. Data Scientist

Analyzes complex datasets to generate insights and support AI-driven decision-making. Uses statistical modeling, machine learning, and data visualization techniques.

• Data Scientist salary in Pune ranges from ₹4 LPA to ₹23 LPA, with an average of ₹14.9 LPA for professionals with 1–7 years of experience, as per AmbitionBox.
• Data Scientist salary in Hyderabad ranges from ₹4 LPA to ₹25 LPA, with an average of ₹15.3 LPA for 1–7 years of experience, as per AmbitionBox.

3. AI Engineer

Builds and deploys AI systems such as chatbots and automation tools. Bridges machine learning research with practical, scalable applications.

• AI Engineer salary in Hyderabad ranges from ₹4 LPA to ₹43 LPA, with an average of ₹19.9 LPA for 0–6 years of experience, as per AmbitionBox.
• Artificial Intelligence Engineer salary in Pune ranges from ₹3.8 LPA to ₹22 LPA, with an average of ₹13 LPA for 0–6 years of experience, as per AmbitionBox.

4. Deep Learning Engineer

Specializes in neural networks for tasks like computer vision and NLP. Designs and optimizes deep learning models for human-like intelligence.

• Deep Learning Engineer salary in Pune ranges from ₹3 LPA to ₹20 LPA, with an average of ₹14.3 LPA for 0–5 years of experience, as per AmbitionBox.
• Deep Learning Engineer salary in Hyderabad ranges from ₹3 LPA to ₹24 LPA, with an average of ₹12.2 LPA for 0–6 years of experience, as per AmbitionBox.

5. NLP Engineer

Develops systems that understand and generate human language. Works on chatbots, voice assistants, translation, and sentiment analysis.

• NLP Engineer salary in Hyderabad ranges from ₹3.5 LPA to ₹31 LPA, with an average of ₹12 LPA for 0–6 years of experience, as per AmbitionBox.
• NLP Engineer salary in Pune ranges from ₹6.5 LPA to ₹15 LPA, with an average of ₹7.6 LPA for 0–8 years of experience, as per AmbitionBox.

Future Prospects of AI Careers in Hyderabad and Pune

The future of Artificial Intelligence careers in Hyderabad and Pune looks highly promising, driven by rapid technological adoption, government initiatives, and growing digital transformation across industries. Companies in both cities are increasingly integrating AI into operations, from automation and analytics to advanced research and product innovation.

In Hyderabad, the city’s strong AI ecosystem is set to expand further with investments in research centers, incubation hubs like T-Hub, and the growing presence of global tech giants. Professionals upskilling in AI/ML, NLP, generative AI, and data science will find increasing demand across IT services, healthcare, FinTech, and robotics.

Pune is poised for growth through its thriving startup ecosystem and research-focused institutions. With AI adoption rising in automotive, manufacturing, finance, and healthcare sectors, Pune offers opportunities in specialized Artificial Intelligence roles such as deep learning, predictive analytics, and research-driven projects.

Overall, both cities provide a robust environment for AI careers, with Hyderabad favoring structured corporate growth and Pune focusing on innovation-driven and entrepreneurial projects. Skilled professionals in either city can expect high-demand roles, competitive salaries, and long-term career advancement in AI.

Refer to these articles:

• How to Become an Artificial Intelligence Engineer in Hyderabad?
• Artificial Intelligence Course Fee in Hyderabad
• How to Become an Artificial Intelligence Engineer in Pune?
• Artificial Intelligence Course Fee in Pune

To capitalize on the growing opportunities in AI careers, the first step is to enroll in a structured course to develop and strengthen your skills. While there are several training options in Hyderabad and Pune, DataMites stands out as a top choice, providing practical learning, expert mentorship, and career-oriented programs designed to help aspirants succeed in the AI industry.

DataMites Training Institute delivers comprehensive Artificial Intelligence courses across Hyderabad, Pune, Bangalore, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Coimbatore, Mumbai, and Delhi. The programs emphasize hands-on learning in Python, machine learning, neural networks, and popular AI frameworks such as TensorFlow and Keras. Students also gain exposure to big data tools, cloud platforms, and AI ethics. Recognized by IABAC and NASSCOM FutureSkills, DataMites offers specialized courses in data science, data analytics, and machine learning, along with career support through placements, internships, and flexible online and offline training options. These programs are designed to equip learners with practical expertise and real-world AI experience.

Professionals and students in Telangana seeking to advance their careers in AI can enroll at DataMites for artificial intelligence training in Hyderabad, with offline courses available at Madhapur and Kukatpally. The institute delivers hands-on training, industry-relevant projects, and practical AI experience, complemented by placement and internship support to help learners achieve their career objectives.

Students and professionals in Pune can enroll at DataMites for artificial intelligence training in Pune, with offline courses available at Baner. The institute provides hands-on training, industry-focused projects, and practical AI experience, along with flexible online and offline learning, placement assistance, and internship support to help learners achieve their career goals.