Will AI Automation Render Data Science Jobs Obsolete?

AI and data science collide at the crossroads of innovation, leading to discussions about the future of jobs in the field. AI and automation have a significant impact on the job market. As AI advances, there are growing concerns about the future of jobs in data science. Will AI automation render data science jobs obsolete? Or will AI create new job opportunities for data scientists? Let’s delve into the impact of AI on the data science world and whether this marks the end of an era or the beginning of a new era for data science professionals.

The impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the data science industry has become critical, impacting the foundation of many people entering or continuing in the field. However, the reality of the situation is much more complex and offers a hopeful future for data science professionals. Our detailed 2023 tech layoffs report found that data scientists made up only 3% of the workforce that was laid off by large tech companies. On the other hand, other tech workers, such as software engineers, were affected much more, making up more than 22% of the total workforce. This statistic highlights the importance of data scientists in technological progress and business, even amidst mass layoffs.

The rise of ChatGPT has led to a growing consensus that AI automation is not just an emerging trend but a dominant force that will shape the next decade and decades to come. What does this mean for you as a data scientist? While the rise of AI does not mean that data science is dead, it does mean that data science skills are essential. Data science skills, such as statistics, probability, Python, APIs, and machine and deep learning, form the foundation for understanding, developing, and innovating in AI projects.

Whether you’re a data scientist working on modeling and analysis, or you’re preparing data for a Machine Learning (ML) project, companies need data science talent, and they’re stepping up their hiring and retention strategies.

In 2023, 78% of job offers for data scientists explicitly mentioned Python, and in 2024, 57% of job offers explicitly mentioned Python.

Natural language processing (NLP) skills are in high demand. In 2024, the demand for NLP skills rose to 19% to 5% in 2023.

Some specific positions in the data science field, 19.7% of which require cloud certifications from AWS.

69% of job positions require machine learning skills.

Whether it’s about the task of data analysis or the creation of complex machine learning models, the data scientist is well-equipped to navigate the complexities of data to find answers. As technology advances, so do the skills needed to become a data scientist. However, the fundamentals remain the same. To become a data scientist, you’ll need a strong background in math, statistics and computer science, and programming languages such as Python or R.

AI automation will not replace data science jobs. On the contrary, it will reshape the field and provide new opportunities for data scientists who adapt and develop their skills. As the data science landscape changes, AI and automation-savvy data scientists will be well-positioned to succeed in the years ahead.

Does AI and data science have a future?

AI and data science undoubtedly have a promising future. They are transforming industries through automation, predictive analytics, and enhanced decision-making. Innovations in machine learning, natural language processing, and big data are driving advancements in healthcare, finance, education, and beyond.

What is the scope of AI and data science?

The scope of AI and data science is vast and ever-expanding. They encompass machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and big data analytics, impacting diverse fields like healthcare, finance, marketing, and transportation. AI and data science drive innovation in automation, predictive modeling, and personalized services.

What is the salary of data scientists with AI skills?

Data scientists with AI skills command competitive salaries, reflecting their high demand and specialized expertise. In the United States, their salaries typically range from US$100,000 to US$150,000 annually, with top-tier professionals and those in major tech hubs earning upwards of US$200,000 or more. Factors influencing salary include experience, education, industry, and geographic location.

Who gets paid more, a data scientist or an AI engineer?

Generally, AI engineers earn slightly more than data scientists due to the specialized and highly technical nature of their work. AI engineers focus on developing and deploying AI models and systems, which requires deep expertise in machine learning, neural networks, and software engineering. While data scientists also command high salaries, particularly those with strong AI skills, AI engineers often receive higher compensation, reflecting the critical role they play in creating advanced AI technologies and solutions.

Is AI with data science skills a good career option?

AI combined with data science skills is an excellent career option. This interdisciplinary expertise is in high demand across various industries, including tech, healthcare, finance, and retail. Professionals in this field drive innovation through automation, predictive analytics, and intelligent decision-making. The growing reliance on data-driven insights and AI technologies ensures ample job opportunities and competitive salaries.