Google fires over 200 AI contractors amid pay and job security dispute

The contractors, including experienced writers, educators, and creatives with advanced degrees, were hired to refine Google’s AI chatbot responses, but layoffs followed amid allegations of poor working conditions, underpayment, and retaliation after a blocked unionization effort

Google has laid off more than 200 contract workers responsible for training and refining its artificial intelligence tools, including the Gemini chatbot and AI Overviews, according to a report by Wired.

The contractors—many of whom are experienced professionals such as writers, educators, and creatives, some with PhDs or advanced degrees—were hired to evaluate and improve the human-like quality of responses generated by Google’s AI systems. Their work involved editing, rewriting, and fine-tuning chatbot outputs to enhance accuracy and natural tone.

Workers cite poor conditions, alleged retaliation

The layoffs come amid rising tensions over working conditions and pay. Contractors have alleged being underpaid despite high performance expectations and demanding workloads. Earlier this year, a group of workers attempted to form a union, but those efforts were reportedly blocked.

While Google did not provide a detailed explanation for the mass dismissal, it informed workers that it was “ramping down on the project.” Some contractors believe the move was retaliatory, following growing unrest and complaints about job security and compensation.

Two affected workers have filed complaints with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), claiming they were unfairly terminated due to their involvement in labor organizing and raising workplace concerns.

Earlier this year, Google had also restricted the contractors’ access to internal communication platforms, following increased dialogue around their grievances.

The company has not issued a public statement addressing the firings or the labor complaints as of press time.