Survey: 30% of U.S. Companies Plan to Replace Workers with AI in 2026

A new survey by AIResumeBuilder.com reveals that 3 in 10 U.S. companies plan to replace employees with AI in 2026, according to a press release. The survey of 1,250 business leaders found that administrative, customer service, and IT support roles are most likely to be automated.

One in five companies reported already replacing jobs with AI in 2025. Among those expecting AI-related layoffs next year, 59% plan to cut at least 10% of their workforce, while 10% expect AI to replace half or more of their employees. Sectors most likely to see AI-driven job losses include IT, software, finance, energy, accounting, telecom, HR, manufacturing, and retail.

The survey also found that two-thirds of business leaders believe employees with AI skills have greater job security. Most companies planning to hire in 2026 prefer candidates with AI knowledge. Nearly 9 in 10 companies said AI is increasing productivity, with more than half expecting employees who use AI to produce significantly more work each week.