In a study published on August 18, 2026, LinkedIn identified the top 12 fast-growing AI jobs based on an analysis of the platform’s data. The report highlights that while young workers face challenges in the broader job market, they are thriving in the expanding AI sector. The unemployment rate for young workers aged 22 to 27 was 7.2% in June 2026, significantly higher than the 4.1% unemployment rate for all workers, according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau and U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
LinkedIn’s analysis reveals that Gen Z workers make up over two-thirds of hires for two prominent roles: forward deployed engineer and AI engineer. These positions offer median annual salaries of $199,000 and $166,000, respectively. Millennials also play a significant role, constituting 60% of new hires for head of AI roles, which boast a median pay of $236,000. The surge in AI job postings is notable, with a 14% increase between 2023 and 2024 and a staggering 156% rise between 2024 and 2025.
The median salary for typical AI roles is $177,000, more than double the $80,000 median salary for non-AI roles. Kory Kantenga, Head of Economics for the Americas at LinkedIn, noted that the influx of money into AI has compelled companies to significantly raise salaries to attract talent. Moreover, 91% of AI workers hold bachelor’s degrees or higher, with many in senior roles possessing graduate or doctoral degrees. This educational requirement contributes to the high pay associated with AI jobs.
Despite the growth in AI jobs, women are notably underrepresented. In 2025, only 26% of new hires in AI roles were women, in stark contrast to 50% in non-AI occupations. Women occupied just 10% of CEO and top tech roles at AI organizations as of February 2025. Kantenga remarked that women are less represented at every level of seniority in AI companies. Furthermore, 86% of clerical and administrative roles vulnerable to AI takeover are held by women, according to The Brookings Institution.
For students and young professionals aspiring to enter the AI field, pursuing a computer science degree is recommended. Although the unemployment rate for recent computer science graduates rose to 7% in 2024, this major is projected to yield the highest starting salary of $81,535 among the class of 2026. Kantenga encourages aspiring AI professionals to gain practical experience with data and work on AI-related projects to build their portfolios and showcase their skills. However, there are mixed feelings among young workers regarding the impact of AI on their future employment.
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