Tech Hiring in 2025: Hottest Jobs and Roles to Avoid

AI and machine learning roles remain in high demand, with positions like machine learning engineers and AI/ML specialists seeing high demand and strong salaries. Enterprise technology roles, such as SAP consultants and data science positions, also remain attractive. However, traditional mid-tier and entry-level tech roles have declined, with software engineers down 49% from early-2020 levels. Geography can influence opportunities, with tech hiring holding up better in cities where local non-tech hiring remains strong.

The tech job market has experienced significant shifts in recent years, with AI and machine learning roles remaining in high demand while traditional mid-tier and entry-level positions have seen a dramatic decline. According to data from Indeed, tech job postings have plummeted 35% since early 2020, with some roles seeing a radical drop in demand [1].

The decline began post-pandemic and continued after the release of ChatGPT in late 2022. AI and machine learning roles have seen a surge in demand, with positions such as machine learning engineers and AI/ML specialists commanding strong salaries. Enterprise technology roles, such as SAP consultants and data science positions, also remain attractive. However, junior tech positions have seen a significant drop, with more job postings now requiring 5+ years of experience [1].

Traditional software engineering roles have been particularly hard hit, with postings down 49% from early-2020 levels. Geography also plays a role in tech hiring, with cities where local non-tech hiring remains strong seeing better tech hiring outcomes [1].

Meanwhile, AI companies are increasingly seeking partnerships with the government to gain a foothold in Washington. OpenAI and Anthropic are charging just $1 per agency to access their leading AI models for the next year, with federal employees able to experiment with AI models at no cost through the USAi platform [2].

These shifts highlight the evolving landscape of the tech job market, with AI and machine learning roles continuing to be in high demand, while traditional mid-tier and entry-level positions struggle to maintain their footing. As the tech industry continues to evolve, it will be crucial to monitor these trends and adjust strategies accordingly.

References:
[1] https://www.businessinsider.com/hottest-tech-jobs-roles-you-should-avoid-sap-ai-2025-8
[2] https://www.businessinsider.com/openai-anthropic-1-dollar-deal-trump-ai-2025-81