- UK entry‑level job vacancies—covering graduate schemes, apprenticeships, internships and junior posts—have dropped by about 32% since ChatGPT launched in November 2022.
- These roles now make up only 25% of UK job listings, down from 28.9% in 2022.
- Factors include the rise of AI taking over low‑tier tasks and rising labour costs (NI, minimum wage, Employment Rights Bill).
- Tech firms like BT, Klarna, IBM and Amazon are already deploying AI in roles traditionally held by juniors.
- AI‑trained workers now earn around 56% more than their non‑AI‑skilled peers.
Since late 2022, when ChatGPT emerged, the market for entry‑level jobs in the UK has taken a serious hit. Adzuna reports a 32% plunge in vacancies for junior roles. These make up just a quarter of all job listings now, compared with nearly 29% two years ago. Growth may have resumed in the wider job market, but the entry‑level segment remains in free fall, even as average advertised salaries climb to roughly £42,400—up nearly 9% year on year.
Multiple forces are at play. The rapid adoption of AI in business can automate many of the routine tasks historically tackled by newcomers. Companies like Klarna, IBM and Amazon have begun replacing human roles with AI assistants. BT has outlined plans to cut tens of thousands of jobs, citing AI’s potential.
In addition, higher labour costs—including rises in National Insurance, minimum wage, and incoming Employment Rights legislation—make hiring entry‑level staff less appealing financially. Employers can reduce costs and boost productivity by turning to AI.
Although AI may be eliminating some roles, it is also creating opportunities: people with AI‑related skills have seen their pay rise by roughly 56% compared to those without. The mix of in‑demand skills is shifting rapidly, and workers without AI capabilities risk falling behind.
The government is urging swift upskilling across individuals and businesses to maintain competitiveness in the age of AI.
Link to full post: UK entry‑level jobs dive since ChatGPT launch
