Entry-Level Jobs Are Broken: The Real Problem (It’s Not AI)

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

The real problem with entry-level jobs isn’t artificial intelligence—it’s that many of these roles were designed incorrectly from the start. According to new data from ICIMS, 78% of Generation Z sees AI as a major threat to their early-career opportunities. While their concern is valid, the deeper issue predates AI: companies have long treated entry-level roles as “grunt work” rather than as a strategic pipeline for future leaders.

Why Entry-Level Jobs Feel Broken for Gen Z

Generation Z faces two major obstacles when searching for entry-level positions. First, employers often expect mid-level experience for jobs labeled “entry-level.” Second, automation and AI are shrinking the number of available roles.

Unrealistic Expectations

Trent Cotton, Head of Talent Insights at ICIMS, explains: “Over half (59%) of Gen Z candidates agree that companies now expect entry-level applicants to already have mid-level experience.” This disconnect frustrates young job seekers who feel they can’t win.

Degree Requirements That Don’t Match the Job

37% of Gen Z believe a college degree is still required for entry-level roles even when it may not be necessary. Meanwhile, 36% feel technical and AI-related skills are valued more than soft skills like communication. This mismatch alienates a large portion of talent—especially since Gen Z makes up over 40% of the candidate pool.

Gen Z’s Distrust of AI in the Job Market

Though Gen Z is considered “digital natives,” their feelings toward AI are mixed. According to ICIMS:

• 58% agree companies are hiring fewer entry-level employees because of AI
• 78% agree that AI and automated tools are reducing entry-level roles
• 50% are rethinking their career paths because of AI (35% reconsidering, 15% already changed plans)

This anxiety is real and driving young workers to adapt—33% are applying to broader roles, 30% are learning new AI skills, and 29% are using AI tools themselves to improve their applications.

AI in Hiring: Skepticism Runs Deep

When AI is used in hiring, Gen Z is skeptical:

• 37% don’t trust AI because it feels “too impersonal”
• 21% worry about bias or confusion from automated tools
• 22% only accept AI if a human makes the final decision
• Only 7% believe AI actually speeds up hiring

Despite this, Gen Z is actively adapting. They’re upskilling, using AI tools, and applying to more diverse industries to stay competitive.

Advice for Gen Z Job Seekers

If you’re a recent grad struggling to land a job, here’s practical advice from Trent Cotton:

• Close the experience gap: Upskill in AI and related tools. Build real projects or earn credentials that show employers immediate value.
• Think beyond corporate roles: Look at high-demand frontline sectors like manufacturing or hospitality. These industries have more openings and less competition. You can build skills, move up faster, and use that momentum as a launchpad.

Remember: the career you choose today isn’t forever. Soft skills like communication and problem-solving will serve you in any role—and AI can’t truly replicate them.

AI Can’t Replace People (Yet)

There’s hope for Gen Z. Cotton notes that “95% of enterprise AI fails,” according to MIT research. He predicts some entry-level jobs will return as companies realize AI isn’t a silver bullet. Early signs? IBM is doubling down on hiring entry-level talent again.

A Strategic Plan for Entry-Level Work

Instead of cutting roles to save money, smart organizations will redesign entry-level jobs to focus on uniquely human tasks—while using AI for automation and augmentation. As Cotton says, “Those early-career roles are where people learn the business, absorb execution work, and build judgment. When you pull that rung out of the ladder, you hollow out your leadership bench.”

Entry-level jobs should never have been defined by grunt work alone. Now is the time for companies to rethink their talent strategy—and for Gen Z to adapt, upskill, and find opportunity in unexpected places.