AI is shaking up software engineering—and is doing so in unexpected ways.
1. Junior Developers: faster ramp-up, fewer slots
Junior developers today benefit from tools like Copilot or ChatGPT that fast‑track learning and code generation. But firms are hiring fewer entry-level roles because AI covers much of the grunt work. A survey found 42% of engineers believe junior positions are under threat already. 
Studies by MIT Sloan and Google-backed trials reveal junior engineers saw productivity gains of 27% to 39% when using AI assistants like Copilot. However, many teams now prefer seasoned engineers who can prompt and validate AI output. 
2. Senior Developers: from typing code to guiding AI
Senior devs are leveraging AI to code faster—some studies show up to a 22% speed boost. But working in familiar, complex codebases sometimes makes AI a burden—developers in one trial took 19% longer using tools like Cursor Pro or Claude. 
At the same time, platforms like Copilot allow seniors to act as reviewers, prompt engineers, and architects. Their ability to manage AI outputs and judge design context now defines value. 
3. Software Consultancies: pivoting or perishing
Consultancies are not immune: many are closing off junior hiring, retraining staff, and shifting from pure time-based billing to AI‑enabled delivery and outcome models. 
Some firms saved millions: ServiceNow expects $100 million in hiring savings in 2025 due to internal AI adoption. 
Observers warn: consultants who only execute standard processes are vulnerable, while those who build or govern AI platforms are thriving. 
4. The Big Picture & What You Can Do
In real use cases, AI tools deliver mixed productivity: Atlassian reports 68% of devs say AI saves them 10+ hours per week, but organizational inefficiencies often offset gains. 
Meanwhile, McKinsey forecasts AI could add trillions to GDP globally by 2030—but companies must retrain and restructure to capture value. 
What to do:
• If you’re a junior, focus on building a solid foundation while weaving in prompt‑design and AI‑tool learning.
• If you’re senior, step into AI architecture, review, ethics, and outcome‑oriented project leadership.
• If you’re in a consultancy, redesign your services: aim for AI audits, platform deployment, generative UX, ROI-based contracts and internal accelerators.