U.S. Tech Hiring Outlook Remains Strong Despite Economic Challenges Amid AI Skills Demand
U.S. Tech Hiring Outlook Remains Strong Despite Economic Challenges
The U.S. tech hiring scene continues to show resilience, holding a significant position in the labor market despite ongoing cooling compared to previous years. According to the latest Tech Talent Outlook from Experis, a solution provider under ManpowerGroup, the hiring outlook remains one of the brightest under current economic conditions.
As we enter the fourth quarter of 2025, companies in the tech sector report a Net Employment Outlook (NEO) of 46%. While this figure reflects a decrease of two points from the previous quarter and four points from the same time last year, it still notably exceeds the global average of 36%. The U.S. sits alongside other nations leading in tech hiring predictions, such as Belgium, India, and Canada, which come in at 52%, 48%, and 47%, respectively.
Interestingly, over half (58%) of U.S.-based tech employers are looking to expand their workforce in the upcoming quarter, while only 11% anticipate making cuts. A noteworthy trend is the increasing focus on hiring driven primarily by the need for digital competencies, particularly in advanced areas like artificial intelligence (AI). About 24% of employers acknowledge that they are actively recruiting to keep pace with digital advancements, emphasizing the growing demand for digital skills among the workforce.
Kye Mitchell, President of Experis U.S., highlights a more nuanced view of the labor market. “The narrative isn’t about jobs disappearing, but rather that the skill requirements are amplifying. AI plays a crucial role in this evolution, not as a tool to replace humans, but as a catalyst for change. Companies are beginning to recognize the necessity to invest in the right skill sets to ensure they remain competitive in a demanding climate.”
Key Challenges for U.S. Tech Employers
Employers in the tech field are currently facing several pressing challenges, including:
1. Attracting Qualified Talent (41%): The difficulty in locating tech specialists who possess the necessary qualifications continues to rank at the top.
2. Improving Candidate Experience (37%): As the tech market grows increasingly competitive, making the application and interview process more appealing is gaining prominence.
3. Filling Complex Tech Roles (36%): The intricacies of certain tech positions require specialized skills that are often hard to find.
While the broader tech sector has moderated by two points since the last quarter, it remains relatively steady compared to the previous year's data. This trend reflects growing economic uncertainty worldwide, but stark contrasts in hiring conditions exist across established technology hubs, showcasing reliability for job seekers.
For workers armed with sought-after digital skills, this steady increase in hiring creates promising opportunities, particularly in fields such as AI integration, cloud migration, and cybersecurity. These skills are increasingly prioritized by employers who are keen on facilitating long-term transformations within their organizations.
The vital takeaway from the Q4 2025 Experis Tech Talent Outlook is the essential nature of digital skills moving forward. With the next report set to release in December 2025, it's an opportune time for potential job seekers to prepare for upcoming roles in the tech landscape.
About the Survey
This report draws from data collected through ManpowerGroup's Employment Outlook Survey, regarded as one of the longest-running employment surveys globally. This year, 6,533 IT employers across 42 countries shared their predictions for hiring in the fourth quarter. The sampling standards across various regions enhance the value of the data, enabling clear comparisons.
About ManpowerGroup
With a 75-year legacy, ManpowerGroup is a leading global workforce solutions provider that helps organizations thrive in an evolving job market. By connecting talent with opportunity, it delivers innovative solutions across 70 countries. Its family of brands—Manpower, Experis, and Talent Solutions—ensures diverse, sustainable employment opportunities are available globally.
In conclusion, despite cooling recruitment rates, the U.S. tech hiring outlook showcases a landscape filled with potential, especially for those equipped with relevant digital skills. As companies continue to seek talent to harness technological advancements, job seekers targeting these areas stand to benefit greatly.