High-tech workers brace for change with 37% planning job moves in 2025
Survey highlights career shifts, relocation trends, and AI talent shortages.
High-tech development workers are optimistic about the market’s future but have been significantly affected by the war, according to a survey conducted by Nisha, a high-tech placement company from the Danel Group. The survey included high-tech workers in three fields: AI experts, software developers, and hardware developers.
Despite the impact of the war and economic challenges, 80% of respondents in the high-tech sector expressed optimism about the industry's recovery in 2025. According to the survey results, about 52% believe the market will recover gradually, while 27% are particularly optimistic and expect a significant recovery.
However, not all perspectives are positive: 35% of respondents believe Israel's position in the global market has been harmed by the war.
Additionally, 28% of respondents reported losing their jobs during this period, while 16% served in the reserves. Among those drafted into reserve duty, 84% returned to their previous jobs after completing their service.
The survey indicates a clear trend of job instability, with 37% of full-time employees planning to change jobs within the coming year. The main reasons cited for this are better employment conditions, a more advanced role, and higher salaries.
Another trend emerging from the survey is an increased willingness to relocate. Thirty percent of respondents expressed a willingness to move abroad—11% are certain they will do so, and 19% are seriously considering it. The primary motivation for relocation is economic, with the U.S. being the most preferred destination due to its status as a global center for technology and innovation. Last year, 50% of high-tech workers considered relocating, indicating a decline in the number of development workers interested in moving abroad.
"The Israeli high-tech market has strong resilience. The optimism expressed by industry professionals reflects a deep belief in the capabilities, advantages, and significant benefits of the Startup Nation and Israeli innovation. At the same time, while the number of employees considering relocation has decreased compared to last year, it remains high and reflects ongoing concerns. There is no doubt that industry stability, increased foreign investment, and government support—leading to more jobs—will encourage employees to remain in Israel," said Nisha CEO Dana Lavi.
The survey also shows that 55% of respondents believe Israel will continue to lead as a "Startup Nation." When asked about factors expected to drive recovery, respondents pointed to the end of the war, improvements in the global economic situation, and technological advancements. Conversely, among those who do not believe the market will recover, government policy was cited as the primary reason for pessimism.
One of the key challenges in the high-tech sector is the shortage of artificial intelligence (AI) experts. The survey indicates that the primary solution, according to most respondents, is retraining existing employees. This process could include advanced courses, professional retraining, and specialization in new technologies, helping the industry address the growing demand for AI experts.
The survey, conducted in February 2025, was commissioned by POKA research, managed by Miri Dikman, and included responses from 644 high-tech job candidates, 91% of whom are currently employed.
