G42, a UAE-based global technology group, has released a new report in collaboration with Semafor titled “What AI Experts Want from Their Employers.” This study provides valuable insights into the motivations of high-demand AI professionals in the U.S. talent market, focusing on their career decisions, relocation choices, and overall job satisfaction.

The report draws on insights from 750 AI specialists in leading talent hubs and identifies critical factors influencing their professional choices. These factors include job satisfaction, opportunities for career advancement, competitive compensation, and the increasing importance of flexible work environments and advanced AI infrastructure.

Key findings from the report highlight that 68% of respondents consider compensation important, while only 43% feel satisfied with it. Job security is another significant concern, with 70% valuing it, but only 48% express satisfaction. Moreover, 67% prioritize work-life balance, but just 48% feel content with their current situation. Important elements that drive job offers include salary and bonuses, access to advanced AI projects, and comprehensive benefits packages.

The report also indicates that essential skills vary among professionals, with deep learning, data engineering, and programming being in high demand. Senior professionals focus on machine learning specialization, while those in implementation roles value cybersecurity and intellectual curiosity. Different roles within the AI sector reveal varying priorities; for instance, research-focused professionals seek autonomy and global exposure, while implementation specialists are attracted to competitive salaries and rapid career growth opportunities.

Additionally, the study notes that 70% of associate-level respondents prefer hybrid work models, compared to 53% of team leaders. Experience plays a significant role in career aspirations; senior professionals are inclined toward leadership roles and sustainability-focused projects, whereas junior talent seeks flexibility and hands-on learning experiences.

Maymee Kurian, Group Human Capital and Culture Officer at G42, emphasized that attracting and retaining AI talent involves more than just compensation. She stated, “This report reinforces what we see every day: that attracting and retaining AI talent goes far beyond compensation, it’s about purpose, opportunity, and impact.” She highlighted that top professionals want to engage in cutting-edge projects that align with their values and allow for growth and leadership opportunities.

With international partnerships with companies like NVIDIA, AMD, Cerebras, Qualcomm, and OpenAI, and a significant investment of US$1.5 billion from Microsoft in 2024, G42 aims to create transformative opportunities for leading AI minds. This effort underscores the UAE’s ambition to be a global leader in AI, with PwC projecting that the country will rank third in AI’s contribution to GDP by 2030, due to its strategic investments in AI infrastructure and effective public-private collaboration.

For further information about G42 and access to the full report, visit their website.