IBM Expands Entry-Level Hiring Even as AI Reshapes Early-Career Roles

International Business Machines Corporation (NYSE:IBM) is included among the 14 Best Low Volatility Dividend Stocks to Invest in.

According to a February 12 report by Bloomberg, International Business Machines Corporation (NYSE:IBM) said it plans to triple its entry-level hiring in the US in 2026. This comes at a time when AI is widely seen as reducing opportunities for early-career workers across many industries. The company did not share exact hiring numbers. Still, it said the increase would apply broadly, covering multiple departments rather than focusing on just one area. “And yes, it’s for all these jobs that we’re being told AI can do,” said Nickle LaMoreaux, IBM’s chief human resources officer, speaking at a conference in New York this week.

LaMoreaux explained that she revised entry-level job descriptions for software developers and other roles. The goal was to show internally why expanding hiring at this level still made sense. This shift is already changing how junior employees work at IBM. Since AI can now handle much of the routine coding, junior developers are spending less time writing basic code. Instead, they are working more closely with customers and supporting real-world implementation.

A similar change is happening in HR. Entry-level staff are no longer answering every employee’s question directly. Instead, they step in when HR chatbots fail to provide accurate responses. Their role now includes reviewing AI output, correcting errors, and working with managers when needed. LaMoreaux said cutting entry-level hiring might reduce costs in the short term, but it creates long-term risks. Without enough early-career hires, companies may struggle to develop future mid-level managers. That often forces firms to hire from competitors, which tends to be more expensive.

She added that external hires usually need more time to adjust. Employees who grow within the company are already familiar with its systems, culture, and processes.

International Business Machines Corporation (NYSE:IBM) provides hybrid cloud, artificial intelligence, and consulting services worldwide. Its business is organized into Software, Consulting, Infrastructure, and Financing segments.

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