Layoffs hit Google's Gemini chatbot raters during union talks

Last month, Google abruptly laid off more than 200 contract workers who assisted in training responses for its Gemini chatbot. The move by outsourcing firm GlobalLogic has drawn attention to labor relations in the rapidly growing field of artificial intelligence.

Many dismissed contractors specialized in reviewing and improving Gemini's chatbot replies and Google search summaries, but despite their expertise, they earned between $18 and $32 per hour and often missed out on benefits. Layoff timing led to accusations of retaliation, as many had recently joined union efforts.

Who were the Gemini chatbot raters?

The affected workers, often referred to as super raters, came from diverse backgrounds, including writing, teaching, and scientific research. Their key responsibility was to evaluate Gemini chatbot responses for accuracy, tone, and helpfulness.

Many contractors were selected for their advanced degrees, ensuring high-quality feedback on conversational AI outputs. The fusion of expert creativity with technical precision made these raters integral to Gemini’s development.

Contractors did everything from fact-checking summaries for search results to refining nuanced user queries. Their work formed the backbone of Google's AI training pipeline, adding human context that algorithms alone cannot replicate.

Did you know?
Some Google AI raters held advanced degrees in education and research yet lacked health or retirement benefits.

Why did union activity surge among AI contractors?

Labor concerns grew as pay disparities between direct GlobalLogic hires and third-party contractors became evident. Direct hires made nearly $10 more per hour compared to their counterparts, despite similar workloads and qualifications.

With job security uncertain and no paid leave, workers turned to unionizing for better conditions. Union membership increased swiftly, rising from under 20 members in late 2024 to around 60 by February 2025.

Organizers cited issues with inconsistent policies and opaque termination protocols, making organized advocacy the primary channel to improve workplace standards.

Contractors campaigned for fair pay and transparency, especially as project ramp-downs and social channel bans made communicating challenges harder.

Did automation contribute to job loss?

Internal company documents hinted GlobalLogic was piloting automated systems capable of reviewing chatbot responses. This initiative suggested an intent to phase out human oversight for certain tasks.

Workers voiced concerns that advanced AI was being used to replace rather than empower them, leading to deepening unease and a climate of job insecurity. Some contractors observed that as union efforts gained momentum, discussions about automation and machine-led ratings intensified.

Several raters expressed the belief that their work in training Gemini had inadvertently accelerated their obsolescence as algorithms absorbed their feedback. The tension between advancing technologies and job preservation remains pronounced.

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How has Google responded to the controversy?

Google distanced itself publicly, stating that the laid-off workers were employed by GlobalLogic, not Alphabet, and that all employment terms were managed by the outsourcing partners.

Spokesperson Courtenay Mencini clarified Google had no direct control over hiring or firing decisions, framing the situation as an issue for subcontractors.

GlobalLogic, meanwhile, declined to comment on specifics, leaving contractors frustrated by a lack of dialogue.

Several terminated workers have since filed complaints with the National Labor Relations Board, citing wrongful termination for union activities. The approach has sparked a broader debate about responsibility in tech labor supply chains.

What does this mean for the future of contract AI work?

Industry analysts predict rising organization among contract-based AI trainers globally as their contributions grow more essential. Layoffs and labor disputes highlight systemic risks in outsourcing critical tech roles to third parties with less accountability.

Workers hope newfound attention will yield reforms in pay equity, benefits, and protection against abrupt job loss. As automation technologies mature, contract workers remain cautious about their prospects.

The Gemini rater firings may set a precedent for how tech giants, intermediaries, and regulators address employment concerns. The progress of union efforts and potential regulatory changes in the tech labor landscape are currently the focus of attention.

Despite recent setbacks, contract AI workers have started leveraging collective power to advance their rights. Their experience emphasizes the value of balancing technological progress with humane employment practices, signaling a future in which labor and AI development will need to evolve together.