New-age skills: AI, machine learning jobs highest paid, shows report

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) jobs are the highest paid among the new-age roles offered by the corporate sector, according to a report.

The report by talent platform foundit released on Thursday showed that the freshers in AI/ML roles have the highest average minimum salary (Rs 7.8 lakh per annum) and average maximum salary (Rs 10.3 lakh per annum), indicating a strong demand for the skills even at the entry level.

The AI/ML professionals are also the highest paid in the mid- and senior-levels across the new-age roles. Mid-level AI/ML professionals (7-10 years of work experience) have an average maximum salary of Rs 28.6 lakh per annum, followed by Rs 25.3 lakh for software development jobs.

The report has assessed salary trends across different new-age functions such as AI/ML, cloud computing, data science & analytics, cybersecurity, digital marketing, UI/UX design, and software development.

Besides, the recruitment scenario in corporate India is undergoing a major shift with a 41% rise in the number of skill assessments taken over the past two years (from 2022 to 2024). This, the report said, highlights the growing importance of skills validation in the modern jobs market.

“Last year, 72% of companies valued a candidate’s adaptability and commitment to continuous learning over their degree and experience. This year, that number has risen to 81%. As organisations embrace this change, selecting the right approach to skill assessment and choosing the appropriate tools will be key to making informed hiring decisions. This rise in skill-based hiring will undoubtedly lead to more equitable opportunities for job seekers,” foundit CEO Sekhar Garisa said.

The report showed there’s a 55% increase in cloud computing assessments, followed by 50% jump in AI and ML skill assessments, a 40% hike in digital marketing skill assessments, and a 30% increase in product management skill assessments.

As per the report, the rise in AI/ML skills assessments coincides with a 50% surge in enrolment in AI/ML courses, driven by the expanding application of AI technology in industries.

“There has been a 12% increase in AI and ML job openings over the last year. Other new-age skills have seen a sharp rise in new job opportunities. For instance, there’s a 35% annual increase in UI/UX design roles, followed by 30% jump in project management roles and 28% rise each in digital marketing and content writing jobs,” the report added.