The latest hot new job:AI Prompt Engineers

I came across this article from Bernard Marr, which seems quite prescient given it was written in May, before AI became as headline-dominant as it is now. It highlights certain new jobs arising from the technology. One which piqued my interest is that of “AI Prompt Engineer” (PE), a post already being advertised and reportedly attracting six-figure salaries!

Essentially, a PE’s function is to get the most from generative AI by steering it with a very precise use of words - the English language in-effect being their code. An imprecise prompt will generate an imprecise answer. Breaking down complex undertakings into a series of steps for AI overcomes this drawback. It’s much the same as how good managers get the most from their reports, by using the right language and instructions.

In cases where the technology is displacing personnel, I’ve been musing over who would make the best PEs to define the roles impacted. It seems to me nobody would be better placed than the very employees themselves. Who better to describe the job than those who have done it? Perhaps they could negotiate an exit package to include one final contract! And with courses now available in how to become a PE, the more innovative could build a new business advising competitors in the same way. Always a silver lining…!