The tech job market has taken a hit since the pre-pandemic era. According to recent data, there’s been a 36% drop in US tech job postings since then. This decline is attributed to the 2021 hiring overexpansion during the zero-interest-rate policies. But what’s more interesting is the role AI is playing in this shift. Machine learning engineer postings have seen a 59% increase since 2020, despite a 34% drop in entry-level roles. This growth is supported by McKinsey’s 2023 projection that AI could add $13 trillion to the global economy by 2030.
This shift towards automation is likely to continue, with companies investing more in AI and less in traditional hiring. The uneven economic recovery is also reflected in regional disparities, such as Austin’s 28% tech job decline versus Boston’s 51%. Tariffs and geopolitical uncertainty are expected to dampen US GDP growth, according to a 2025 Conference Board report.
So, what does this mean for tech job seekers and the industry as a whole? It’s clear that AI is changing the game, and we need to adapt to these changes. The question is, are we ready for an AI-driven future?