The Most In-Demand Skills and Jobs 2025
Find out which jobs and talents are most in-demand on Upwork in 2024. Discover the latest data along with historical details and projections of future trends.
As part of our ongoing job market monitoring, our team at the Upwork Research Institute has noticed a notable surge in demand in workers with expertise in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). As more businesses adopt AI disruption, they require qualified consultants who understand how to maximize these technologies while offering distinctively human oversight, so this desire for innovation is not surprising.
However, there are other high-demand talents that are creating new opportunities for today's workforce besides proficiency in AI and ML. Talent with practical project management, marketing material creation, and other skills is in high demand by clients.
Employment prospects and necessary competencies for 2025
These are some of the most sought-after skills—and associated jobs—on Upwork right now if you're hoping to take on new client work in 2024.
Analytics and data science
Our research shows that an increasing number of companies want to work with pros who have analytical skills that include:
- Generative AI modeling
- Data analysis
- Machine learning
Professionals with these skill sets can work on a variety of projects, such as developing a generative AI application from the ground up or assisting a tech client in integrating an existing large language model (LLM) into an organization.
Clients on Upwork are hiring for roles including:
- Data scientist
- Stable Diffusion consultant
- AI applications engineer
Coding and web development
Experts in web development and coding are always in great demand, and now there's an AI twist. Customers are especially keen to collaborate with individuals who are proficient in:
- AI-assisted web and software development
- Scripting and automation
- Database development
Though many clients and independent professionals see the value in using tools like Github Copilot and ChatGPT, there is still a need for development that does not involve AI.
Of course, there's still demand for development that doesn't involve AI—but many clients and independent professionals alike see the benefit in using tools like Github Copilot and ChatGPT.
Whether you choose to use Al in your development projects or not, you can find work on Upwork as a:
- Front-end developer
- ERP system specialist
- WordPress developer
Administrative assistance and project management
Talent that can help clients manage moving components and see projects through to completion is always in high demand. The administrative and project management abilities of the most sought-after professionals include:
- Information Technology (IT) project management
- Executive virtual assistance
- Logistics coordination
Whether you're just starting your career or you're a seasoned pro, you can use Upwork to find admin and project management jobs like:
- Insurance verification specialist
- Technology virtual assistant
- Third-party logistics (3PL) project manager
Sales and Marketing
While good communication skills remain the backbone of sales and marketing work, this field continually evolves along with technology. Right now, clients want to work with professionals who have solid sales skills or experience with:
- Business development
- Al-assisted copywriting
- Email marketing
With skills like these, you can find sales and marketing roles on Upwork across an array of industries. Look for opportunities for:
- Sales consultants
- Content writers
- Brand managers
Accounting
ChatGPT may have very basic math skills, but it can't run Quickbooks or audit business finances. For that, companies still need professionals with skills in:
- Bookkeeping
- Tax preparation
- Financial modeling
Whether you're seeking clients at tax time or looking for accounting work at another time of year, there are jobs on Upwork for:
- Fractional CFOs
- Certified public accountants (CPAs)
- Bookkeepers
Consulting
Consulting opportunities are popping up in more industries than ever. While many clients do need the help of AI consultants, increasing numbers of opportunities are available for professionals skilled in:
- Branding and marketing
- Business development
- Human resources (HR) administration
If you have deep experience in your industry, you can start offering consultations on Upwork (including Instant Consultations!) today. By adding a consultation offering to your profile, you can begin working as a:
- Career coach
- Cybersecurity consultant
- Business analyst
These are just a few of the ways people work as a consultant on Upwork—you can tailor consultations to nearly any need or industry.
Design and creative
In-demand creative skills go beyond marketing and expand into other roles and industries. Three of the top skills we’re seeing a demand for right now are:
- Packaging design
- Music production
- Videography
Plus, you can find even more creative job opportunities on Upwork by upskilling and learning how to use AI in your work. When you’re comfortable working creatively with AI, you can find roles like:
- AI artist
- Video production assistant
- AI-assisted presentation design