San Francisco, CA, United States – Artificial intelligence (AI) skilled workers are now earning 56% more than their peers in identical roles, according to a recent analysis of a professional database with over 850 million entries. This data was released by SignalHire, a company that provides contact intelligence solutions for recruiting, sales, and talent acquisition teams worldwide.
The analysis, titled “2026 AI Jobs Analysis”, reveals the top AI positions that are generating the most interest from recruiters worldwide. Data Engineers were found to be in the highest demand, with a salary range of $130,000-$200,000+ per year. This is more than double the salary range of any other AI position, as organizations are racing to build the data infrastructure necessary for AI deployment.
According to SignalHire’s research, the top 10 in-demand AI positions based on recruiter search patterns are:
1. Data Engineer ($130K-$200K+)
2. AI Engineer ($140K-$180K)
3. Data Scientist ($139K-$180K+)
4. Machine Learning Engineer ($158K-$245K)
5. AI Developer ($120K-$160K)
6. Automation Engineer ($100K-$140K)
7. Deep Learning Engineer ($150K-$220K)
8. ETL Developer ($90K-$130K)
9. NLP Engineer ($140K-$200K)
10. AI Infrastructure Engineer ($150K-$200K)
This analysis is in line with other industry research, including PwC’s 2025 Global AI Jobs Barometer, which shows that AI-skilled workers earn 56% more than their colleagues without AI abilities in identical roles. This is an increase from 25% the previous year. Deloitte also reports a 50% increase in job listings for generative AI developers between 2022 and 2024. Additionally, the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 35% growth in employment for Data Scientists through 2032.
For those looking to transition into an AI career, SignalHire’s research suggests three accessible entry points:
1. Automation Engineer: This is an ideal option for professionals with programming and business process knowledge.
2. ETL Developer: This is a natural transition for database administrators and SQL experts.
3. Data Engineer: This is a logical progression for software engineers with database experience.
The analysis also notes that while AI Engineers and Data Scientists may receive the most media attention, Data Engineers are in the highest demand. This is because organizations have recognized the importance of having a clean and accessible data infrastructure before any machine learning can occur.
About SignalHire
SignalHire provides contact intelligence solutions with over 850 million professional profiles for recruiting, sales, and talent acquisition teams worldwide. For media inquiries regarding this analysis, please contact press@signalhire.com. To learn more about SignalHire, visit their website at https://www.signalhire.com or check out their blog at https://blog.signalhire.com/.
Media Contact:
Mary Ivory
SignalHire Sp. z o. o.
+1 209-437-3846
press@signalhire.com
