24 jobs AI will replace in the near future

In 2023, a McKinsey report revealed that generative AI (GenAI) could automate 60% to 70% of employee workloads, a staggering statistic that underscores just how rapidly artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping the workforce. This isn’t speculation; it’s already happening.

In May 2023 alone, AI was responsible for nearly 4,000 job cuts, according to Challenger, Gray & Christmas Inc. And if that wasn’t enough, OpenAI (yes, the same company behind ChatGPT) estimated that 80% of U.S. workers would see at least 10% of their tasks affected by large language models (LLMs).

AI isn’t just knocking on the door of our workplaces; it has already stepped in, rearranged the furniture, and is eyeing the boss’s chair. What was once a futuristic fantasy is now an undeniable reality. From customer service chatbots replacing call center agents to AI-powered tools handling legal research, bookkeeping, and even creative writing, the job market is experiencing a major shift.

We’re no longer asking if AI will replace jobs. It’s a matter of how fast and deeply it will transform industries. And while some professions may thrive alongside AI, others face outright extinction.

In this article, I’ll break down the 24 jobs most at risk of being replaced by AI, giving you a clear-eyed look at the future of work. Whether you’re considering a career change or simply want to stay ahead of the curve, knowing which roles are most vulnerable can help you make smarter, future-proof decisions.

TL;DR: Takeaways from this article:

Jobs that involve predictable, rule-based tasks (like bookkeeping, data entry, and warehouse sorting) are at the highest risk of replacement.
AI can analyze massive datasets faster than humans, impacting jobs like market research analysts, financial clerks, and paralegals.
Robotics and AI-powered machines are transforming roles in manufacturing, food service, and retail checkout.
AI chatbots, virtual assistants, and self-service systems are replacing receptionists, travel agents, and retail cashiers.
AI struggles with originality, emotional intelligence, and complex decision-making, making human creativity and problem-solving more valuable.
Workers who develop skills in AI collaboration, critical thinking, and technology-driven problem-solving will thrive in an AI-powered future.

Understanding the AI job replacement phenomenon

Here’s the thing: You have a job because you can do something nobody else can or because your employer believes you can do it better, faster, or cheaper than the alternatives. As long as that remains true, you’re safe. But when a machine can match or surpass your skills for less money, your job security is gone.

Now, imagine a world where tasks you once performed (e.g., analyzing data, responding to customers, or even writing reports) are handled by AI with unparalleled speed, accuracy, and consistency. No sick days. No salary negotiations. No human error. This isn’t some dystopian, sci-fi nightmare; it’s the reality unfolding right now.

Companies exist to cut costs, boost efficiency, and maximize profits, and AI is handing them the perfect tool to do just that. When faced with the choice between paying an employee or deploying an AI system that works 24/7 for a fraction of the cost, most businesses won’t hesitate.

The brutal truth?

They don’t have a choice if they want to stay competitive.

AI has evolved far beyond basic automation and repetitive tasks. It’s no longer just about factory robots assembling cars or software automating spreadsheets. AI can process natural language, recognize patterns, aid data-driven decisions, and even perform creative tasks that once seemed exclusive to human minds.

From customer service to financial analysis, legal research to medical diagnostics, AI is stepping into roles we never imagined it could handle.

How I identified vulnerable jobs

This isn’t just a list based on gut feelings or wild guesses. I identified the jobs AI is most likely to replace through rigorous research, industry analysis, and real-world trends. Several key factors determine whether a role is at risk.

Here’s what I looked at:

Repetitive task potential: If a job involves predictable, repetitive work that follows a set of predefined rules, AI is already eyeing it.
Current technological capabilities: AI’s ability to process language, analyze data, recognize patterns, and make real-time decisions determines whether it can take over a given job.
Machine learning adaptability: Some roles require constant learning and adaptation, but if AI can match or exceed human learning speeds in a particular domain, job replacement becomes inevitable.
Economic cost-effectiveness of automation: If replacing a human with AI saves companies money in the long run, businesses will make the switch. AI doesn’t need breaks, benefits, or salaries—it’s a cost-cutting machine.
The complexity of human interaction required: While AI is improving in emotional intelligence and contextual understanding, jobs that rely on deep human connections (like therapy or high-level negotiations) are harder to automate (for now).

The methodology behind my analysis

To make sure this wasn’t just another AI fearmongering piece, I based my research on:

Extensive reports from leading institutions: Think McKinsey, the World Economic Forum, and MIT — organizations that are actively tracking AI’s impact on the workforce.
Predictive modeling and trend analysis: AI advancements are happening rapidly, and using data-driven forecasts helps paint an accurate picture of where we’re headed.
Expert interviews and real-world insights: Conversations with professionals in tech, automation, and labor economics provided invaluable perspectives on AI’s role in reshaping industries.
Technological capability assessments: Not all AI tools are created equal. Some can fully replace human jobs today, while others still require years of development.
Economic impact projections: AI’s influence isn’t just about who loses their job, it’s about how industries restructure, which new roles emerge, and how economies adjust to automation.

