TLDR: A new report by Lightcast indicates that jobs requiring artificial intelligence (AI) skills offer salaries 28% higher than those without, translating to nearly $18,000 in additional annual earnings. The study, based on over 1.3 billion job postings, highlights a significant shift, with more than 51% of AI-related roles in 2024 found in non-IT functions. Generative AI roles, in particular, have seen an astounding 800% growth across diverse industries like marketing, human resources, and finance since 2022.
A recent analysis by labor market intelligence firm Lightcast, detailed in their report ‘Beyond the buzz: Developing the AI skills employers need,’ underscores the escalating value of artificial intelligence capabilities in the global job market. The findings reveal that positions demanding AI skills command a substantial 28% higher salary, amounting to an average of nearly $18,000 in additional annual income compared to roles that do not require such expertise. This premium is a direct result of surging employer demand, which is actively reshaping hiring patterns across various sectors.
The comprehensive report, built upon an extensive analysis of over 1.3 billion job postings, illustrates how AI is fundamentally transforming workforce requirements and compensation structures well beyond the traditional technology sector. A striking revelation is that in 2024, more than 51% of all AI-related job roles were situated in non-IT functions. Furthermore, the report highlights an explosive 800% growth in generative AI roles across industries such as marketing, human resources, and finance since 2022.
Lightcast’s Vice President of Research and Insights, Cole Napper, emphasized the critical need for organizations to integrate AI across all roles, stating, “Companies that treat AI as niche will lose talent to those embedding it across roles.” He further advised educators, “Educators who wait will lose students and funding to programs that integrate AI alongside other skills.” This sentiment is echoed by Elena Magrini, Lightcast’s Head of Global Research, who noted, “What we are seeing is that employers are willing to pay a premium for workers that have skills in AI.” She added that workers investing in AI skills are more likely to find employers willing to pay for these still-scarce capabilities.
To assist organizations in formulating strategic responses, Lightcast has introduced its AI Adoption Map, which categorizes job sectors into four quadrants based on AI demand and growth. Human Resources and Marketing have emerged as ‘AI Hotspots,’ signaling an immediate need for upskilling in these areas. Conversely, fields like Finance and Education are identified as ‘Emerging Frontiers,’ where early investment in AI skills could provide a significant competitive advantage.
Sector-specific findings from the report include:
Marketing & PR: 8% of job advertisements now mandate AI skills, with a 50% annual growth, largely driven by roles in SEO.
Human Resources: AI demand has surged by 66%, particularly within talent acquisition functions.
Finance: Despite starting from a lower base, AI-related roles have seen a 40% growth, creating opportunities for early adopters.
Science & Research: This sector continues to show strong demand for specialized AI integration.
Education & Training: While current AI adoption is low, generative AI roles are beginning to appear, indicating future growth.
Lightcast Global Business Unit Executive Vice President Andy Durman underscored the importance of being informed about these trends: “One of the greatest challenges, whether it’s about AI or anything else in the labor market, is that if we are not informed as organizations, as individuals, as workers, as students and potential workers, and don’t see these trends happening, it’s very difficult to get on board.” He believes empowering individuals to invest in building these skills will significantly aid career progression.
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The report strongly advocates for a shift from general AI awareness to targeted, skill-specific training aligned with current market demands, urging employers to act now to meet rising demand and bridge critical talent gaps.
