Whether you’re just starting out in your career or you want to make a change, it’s smart to look where job growth will be strongest in the next five years. As AI transforms the way we work, from automating tasks to enhancing problem solving, developing related skills can be a smart career move in the long run.
While new AI roles are rapidly emerging, many existing careers also increasingly need workers with AI knowledge. Specifically, computer occupations — defined as jobs that involve programming, software engineering and data processing: Skills in this area “will be increasingly needed to meet the growing demand for AI-based systems,” according to a November 2024 report from the BLS.
Already, 66% of hiring managers say they would not hire someone who does not have AI skills, according to a 2024 Work Trend Index Report from Microsoft and LinkedIn. (Microsoft, it must be noted, is betting big on AI. In January 2025, the tech giant announced a extension of their partnership with OpenAI through 2030.)
The five jobs listed below involve AI, are projected to grow much faster than the national average of 4% and can pay six figures, according to the BLS occupational outlook handbook:
Computer and information systems manager
- Median income (2023): $169,510
- Projected job growth by 2033: 17%
- Estimated new jobs by 2033: 106,900
Computer and information research scientist
- Median income (2023): $145,080
- Projected job growth by 2033: 26%
- Estimated new jobs by 2033: 9,400
Software developer | quality assurance analyst | tester
- Median income (2023): $130,160
- Projected job growth by 2033: 17%
- Estimated new jobs by 2033: 327,900
Computer network architect
- Median income (2023): $129,840
- Projected job growth by 2033: 13%
- Estimated new jobs by 2033: 23,900
Database administrator | architect
- Median income (2023): $117,450
- Projected job growth by 2033: 9%
- Estimated new jobs by 2033: 13,200
How to improve your AI skills
To land one of these roles, you may need to hone or develop your skills. Here are two ways to get started:
1. Learn prompt engineering
Prompt engineering is the practice of inputting and refining text commands for ChatGPT and other generative AI programs. Positions for full-time workers can pay as much as $335,000 a year.
Platforms such as Coursera and Udemy offer certification and training courses online. “You can learn the basics [of prompt engineering] in two hours,” Anant Agarwal, chief academic officer of education technology company 2U, told CNBC Make It in 2023.
2. Practice using AI at home
Keeping up-to-date with rapidly changing advancements may well be critical to remaining competitive in much of the job market. Regularly practicing with AI tools can enhance your ability to communicate more efficiently with a wide variety of large language models, Laurence Liew, director for AI Innovation at AI Singapore, told CNBC Make It in 2024.
“AI is not going to replace you,” Liew said during a panel discussion at Salesforce’s 2024 World Tour Essentials event in Singapore. “You’re going to be replaced by someone who uses AI to outperform you.”
Want to up your AI skills and be more productive? Take CNBC’s new online course How to Use AI to Be More Successful at Work. Expert instructors will teach you how to get started, practical uses, tips for effective prompt-writing, and mistakes to avoid. Sign up now and use coupon code EARLYBIRD for an introductory discount of 30% off $67 (+ taxes and fees) through February 11, 2025.
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