WHICH JOBS ARE MOST DEMANDED TODAY?

Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming the global labour market, creating some of the most sought-after and highly paid career opportunities — particularly for younger professionals. While Generation Z faces significant challenges in the wider job market, including higher unemployment rates than the overall average, the situation looks very different in the artificial intelligence sector.

New research from LinkedIn shows that Generation Z professionals have become a primary choice for employers hiring for some of the most in-demand AI positions.

GENERATION Z DOMINATES SOME OF THE MOST LUCRATIVE AI ROLES

According to LinkedIn's research, Generation Z accounts for more than two-thirds of new hires for positions such as Forward Deployed Engineer and AI Engineer.

These roles are also among the most lucrative in the sector. Average annual salaries are approximately $199,000 for Forward Deployed Engineers and $166,000 for AI Engineers.

The figures highlight how quickly AI-related careers are emerging as an attractive option for younger workers entering the technology industry.

DEMAND FOR AI JOBS IS SURGING

LinkedIn's research points to a dramatic increase in demand for AI-related professionals.

After the number of AI job postings increased by 14 per cent between 2023 and 2024, demand subsequently surged by as much as 156 per cent.

Salaries are also significantly higher than those offered in many other professions. 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 increasingly willing to offer substantial salaries in an effort to attract highly qualified specialists in a highly competitive market.

HIGHER EDUCATION REMAINS IMPORTANT

AI careers also tend to require a high level of education.

As many as 91 per cent of people working in AI-related positions have a university degree or higher level of education. Among senior positions, master's degrees and PhDs represent a significant share of employees.

However, formal education is not the only factor employers consider when recruiting AI professionals.

WOMEN ACCOUNT FOR JUST 26 PER CENT OF NEW AI HIRES

Despite the strong growth of the sector and the success of younger professionals, LinkedIn's figures also reveal a significant gender gap.

Women account for just 26 per cent of new hires in AI positions. That is considerably lower than in other occupations, where women make up approximately half of new hires.

The figures suggest that, alongside the rapid expansion of AI careers, the industry still faces a major challenge in improving gender diversity.

HOW TO GET A JOB IN THE AI INDUSTRY

For people considering a career in this rapidly growing field, 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 with data is also increasingly important. Employers are looking for candidates who can do more than understand AI theory — they want professionals who know how to prepare, analyse and effectively use data.

For candidates without formal work experience, developing their own AI projects can be an effective way to build a portfolio and demonstrate both technical skills and initiative.

As demand continues to rise, AI is becoming one of the most attractive areas of the global technology job market, offering younger professionals the opportunity to build careers with exceptionally high earning potential.