Artificial intelligence (AI) replacing jobs is a hot—and divisive—topic right now. It started with the release of ChatGPT by OpenAI in 2022, prompting tech giants like Google, Microsoft, and Meta to follow suit with their own generative AI solutions. With machines creating images, texts, videos, and even songs, workers are left with two pressing questions: “What jobs will AI replace?” and the follow-up thought, “Will AI replace my job?”
According to a CNBC survey from May 2023, the industries in which workers are most concerned are advertising and marketing and business support and logistics, with 51% and 46% of workers, respectively, concerned AI will replace them.
The concern is not baseless. AI is already costing people their jobs across industries, especially in tech, and it's expected to replace 30% of working hours by 2030, according to a report by CBS News. Since preparing and adapting is the best any of us can do, here's a list of jobs AI will replace first, based on what we know now. Plus, keep reading for tips on how to “future-proof” yourself.
Jobs AI will replace: 9 roles expected to decrease in demand
To make this list, we did some research and consulted tech and AI experts. We learned that more mechanical jobs are likely to be replaced faster. “Highly repetitive tasks like basic data entry or simple administrative functions will likely be automated first,” says Charlie Clark, founder of Liinks and former tech lead at Squarespace, a popular website building company.
“AI is reshaping the job market by automating repetitive tasks and enhancing productivity across different industries,” says Mitchell Cookson, tech and AI analyst, co-founder of AI Tools Inc. “In manufacturing, customer service, and data processing, AI is taking over routine, time-consuming tasks, allowing workers to focus on higher-value, creative, or strategic activities.”
Here's a breakdown of jobs AI is expected to replace—or is already replacing:
1. Customer service
Customer service jobs are already being automated: Chatbots and virtual assistants answer your inquiries before you can even speak to a human. Companies aren't the only ones adhering to the new technologies—the New York government has a chatbot to assist residents with information on the city's business services.
2. Retail checkout
Supermarkets and other retailers are investing in AI with self-checkouts, reducing open positions for real workers. Walmart, for example, has self-checkout machines and the Scan & Go feature on their app for Walmart+ members.
3. Data entry
Due to its repetitive nature, data entry jobs are great candidates for automation. Advanced AI algorithms are able to scan documents, input, process, and organize data with little human intervention.
On the bright side, companies might still need real workers to handle sensitive information and manage the AI work. “I believe we’ll see a shift toward employees managing and overseeing AI systems rather than being replaced by them,” Clark says.
4. Assembly line
The use of robots in the manufacturing sector is not new, but with AI companies are now also able to assign relatively complex tasks to machines—for example, assembling, welding, and packaging products. In the automotive sector, AI is being used to “improve quality of vehicles” with efforts around design and predictive maintenance.
5. Translation
The TV shows you watch today could have captions generated by AI. AI-powered translators aren't necessarily new, but newer and advanced technologies are making their way into big companies as they reduce time and labor costs.
For example, Warner Bros. partnered with Google Cloud to use its AI-powered tool to create captions for channels like Discovery, CNN, and Max. But people aren’t pushed aside completely: according to The Hollywood Reporter, the company uses skilled human workers to oversee the AI performance and assure quality.
Professional translators who specialize in more complex and nuanced translations—such as books and official documents—could be less affected by the AI frenzy, especially at first, since those jobs require cultural context knowledge.
6. Financial analysis
The finance world is slowly becoming more automated, with AI tools handling basic financial tasks like identifying trends and creating reports. You can see it in practice with robo-advisors, digital finance platforms that use machine learning to offer investment advice and financial planning.
7. Graphic design
AI is already being used to create basic, entry-level graphic designs and replacing real designers. However, AI-powered image generators have been accused of stealing from artists and putting the ethics of AI companies into question.
The quality of the images is also an issue, with AI-generated images having visible errors, especially when they portray human beings. For this reason, graphic designers can still find jobs in companies that value quality work and their reputation over cost reduction. But as AI evolves, it could further affect the employment of graphic designers.
8. Content writing
Content writing and graphic design are the only creative jobs in this list, for all of the same reasons. Small business owners and content creators that otherwise would hire content writers have started using AI to save time and reduce costs.