With that said, let’s get right into the list.

The 24 jobs most likely to be affected by AI

In this section, I’ll walk you through 25 jobs that AI is most likely to replace, breaking down why they’re vulnerable, the key technologies driving automation, and what you can do to stay ahead of the curve.

1. Data entry clerks

Replacement likelihood: 95% (This job is almost entirely replaceable by AI, and companies are already making the switch).

Job description:

Data entry clerks handle the tedious yet essential task of inputting, organizing, and managing digital information. They ensure accuracy in company records, databases, and documentation.

Why AI will replace it:

AI-powered software can ingest, process, and verify vast amounts of data in seconds, something no human could ever compete with. The need for speed, accuracy, and cost efficiency makes this job an easy target for automation.

AI-driven systems can:

Process thousands of documents simultaneously.
Detect and correct errors instantly.
Work 24/7 without fatigue or breaks.
Seamlessly integrate with digital workflows.
Continuously learn and improve from past data.

Key technologies:

Natural Language Processing (NLP): Understands and organizes textual data automatically.
Robotic Process Automation (RPA): RPA automates rule-based tasks, allowing AI to manage repetitive data-entry tasks efficiently.
Optical Character Recognition (OCR): This technology helps AI read and extract text from images, such as scanned documents, which is essential for data entry tasks.
Machine learning (ML): AI can learn from existing datasets to improve its data classification and input accuracy over time.

What you can do to protect yourself:

Learn data analytics to move beyond basic entry tasks.
Upskill in database management or AI-driven tools like RPA.
Develop problem-solving and strategic thinking skills that AI lacks.

2. Telemarketers

Replacement likelihood: 90%.

Job description:

Telemarketers engage potential customers via phone calls, promoting products, handling inquiries, and closing sales. The job requires persistence, strong communication skills, and the ability to handle rejection.

Why AI will replace it:

AI-powered chatbots and virtual sales agents are transforming customer interactions. Unlike human telemarketers, AI systems don’t get tired, flustered, or emotional.

They maintain a consistent tone, handle objections logically, and leverage real-time data to personalize sales pitches. With multilingual capabilities and infinite scalability, AI can outperform human telemarketers in both efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Key technologies:

Natural Language Processing (NLP): NLP allows AI to understand and generate human language, enabling it to engage in meaningful conversations during calls.
Speech recognition: This technology allows AI to recognize and process spoken words, improving its response accuracy during conversations.
Machine learning: AI can adapt to different customer types by learning from past interactions and improving its responses.
Sentiment analysis: AI tools can assess public perception and customer opinions.

What you can do to protect yourself:

Transition into AI-assisted sales, learning how to manage, optimize, and personalize AI-driven customer interactions.
Develop expertise in high-value sales that require human persuasion and emotional intelligence.
Focus on roles involving relationship-building, strategic consulting, and complex negotiations, areas where AI still struggles.

3. Assembly line workers

Replacement likelihood: 85%.

Job description:

Assembly line workers are responsible for repetitive manufacturing tasks, assembling components, and ensuring product quality. These roles require speed, precision, and adherence to safety protocols.

Why AI will replace it:

Automation has long been a part of manufacturing, but AI is pushing it to new levels.

AI-driven robotic systems can:

Perform intricate tasks with millimeter-level precision.
Learn from errors and improve outcome.
Work non-stop.

AI-powered predictive maintenance further minimizes downtime, and quality control systems powered by computer vision detect defects faster than human inspectors. As a result, human labor in assembly lines is becoming increasingly redundant.

Key technologies:

Computer vision: Enables machines to identify defects, misalignments, or inconsistencies in products with high accuracy.
Robotic Process Automation (RPA): RPA makes rule-based work automatic, letting AI manage repetitive data-entry tasks without glitch.
Predictive analytics: Uses AI to forecast equipment failures, reducing unexpected breakdowns and optimizing maintenance schedules.
Adaptive machine learning: Allows robots to improve performance over time by analyzing data from past operations, making them more efficient and capable of handling complex assembly tasks.

What you can do to protect yourself:

Gain expertise in programming and maintaining AI-driven robotic systems.
Shift into quality control and machine supervision roles that require human oversight.
Explore opportunities in industrial design, robotics engineering, or AI-driven logistics, where human problem-solving and creativity are still essential.

4. Customer service representatives

Replacement likelihood: 80%.

Job description

Customer service representatives handle customer inquiries, resolve complaints, and provide support via phone, email, or chat. Their work is vital in industries like retail, telecommunications, and tech, ensuring smooth customer experiences.

