Companies are hiring for something AI can't do, a review of millions of job listings found

A recent study by Draup, a labor and market data platform, reveals that while artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the tech landscape, it is not diminishing the need for tech workers. Analyzing 2.85 million job postings from June 2025 to June 2026, the report indicates that AI is not leading to job losses but rather reshaping the skills that employers seek. Despite a wave of layoffs in the tech industry, the findings show a robust demand for positions in software engineering, data engineering, and DevOps, each boasting over 40,000 active job listings. According to Draup CEO Vijay Swaminathan, "AI isn't reducing the need for technical talent, but it is changing what makes technical talent valuable." The report highlights that while automation is altering technical roles, key skills like judgment, design, and accountability are becoming increasingly vital. Expertise in understanding one's role and effective communication are also set to remain crucial in the AI-dominated job market. Draup's analysis of over a million software development job descriptions points to a future where debugging and critical thinking during code reviews are essential, whereas routine tasks, such as boilerplate coding, face the risk of automation. Employers are now seeking candidates proficient in AI tools, with platforms like GitHub Copilot and Cursor frequently mentioned in job listings. However, the outlook for entry-level candidates is more complex. The report notes that expectations for junior hires are escalating, as the basic tasks they traditionally managed are increasingly automated. This trend suggests that employers may need to rethink their hiring and development strategies to focus on nurturing essential skills in early-career professionals. Overall, the key takeaway is for employers to shift their focus from current job functions to the enduring capabilities that will remain relevant even as AI continues to evolve. This shift could lead to a more dynamic and skilled workforce capable of adapting to the rapid changes in technology.