Software engineering job openings hit five-year low?

The number of software engineering job listings has significantly dropped compared to previous years, as tracked by Indeed. Factors contributing to this decline include increased productivity from AI tools, overhiring during the pandemic boom, and higher interest rates affecting the economy. While Big Tech companies have slowed down hiring, smaller teams at startups like Linear and Bluesky are thriving. AI tools might lead to more efficient small teams and potentially democratize software development for non-developers, impacting the demand for software engineers in the future.