Analysis of 21,559 U.S. companies found the biggest AI spenders increased overall and entry-level hiring, with gains appearing after six to 12 months and spreading beyond engineering.
Companies making the largest investments in artificial intelligence are growing their workforces rather than shrinking them, according to analysis by Ramp and Revelio Labs. Reviewing data from 21,559 U.S. companies from 2021 to early 2026, the study found the highest AI spenders increased overall headcount by about 10% and entry-level hiring by about 12% after adopting AI, while low-intensity adopters saw no significant change. Hiring gains emerged over six to 12 months and extended beyond engineering into sales, administration, finance, and customer service. The authors said the findings do not prove AI directly caused the hiring growth, but they challenge concerns that generative AI is already driving broad job cuts.