What Does an AI Ethicist Do?

AI ethicists monitor the ethical implications of AI technology. As artificial intelligence grows in scope, demand, and scale, the ethical implications of its use grow, too. AI's influence and complexity bring moral, social, and legal questions, and professionals with expert knowledge and backgrounds in these fields are now being called to serve in roles that find ethical answers to these questions. Read more to learn about artificial intelligence ethicists, what experience and background you need to qualify for the role, and the average annual salary.

Read more: AI Ethics: What It Is and Why It Matters

What is an AI ethicist?

An AI ethicist helps address the ethical questions and implications of using artificial intelligence within an organization. In this role, you typically work in a corporate responsibility department. AI ethicists consider the legal, social, and moral implications of AI and other information technologies and then prepare presentations or reports addressing those implications. As an AI ethicist, you consider the potential consequences of AI, including environmental impact, technology misuse, value alignment, and transparency. 

Why do ethics matter in AI?

Ethics matter in AI because the far-reaching implications of the technology have yet to be regulated and may raise ethical concerns like reinforcing structural biases, especially when it comes to subjects like health care, creditworthiness, or employment. Because AI is yet to be federally managed, private companies are typically responsible for creating and deploying AI systems. This means that if those companies have particular structural biases, the AI system might reinforce those biases to the detriment of users. Any ethical concerns not addressed by the creators tend to become ethical flaws in the AI system—and when these systems are making decisions about sensitive subjects such as health care, creditworthiness, or employment, then it’s vital to ensure the people making these decisions do so ethically.

What are some of the ethical concerns about AI?

AI ethicists help monitor the ethical concerns about AI, including inaccurate replies, fabricated answers, and inherent biases, which can have negative consequences on society as a whole. Some of these concerns include:

• Discriminatory biases

• Plagiarism

• Infringement of intellectual property rights

• Dispersion of misinformation

• Privacy and surveillance issues

Read more: 4 Types of AI: Getting to Know Artificial Intelligence

What does an artificial intelligence ethicist do?

Artificial intelligence ethicists are the leading experts on potential ethical issues and concerns associated with AI implementation. In this role, you help to lead businesses with robust regulatory frameworks that address the social and ethical concerns that may occur within AI technology. You inform leadership about potential issues, the risks those issues might involve, and how to best avoid any ethical problems throughout the artificial intelligence lifecycle.

Tasks and responsibilities

The specific tasks and responsibilities of an AI ethicist depend on your specific industry, field, and employer, but some typical expectations of the role include:

• Conducting reviews of AI systems for ethical issues before deployment

• Creating compliance processes and internal guidance to mitigate harm

• Collaborating with other professionals to include moral boundaries in AI design

• Establishing standards for ethical AI development

• Participating in continuing education for current AI trends

• Educating and training others on ethical AI practices

AI ethicist skills

As an AI ethicist, you must have a well-rounded background to address the many factors of AI ethics. Some of these skills may include the following technical and workplace skills.

Technical skills

Some of the technical skills of an AI ethicist role include:

• AI technology skills

• Computer science skills

• Public speaking skills

• Framework development skills

Read more: How to Learn Artificial Intelligence: A Beginner’s Guide

Workplace skills

Some of the workplace skills of an AI ethicist role include:

• Strong communication skills

• Strong collaborative skills

• Analytical and critical thinking skills

How much do AI ethicists earn?

AI ethics is a growing career area, meaning the job outlook is exciting and full of potential. Because AI ethicist roles are newer, they often fall under other job titles that still encapsulate the same tasks and responsibilities. For example, some AI ethicists are called data privacy leads, also called compliance analysts. According to Glassdoor, the estimated total pay for compliance analysts in the US is $268,683 per year [2]. This figure includes an average base salary of $164,048 and $104,635 in additional pay. Additional pay may represent profit-sharing, commissions, or bonuses.

AI ethicist career path

The AI ethicist career path is an eclectic one. This role is new and evolving, as are the standards and expectations. It’s typically expected that you have a well-rounded educational background that may include advanced degrees to successfully meet the various demands of the profession. A diverse perspective, work experience across several disciplines, public speaking and training experience, and a strong background in policy development all contribute to an ideal candidate.

Once you’ve developed a varied background, joining AI forums, attending network events, and going to conferences and workshops to seek out opportunities and build relationships is helpful. AI ethics, and AI in general, are constantly changing, so pursuing an AI ethicist career role now is an exciting opportunity to be part of this emerging field and help shape its future.

Education and training

Typically, you need a robust educational background to be an AI ethicist. A four-year degree in a subject such as philosophy, computer science, or ethics can be a solid foundational choice. Many AI ethicists also pursue advanced degrees, often in AI ethics or another specialized topic. Hands-on experience is also helpful for success in this role. Consider seeking internships or participating in ethics research projects to continue your education. 

Learn more with Coursera.

Sharpen your artificial intelligence skills and learn more about the exciting career of artificial intelligence ethics with courses and certificates on Coursera. With options such as DeepLearning.AI’s AI For Good Specialization, you’ll have the opportunity to learn more about the burgeoning world of AI ethics and its important role in ensuring a positive social impact. Topics covered include AI in public health, climate change, and disaster management. Upon completion, gain a shareable Professional Certificate to include in your resume, CV, or LinkedIn profile.