AI use inside companies is starting to influence who does what work—and who keeps their job.
A survey from ResumeBuilder found that 60.7% of full-time U.S. workers have used AI to take on tasks previously handled by a coworker.
Higher AI Use Where Layoffs Hit
The behavior is more common in companies that have reduced headcount. At firms with layoffs in the past year, 74.3% of workers report using AI to absorb additional responsibilities, compared to much lower levels where layoffs are not expected.
Many workers aren’t just picking up one task. About a third say they’ve taken on four or more responsibilities in the past six months.
Most Workers Aren’t Fully Disclosing AI Use
AI is widely used, but not always openly discussed. 62.8% of workers who took over tasks say they did not tell their manager how much of the work was being done with AI. Others referenced working harder or learning new skills rather than pointing to AI directly.
Concerns about job security play a role, with many workers saying they would worry about their position if their manager understood how much AI was involved.
The data also points to how close these changes can be.
About 70.8% of workers say the coworker whose tasks they took on was a workplace friend. More than half say that person was later laid off.
More Output, More Rewards
Taking on additional work is often recognized.
Nearly half of workers report positive performance reviews after expanding their responsibilities. Promotions, raises, and added responsibility are also common, with many receiving at least one form of career reward.
What It Means for Workplaces
AI use is becoming part of how employees increase output and stay competitive.
For companies, the challenge is visibility. When AI use is uneven or unclear, it can lead to uneven workloads, unclear expectations, and internal tension.
Clear guidelines and open use of AI may become more important as its role in day-to-day work continues to grow.