Why AI will replace it

AI chatbots and virtual assistants can handle a large volume of customer inquiries quickly and efficiently. These systems provide round-the-clock service, with the ability to analyze sentiment, personalize interactions, and seamlessly switch between communication channels, reducing the need for human agents.

Key technologies:

Natural Language Processing (NLP): This allows AI to understand and respond to human language in a way that feels natural. It’s the foundation for most customer service chatbots.
Machine learning: By analyzing past customer interactions, AI can predict and personalize responses, learning from past exchanges to improve over time.
Emotion recognition: AI is beginning to interpret emotional cues in customer interactions, allowing for more empathetic and tailored responses.

What you can do to protect yourself

Upskill in areas that AI can’t handle, such as emotional intelligence and complex issue resolution.
Focus on higher-level customer service roles that require human judgment and relationship-building.
Explore careers in AI training and development to be part of the technology that supports these changes.

5. Retail cashiers

Replacement likelihood: 85%.

Job description

Retail cashiers are responsible for scanning items, processing payments, and managing transactions. They work in supermarkets, department stores, and other retail environments, ensuring that customers’ purchases are properly recorded and paid for.

Why AI will replace it

AI-powered systems like Amazon Go (a chain of cashierless convenience stores in the United States and the United Kingdom, operated by the online retailer Amazon) use computer vision and machine learning to automate checkout, eliminating the need for human cashiers. With smart sensors and automated tracking, these systems can instantly calculate the total and facilitate payment, reducing friction and wait times.

Key technologies:

Computer vision: This technology allows AI to identify products on shelves and monitor purchases in real-time without human input.
IoT (Internet of Things): Devices like smart shelves and RFID tags help AI track inventory and transactions automatically.
Machine learning: These systems continually learn from consumer behavior to predict buying patterns and optimize the checkout experience.

What you can do to protect yourself

Shift focus to roles in technology and system maintenance for automated checkout solutions.
Upskill in data analysis and inventory management, where human oversight is still critical.
Explore opportunities in customer experience management, which focuses on enhancing the in-store journey beyond checkout.

6. Inventory managers

Replacement likelihood: 75%.

Job description:

Inventory managers are responsible for overseeing stock levels, managing supply chains, and ensuring that products are ordered, stored, and delivered efficiently. They handle logistics, track orders, and collaborate with suppliers to keep shelves stocked.

Why AI will replace it:

AI tools powered by predictive analytics can forecast demand with remarkable accuracy, reducing human error in ordering and inventory management. Automated systems can also track stock in real-time, automatically reorder products, and reduce waste through smarter demand predictions.

Key technologies:

Predictive analytics: AI uses historical data to forecast future demand and optimize stock levels, minimizing the need for manual intervention.
Machine learning: Machine learning algorithms help predict when stock will run out or when to reorder products based on trends and consumer behavior.
IoT sensors: These sensors provide real-time data about inventory levels and product location, improving inventory accuracy and efficiency.

What you can do to protect yourself:

Adapt by acquiring skills in supply chain management and AI-based inventory systems.
Focus on strategic roles like supply chain optimization and sustainability, where human oversight adds value.
Learn about AI tools and software for inventory management, preparing you for a tech-driven future in logistics.

7. Basic administrative roles

Replacement likelihood: 70%.

Job description:

Basic administrative roles include managing schedules, responding to emails, preparing documents, and coordinating meetings. These tasks are essential for supporting day-to-day office operations but often involve repetitive, routine work.

Why AI will replace it:

AI tools like Microsoft 365 Copilot can handle routine administrative tasks, such as email management, meeting scheduling, and document creation. Workflow automation systems can improve office efficiency, reducing the need for human intervention in simple tasks and enabling workers to focus on higher-value activities.

Key technologies:

Robotic Process Automation (RPA): RPA allows AI to handle repetitive, rule-based tasks, like scheduling and email management, without human involvement.
Natural Language Processing (NLP): This technology allows AI to understand and respond to emails or generate documents, improving workflow automation.
Machine learning: AI tools can make smarter decisions about task prioritization and resource management by learning from previous interactions.

What you can do to protect yourself:

Upskill in areas that require human creativity and problem-solving, like project management or strategic planning.
Learn how to work with AI tools to enhance productivity and become indispensable in roles that combine human insight with automation.
Explore careers in AI and automation training or implementation, helping businesses adopt and optimize these technologies.

8. Travel agents

Replacement likelihood: 65%.

Job description:

Travel agents assist customers in planning trips, booking flights, hotels, and transportation, and offering travel advice. They work closely with clients to customize itineraries, negotiate deals, and provide recommendations based on their preferences and budgets.

