AI is replacing developers — so why did engineering hiring climb 7%?
signalfire data shows engineering roles grew 7% at startups and 11% at tech majors in 2025, suggesting ai tools are increasing demand rather than replacing workers.
signalfire analysis of 80m companies indicates engineering is 2025's most resilient job function, with startups increasing engineering headcount by 7% and tech majors hiring engineers for 55% of new roles. despite cites of ai as a layoff driver, data shows demand is rising, echoing jensen huang's observation that nvidia engineers are busier than ever with agentic ai. this trend implies that while ai automates tasks, it simultaneously expands the scope and demand for high-level engineering work.