Skill report · Programming Languages
C++: demand in job postings
C++ is named in 14% of the 28,652 tech job postings Mettlespark read in the United States and Canada over the last 180 days (4,076 postings), most often for Embedded Software Engineer at 78%, Applied Scientist at 69% and Robotics Engineer at 67%. When a posting names it, 84% list it as required.
From 28,652 postings in the United States and Canada, April 23, 2026 to October 20, 2026. Updated October 20, 2026. How we count
- Postings naming it
- 4,07614% of all postings
- Required when named
- 84%rather than nice to have
- Senior level or above
- 54%of the postings naming it
- Time to learn
- about 150 hoursfrom zero to job-ready, Mettlespark's estimate
Over time
Its share of postings has fallen about 11 points since October 2023, comparing like with like, but it has turned down lately.
The roles that ask for it most
The share of each role's postings that name C++.
| Role | Share of the role's postings |
|---|---|
| Embedded Software Engineer | |
| Applied Scientist | |
| Robotics Engineer | |
| Software Engineer | |
| Research Scientist (ML) | |
| Machine Learning Engineer | |
| MLOps Engineer | |
| Security Engineer |
Often asked for alongside
The share of postings naming C++ that also name each.
- Python65%
- Java42%
- Distributed Systems39%
- C37%
- Machine Learning34%
- Linux33%
Industries
Where the postings naming it come from.
- Aerospace & Defense20%
- Automotive & Mobility7%
- Manufacturing & Industrial7%
- Enterprise Software & SaaS5%
Quick answers
Is C++ in demand?
C++ is named in 14% of tech job postings in the United States and Canada over the last 180 days, 4,076 postings, and required in 84% of those. Its share of postings has fallen about 11 points since October 2023, comparing like with like, but it has turned down lately.
Which jobs ask for C++?
Embedded Software Engineer, Applied Scientist, Robotics Engineer and Software Engineer postings name it most often: 78% of Embedded Software Engineer postings, 69% of Applied Scientist postings, 67% of Robotics Engineer postings.
What skills go with C++?
Postings that name C++ most often also name Python, Java, Distributed Systems and C.
How long does it take to learn C++?
About 150 hours from zero to job-ready, by Mettlespark's estimate; less with the prerequisites already in hand.