12-hour days, no weekends: the anxiety driving AI’s brutal work culture is a warning for all of us
In the heart of San Francisco, a new work culture is emerging within the rapidly growing artificial intelligence (AI) sector. This culture is characterized by grueling hours, intense pressure, and a relentless pursuit of innovation. The term “996” has become synonymous with the work ethic in the tech industry, referring to a schedule of working from 9 AM to 9 PM, six days a week. However, many workers in AI startups are pushing beyond this, often logging 12-hour days without weekends.
The Reality of AI Work Culture
San Francisco’s AI startups are notorious for their demanding work environments. Employees frequently report working seven days a week, often for 12 hours or more each day. Sanju Lokuhitige, co-founder of the AI startup Mythril, exemplifies this trend. He moved to San Francisco to immerse himself in the tech scene and admits to sacrificing his work-life balance for the sake of his career. “Sometimes I’m coding the whole day,” he shares, reflecting the sentiment of many in the industry.
Another employee, who prefers to remain anonymous, describes his experience working for an early-stage AI company in a cramped apartment in Dogpatch. The founders of the startup work around the clock, often from 9 AM to 3 AM, with only brief breaks for meals or cigarettes. This employee characterizes the situation as “horrendous,” noting that the work culture has escalated to 16-hour days, far surpassing the already demanding 996 schedule.
Changing Dynamics in the Tech Industry
The tech industry has long been associated with hustle culture, where high energy and growth at all costs are celebrated. However, the atmosphere has shifted in recent years. The initial excitement surrounding AI has been tempered by anxiety about job security and the implications of rapidly advancing technology. Many workers are now questioning whether the AI they are developing is beneficial for society.
Major tech companies have also scaled back on employee perks, which were once abundant. As layoffs have swept through the industry—reportedly affecting about a quarter of a million workers globally in 2025—anxiety has permeated the workplace. Leaders like Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk have openly discussed the potential for AI to replace junior and mid-level engineers, creating an environment where employees feel increasingly insecure about their positions.
The Shift in Employee Expectations
Mike Robbins, an executive coach who has worked with prominent tech companies, observes that the balance of power has shifted away from employees. “When companies become less scared about losing employees, they can be more demanding,” he explains. This shift has led to a focus on change, disruption, and uncertainty in the workplace, rather than employee wellbeing, which had been a priority during and after the pandemic.
Despite the pressures, many tech workers remain passionate about the innovations happening in AI. Kyle Finken, a software engineer at Mintlify, expresses concern about job security but also excitement about the extraordinary advancements in technology. He believes that while the roles may evolve, there will still be ample opportunities for software engineers in the future.
Innovation Amidst Anxiety
The current era in tech is marked by creativity and productivity, with many employees dedicating extra hours to their work out of genuine interest in the new tools and capabilities being developed. Garry Tan, head of Y Combinator, recently boasted about spending 19 hours experimenting with AI tools, highlighting the enthusiasm that many in the industry feel.
However, this passion comes with its challenges. The rapid pace of change in AI means that taking time off can result in missing significant developments. The fear of falling behind drives many workers to extend their hours, often at the expense of their health and personal lives.
Conclusion
The brutal work culture emerging in the AI sector serves as a warning for all industries. As technology continues to advance, the pressure on employees to perform at increasingly high levels will likely persist. Balancing innovation with employee wellbeing is crucial to ensure a sustainable work environment. The lessons learned from the AI industry’s current challenges can inform practices across various sectors, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
Frequently Asked Questions
The 996 work culture refers to a schedule where employees work from 9 AM to 9 PM, six days a week. It is commonly associated with high-pressure environments in the tech industry, particularly in China.
AI startups often demand long hours from their employees, leading to a significant erosion of work-life balance. Many workers report feeling pressured to work 12-hour days, seven days a week, which can result in burnout and anxiety.
Improving employee wellbeing in tech requires a cultural shift that prioritizes work-life balance, mental health support, and sustainable work practices. Companies should focus on creating environments that foster both innovation and employee satisfaction.
Note: The insights presented in this article reflect the current state of the tech industry and the challenges faced by workers in the AI sector. It is essential for companies to consider the wellbeing of their employees as they navigate the rapidly changing landscape of technology.
