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The position of AI engineer has seen the most significant surge over the past year, with numerous other technology-driven roles also experiencing notable expansion, according to LinkedIn’s latest findings.
LinkedIn’s research analyzed job data from millions of its members who started new roles between January 1, 2023, and July 31, 2025. This analysis was used to determine the growth rate of each job title, ultimately ranking the top 15 positions experiencing the most rapid growth.
Leading the pack is the AI engineer, a role focused on creating and implementing AI systems to handle various tasks. This position surpassed the chief risk officer, who is responsible for identifying and evaluating potential risks to a company, such as cybersecurity threats.
Artificial intelligence was a recurring theme among the top roles, with the director of artificial intelligence—a position that involves managing the development and implementation of AI strategies within an organization—securing the fourth spot.
“AI is transitioning from a specialized skill to an integral part of daily operations and leadership,” stated LinkedIn’s Brendan Wong.
The study reveals more people are looking to start their own small businesses, with the role of founder appearing in seventh on the list after a 58 per cent surge, according to the study’s data.
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1 |
AI Engineer |
AI engineers design and build systems that use artificial intelligence to perform tasks such as analysing data, recognising patterns and making predictions. There is a major surge in demand for AI engineers in Australia, as generative AI adoption accelerates across industries. |
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2 |
Chief Risk Officer |
Chief risk officers identify, assess and manage potential risks that could affect an organisation’s operations, finances or reputation. As Australian firms navigate increasing regulatory scrutiny, cybersecurity threats and operational risks, the Chief Risk Officer role is becoming more strategic and central to C-suite decision-making. |
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3 |
Mechanical Engineer |
Mechanical engineers design, develop and test mechanical systems and devices to ensure they function safely and efficiently. Mechanical engineers are increasingly needed to support Australia’s infrastructure and energy transition. |
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4 |
Director of Artificial Intelligence |
Directors of artificial intelligence oversee the development and implementation of AI strategies within an organisation. More C-suite executives in Australia are upskilling in AI, reflecting a push for a senior leader to guide AI strategy, governance and transformation. |
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5 |
Organisational Development Manager |
Organisational development managers create and implement strategies to improve workplace structures, processes and employee performance. With businesses rapidly transforming to adapt to AI, there’s growing demand for people who can design and implement change-management strategies. |
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6 |
Legal Director |
Legal directors manage legal matters for an organisation, including compliance, contracts and advising on regulatory issues. In Australia’s increasingly complex regulatory environment — driven by technology (AI), ESG and private-capital investment — Legal Directors are in demand to steer compliance, contracts and high-value transactions. |
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7 |
Founder |
Founders establish and lead organisations by defining their vision, securing resources and guiding overall operations. Australia’s startup ecosystem is growing fast across a variety of sectors including health tech, climate solutions and AI, and there’s strong momentum for founders to launch startups that build on generative AI and data tools. |
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8 |
Media Director |
Media directors plan and oversee media campaigns, ensuring content is delivered effectively across channels to reach target audiences. As organisations invest more in digital transformation and AI-driven content, there’s a rising need for Media Directors who can lead multi-channel media strategy and content operations that leverage new technologies. |
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9 |
Regulatory Affairs Consultant |
Regulatory affairs consultants advise organisations on compliance with laws and regulations, preparing documentation and liaising with authorities as needed. With the rapid uptake of AI and other transformative technologies, companies increasingly need Regulatory Affairs Consultants to help them navigate evolving legal landscapes, engage with regulators and maintain compliance. |
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10 |
Power System Engineer |
Power system engineers design and maintain electrical power systems to ensure reliable generation, transmission and distribution of electricity. Australia’s energy transition — especially growth in renewables and battery storage — is driving demand for power system engineers to design, maintain and optimise generation, transmission and distribution systems |