Workers are getting paid to teach AI how to do their jobs
The New Frontier of AI Training Jobs
As the realms of artificial intelligence continue to expand, a new kind of job market is flourishing. Major players in the generative AI sector are actively recruiting individuals across a spectrum of professions—from screenwriters in Hollywood to outdoor adventurists—to enhance the capabilities of their AI tools. Christine Cruzvergara, who serves as the vice president of higher education and student success at Handshake, highlights the rapid growth of such roles. AI now requires more precise adjustments post initial data ingestion phases, thereby amplifying demand for human expertise to refine and upgrade its learning processes. Brendan Foody, the CEO of Mercor, frames these AI training roles as potentially the world’s most expansive job category soon.
From Creatives to Specialists: Diverse Roles in AI Training
One fascinating example is Robin Palmer, a Hollywood writer, dedicating around 30 hours weekly to coach chatbots in creative writing. She treats the AI like a budding writer, coaching on structure, characterization, and smooth transitions, enjoying the process of observing its improvement. Beyond creative fields, Mercor hires varied experts—from chess experts to wine aficionados—to refine AI’s competence within specific domains. These AI training positions are lucrative as well, with salaries averaging about $105 per hour and specialists like psychiatrists possibly earning up to $350 per hour. AI roles even extend to “generalists” who tackle tasks like reviewing AI outputs and ensuring quality at a rate of $50 per hour.
Adapting to AI: Opportunity or Threat?
Despite the opportunities, there’s a persistent unease about AI’s role in the future of employment. Concerns are especially palpable in industries like film, where professionals fear AI might eventually replace human jobs—a concern underscored by the significant Hollywood strikes in 2023. However, individuals like Palmer and Dr. Mike Prokop, an anesthesiologist, argue for the necessity of integrating human expertise with AI to ensure its effective functioning and safe application. Palmer believes in training AI well to ensure it serves us effectively, while Prokop emphasizes the need for AI to mimic human expert reasoning to avoid errors. They, along with professionals like Brett Brosseit, a consultant for Handshake AI, advocate for active engagement with AI technology as a strategy to adapt and thrive as industries evolve under the influence of AI advancements.