Google dismisses approximately 200 AI contract workers, claiming they honed bots to take over their jobs: Reports
In a series of unexpected developments, more than 200 contract workers have been laid off from Google's Artificial Intelligence (AI) projects, including the project named Gemini. This news, reported by various media outlets, has sparked concerns over job security and working conditions.
The layoffs occurred in two rounds last month without prior notice. One of the affected workers, Andrew Lauzon, received a termination email on August 15. Eight workers who spoke to WIRED described their work as skilled and high-stakes.
Lauzon, who joined Hitachi-owned GlobalLogic in March 2024, was working on rating AI outputs to create a variety of prompts for the model. It was reported that GlobalLogic is using human raters to train the Google AI system, with the aim of replacing them with AI. However, the specifics of the project's ramp-down were not disclosed.
GlobalLogic, it seems, has taken over the employment of some of the contract workers dismissed by Google from its AI projects. Courtenay Mencini, a Google spokesperson, stated that the affected individuals are employees of GlobalLogic or their subcontractors, not Alphabet. Mencini also emphasised that Google takes its supplier relations seriously and audits the companies it works with against its Supplier Code of Conduct.
However, the workers reportedly face underpay, lack of job security, and unfavourable working conditions. Some of the workers had PhD degrees to be a part of the 'super rater' programme. Lauzon stated that he was not given a reason for his termination.
In response to the allegations, Mencini stated that GlobalLogic and their subcontractors are responsible for the employment and working conditions of their employees. Google, on the other hand, denies any responsibility for the job cuts.
This news comes at a time when the AI industry is rapidly evolving, with companies increasingly relying on AI systems for various tasks. The layoffs serve as a reminder of the potential impact such advancements can have on the workforce. As the industry continues to grow, it is crucial that companies prioritise the well-being and job security of their employees.
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