Is AI stealing our jobs? A survey of 2,000 IT executives reveals a complicated answer
40% of execs cut IT ops jobs, but 56% hired more for the same roles as AI transforms work.
A comprehensive survey of 2,050 global executives conducted by Snowflake reveals that AI's impact on IT employment is far more nuanced than simple job elimination. The data shows simultaneous cuts and hiring within the same job categories: 40% of organizations reduced IT operations roles due to automation, yet 56% increased hiring for those same positions. Similar patterns emerged in software development (26% cuts vs. 38% hiring), cybersecurity (25% vs. 46%), and data analytics (37% vs. 37%). According to Baris Gultekin, Snowflake's VP of AI, this represents a "reorganization of work" where AI automates repetitive tasks while creating new responsibilities around AI integration, governance, and oversight.
Overall, 77% of surveyed organizations reported some level of job creation due to generative AI, with only 11% indicating net job loss. The survey highlights a significant shift in required skills, with 35% of companies citing skill gaps as a major barrier to AI success. As enterprises move from AI experimentation to scaled implementation, demand is growing for professionals who can manage data foundations, governance models, infrastructure, and ongoing model optimization. This evolution is creating higher-value roles focused on ensuring AI systems operate responsibly, securely, and effectively within business workflows.
- 40% of executives cut IT operations jobs, but 56% hired more for AI oversight roles in the same category
- 77% of organizations reported creating new jobs through AI implementation, with only 11% seeing net job loss
- 35% of companies cite skill gaps as a top barrier, highlighting demand for AI governance and data engineering expertise
Why It Matters
Professionals must shift from basic technical skills to AI oversight, governance, and integration capabilities to remain competitive.