Despite AI automating more coding tasks and entry-level hiring weakening, U.S. software development job postings have risen nearly 15% since February 2025. This rebound is primarily driven by senior-level roles, accounting for 71% of the increase between May 2025 and May 2026, and AI-oriented positions, which made up 37% of the growth. Meanwhile, employment for early-career software developers (aged 22-25) has fallen 20% since the rise of generative AI. Experts suggest the profession is evolving, with demand shifting towards developers who can oversee AI-generated code, refine products, and integrate AI tools into broader systems.