Tech layoffs top 115,000 as FDEs surge for AI rollouts
Business
Even with tech layoffs hitting hard in 2026 (over 115,000 jobs gone at big names like Meta and Amazon), forward-deployed engineers (FDEs) are suddenly the hottest ticket.
While many roles are shrinking, companies are scrambling to hire FDEs to help roll out and manage AI tools.
FDE job postings jump 729%
FDE job postings shot up by 729% in just one year, jumping from 643 to over 5,300 openings.
Firms are offering $170,000 to over $200,000 salaries for people who can bridge the gap between AI tech and real business needs.
Even consulting giants like McKinsey want FDEs who can combine coding skills with client know-how—a trend that's only expected to grow as more companies go all-in on AI.