AI skills now fuel a 28% salary boost, with non-tech roles in content, HR, and education leading the surge: Global report finds

Artificial Intelligence is no longer just the concern of coders and data scientists. A new global analysis by labour market research firm Lightcast, titled Beyond the Buzz, reveals that AI skills now lead to a 28% salary premium, even in roles outside the tech sector.

Based on over 1.3 billion job postings around the world, the report highlights a dramatic shift: non-technical fields like content creation, HR, education, and finance are seeing a surge in demand for AI-literate professionals.

While automation is leading to layoffs in some areas, workers who understand how to use AI tools are not just surviving, they’re earning significantly more.

AI moves beyond IT

According to Lightcast, in 2019, 61% of AI-related job postings were in IT and computer science.

By 2024, this figure dropped to 49%, indicating a broad diffusion of AI skills into mainstream sectors. Employers across industries are integrating AI-powered tools into day-to-day workflows, from recruitment and content generation to financial modeling and curriculum design.This means AI fluency is now a cross-sector expectation, not just a tech job requirement.

Generative AI drives hiring trends

The biggest accelerant? Generative AI tools like ChatGPT, Copilot, Midjourney, and DALL·E.

Lightcast reports that since 2022, job postings mentioning generative AI in non-tech roles have jumped 800%. These tools are transforming routine and creative tasks, making AI-literate candidates far more valuable, even in fields like communications, training, and admin.

Sectors leading AI adoption

Lightcast identifies several key non-technical sectors where AI demand is rising fastest:

These industries are actively recruiting AI-fluent professionals, even if they don’t have a technical degree.

A clear pay advantage

The Beyond the Buzz report shows that roles requiring AI skills pay, on average, $18,000 (₹15 lakh) more per year than similar roles without AI requirements. That’s a 28% salary uplift, even in mid-level or entry roles.This premium is largely due to a growing talent shortage: companies are eager to adopt AI tools but face a gap in employees who can confidently use them. Those who bring AI competence to the table instantly become more valuable.

The automation paradox

While AI is creating high-paying opportunities, it’s also behind layoffs in customer support, content production, and operations, where repetitive tasks are being automated. However, Lightcast notes that employees who understand AI tools are less likely to be laid off, often reassigned to higher-value strategic roles.The message is clear: AI won’t replace your job—but someone who knows how to use AI might.

How students and professionals can respond

AI literacy is becoming a career survival skill. Whether you’re a student, early-career professional, or mid-level manager, here’s how to prepare:

The bottom line

Lightcast’s report confirms a major shift: AI fluency is no longer optional for career growth. From content creators to educators, those who learn to work with AI tools are not just staying relevant: they’re commanding better pay and stronger roles. As generative AI continues to reshape how we work, non-tech professionals who adapt will lead the next wave of high-impact careers.TOI Education is on WhatsApp now. Follow us here.