Google Lays Off Over 200 AI Contractors, Sparking Backlash Over Labor Rights
Google is facing scrutiny after laying off more than 200 contract workers involved in AI development, particularly in projects like Gemini and AI Overviews. The move has raised concerns about low pay, poor working conditions, and allegations that the company is suppressing unionization efforts. According to a report by WIRED, the layoffs were carried out by GlobalLogic, a subcontractor hired by Google to manage AI evaluation work.
These contractors, often referred to as super raters, were responsible for assessing and refining AI responses to ensure accuracy, usefulness, and natural tone. Many of them hold advanced degrees. One affected worker, Andrew Lauzon, shared that he was cut off immediately and told it was due to project downsizing. Employees believe the layoffs were a direct response to their organizing efforts for better pay and working conditions.
The issue highlights the hidden side of the AI industry, which relies heavily on highly skilled yet underpaid workers who lack job security. Google has distanced itself from the controversy, with a spokesperson stating, “These workers are employees of GlobalLogic or subcontractors, not Alphabet.” This layered employment model is common in tech, allowing major firms to avoid direct accountability for contractor labor conditions.
Some workers accused GlobalLogic of actively hindering unionization. Reports claim online discussions about pay equity were deleted, and workers were banned from using certain communication channels during work hours. At least two employees have filed complaints with the National Labor Relations Board, alleging they were terminated for advocating transparency in wages and labor rights. These claims underscore the growing tension in the AI sector, where employees face the risk of being replaced by the very systems they help train.
Concerns deepened after internal documents revealed that GlobalLogic is developing automated tools to evaluate chatbot responses, potentially making the super rater role obsolete. One worker described the fear bluntly: “We’re like lifeguards keeping things safe, but if we speak up too much, we get pushed out.”
Despite continuing to invest billions into AI to compete with OpenAI and Microsoft, Google now faces questions about the human cost behind its rapid technological growth. The lack of accountability in contractor management and the suppression of labor rights could damage the company’s reputation in the long run.
