What jobs are most at risk by AI?

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to advance at a rapid pace, its impact on the job market has become a topic of intense debate and concern. For parents planning their children’s futures and business leaders strategizing workforce development, understanding which jobs are most at risk from AI is crucial. This article examines the occupations that face the highest risk of disruption due to AI. 

Defining AI Risk in the Job Market 

Before delving into specific jobs, it’s important to understand what we mean by “at risk.” In this context, a job is considered at risk if AI can perform a significant portion of its tasks more efficiently, accurately, or cost-effectively than humans. However, it’s crucial to note that “at risk” doesn’t necessarily mean complete elimination. Often, it implies a transformation of roles or a reduction in demand for human workers in that field. 

Jobs Most at Risk 

1. Data Entry and Processing 

Data entry clerks and processors are among the most vulnerable to AI automation. Machine learning algorithms can now handle vast amounts of data with speed and accuracy that far surpasses human capabilities. According to a report by McKinsey Global Institute, 69% of data processing tasks could be automated using current technologies. 

2. Customer Service Representatives 

While human interaction remains valuable in customer service, AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants are increasingly handling routine inquiries. A study by Gartner predicts that by 2025, 95% of customer service interactions will be powered by AI. 

3. Bookkeepers and Accountants 

Automated accounting software powered by AI can perform many traditional bookkeeping and basic accounting tasks. The UK’s Office for National Statistics suggests that about 25.4% of chartered and certified accountant jobs are at high risk of automation. 

4. Manufacturing and Assembly Line Workers 

Robotics and AI have long been transforming manufacturing. A report by Oxford Economics predicts that up to 20 million manufacturing jobs could be replaced by robots globally by 2030. 

5. Transportation and Logistics 

With the development of autonomous vehicles, jobs in transportation are at significant risk. A study by the American Center for Mobility estimates that automated vehicles could replace up to 294,000 long-distance truck driving jobs in the US. 

6. Retail Salespeople 

E-commerce and AI-powered recommendation systems are reshaping retail. The British Retail Consortium reports that 12% of retail jobs have disappeared in the UK since 2008, partly due to automation. 

7. Market Research Analysts 

AI’s ability to process and analyze vast amounts of data quickly is making some aspects of market research automated. However, human insight for strategy development remains crucial. 

8. Proofreaders and Translators 

Natural Language Processing (NLP) has advanced significantly, making basic proofreading and translation increasingly automated. However, nuanced content still requires human expertise. 

9. Radiologists and Diagnostic Technicians 

AI is becoming increasingly adept at analyzing medical images. A study published in The Lancet Digital Health found that AI systems can detect diseases from medical imaging with a level of accuracy comparable to human healthcare professionals. 

10. Financial Analysts 

While complex financial strategy still requires human insight, many routine financial analysis tasks can be automated. A report by the Financial Stability Board suggests that 28% of banking sector jobs in the UK are at high risk of automation. 

Jobs Less at Risk 

It’s equally important to highlight jobs that are less likely to be replaced by AI in the near future: 

1. Creative Professionals: Artists, writers, musicians, and designers rely on uniquely human creativity and emotional intelligence.  That said, AI created actors and voice recording artists are becoming an increasing phenomenon. 

2. Healthcare Providers: While AI can assist in diagnostics, roles requiring empathy and complex decision-making, such as doctors and nurses, remain secure. 

3. Teachers and Educators: The human element in education, especially in developing critical thinking and social skills, is irreplaceable. 

4. Social Workers and Counsellors:  Jobs requiring high emotional intelligence, empathy, emotional human understanding and interpersonal skills are difficult to automate. 

5. Skilled Tradespeople: Electricians, plumbers, and carpenters perform complex, variable tasks that are challenging to automate. 

6. Business Strategy and Leadership: High-level decision-making, strategy formulation, and leadership roles require human judgment and adaptability. 

The Future Workforce: Adaptation and Upskilling 

While AI poses risks to certain jobs, it also creates new opportunities. The World Economic Forum’s “Future of Jobs Report 2020” estimates that by 2025, 85 million jobs may be displaced by AI, but 97 million new roles may emerge that are more adapted to the new division of labor between humans, machines, and algorithms. 

For parents and business leaders, the key takeaway is the importance of fostering adaptability and continuous learning. Skills that complement AI, such as critical thinking, creativity, emotional intelligence, and complex problem-solving, will be increasingly valuable. 

The Future of Work is AI and Uncertain 

The impact of AI on the job market is significant and far-reaching. While certain jobs are at high risk of automation, this technological shift also creates new opportunities. The challenge for individuals, businesses, and educational institutions is to prepare for this change by developing skills that are complementary to AI. 

For parents, guiding children towards developing adaptable skillsets and fostering a mindset of lifelong learning is crucial. For business leaders, investing in reskilling and upskilling programs for employees can help navigate this transition effectively. 

As we move forward, the most successful approach will likely involve humans working alongside AI, leveraging the strengths of both. By understanding the risks and opportunities presented by AI, we can better prepare the workforce of tomorrow for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.