Why AI will replace it:

AI-powered travel platforms have made it easier for consumers to plan trips by providing personalized recommendations, real-time price comparisons, and predictive insights. These platforms automate much of the process, offering tailored itineraries and custom experiences with minimal human intervention.

Key technologies:

Machine learning: This helps AI analyze user preferences and behavior to offer personalized travel suggestions.
Big data analytics: AI uses vast amounts of data to compare prices, identify trends, and make travel suggestions based on real-time information.
Recommendation systems: By learning from users’ past choices, AI can offer recommendations that are more aligned with their preferences.

What you can do to protect yourself:

Learn how to leverage AI tools to assist in travel planning, helping clients choose the best options with advanced tech support.
Focus on offering personalized customer experiences that AI can’t replicate, such as providing emotional support and expert advice.
Upskill in niche areas, such as eco-tourism or luxury travel consulting, where human expertise remains valuable.

9. Paralegals and legal assistants

Replacement likelihood: 60%.

Job Description:

Paralegals and legal assistants assist attorneys by conducting research, drafting legal documents, and helping manage case files. They play a key role in legal proceedings by providing administrative support and preparing materials for trials and hearings.

Why AI will replace it:

AI-powered legal research tools, such as those using natural language processing, can quickly analyze vast amounts of case law, identify precedents, and even generate legal documents. As AI continues to advance, it can perform many of the tasks that paralegals handle, improving efficiency and reducing costs for law firms.

Key technologies:

Natural Language Processing (NLP): AI uses NLP to understand, analyze, and generate legal language, allowing it to assist with legal research and documentation.
Machine learning: Learning from past case data allows AI tools to predict the outcome of cases, recommend strategies, and streamline research processes.
Document analysis: AI systems can automatically review contracts, detect inconsistencies, and flag key legal issues, reducing the time spent by human assistants.

What you can do to protect yourself:

Specialize in legal fields that require human intuition and judgment, such as complex litigation or client relationship management.
Upskill in managing AI tools for legal research, becoming a professional who can bridge technology and human expertise.
Explore careers in legal technology or the development and management of AI-driven legal tools.

10. Financial clerks

Replacement likelihood: 75%.

Job description:

Financial clerks handle administrative tasks related to financial transactions, such as processing payments, reconciling accounts, managing invoices, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations. They play an essential role in maintaining accurate financial records.

Why AI will replace it:

AI-driven financial tools can automate many of the clerical tasks traditionally performed by humans. From transaction processing to fraud detection and financial analysis, these tools offer faster, more accurate results, reducing the need for manual oversight in most routine financial tasks.

Key technologies:

Machine learning: AI systems can learn from past transactions to predict trends, automate accounting processes, and detect anomalies.
Predictive analytics: AI uses data to forecast financial outcomes, providing accurate insights that human clerks would typically need to analyze manually.
Blockchain: This technology provides secure, transparent financial transactions, which AI can leverage for real-time processing and reconciliation.

What you can do to protect yourself:

Focus on areas of financial management that require human judgment, like financial planning, investment advice, and customer relations.
Learn about AI and blockchain technology to stay ahead in the evolving financial sector.
Specialize in areas like fraud prevention or cybersecurity, which rely on human oversight in addition to AI tools.

11. Loan officers

Replacement likelihood: 65%.

Job description:

Loan officers evaluate and authorize loans to individuals or businesses. They analyze applicants’ financial backgrounds, assess risk, and recommend loans based on creditworthiness, all while guiding clients through the loan process.

Why AI will replace it:

AI-driven credit scoring tools can analyze large amounts of data, including financial history and real-time transactions, to evaluate loan applicants’ creditworthiness. These systems provide faster, more accurate risk assessments with reduced bias compared to human loan officers.

Key technologies:

Machine learning: AI can analyze historical data to predict an applicant’s likelihood of repaying a loan, improving decision-making accuracy.
Big data analytics: AI tools leverage vast amounts of data, including spending patterns and social behavior, to provide a comprehensive view of an applicant’s financial health.
Predictive modeling: By analyzing various factors, AI can create predictive models for loan approvals, ensuring fairer and faster decisions.

What you can do to protect yourself:

Upskill in areas where human judgment is critical, such as building relationships with clients or understanding niche loan products.
Specialize in areas like loan risk management or regulatory compliance, where expertise is still needed alongside AI tools.
Explore roles in AI development or data science, where your knowledge of financial systems can merge with cutting-edge technologies.

12. Market research analysts

Replacement likelihood: 60%.

Job description:

Market research analysts study market conditions, consumer behavior, and competitive landscapes to help companies make informed business decisions. They collect and analyze data to identify trends and forecast market opportunities.

Why AI will replace it:

AI-powered analytics tools can collect, process, and analyze vast amounts of data much faster than human analysts. AI-driven sentiment analysis, automated data mining, and predictive analytics are making traditional market research roles less essential.

