Consulting firms are still hiring entry-level workers even as AI upends their industry. Here's how much they are making.

The consulting industry is undergoing a seismic shift as artificial intelligence increasingly automates traditional tasks, particularly those performed by entry-level employees. Despite these changes, firms continue to recruit new talent, albeit with a strategic focus on candidates who possess specialized skills in areas like AI implementation and digital transformation. Namaan Mian, COO of Management Consulted, notes that while the demand for entry-level roles remains strong, the nature of these positions is evolving. "We continue to see high demand for talent in AI implementation, digital transformation, and data, while salary growth for traditional generalist roles remains relatively muted," he stated. This trend has prompted consulting firms to seek individuals with specific expertise rather than solely relying on traditional consultants. For instance, Gert De Geyter, a former AI lead at Deloitte, highlighted that firms are now looking for a mix of generalists and technical experts. This shift is evident at EY, which has expanded its hiring criteria beyond accountants to include engineers, creatives, and candidates from diverse backgrounds, including those without formal degrees. When it comes to compensation, entry-level salaries have not seen significant increases, according to Management Consulted’s latest report. The firm analyzed job offers from major consulting companies to provide insight into what new graduates can expect. Here’s a snapshot of the entry-level compensation across some of the top firms: - **Bain & Company**: Base Salary: $112,000; Performance Bonus: up to $22,500; Housing Allowance: up to $5,000; Signing Bonus: $5,000. - **Boston Consulting Group (BCG)**: Base Salary: $110,000; Performance Bonus: up to $22,000; Signing Bonus: $5,000. - **McKinsey & Company**: Base Salary: $112,000; Performance Bonus: up to $18,000; Signing Bonus: $5,000. - **Deloitte**: Base Salary: $84,000-$95,000; Performance Bonus: up to $26,250 for MBA hires; Signing Bonus: up to $12,500. - **EY**: Base Salary: $100,000; Signing Bonus: $12,500. - **KPMG**: Base Salary: up to $90,000; Signing Bonus: up to $7,500. - **PwC**: Base Salary: up to $90,000; Signing Bonus: up to $7,500. - **Accenture**: Base Salary: $105,000; Performance Bonus: up to $30,000; Signing Bonus: up to $12,500. As the consulting landscape evolves with AI integration, these firms are adapting their hiring practices while maintaining competitive compensation structures for new graduates entering the workforce.