While the technology sector was once seen as the fastest-growing sector, especially for young employees, it has now been hit with layoffs and hiring freezes.
Amid this shifting landscape, Indeed, America’s biggest job platform has issued a cautionary note: not all tech jobs are equally valuable in today’s market, as reported by Economic Times.
According to the study, there has been a sharp fall in overall tech job postings. Positions linked to artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning continue to attract strong demand, while many traditional and entry-level roles are losing traction.
The slowdown comes as companies shift focus towards efficiency, automation, and AI-led integration, reducing dependence on labor-intensive development roles, added Economic Times.
Roles losing relevance
The analysis highlights several positions that are no longer considered “hot” in the job market:
- Front-End Web Developers: Demand is shrinking as low-code platforms and pre-built design templates replace conventional skills.
- QA Testers: Automated tools powered by AI are steadily reducing reliance on manual testing.
- IT Support Specialists: With the rise of cloud-based services and self-service solutions, fewer in-house teams are required.
- Blockchain Developers: The decline of cryptocurrencies and tighter regulations have sharply cut opportunities in this space.
Why this change?
Bernard points to three central forces reshaping hiring patterns in tech:
- AI and automation: Work that once required large teams is increasingly streamlined by intelligent systems.
- Remote work: Shifts in infrastructure have lowered demand for traditional IT positions.
- Economic pressures: Selective hiring practices now prioritize innovation-focused and revenue-linked roles.
Numbers at a glance
Despite the downturn, certain roles remain highly sought after. These include AI/ML engineers, cybersecurity analysts, cloud architects, and data scientists, aligning with companies’ focus on intelligent systems, secure networks, and data-driven strategies.
The report lists the biggest changes in job postings:
Largest declines
- Web Developer: –72 per cent
- .NET Developer: –68 per cent
- Java Developer: –68 per cent
- Front-End Developer: –67 per cent
- iOS Developer: –62 per cent
- UX Designer: –61 per cent
- Programmer Analyst: –58 per cent
- QA Engineer: –57 per cent
- Senior Java Developer: –55 per cent
- Software Test Engineer: –53 per cent
Largest increases
- SAP Lead: +356 per cent
- AI/ML Engineer: +334 per cent
- Oracle HCM Manager: +263 per cent
- Data Center Technician: +144 per cent
- SAP Consultant: +98 per cent
- Oracle Consultant: +67 per cent
- Staff Software Engineer: +60 per cent
- Machine Learning Engineer: +59 per cent
- Technology Lead: +51 per cent
- Platform Engineer: +43 per cent