Gen Z finds high-paying AI roles amid rising job security fears

Generation Z is experiencing a dual reality regarding artificial intelligence. According to LinkedIn data, AI-related job postings surged by 156% between 2024 and 2025. Gen Z makes up over two-thirds of new hires in high-demand roles such as AI engineers and forward deployed engineers, with median salaries significantly exceeding those in non-AI sectors. For instance, the median salary for AI positions is approximately $177,000, compared to $80,000 in other fields.

However, this economic opportunity is accompanied by rising anxiety. Pew Research Center findings indicate that 55% of adults under 30 are more anxious than excited about AI, up from 39% in 2024. A significant 73% of Gen Z believe AI will lead to fewer jobs over the next two decades. Concerns include the potential loss of entry-level positions and negative impacts on human creativity.

Industry leaders have also voiced warnings. Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei suggested that AI could displace up to half of entry-level office roles within one to five years. Additionally, gender disparities persist in the sector; while women represent 50% of the general workforce, they account for only 26% of new AI hires and just 10% of leadership roles.