Seeking advice: Any Software Engineer here transitioned into Machine Learning Engineer?

I am an SE pursuing part time masters in AI specialization. My reason to select AI focused degree is not to immediately jump the ship, but to upgrade myself (and I don't want to do just another degree on almost same SE principles). I wonder how ML engineering looks like these days. 1. Does it worth the transition as of you engineers in terms of work and satisfaction? 2. In terms of compensation does it make much difference? (I am not considering the phd 'scientists' compensation range) Thanks!