Looking for a career that’s future-proof in 2026? The job market is changing fast, and it’s no surprise that AI and tech are at the forefront. According to new research from LinkedIn, jobs in artificial intelligence (AI) and related fields are surging, with AI engineers leading the charge as the fastest-growing roles in Australia.
AI Engineers Take the Lead
AI engineers are the hottest job category right now, and it’s not hard to see why. These professionals design and build systems that use artificial intelligence to do everything from analysing data to making predictions. As industries across Australia rush to incorporate generative AI tools into their businesses, the demand for engineers who can create these systems is growing at an unprecedented rate.
It’s clear that AI is no longer a niche skill; it’s a fundamental part of everyday business operations, from tech to finance, healthcare, and beyond. Following closely behind the AI engineers is the role of Chief Risk Officer (CRO). These professionals are tasked with identifying, assessing, and managing risks that could impact a company’s operations, from cybersecurity threats to regulatory compliance.
With Australia’s growing regulatory environment, this role is quickly becoming one of the most important positions in corporate leadership. As businesses face new and evolving challenges, the CRO ensures the company’s risk management strategy is always up to date.
Other Growing Jobs
But AI isn’t the only tech field on the rise. The role of Director of Artificial Intelligence, overseeing AI strategies and development within an organisation, ranks fourth on the list. As more businesses integrate AI into their operations, C-suite executives are increasingly upskilling in this area, making it a key leadership role.
Also seeing rapid growth are mechanical engineers and organisational development managers, reports 9News. With Australia’s ongoing transition to renewable energy and infrastructure projects ramping up, mechanical engineers are in demand to help design and maintain energy-efficient systems. Meanwhile, organisational development managers are needed to guide businesses through rapid digital and cultural changes, ensuring companies adapt to the evolving work environment.
Interestingly, there’s also been a significant rise in demand for founders, with a 58% increase in people looking to start their own businesses. Australia’s startup ecosystem is thriving, particularly in sectors like health tech, AI, and climate solutions. The rise of generative AI has created new opportunities for entrepreneurs to launch companies that leverage these technologies.
What’s Driving This Growth?
AI and tech-based jobs are booming because of the increasing reliance on data, automation, and AI tools across industries. Companies are no longer just hiring for tech expertise; they need leaders who can guide their AI strategies and integrate them into their broader business plans. And with the rapid evolution of machine learning, the need for skilled professionals is only going to increase.
For those looking to future-proof their careers, the path is clear: get comfortable with AI, data science, and the tech tools that are transforming industries. Upskilling in these areas will be a game-changer for job security and career growth in the coming years.
