The race for artificial intelligence talent is intensifying, and tech giants are employing a strategic tactic to bolster their ranks: the boomerang hire. Google, in particular, has ramped up its efforts to bring back former employees, a move that highlights the fierce competition in the AI landscape with rivals like OpenAI, Meta, and Anthropic.
According to internal data, approximately 20% of software engineers hired by Google for AI projects in 2025 were previously employed by the company. This figure represents a notable increase compared to previous years, with Google confirming a significant uptick in AI researchers returning from major competitors as of December.
“We’re energized by our momentum, compute, and talent — engineers want to work here to keep building groundbreaking products,” a Google spokesperson stated, underscoring the company’s appeal.
John Casey, Google’s head of compensation, recently elaborated on this trend, noting that AI-focused software engineers are attracted to Google’s substantial financial resources and its cutting-edge computational infrastructure, essential for pioneering advanced AI research. This strategy is particularly effective given Google’s large alumni network, a pool that expanded following significant layoffs in early 2023. Alphabet, Google’s parent company, reduced its workforce by 6% that year, a move that has since been followed by further workforce adjustments and buyouts.
This trend of boomerang hiring isn’t unique to Google. Industry-wide data from ADP Research indicates a resurgence in former employees returning to companies, with the information sector showing particularly strong numbers.
Google’s aggressive push into AI talent acquisition comes as the company works to establish a stronger foothold in generative AI. After a somewhat delayed entry compared to competitors like OpenAI, Google has made considerable strides this year, fueled by substantial investments in AI infrastructure and the success of its Gemini platform. The recent launch of its latest model, Gemini 3, further solidifies this commitment. This strategic focus has paid dividends, with Alphabet’s stock price surging over 60% this year, outperforming many of its megacap peers.
Historically, Google has been a magnet for engineering talent, often serving as a source for competitors seeking skilled professionals. This dynamic continues today, with companies like Microsoft and OpenAI actively recruiting from Google’s talent pool. Earlier this year, Microsoft reportedly hired a significant number of employees from Google’s DeepMind AI research lab. OpenAI, meanwhile, has been making substantial offers, with CEO Sam Altman reportedly acknowledging Meta’s aggressive recruitment tactics, including substantial signing bonuses, in his efforts to retain talent.
In a significant move, Google recently welcomed back Noam Shazeer, a key figure in AI. Shazeer, along with Daniel De Freitas, had departed Google in 2021 to co-found the AI platform Character.AI, reportedly after their proposals to accelerate Google’s internal chatbot development were not embraced. Shazeer and De Freitas, along with other researchers from Character.AI, rejoined DeepMind in August 2024 through a technology licensing agreement with their startup.
Google’s renewed emphasis on agility and risk-taking is evident in its accelerated product release cycles, even for offerings that may not be perceived as entirely polished. The company has also undertaken significant organizational changes, including streamlining management layers and implementing broad employee buyouts, aiming to reduce bureaucracy and foster a more dynamic environment.
The personal involvement of key figures in recruitment efforts further underscores the high stakes. Google co-founder Sergey Brin, who returned from retirement in 2023, has reportedly personally reached out to prospective candidates. Similarly, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg is also said to have engaged directly with researchers to recruit them for his company. This high-level engagement highlights the intense competition and the strategic importance of securing top AI talent.
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