AI Ethicist Career Guide: Role, Salary, and How To Get Started

An AI ethicist is a professional who helps guide the ethical development, deployment, and oversight of artificial intelligence systems. They work across industries to prevent bias, protect privacy, and ensure AI technologies align with societal values and human rights.

As AI systems become more embedded in everyday life—from ChatGPT and DALL-E 3 to health care algorithms and cybersecurity—AI ethicists play a growing role in shaping how technologies are used responsibly. And they will become increasingly important as AI proves itself to be integral to industries and in our daily lives. Generative AI, in particular, is changing how work gets done.

However, with this growth comes ethical concerns. While AI systems are becoming increasingly prevalent and complex, they still provide outputs that can suffer from misinformation and biases, leading to a pressing need for ethical oversight and safeguards. This misinformation varies from glaringly obvious to slight, with the latter making mistakes hard to detect with critical thinking alone. The ethical implications of AI are far-reaching.

Enter the role of the AI ethicist, an essential figure in driving the responsible deployment of AI and its usage. This guide dives into the significance of AI ethicists, their vital role, and how to become one.

What is an AI ethicist?

Imagine venturing into a dense forest of technological wonders, with paths leading to unimaginable advancements but also pitfalls and dangers. In this metaphorical AI forest, AI ethicists serve as trusted guides, recognizing the risks of AI and catalyzing actions to make sure every step forward aligns with ethical considerations.

Their role is pivotal, mediating the rapid pace of AI innovations and the pressing ethical dilemmas these innovations can pose. They work to ensure that, as businesses and governments harness the transformative power of AI, it's developed and deployed responsibly, bridging potential pitfalls such as copyright infringements, misinformation, or the inadvertent creation of harmful applications.

AI ethicists shine a light both on the ethical imperatives of technological progress, and on potential solutions. As AI continues to develop, constantly bringing fresh opportunities and challenges, the role of the AI ethicist will become ever more critical, bringing more responsibility in tandem with technological advancements.

The importance of ethical AI

AI stands at the crossroads of innovation and societal responsibility. When ethically constructed and applied, AI can support forward transformational change in fields like medicine, finance, and transportation.

However, an error in these areas due to an unethical use of AI can erode public trust, leading to hesitancy in adopting newer technologies. This emphasizes the need for trustworthy AI systems and applications.

Imagine the distrust that could arise from biased AI algorithms  misdiagnosing patients or misidentifying suspected criminals. AI ethics isn't merely about the moral integrity of machine output; it's about fostering societal good and maintaining trust.

The imperatives of AI ethics include:

• Preserving human rights. The digital age has seen an explosion in data collection and use. This data often contains personal, sensitive information. Ethical AI is dedicated to safeguarding the privacy of this information as well as ensuring the algorithms and models developed don't inherit or perpetuate societal biases present in the data they're trained on. This is crucial, as algorithmic biases can lead to discriminatory practices, inadvertently reinforce societal prejudices, and violate fundamental human rights.
• Building trust in AI systems. Trust is a foundational aspect of any technology's adoption. For AI, this trust is even more crucial, given the impact AI systems can have. By making AI systems operate transparently, clarifying their role in decision-making processes, and enforcing accountability, organizations are more likely to foster trust among the public. A trusted system is one that users feel confident integrating into their daily lives and industries.
• Promoting responsible AI research and innovation. AI has the power to reshape entire industries. However, with this transformative power comes a responsibility. Ethical frameworks guide AI researchers to not just chase innovation for its own sake but to do so with an awareness of the societal changes they might usher in. By adhering to these best practices, researchers can work toward assuring their innovations benefit humanity at large and don't inadvertently cause harm.
• Ensuring AI understandability and explainability. The complexity of some AI models, especially deep-learning models, can be daunting. Stakeholders—from CEOs to end users—must have a clear understanding of how AI works and makes decisions. This isn't only about trust; it's also about accountability. If something goes wrong, understanding the AI's algorithms and decision-making process is crucial to pinpoint ethical issues and fix them.
• Addressing economic impacts. As AI systems become more sophisticated, there's a valid concern about job displacements in sectors throughout the economy. Ethical AI doesn't only focus on the technology but also looks at its broader economic ramifications. This involves considering how AI can be integrated into the workforce to augment human capabilities rather than replace them, striving for a future where AI aids and elevates human workers rather than displaces them.
• Mitigating real-world harm. AI's real-world applications are vast. For example, a malfunctioning AI in health care could lead to incorrect diagnoses, while errors in autonomous driving algorithms could result in accidents. Ethical AI emphasizes the importance of rigorous testing, continuous monitoring, and ensuring that AI systems in critical areas operate with the highest safety standards. The goal is to reap the benefits of AI without exposing society to undue risks.

