Emerging job roles in AI, quantum computing, and blockchain in demand: Report

Organisations embracing new technologies have led to growing demand for specialist roles like artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML) scientists, quantum computing researchers, quantum AI developers, and blockchain specialists, a new study has found. A joint report by job portal Indeed and Nasscom called the Future of Work 2024 showed that the most sought-after roles are in the domain of data analytics, followed by AI-based roles in customer experience and automation.

In view of the limited adoption, these roles are difficult to hire for, hence companies are resorting to upskilling existing workforce or hiring subject matter expertes through flexible working models like Gig and contractual employment.

Organisations are also exploring new markets for talent and strategic partnerships to gain competitive advantage, diversify, and tap into untapped consumer bases. Both service-based organisations and global capability centers (GCCs) are expanding across tier-2/3 cities, now being touted as emerging technology hubs, for hiring. While talent availability and cost savings are primary drivers for smaller organizations with revenue less than INR 25 Cr, for larger tech firms (Revenue > INR 250 Cr) the key drivers are the availability of diverse skill sets and untapped talent in these technology hubs, the report found. 

To be sure, a November study conducted by Pearson for cloud solutions provider ServiceNow found that AI and automation will create a demand for 4.7 million new tech jobs, while also creating a need for over 16 million workers in India to reskill and upskill by 2027. This was found in a study conducted by Pearson for cloud solutions provider ServiceNow.

Simultaneously, the country’s digital skill ecosystem is expected to grow with increased demand for roles like application developers (75,000), data analysts (70,000), platform owners (65,000), product owners (65,000), and implementation engineers (55,000) by 2027 to meet the tech deficit.