Tech hiring 2025: Hottest jobs to chase - and the roles you should avoid

If you’re looking to build a tech career in 2025, it’s more important than ever to choose your path wisely as professionals face a sharply divided landscape. Some roles, especially those linked to AI, machine learning, and enterprise technology, are in high demand, offering strong salaries and growth opportunities. At the same time, many traditional and entry-level tech positions are declining, making it crucial for job seekers to understand which roles are worth pursuing and which to avoid.

According to Indeed Hiring Lab, tech job postings were down 36% from early 2020 levels as of July 2025, reflecting both broader economic conditions and the evolving impact of artificial intelligence (AI).

Hottest Tech Jobs to Chase
AI and machine learning roles remain the strongest growth areas. Positions such as machine learning engineers and AI/ML specialists have continued to see high demand, with postings above pre-pandemic levels. Business Insider reports that AI-focused positions, including “AI/ML engineer,” have become increasingly common and often command some of the highest salaries in tech, with 2024 median pay for machine learning engineers around $260,000 annually.

Enterprise technology roles also remain attractive. SAP consultants and leads have shown steady demand, reflecting the value businesses place on software that supports wide-ranging operations. Data science roles are similarly resilient, combining analytical skills with AI-driven business insights. Brendon Bernard, senior economist at Indeed, notes that these specialized positions are among the few tech jobs where demand has remained strong despite broader hiring freezes.


Roles to Avoid or Approach with Caution
In contrast, many traditional mid-tier and entry-level tech roles have experienced steep declines.

According to Indeed research, software engineers remain the most common tech title but have dropped 49% from early-2020 levels. Mid-level developer positions, including Android, Java, iOS, .Net, and web developers, have been hit particularly hard, with postings down over 60%. Entry-level and junior roles are also scarce, and more positions now require five or more years of experience, making it difficult for early-career professionals to break into the field.

Bernard highlights that most remaining opportunities now require five or more years of experience, making it challenging for early-career professionals to enter the field.

Geography can influence opportunities. Indeed’s data shows that tech hiring has held up better in cities where local non-tech hiring also remains strong. For those entering or switching within tech, focusing on AI-related skills, enterprise software expertise, and highly specialized roles is likely to offer the best prospects. Developing skills in areas less susceptible to automation can further improve long-term career stability.

Outlook for Tech Employment

Despite the slowdown in postings, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that overall employment in computer and mathematics occupations remains elevated, up nearly 19% from 2019. However, the gap between employment levels and available postings suggests limited opportunities for new entrants. As Indeed and Business Insider research indicates, success in 2025 will depend on targeting roles with strong demand, competitive pay, and resilience to automation, while avoiding positions that are declining or restricted to highly experienced professionals.