The technology industry added 45,000 jobs in May, the most in two years, as companies across the sector ramped up hiring to support artificial intelligence product development and implementation. The gains were led by cloud computing, semiconductor, and AI software companies.
"Every company is becoming a technology company, and the demand for tech talent has never been higher," said CompTIA Chief Research Officer Tim Herbert. "The AI revolution is creating entirely new job categories while transforming existing roles."
The hiring surge is concentrated in technical roles, with demand strongest for machine learning engineers, data scientists, and AI product managers. However, companies are also adding sales, marketing, and customer success staff to support growing AI product portfolios.
Salaries for AI-related positions have increased 18 percent over the past year, with senior machine learning engineers now commanding average total compensation exceeding $350,000 at major technology companies. "The war for AI talent is driving compensation to levels we have never seen before," said executive recruiter Jane Richardson.
The hiring rebound has been uneven, with traditional software development roles showing more modest growth. "Companies are being selective, investing in AI capabilities while becoming more efficient in other areas," Herbert noted.