A recent survey by Resume.org reveals that AI is significantly impacting entry-level hiring in U.S. companies, with many already freezing or eliminating such roles and projections showing further reductions in the coming years. The findings highlight a shift toward AI-driven efficiency, while also increasing demand for AI-skilled talent.
Quick Intel
A February 2026 survey of nearly 1,000 U.S. business leaders conducted by Resume.org shows AI accelerating changes in workforce strategies. Currently, 21% of companies have frozen entry-level hiring specifically because of AI advancements. Projections indicate escalation, with 36% planning to halt entry-level hiring by the end of 2026 and nearly half (47%) expecting no entry-level hiring at their company by 2027.
AI plays a central role in these decisions. Twenty-one percent attribute role eliminations solely to AI, 19% cite it as the primary driver, and 26% view it as one of several factors. Beyond freezing hires, companies are actively removing positions: 12% have already eliminated entry-level roles via AI, and 21% anticipate doing so before year-end, resulting in roughly one-third of companies expecting such eliminations by the close of 2026.
The impact extends to higher levels, though at a slower pace. Eleven percent of companies report AI has already removed mid-level roles, rising to 24% by year-end, while 10% have eliminated senior-level positions, projected to reach 26% soon.
Companies are reallocating resources amid these shifts. AI-driven efficiencies allow reductions in certain areas while boosting hiring in others. Forty-seven percent report increased recruitment of technical or AI-focused talent this year, and 48% are prioritizing workers proficient in AI tools.
"Employees without AI skills risk being sidelined as technologies augment or replace traditional functions," says Kara Dennison, head of career advising at Resume.org. "AI skills matter for two reasons: relevance and leverage."
Looking ahead, AI is poised to influence layoffs significantly. More than half (51%) of leaders expect their company to conduct layoffs in 2026 due to AI consolidating or eliminating roles. Twenty-nine percent report such layoffs have already happened, with 22% planning them for next year.
These trends underscore the growing importance of AI proficiency in maintaining career relevance amid evolving organizational needs.
About Resume.org
Resume.org is a platform dedicated to helping job seekers create effective resumes and navigate the hiring process. The site offers an AI-powered resume builder with expert support, professionally designed templates and examples from certified resume writers, and guidance from experienced recruiters. The platform helps users craft stronger resumes by highlighting essential keywords and showcasing skills in ways that align with employer expectations.
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