LinkedIn Research Finds Sharp Gender Gap in AI Hiring

LinkedIn released 2026 labor-market research showing a significant gender disparity in the expanding artificial intelligence job market. While AI job postings in the United States have roughly doubled since 2023, women accounted for only 26% of U.S. AI hires in 2025, compared to 50% in non-AI roles.

The gap is most pronounced in high-paying leadership positions. Women hold only 13% of C-suite AI leadership roles across 27 countries. Specific underrepresentation is noted in lucrative roles such as Member of Technical Staff (18%), Head of AI (20%), and Director of AI (26%).

Financial incentives for AI roles are substantial, with typical postings offering approximately $177,000 in compensation, more than double the $80,000 average for non-AI positions. The research suggests education acts as a barrier to entry, as over 91% of AI workers hold at least a bachelor's degree, a requirement that exceeds 95% for the highest-paid roles.