Data Scientists in High Demand as AI Job Market Grows

ChatGPT came out almost a year ago and has only increased enthusiasm for generative artificial intelligence and jobs in this field.

Increased enthusiasm in the labor market is apparent both among employers and job seekers. Thus, over the year, the number of searches for vacancies in the field of generative artificial intelligence on the website Indeed increased by almost four thousand percent, CNBC’s Make It reported. At the same time, the number of vacancies in this area increased by 306 percent.

While the number of AI job postings on ZipRecruiter is down from its 2022 peak, the platform is reporting significantly more available AI positions than was the case prior to the pandemic, according to Julia Pollak, chief economist of ZipRecruiter.

The Most In-Demand Job in AI

Contrary to expectations, the most desired roles in AI aren’t in engineering. As reported by CNBC’s Make It, the most coveted position in this sphere is that of a data scientist. Over the past six months, this AI job has become the most widely advertised role on Indeed and the second most sought after on ZipRecruiter.

The growing demand for AI data scientists comes as companies increasingly rely on AI-related products. This technology is utilized to improve workplace efficiency and customer service. According to experts, data scientists play a key role in achieving these business goals. Specialists collect, analyze, and interpret massive amounts of data from new artificial intelligence models to inform smart work decisions.

Demand for data scientists with AI experience has expanded beyond the technology sector into industries such as financial services, aerospace, and media. Companies are reportedly making long-term investments and expanding their AI teams as they see the benefits of AI technology.

Earnings in AI Can Exceed $200,000

According to Indeed, AI data scientists can expect to earn a minimum of a hundred thousand dollars with less than a year of experience. The average entry-level AI data scientist salary is $122,738, according to ZipRecruiter. Salaries increase steadily to approximately $150,000 with three to five years of experience.

Senior data scientist positions in AI often offer salaries in excess of two hundred grand. Other benefits in addition to the attractive salary include remote work opportunities and flexible work hours.

How to Become a Data Scientist in AI

Experts informed CNBC’s Make It that to become an AI data scientist, one typically needs at least a bachelor’s degree in mathematics, statistics, computer science, or a related field.

More important than education, however, are the skills that should span technical and non-technical areas, including statistical analysis, applied mathematics, knowledge of computer science, and strong communication and project management skills.