Despite Layoffs, High-Tech Continues to Hire: Top Roles and Tips for Candidates

While large high-tech companies continue to announce waves of layoffs, Palo Alto Networks and Nvidia in Israel continue to hire on a significant scale. However, even in companies that are in a growth phase, the AI revolution is changing the requirements for candidates, the sought-after roles, and the way employees develop products.

Galia Akstein, VP of Human Resources at Palo Alto Networks, explains: "The problems we need to solve are the same, and even new ones have been added, so we need to develop technologies to continue protecting our customers. AI is entering, and some features that are SaaS products it can truly replace, requiring companies to change their business models and become more efficient. We are in a period of significant growth, continuing to expand development teams; we have over 200 open positions in many fields." About 75% of open positions are in development. The company is also hiring for cyber research, product management, and DevOps roles.

New Requirements for Professionals

According to Ori Kotler, Senior VP of Development at the Cortex division at Palo Alto Networks: "Today, for developers who use AI as a mother tongue, there is an advantage. Understanding, knowledge, and the critical ability to review what AI has created are important to us. We are looking to identify technological influencers who will be the engine for change—people with a real passion for AI, deep technological understanding, and the ability to shape culture."

Regarding roles that are disappearing, Akstein notes: "The whole world of QA is changing. Today, AI does automation excellently. Whoever deals with QA automation today is basically a developer; there is no reason why they couldn't be a full-fledged developer." She emphasizes that the need to learn and adapt is a challenge for everyone, including HR.

Long-term Investment

At Nvidia Israel, which employs over 6,000 people, the development center continues to expand. Yael Aviram Rosenfeld, Director of Recruitment, reports that over 430 positions are currently open. "We are hiring in significant volumes for roles across the entire hardware and software network—chip development, architects, communication systems engineers, and AI researchers. We view hiring students and juniors as a long-term investment," she says.

Recommendations for Job Seekers

Experts offer three key tips for those seeking high-tech positions:

1. Learning Mode: It is essential to stay updated on advanced AI technologies and understand how they affect your professional field.

2. Practical Preparation: Prepare for interviews by practicing how to present your experience, abilities, and achievements in a focused and clear manner.

3. Networking: Cultivate a network of personal contacts, maintain an up-to-date LinkedIn profile, and be present in relevant professional arenas.