As artificial intelligence becomes more integrated into various sectors, fears about job displacement are rising. A recent study by LinkedIn reveals that 84 percent of professionals in India feel that they are not equipped to look for a new job, despite 72 percent claiming that they are actively searching for a new job in 2026.
The results are a reflection of the challenges that workers are currently facing due to the rapid change in the skills that are required. However, the results also indicate that not all jobs are at risk.
According to a report by LinkedIn, “India Jobs on the Rise 2026,” there are various jobs that are growing at a very rapid rate, which indicates that the need for human skills is still high in sectors where decision-making, strategy, care, and knowledge are essential.
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Roles growing despite AI disruption
LinkedIn analysed hiring trends over the past three years to identify the fastest-growing jobs in India. The list spans technology, leadership, sales, healthcare and renewable energy, underlining that growth is not limited to coding-heavy roles.
Prompt engineer
Professionals in this role design precise instructions that help AI tools deliver accurate outputs. With the rise of generative AI and chatbots, demand has grown sharply. LinkedIn data shows around 2,340 open roles in India.
AI engineer
AI engineers build and refine systems such as machine-learning models and automation tools. They are in demand across banking, healthcare and IT services. India currently has over 7,200 AI engineer openings, with more than 35,000 AI-linked jobs overall.
Software engineer
Despite automation, software engineering remains one of the largest and most resilient job categories. More than 52,000 roles are currently open across sectors ranging from technology to manufacturing.
Manager of artificial intelligence
AI managers oversee teams working on AI initiatives and ensure systems align with business goals. The role focuses on strategy and coordination rather than coding. India has around 8,000 AI leadership positions listed.
Strategic advisor
Strategic advisors guide companies on long-term planning, risk assessment and market positioning. These roles are common in consulting firms, large corporations and startups, with about 6,000 openings nationwide.
Media buyer
Media buyers manage advertising budgets across digital, television and print platforms. With digital advertising expanding rapidly, LinkedIn lists around 3,000 media buyer roles in India.
Sales specialist
Sales specialists remain essential across industries such as technology, pharmaceuticals and real estate. Demand continues to stay high, with thousands of openings across regions.
Behavioural therapist
Growing awareness of mental health has increased demand for behavioural therapists, who support individuals through counselling and therapy. LinkedIn shows around 6,000 openings in this field.
Veterinarian
Rising pet ownership and steady demand in the livestock sector have kept veterinary roles resilient. India has 1,000 or more openings across public and private sectors.
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Solar consultant
Solar consultants advise households and businesses on renewable energy solutions. As India accelerates its clean energy push, demand for these roles continues to grow, with hundreds of openings nationwide.
Career shifts under way
The report also points to changing attitudes toward careers. About 32 per cent of Gen X job seekers are considering moving into new roles, while 32 per cent of Gen Z professionals are exploring opportunities outside their current industries. Interest in entrepreneurship is also rising, with the term “founder” seeing a sharp increase in LinkedIn searches.