Key technologies:

Natural Language Processing (NLP): AI can scan and interpret consumer sentiment across social media, reviews, and news.
Machine learning: Algorithms can predict market trends based on historical data.
Sentiment analysis: AI can detect public perception and customer opinions as they happen.

What you can do to protect yourself:

Focus on the human element of research, understanding cultural nuances and emotional drivers that AI struggles with.
Develop expertise in interpreting AI-generated insights and crafting actionable strategies.
Upskill in AI analytics tools to complement AI rather than compete with it.

13. Bookkeepers

Replacement likelihood: 70%.

Job description:

Bookkeepers maintain financial records, process transactions, generate invoices, and ensure compliance with financial regulations. They help businesses track cash flow and prepare financial statements.

Why AI will replace it:

AI-powered accounting software can automatically categorize expenses, reconcile bank statements, detect anomalies, and even handle tax calculations. These tools reduce human error and streamline financial management.

Key technologies:

Robotic Process Automation (RPA): Automates repetitive accounting tasks.
Machine learning: Predicts financial trends and detects discrepancies.
Blockchain: Provides secure, tamper-proof financial records.

What you can do to protect yourself:

Shift toward financial advising, auditing, or forensic accounting, which require human judgment.
Learn to work with AI-powered accounting software, becoming an expert in AI-assisted bookkeeping.
Specialize in complex financial regulations or niche industries where automation isn’t yet dominant.

14. Warehouse workers

Replacement Likelihood: 75%.

Job description:

Warehouse workers handle inventory, package goods, and manage stock levels to ensure efficient logistics and order fulfillment. They often work in distribution centers, processing shipments and coordinating supply chain operations.

Why AI will replace it:

AI-driven robotics are making warehouses smarter and more efficient. Automated sorting systems, robotic pickers, and AI-powered logistics software optimize space utilization, reduce errors, and speed up deliveries.

Key technologies:

Robotics: Autonomous machines perform physical tasks such as picking and packing.
Computer vision: AI identifies and categorizes items in warehouses.
IoT sensors: Smart tracking of inventory levels and environmental conditions.

What you can do to protect yourself:

Gain expertise in operating and maintaining robotic warehouse systems.
Develop logistics and supply chain management skills to oversee AI-driven processes.
Transition into roles that require problem-solving, such as quality control or logistics coordination.

15. Medical transcriptionists

Replacement likelihood: 80%.

Job description:

Medical transcriptionists convert voice-recorded medical reports into written documents. They ensure accuracy, correct errors, and format reports according to medical standards.

Why AI will replace it:

AI-powered speech-to-text software can transcribe medical notes with high accuracy, recognize medical terminology, and automatically generate reports. AI also reduces human errors in documentation.

Key technologies:

Natural Language Processing (NLP): AI understands medical jargon and converts speech into structured reports.
Machine learning: Enhances accuracy by learning from corrections.
Speech recognition: Converts doctors’ spoken notes into written documentation.

What you can do to protect yourself:

Focus on editing and verifying AI-generated transcripts, ensuring they meet medical accuracy standards.
Specialize in complex medical fields where AI struggles with nuance.
Learn medical coding or health information management to expand career options.

16. Quality control inspectors

Replacement likelihood: 65%.

Job description:

Quality control inspectors evaluate products for defects, ensure compliance with safety standards, and verify manufacturing precision. Their role is crucial in maintaining consistent product quality.

Why AI will replace it:

AI-based computer vision systems can detect microscopic defects with greater accuracy and consistency than human inspectors. These systems integrate with predictive maintenance technologies to identify potential issues before they become costly problems.

Key technologies:

Computer vision: Detects defects with high precision.
Machine learning: Learns from past errors to improve defect detection.
Sensor technologies: Uses IoT-enabled sensors for real-time monitoring.

What you can do to protect yourself:

Shift into roles that require human judgment, such as final-stage quality assurance or regulatory compliance.
Learn to operate and maintain AI-powered inspection systems.
Develop expertise in complex manufacturing processes where AI struggles with nuanced quality assessments.

17. Receptionists

Replacement likelihood: 65%.

Job description:

Receptionists handle visitor check-ins, answer phone calls, schedule appointments, and assist with front-desk management in offices, hotels, and medical facilities. They are the first point of contact for most customers, if not all.

Why AI will replace it:

AI-driven virtual assistants and smart scheduling systems can handle most receptionist tasks with speed and efficiency. AI chatbots, facial recognition for security, and voice assistants are making front-desk roles increasingly automated.

Key technologies:

Natural Language Processing (NLP): AI chatbots handle customer inquiries.
Facial recognition: Automates visitor check-ins and security clearances.
IoT integration: Connects AI with building management systems.