Key responsibilities of an AI ethicist

As we navigate the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence, AI ethicists play a pivotal role in driving its responsible and ethical application. Here are some of their primary responsibilities:

• Create and enforce ethical frameworks. AI ethicists create standards that define ethically sound paths for AI development and deployment. They also monitor compliance to verify that projects remain within moral boundaries.
• Audit AI systems. Regularly reviewing AI algorithms and outputs is crucial. By pinpointing and rectifying biases or discriminatory patterns, ethicists support AI applications' preservation of fairness and equity alongside their accuracy and thoroughness.
• Collaborate with stakeholders. AI ethicists work hand in hand with AI developers, policymakers, and industry leaders, ensuring ethical considerations remain a priority throughout the AI development life cycle.
• Stay informed on AI advances. With the rapid pace of AI advancements, ethicists continuously update their knowledge. This diligence allows them to preemptively address newly emerging ethical challenges.
• Engage the public. Active community engagement helps ethicists gauge public sentiment. This interaction enables them to address concerns and explain the ethical dimensions of AI, promoting transparency and trust.
• Recommend policy changes. AI ethicists play a pivotal role in AI governance, advising policymakers on the crafting of laws and regulations that resonate with ethical best practices in AI.
• Assess ethical risks. Ethicists consistently evaluate potential pitfalls in AI projects, strategizing to ensure these initiatives uphold ethical standards.
• Partner across disciplines. Collaboration is key. By networking with data scientists, researchers, and domain experts in areas like robotics, AI ethicists maintain a holistic perspective on AI ethics.

AI ethicist salary and demand

Salaries for AI ethicists vary based on education, experience, and location, but they tend to reflect the high demand for professionals who can balance technology with social responsibility. According to Glassdoor, an ethicist can expect to earn $210,000 to $361,000 per year. 

These figures can vary broadly, though—for instance, computer and information research scientists (some of whom conduct advanced research to develop ethical AI systems) earn a median salary of $145,080. Senior-level roles, especially those requiring extensive experience or advanced degrees, may command higher salaries. ​

AI ethicists are especially in demand in sectors where responsible AI initiatives and decision-making have a significant impact, such as health care, financial services, government, education, cybersecurity, and tech. Roles can be found in ethics advisory boards, AI policy teams, product development, or as independent consultants.

How to become an AI ethicist

Becoming an AI ethicist means merging the worlds of technology and morality, guiding the trajectory of AI advancements to facilitate their ethical application. The path involves both technical proficiency and a deep understanding of societal implications.

Because AI is such an emerging space, the educational background may seem a bit nontraditional. Even if you don't have a degree in computer science, there are plenty of ways to increase your foundational education. In the following sections, we cover a road map to this career path.

1. Acquire foundational knowledge in AI and machine learning

To excel as an AI ethicist, you'll want to first grasp the core principles of AI systems, algorithms, and machine learning. These foundational concepts form the bedrock of AI applications.

For a comprehensive start, consider institutions known for their groundbreaking AI research. For instance, OpenAI provides resources, libraries, and guides that look at the intricacies of algorithms, AI models, and the broader realm of data science.

You may also want to augment this foundational knowledge with a formal degree, like a bachelor's or master's degree, or certifications focusing on AI ethics. Institutions like Stanford offer graduate certifications in AI, providing credentials that are both recognized and respected in the industry.

2. Dive deep into ethical theories and principles

Becoming an AI ethicist isn't just about grasping the technical side of AI; it's equally about understanding how this technology intersects with societal values and implications. Consider general studies in ethics and social justice to complement technical training. How do the applications of AI align with ethical standards?

Take facial recognition AI as an example. While these tools have become adept at analyzing and comparing faces from surveillance footage against existing databases, their accuracy is imperfect in an industry in which the stakes are high. Notably, research points to racial biases in such technologies.

The ethical questions then become clear: Is it ever okay to rely on potentially biased tools? If so, how can we address and reduce these biases? And there's the additional layer of privacy concerns to consider.

As an AI ethicist, these are the types of questions you'll navigate and answer. To get a solid foundation on ethics principles related to AI, start with courses like Ethics of Artificial Intelligence on Coursera.

3. Best AI ethics certifications

Certifications can help you gain credibility and deepen your understanding of ethical AI principles, especially if you're transitioning from a tech or humanities background. Here are some top programs to consider:

• MIT's AI: Implications for Business Strategy. Covers responsible AI strategy and decision-making for product teams.
• IEEE CertifAIEd. A global certification program that audits AI systems for alignment with ethical standards.
• Coursera: Ethics of Artificial Intelligence. Free and accessible foundational ethics training.
• Harvard Online: Data Science Ethics. Explores privacy, consent, and data governance in ML models.

4. Engage in interdisciplinary studies

Artificial intelligence isn't confined to a single domain—its reach spans across many industries. Whether it's assisting doctors in diagnostics, aiding researchers in advancing robotics, or supporting financial analysts in predicting market shifts, AI plays a pivotal role.

However, the application and reception of AI are also shaped by cultural and regional nuances. Consider California, a global hub for tech innovators, where the environment often fosters AI advancements.

