The Real Problem With Entry-Level Jobs (It's Not AI)

Entry-level jobs are failing in ways not caused by AI, according to ICIMS data, and the issue appears to be intensifying for Gen Z. The report says Gen Z makes up 40% of the candidate pool and views AI with significant distrust: 78% see it as a threat to early-career opportunities. At the same time, Gen Z faces unrealistic employer expectations, with 59% saying companies demand mid-level experience for roles marketed as entry-level. Respondents also cite rigid qualification requirements, including unnecessary college degrees. Trent Cotton of ICIMS argues companies should redesign these roles to emphasize pipeline building rather than repetitive “grunt work,” which he says AI can handle. He also suggests some entry-level roles may reappear if organizations realize the limits of AI-driven cost cutting and the harm to developing future leadership.