This surge in demand contrasts with a slight contraction in the technology sector itself, which shed approximately 10,350 positions during the month. According to CompTIA’s analysis of Bureau of Labor Statistics data, total tech occupation employment across all industries dipped by 6,000 roles, while the unemployment rate for tech workers ticked up to 3.3%. Despite this friction, 16 of the 20 industries tracked by CompTIA reported month-over-month growth in tech hiring needs.

Software developers and engineers remain the most recruited professionals, capturing 47,598 new openings in September. Organizations are increasingly prioritizing roles that facilitate digital transformation and AI integration. Active postings requiring AI-related skills have jumped 282% since May 2024, now totaling nearly 350,000. Seth Robinson, vice president of research at CompTIA, noted that companies are focusing on core IT skills to build digital discipline and advance AI adoption even while broader hiring caution persists.