Goldman Sachs Research Found AI Slowed Job Growth
A new report shows that industries highly exposed to automation have experienced a significant slowdown in new hiring.
Updated on Sept. 20, 2026 in Employment
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Goldman Sachs Research published a report indicating that the adoption of generative AI has impacted global employment trends. Industries with high exposure to automation have seen a measurable decrease in new job openings.
Why it matters
The integration of automated tools has fundamentally changed how companies evaluate their hiring needs, particularly for entry-level roles. This shift illustrates a broader pattern where automation exposure directly correlates with reduced headcount growth.
AI adoption rates currently range from 15 to 20 percent in developed economies versus 10 to 15 percent in emerging markets. The study analyzed exposure levels across more than 800 occupations to determine these labor trends.
The players
Goldman Sachs Research
This is the investment research division of the global financial institution that produces analytical reports on market and economic trends.
The details
Companies have re-evaluated their hiring plans following the integration of generative AI tools, which have created specific obstacles for entry-level positions. Call center employment has been particularly affected, with rates falling 39 percent below trend in the US, 33 percent in Canada, and 27 percent in Germany.
Timeline
The slowdown in job openings within exposed industries began in the second half of 2022.
Goldman Sachs Research published the findings on September 20, 2026.
Macro View
This labor shift follows the rapid emergence of automation technologies following the 2022 rollout of generative AI tools. Current hiring patterns reflect a departure from previous growth cycles as firms prioritize automated solutions over traditional staffing.
Job seekers in sectors with high automation exposure may face increased competition for fewer available entry-level positions. Workers in affected industries should monitor their field's adoption rate as companies continue to integrate AI-driven solutions.
The takeaway
The integration of AI is not merely changing how work is done but actively altering the availability of jobs in specific sectors. Prospective employees should consider upskilling in areas that complement automated tools to maintain long-term career viability.
Further reading
For more information on labor market trends, visit the /economics/employment/ section.
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Do you believe the adoption of AI in your industry makes finding entry-level work more difficult?
