The Top 10 Specialized Skills in AI Job Postings in the United States, 2011-13 vs. 2023
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly evolving, and with it comes the demand for specialized skills that can keep up with industry changes. Analyzing the top specialized skills needed for AI jobs in the United States over the last decade reveals how the AI field is shaping up. Here, we take a look at the top 10 specialized skills that employers are craving in 2023 compared to 2011-2013.
The Skills Boom: Then vs. Now
If we turn the clock back to 2011-2013, AI jobs required a different set of skills compared to the AI landscape in 2023. Back then, the focus was mainly on traditional skills like programming, computer science, and basic data analysis. Fast forward to 2023, and the demand for skills has not only grown but also diversified, reflecting the broader use cases and applications of AI in the real world.
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Who’s on Top? Data Analysis and Computer Science
The two skills leading the AI charge in 2023 are Data Analysis and Computer Science. Data Analysis has shown tremendous growth, from just 21,000 job postings in 2011-2013 to an impressive 92,000 postings in 2023. It seems employers have realized that all the fancy AI models are only as good as the data that fuels them, making data analysis expertise a hot commodity.
Computer Science, which was already a cornerstone skill, continues to top the list with 133,000 job postings in 2023. AI is still, at its core, a technological endeavor, and having a solid grounding in computer science is crucial for building and understanding AI systems.
The Rise of Automation and Agile Methodology
Automation has become the buzzword of 2023, with AI technologies increasingly being used to automate routine tasks and processes. The skill saw an exponential increase from 12,000 postings a decade ago to 68,000 in 2023. Employers are eager to hire candidates who can leverage AI for automation, indicating a shift toward efficiency-focused implementations.
Another newcomer making a significant impact is Agile Methodology. With 73,000 job postings mentioning Agile as a must-have skill, it's clear that employers value professionals who can adapt quickly, iterate, and deliver in a fast-paced AI environment.
Old but Gold: SQL and Python
SQL (Structured Query Language) and Python continue to hold their ground as must-have skills for AI roles. The use of SQL for database management and Python for machine learning and AI development has only grown more important. SQL has increased to 94,000 job postings, while Python jumped from 14,000 to 94,000 as well. These programming languages are like that reliable pair of shoes—they’re not going out of style anytime soon.
Project Management: AI is a Team Effort
Project management has also made a significant leap, reflecting the fact that AI projects are complex and require meticulous coordination. In 2023, 62,000 job postings demanded project management skills, indicating that while the tech is advancing, so is the need for orchestrating teams and timelines effectively.
Key Takeaways for Aspiring AI Professionals
The skills in demand for AI jobs have evolved significantly over the past decade. While foundational skills like computer science and programming remain as important as ever, newer skills like Agile Methodology, Automation, and Project Management are becoming equally critical.
If you’re looking to break into AI, focusing on data analysis, automation, and mastering Python can significantly boost your chances of landing a top job. AI isn’t just about complex algorithms and deep neural networks—it’s also about understanding how to manage projects, work in teams, and adapt to changing business needs.
Conclusion
The evolution of specialized skills for AI jobs tells a story of both continuity and change. There are the old faithfuls, like Python and SQL, that are as in demand as ever, but the rise of skills like automation and project management shows that AI is integrating deeper into the operational fabric of companies. The opportunities are vast, and if you’re looking to build a career in AI, now’s the time to brush up on these in-demand skills and make yourself an indispensable part of the AI revolution.
(And hey, if data analysis doesn’t sound fun to you, just remember: analyzing data is much better than being analyzed by AI—at least you’re in control!)
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