AI’s Role in Tech Hiring Trends & What Future Engineers Need to Know
The rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming the software industry—not just in how we build technology, but also in who builds it. With companies increasingly using AI tools to write and review code, there’s growing concern over the future of entry-level software engineering roles.
Decline in Entry-Level Jobs
Top tech companies like Salesforce, Microsoft, Meta, and Google are now leveraging AI not just to boost productivity, but to streamline hiring. In some cases, this has led to reduced hiring for software development and customer support roles. For example, Salesforce acknowledged that AI-driven efficiency has allowed the company to operate with fewer engineers while maintaining output.
While AI was initially viewed as a tool to assist workers, many now believe it’s also playing a significant role in replacing junior positions, especially fresh graduates seeking tech roles.
AI Is Already Writing Code—A Lot of It
At Microsoft, AI contributes to 20–30% of the code in active projects. Meta has plans to let AI handle half of its software development within the next year. Google recently reported that over 30% of new code is generated by AI tools.
These tools aren’t just writing code—they’re reviewing it too. Platforms like GitHub Copilot, OpenAI Codex, and Google’s Gemini Code Assist are rapidly reshaping how development teams operate.
What It Means for Aspiring Engineers
Graduates in India and abroad who are pursuing careers in software engineering may now find fewer openings, particularly at major tech firms
Startups, once a major source of first jobs, are hiring even fewer freshers now—less than 6% in 2024, down from 30% in 2019.
Job Market Reality: Fewer Hires, More Automation
As AI becomes more capable, tech companies are prioritizing AI infrastructure over expanding their human workforce. This year alone, over 62,000 tech professionals have been laid off globally. Even as billions are invested in AI, traditional entry paths into the tech industry are shrinking.
Final Thoughts: Adaptability Is Key
While the AI revolution is cutting down on some job roles, it’s also opening up new areas of opportunity—especially for those who can adapt quickly, learn AI technologies, and position themselves at the forefront of innovation.
Training in AI-integrated software development, cloud technologies, and automation tools can make a crucial difference.