What you can do to protect yourself:

Focus on customer relationship management (CRM) or administrative roles that require human interaction.
Upskill in AI-assisted receptionist tools to become an expert in managing smart front-desk systems.
Specialize in hospitality or high-end concierge services where personal interaction remains valuable.

18. Data analysts

Replacement likelihood: 50%.

Job description:

Data analysts collect, clean, and interpret data to provide business insights. They identify trends, create visual reports, and support decision-making with statistical analysis.

Why AI will replace it:

AI can automate data collection, perform complex pattern recognition, and generate real-time insights faster than human analysts. However, AI still struggles with understanding context and business-specific nuances.

Key technologies:

Machine learning: Identifies patterns and anomalies in large datasets.
Deep learning: Enhances predictive analytics.
Big data analytics: Processes vast amounts of structured and unstructured data.

What you can do to protect yourself:

Specialize in data storytelling, explaining AI-generated insights in a business context.
Develop expertise in AI model evaluation and ethical data analysis.
Focus on strategic decision-making roles that require human intuition and industry knowledge.

19. Food service workers

Replacement likelihood: 50%.

Job description:

Food service workers prepare and serve meals in restaurants, cafeterias, and fast-food establishments. They handle order processing, cooking, and plating.

Why AI will replace it:

Automated cooking systems, robotic chefs, and AI-driven order processing are reducing the need for human workers in food service. AI-powered kiosks are also replacing cashiers.

Key technologies:

Robotics: Automates food preparation and plating.
Computer vision: Ensures consistent portion sizes and presentation.
IoT sensors: Monitors ingredient freshness and kitchen efficiency.

What you can do to protect yourself:

Shift toward customer-facing roles where human interaction is essential.
Develop culinary expertise in gourmet or artisanal cooking, where AI lacks creativity.
Learn to operate and maintain robotic kitchen systems.

20. Assembly technicians

Replacement likelihood: 80%.

Job description:

Assembly technicians build and assemble products in factories, ensuring they meet quality and safety standards. It’s a highly consequential job.

Why AI will replace it:

AI-powered robotics can perform precision assembly, welding, and packaging with greater efficiency and accuracy than humans. Machine learning enables robots to adapt to new tasks with minimal human intervention that requires attention to detail, technical skills, and adherence to strict production guidelines.

Key technologies:

Robotics: Automates assembly tasks with precision.
Computer vision: Enhances quality control and defect detection.
Machine learning: Helps robots adapt to new products and tasks.

What you can do to protect yourself:

Develop expertise in programming and maintaining robotic assembly lines.
Specialize in quality control or roles that require human adaptability.
Shift toward industrial engineering or manufacturing management.

21. Content writers

Replacement likelihood: 50%.

Job description:

Content writers create articles, blogs, marketing copy, and other forms of written content for businesses, media, and online platforms. Their work involves researching topics, structuring information, and crafting engaging and persuasive narratives tailored to specific audiences.

Why AI will replace it:

Generative AI tools like ChatGPT and Gemini can produce well-structured text at scale, making them an attractive option for businesses needing fast, inexpensive content. AI can also assist with grammar correction, ideation, and high-level research as well as:

Generate content quickly, reducing turnaround times.
Optimize for SEO, improving rankings and visibility.
Analyze audience engagement and tailor content accordingly.
Repurpose and rewrite existing content efficiently.

Why AI won’t fully replace it:

AI-generated writing often lacks:

Originality and deep insights, especially in niche or highly technical fields.
Emotional intelligence, humor, and cultural nuances that make content relatable.
Fact-checking and context understanding, sometimes leading to misinformation.
Brand voice consistency, requiring human editing and refinement.

Specialized, creative, and highly researched writing will remain in demand, especially as AI-generated content floods the internet and lowers the quality bar.

Key technologies:

Natural Language Processing (NLP): Generates text with human-like fluency.
Machine learning: Learns writing styles and adapts content accordingly.
AI editing tools: Enhances grammar, tone, and readability.

What you can do to protect yourself:

Focus on thought leadership, storytelling, and investigative journalism.
Develop expertise in niche industries where accuracy and depth matter.
Leverage AI as an assistant rather than a competitor, use it for brainstorming and editing rather than full-scale writing.

22. Coders

Replacement likelihood: 40%.

Job description:

Coders write and maintain software applications, debug programs, and optimize code for efficiency. They work with various programming languages to develop websites, mobile apps, enterprise software, and more. Coders also troubleshoot errors, collaborate with developers and designers, and ensure software runs smoothly.

Why AI will replace it:

AI tools like GitHub Copilot and ChatGPT can generate functional, bug-free code in seconds, reducing the need for junior-level developers and those who primarily write repetitive, low-level code.

Why AI won’t fully replace it:

AI-generated code still requires human oversight for debugging, security, and architecture. Complex problem-solving, algorithm design, and creative software development still need human expertise.