Additionally, regions like China and Europe offer unique perspectives shaped by their distinct regulatory and cultural landscapes. Consider remaining updated on the origination, evolution, regulations, and cultural differences across these regions. Benchmarking these insights can guide in building and refining the most effective AI strategies.

For an enriched understanding, look at diverse case studies. They can spotlight AI's varied applications and also highlight the ethical implications unique to each context.

5. Gain hands-on experience with AI technologies

Understanding AI conceptually is a great start, but its potential and pitfalls become evident when you engage with it directly. AI ethicists benefit from having firsthand experience with AI tools and techniques.

Here's how you can gain invaluable practical knowledge:

• Begin by downloading AI datasets and models to experiment. Platforms like Kaggle offer challenges that can help you refine your skills.
• Attend workshops and seminars. Learning directly from AI professionals gives you insights into the mechanics and ethics of AI systems.
• Seek out internships or collaborative opportunities. Consider both emerging startups and tech industry giants. These experiences can expose you to the real-world intricacies of AI, enhancing your understanding of its ethical implications.

By immersing yourself in these activities, you'll gain a clearer perspective on how AI operates in real-world scenarios, gaining the knowledge to address its ethical challenges.

6. Connect with AI communities and stakeholders

In the journey to become an AI ethicist, you'll want to both grasp the theory and also immerse yourself within the AI community. Engaging with professionals from various sectors provides a comprehensive understanding and widens the scope of your insights.

Start by strengthening your presence on platforms like LinkedIn. This allows you to easily connect with AI enthusiasts, data scientists, policymakers, and other key players in the field.

To dive deeper into AI ethics discussions, consider attending AI-themed conferences, workshops, and seminars. These gatherings frequently consider the ethical ramifications of AI and offer a platform for debate and knowledge sharing.

By taking these steps, you're not just networking—you're positioning yourself to actively contribute to and champion the cause of ethical AI.

7. Stay updated with AI advancements and ethical discussions

In the dynamic world of AI, what's cutting-edge today might be old news tomorrow. Because of these rapid technological advancements, AI ethicists can't afford to rest on their laurels.

Gone are the days when AI's impact was limited to research labs. Modern advancements, like audio-generation tools capable of cloning voices, present both promising opportunities and ethical conundrums.

For example, deepfake voice scams have been used to impersonate CEOs in real-time phone calls, leading to major financial losses. These tactics raise new questions about identity, consent, and liability in an AI-powered world.

As AI systems grow more autonomous—generating content, making decisions, and interacting with humans in real time—ethical oversight will become more embedded in product teams and policymaking. The AI ethicists of the future won't just assess harm after deployment—they'll co-design solutions from the start, using interdisciplinary skills that span policy, design, data science, and philosophy.

To remain at the forefront of these developments, tap into credible sources. Publications from authoritative experts like the Brookings Institution offer insightful coverage of the ever-evolving relationship between AI technology, policy, and ethics.

By staying informed, AI ethicists can increase the likelihood that they're doing more than reacting to the AI landscape, and are actively shaping its ethical trajectory.

8. Advocate for ethical AI and contribute to the discourse

The path to ethical AI is a collaborative journey, one that thrives on diverse voices and fresh perspectives and hinges on great communication skills. As an AI ethicist, your role isn't just about understanding—it's also about shaping, guiding, and leading the proper deployment of AI systems.

• Consider launching a website or blog dedicated to AI ethics discussions. Offer a platform to dissect current trends and challenges.
• Engage in conversations on social media. Join real-time debates around AI's impact and potential.
• Position yourself as a thought leader by presenting at AI workshops and seminars. Share your findings, concerns, and vision for a more ethical AI landscape.
• Participate in discussion groups and forums. Debate cutting-edge AI technologies and their implications.
• Collaborate with startups and established enterprises. Infuse existing and emerging projects with an ethical lens.

While you don't need to embrace every avenue, choose the channels that resonate most with you. Your engagement will help deepen your understanding and amplify the collective call for ethical AI practices.

Explore responsible AI

AI can potentially aid doctors in improving patient care, help people with financial choices, and offer creatives new avenues for expression, among other benefits.

However, with AI's potential also comes challenges. We need to harness AI's capabilities while ensuring the use of AI is ethical and furthers the betterment of society.

Stepping into the role of an AI ethicist means diving deep into these considerations. The journey involves continuous learning about AI ethics and its responsible applications, and also adding to the broader conversation.

Thinking of furthering your career in AI ethics? Check out the diverse AI job listings on Upwork.

Companies that lead with ethical AI practices avoid regulatory issues, build stronger products, attract top talent, and gain user trust faster. Integrating ethics early can be a strategic differentiator in a competitive market. For businesses keen on enhancing their AI operations while maintaining ethical standards, the Upwork marketplace hosts a curated list of AI ethics specialists ready to assist.

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‍Upwork does not control, operate, or sponsor the tools or services discussed in this article, which are only provided as potential options. Each reader and company should take the time to adequately analyze and determine the tools or services that would best fit their specific needs and situation.