The current stage of socio-economic development is characterized by the rapid spread of AI technologies and their increasing impact on the employment sector and labor market structure. This paper presents some conceptual aspects related to artificial intelligence, allowing a better understanding of these processes. The main professional, socio-economic, technological, ethical risks and limitations posed by AI technologies for the labor sector are considered. At the same time, artificial intelligence prompts the evolution of professions and the emergence of new forms of labor activity that are discussed in the article, too. The AI implementation processes are outlined and their significance for employment in the Russian Federation are described. The article ends with some scenarios of how artificial intelligence impacts the labor sphere. The articles concludes that in the long term it is advisable to perceive AI technologies as a tool for further automation and progressive development of all types of human activity.