Key technologies:

AI code assistants: Generate and refine code snippets.
Automated debugging: Identifies and fixes errors in real-time.
Machine learning: Improves code optimization and security.

What you can do to protect yourself:

Focus on high-level software architecture and problem-solving.
Learn AI and machine learning to integrate them into software projects.
Develop strong debugging and cybersecurity skills, areas where human oversight remains essential.

23. Translators

Replacement Likelihood: 60%.

Job description:

Translators convert text from one language to another while maintaining meaning, tone, and context. They work with various types of content, including legal documents, books, websites, business communications, and subtitles. Accuracy, cultural awareness, and linguistic expertise are essential to ensure translations are both grammatically correct and contextually appropriate.

Why AI will replace it:

AI-powered translation tools like Google Translate and DeepL have made significant strides in accuracy, enabling real-time, automated translation. Many entry-level translation jobs that focus on basic text conversion are already being replaced.

Why AI won’t fully replace it:

AI struggles with context, cultural nuances, humor, and emotional tone. Professional translation in legal, medical, and literary fields still requires human expertise.

Key technologies:

Neural Machine Translation (NMT): Helps to enhance translation accuracy.
Natural Language Understanding (NLU): Equip the AI tool to improve contextual awareness.
Speech recognition: Enables real-time spoken translation.

What you can do to protect yourself:

Specialize in industries where precision and cultural adaptation are crucial, such as law, medicine, and literature.
Offer localization services that require deep understanding beyond direct translation.
Develop expertise in managing AI-assisted translation workflows.

24. Voice actors

Replacement likelihood: 65%.

Job description:

Voice actors provide narration, character voices, and dubbing for media, advertising, and the entertainment industry. They bring scripts to life through tone, emotion, and delivery, making them essential for animated films, video games, audiobooks, commercials, and more. Their work requires vocal versatility, acting skills, and the ability to convey emotions effectively.

Why AI will replace it:

AI voice synthesis tools like ElevenLabs and Play.ht can generate realistic human-like voices at a fraction of the cost of hiring a professional voice actor. AI-generated voices are already being used in audiobooks, video games, and automated customer service.

Why AI won’t fully replace it:

AI-generated voices often lack emotional depth, authenticity, and the ability to adapt dynamically to complex scripts.

Key technologies:

Text-to-Speech (TTS): Converts text into human-like speech.
Deep learning: Enhances voice realism and adaptability.
AI speech cloning: Replicates existing voices with high fidelity.

What you can do to protect yourself:

Develop a unique voice style that AI cannot easily replicate.
Specialize in high-emotion voice acting, such as film, gaming, or live performances.
Offer AI-enhanced services, such as fine-tuning AI-generated voices with human emotion and intonation.

Key reasons AI is replacing jobs

1. Repetitive tasks

Jobs involving predictable, repetitive processes like data entry, bookkeeping, and assembly line work are prime candidates for automation. AI and robotics can handle these tasks faster, with fewer errors, and at a lower cost.

2. Data-driven decisions

Roles that rely heavily on data analysis, such as market research analysts and financial planners, are being augmented (or replaced) by AI. Machine learning algorithms process vast amounts of data in seconds, delivering insights more accurately and efficiently than humans.

3. Physical tasks

Industries that involve manual labor (e.g., warehouse logistics, food preparation, and quality control) are rapidly automating. Robots and AI-driven systems perform these tasks with precision, reducing human error and workplace injuries.

4. Customer interactions

AI-powered chatbots, virtual assistants, and automated phone systems are replacing customer service representatives. Businesses save costs while providing 24/7 support, and AI systems continue to improve in handling complex inquiries.

Impact of AI replacement and future implications

AI-driven automation is undeniably reshaping the workforce, eliminating repetitive roles while simultaneously creating new opportunities.

Here’s a closer look at the broader implications:

Job displacement vs. job creation

While many routine jobs are at risk, AI is also generating demand for new roles, such as:

AI and automation specialists: Professionals needed to develop, manage, and maintain AI systems.
Prompt engineers and data annotators: Emerging roles focused on refining AI-generated content and improving model accuracy.
Cybersecurity experts: As AI adoption grows, so does the need for stronger security measures.
Creative and human-centric jobs: Roles requiring empathy, creativity, and complex decision-making (e.g., therapists, designers, strategists) remain difficult for AI to replicate.

The shift toward human-AI collaboration

Instead of outright replacing all workers, AI is becoming a powerful tool to enhance productivity:

AI-assisted professionals: Writers, coders, and analysts can use AI to speed up research and ideation.
Hybrid roles: AI-powered tools help doctors diagnose diseases faster, assist teachers in personalized learning, and support legal teams in research.
Entrepreneurial opportunities: AI reduces barriers for startups, enabling small businesses to automate operations, market efficiently, and scale rapidly.

