The AI Grind: San Francisco’s Startup Culture Signals a Looming Shift in Work
San Francisco’s artificial intelligence startups are becoming ground zero for a new, intense work culture. It’s a landscape where 12-hour days, six-day weeks and a complete blurring of work-life boundaries are increasingly common. This isn’t simply a return to “hustle culture,” but something different – driven by anxieties about job security in the age of rapidly advancing AI and a fierce competition to demonstrate value.
Beyond 996: The New Normal in AI
The “996” work schedule – 9 am to 9 pm, six days a week – originated in China and gained notoriety for its demanding nature. Still, the current situation in San Francisco’s AI sector often surpasses even that benchmark. Employees report working 16-hour days, with founders leading by example, often living and working out of shared apartments. One employee described the situation as “horrendous,” noting that the pace is even more relentless than the widely discussed 996 model.
The Roots of the Intensity: Scarcity and Innovation
Several factors are fueling this intense work environment. Investment in AI reached record highs in 2025, yet a sense of scarcity pervades the industry. Workers fear being left behind as AI tools evolve at breakneck speed, requiring constant upskilling to remain relevant. The pressure to “do something cool” – build a product or solve a problem that attracts attention – is immense, especially as entry-level positions grow increasingly scarce.
Despite the anxieties, many workers are genuinely energized by the innovation happening in AI. Garry Tan, head of Y Combinator, recently shared that he “stayed up 19 hours” experimenting with AI tools, reflecting a widespread fascination and willingness to dedicate significant time to the field.
A Shift in Power Dynamics
Historically, software engineers held considerable leverage in the job market. Now, the balance of power has shifted. Companies, less fearful of losing employees, are becoming more demanding. Executive coaches, once focused on employee wellbeing and burnout prevention, are now primarily consulted on navigating change, disruption, and uncertainty.
The Canary in the Coal Mine? Implications for the Broader Economy
Experts suggest that the pressures felt in San Francisco’s AI sector could be a harbinger of things to approach for other industries. A Stanford University paper indicated “substantial declines in employment for early-career workers” in industries exposed to AI, suggesting that this trend could spread. The Anthropic CEO has even predicted that AI could eliminate approximately half of all entry-level white-collar jobs within the next five years.
The head of the International Monetary Fund recently predicted that 60% of jobs in advanced economies will be eliminated or transformed by artificial intelligence. Early signs of this shift are already visible, with self-driving cars competing with Uber drivers and robotic systems replacing baristas.
From Model to Warning
Silicon Valley was once viewed as a model for workplace culture, with companies adopting perks like unlimited vacation and free lunches. However, that perception is changing. Companies are now less interested in emulating Silicon Valley’s practices and more focused on adapting to a rapidly evolving landscape.
FAQ
Q: Is this intense work culture limited to AI startups?
A: While most pronounced in the AI sector, the pressures are expected to extend to other industries as AI adoption increases.
Q: What is the “996” work schedule?
A: It refers to working from 9 am to 9 pm, six days a week – a common practice in some tech companies.
Q: Are companies actively encouraging this level of work?
A: The situation is complex. While some companies may not explicitly demand it, the competitive environment and fear of falling behind drive employees to work long hours.
Q: What can workers do to navigate this environment?
A: Continuous learning, focusing on unique skills, and networking are crucial for maintaining relevance and job security.
Did you understand? Job postings for entry-level tech jobs have dropped by a third since 2022, while those requiring at least five years of experience have risen.
Pro Tip: Prioritize continuous learning and skill development to stay ahead of the curve in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.
What are your thoughts on the changing work culture in the tech industry? Share your experiences and insights in the comments below!
