Which Jobs Are Most in Demand Today? 

Although younger generations are facing major challenges and higher unemployment rates than the average in the global labour market, there is one sector in which they not only dominate but also earn exceptionally high incomes. These are jobs in the field of artificial intelligence (AI).

The latest LinkedIn research shows that Generation Z professionals have become the primary choice of employers for some of the most sought-after and highest-paid AI positions.

Members of Generation Z account for more than two-thirds of all new hires in Forward Deployed Engineer and AI Engineer positions, where average annual salaries are $199,000 and $166,000, respectively.

Demand Is Rising Sharply, While Salaries Are More Than Twice as High

LinkedIn’s research points to a major increase in the number of job postings for AI positions. Following a 14 percent increase between 2023 and 2024, demand subsequently surged by as much as 156 percent.

When it comes to earnings, the average annual salary for a typical AI position is around $177,000, more than twice the average salary for jobs not related to artificial intelligence.

Companies are willing to offer high salaries to attract the best specialists. These positions also require a high level of education. As many as 91 percent of employees in AI-related jobs have a university degree or higher, while leading positions include a significant share of employees with master’s and doctoral degrees.

Women Account for Just a Quarter of New Hires

Despite the strong performance of young professionals in this field, the data point to a significant gender gap.

Women account for only 26 percent of new hires in AI positions, considerably less than in other occupations, where they make up approximately half of new hires.

How Can You Get a Job in the AI Sector?

For those planning to enter this rapidly growing industry, LinkedIn highlights several important factors.

A degree in computer science remains one of the most reliable pathways to an entry-level AI position.

Practical experience working with data is also important. Theoretical knowledge alone is not enough, as employers are looking for candidates who know how to prepare data and use it effectively.

If a candidate does not have formal work experience, developing their own AI projects can be a good way to build a portfolio, demonstrate their skills and show initiative, reports Bizlife.