Upskilling and adaptation

To remain competitive in an AI-driven world, workers must embrace continuous learning:

Tech literacy: Understanding how AI works and how to leverage it effectively.
Critical thinking and creativity: Skills that AI struggles to replicate.
Interpersonal and emotional intelligence: Essential for leadership, counseling, and customer relations roles.

Some AI limitations and how you can keep your job

Workers who embrace change and develop future-proof skills will find themselves in high demand.

Here’s how you can adapt and thrive in an AI-driven world:

1. Strengthen your emotional intelligence (EQ)

AI can analyze data, but it lacks genuine human empathy. Roles that require deep emotional intelligence, such as therapists, HR professionals, and leadership positions, will remain vital.

Strengthen your EQ by practicing active listening, improving conflict resolution skills, and developing cultural awareness and empathy.

2. Cultivate creative problem-solving

AI excels at logical processing, but it struggles with creativity and out-of-the-box thinking. The most future-proof careers will involve innovation and problem-solving. You can boost these skills by:

Engaging in design thinking and brainstorming exercises
Learning from diverse industries and applying cross-disciplinary knowledge
Challenging yourself with creative projects outside your comfort zone

3. Master complex strategic thinking

AI can analyze patterns but it can’t make high-level decisions with the same nuance as humans. Future leaders will need to refine their ability to make data-driven yet intuitive decisions, assess long-term risks and opportunities, and navigate complex social and business landscapes.

4. Enhance interpersonal relationship management

Strong human connections remain irreplaceable. AI may automate emails and chatbots, but building trust, negotiating deals, and fostering relationships require a human touch. Improve your relationship management by doing the following:

Developing strong communication and persuasion skills.
Networking with professionals in and outside your field.
Practicing mentorship and collaboration.

5. Become technologically adaptable

The most successful professionals will not only coexist with AI but leverage it to their advantage. Future-proof your career by gaining a working knowledge of AI tools and automation software. Also, learn to interpret AI-generated insights for better decision-making and staying ahead with continuous learning.

Conclusion

AI’s impact on jobs is not just about loss but transformation. It’s inevitable for many jobs. Workers who adapt and upskill will find new opportunities in industries where AI handles the mundane, allowing humans to focus on innovation, creativity, and problem-solving.

FAQs about AI job replacement

Which jobs are most at risk of being replaced by AI?

Jobs that involve repetitive, predictable, or data-driven tasks are at the highest risk. These include administrative roles (e.g., data entry, bookkeeping), manufacturing and warehouse jobs, and customer service and telemarketing.

Will AI eliminate certain jobs?

AI is more likely to augment rather than completely eliminate most jobs. While some roles may disappear, new positions will emerge to manage, refine, and oversee AI systems.

Can AI replace creative jobs like writers and artists?

AI can generate text, images, and even music, but human creativity, originality, and emotional depth remain difficult to replicate. Jobs that require storytelling, cultural insight, and nuanced communication are likely to evolve rather than vanish.

How can I future-proof my career against AI replacement?

To stay relevant in an AI-driven world, focus on:

Developing soft skills (empathy, leadership, problem-solving).
Building technical literacy (understanding AI tools and automation).
Specializing in roles that require human judgment (creative, strategic, and interpersonal work).
Continuous learning (adapting to emerging technologies).

Will AI create new jobs?

Yes! AI is already generating demand for roles such as AI ethics specialists, machine learning engineers, AI trainers and auditors, and human-AI collaboration managers.

Should I learn coding to stay relevant?

Coding is valuable, but it’s not the only future-proof skill. Understanding AI, data analytics, and automation can be just as important, if not more. Critical thinking and adaptability will matter even more.

Is AI replacement happening now or in the future?

AI is already replacing jobs, but full-scale automation will take time. The speed of adoption depends on factors like technological advancements, regulatory policies, and business needs.

How can businesses prepare for AI-driven workforce changes?

Companies can stay ahead by investing in employee AI training programs, adopting AI to enhance productivity, and encouraging a culture of continuous learning and adaptability.

Is AI a threat to jobs or an opportunity?

AI is both a challenge and an opportunity. While some jobs will disappear, new and more complex roles will emerge. Those who embrace change and upskill will be in a strong position for the future.

Disclaimer!

This publication, review, or article (“Content”) is based on our independent evaluation and is subjective, reflecting our opinions, which may differ from others’ perspectives or experiences. We do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the Content and disclaim responsibility for any errors or omissions it may contain.

The information provided is not investment advice and should not be treated as such, as products or services may change after publication. By engaging with our Content, you acknowledge its subjective nature and agree not to hold us liable for any losses or damages arising from your reliance on the information provided.

Always conduct your research and consult professionals where necessary.