However, as with AI-generated images, there are problems. The content generated by AI is often questionable due to overuse of repetitive expressions, lack of cultural context, and platforms being accused of plagiarism.
So it’s likely that those companies that prioritize quality over quantity are likely to keep employing real writers—even if it's to edit AI-generated content and make it sound more human.
9. Supply chain
Warehouse sorting and other repetitive supply chain activities are moving towards automation. Apparently, there's still a long way to go, but giants like Amazon are heavily investing in integrating AI with robotics in an attempt to enhance performance.
Sure, AI is changing the landscape, but your unique skills are irreplaceable. Check these amazing open jobs on The Muse and find the perfect fit for you »
How to become “AI-proof” and keep yourself employed
If you don't want to be replaced by AI, the motto is adapt, adapt, adapt. “It all comes down to adaptability,” Clark says. “The future won’t belong to those who can outwork machines—it will belong to those who can collaborate with them effectively.”
Here's what you can do to fit in this new world.
Become generative AI-literate
“Don’t resist AI—lean into it,” Clark says. Familiarize yourself with the principal AI tools on the market today. Then, invest in AI certifications and courses that are relevant in your line of work. “Learn how to work with AI tools and systems—not just to survive, but to thrive,” he says.
Read this next: 10 In-Demand Generative AI Skills Right Now
Use AI in your favor
In some industries, AI isn't going to fully replace workers. In some cases, AI will take on repetitive and time consuming tasks, allowing workers to oversee the tasks handled by machines, and focus on more sophisticated work.
“For example, rather than eliminating customer service positions, AI will take over the routine inquiries,” Clark says, “allowing customer service professionals to focus on more complex, relationship-driven interactions that build loyalty and trust.”
Your job is to discover how AI can be used in your favor to increase productivity and efficiency. This, along with AI literacy, will make you more valuable to employers.
Develop new soft and hard skills
With AI taking over the job market, you'll need new hard skills. “Invest in learning technical skills that complement AI, such as data analysis, programming, or machine learning basics,” Cookson says. “Even a foundational understanding of these areas can make you more competitive as AI-driven tools become integrated into most industries.”
As for soft skills, play up those strengths that machines just don't have—like creativity, emotional intelligence, critical thinking, and leadership, Cookson says. “As AI takes over more routine tasks, the ability to think strategically, solve complex problems, and manage human-AI collaboration will become invaluable,” he says.
Read this next: 5 Entry-Level AI Jobs to Consider (Plus Key Skills and Tips to Break Into the Field)
Invest in your personal brand and network
In a competitive (and slightly dystopian?) job market, it's critical to invest in building meaningful professional connections. A solid network can help you advance your career by pointing you to jobs that aren't advertised, directly recommending you, or simply mentioning your name in a room full of decision-makers.
Along with sharpening your networking skills, consider developing a personal brand. Take advantage of platforms that are made for professions, like LinkedIn, to showcase your skills, accomplishments, and knowledge.
“Building a strong personal brand and network will become more important,” Clark says. “People who can clearly communicate their value, showcase adaptability, and continuously learn will have a distinct edge in an AI-augmented workforce.”
FAQs
What jobs will AI completely replace?
AI is expected to replace jobs that are heavily based on repetitive tasks, such as data entry, assembly line work, and retail checkout. Experts believe human workers will remain essential in some industries, but they’ll have to learn to work with AI. “It's more about roles evolving than disappearing,” Clark says.
Are engineers safe from AI?
It's unlikely that engineers will be fully replaced by AI. Currently, automation is used to take care of tedious and repetitive tasks, like data processing and organization, while human beings focus on complex work. That said, AI could reduce hiring needs. To protect yourself, stay up-to-date with the new tools and adapt as technology evolves.
How many jobs will AI replace by 2050?
At the moment, there isn't an exact prediction of how many jobs AI will replace by 2050. To keep yourself employed as the world becomes more automated, adapt and develop new skills. “AI is changing the landscape of work, but it’s not a threat—it’s an opportunity,” Clark says. “The real challenge is rethinking how we can use these tools to redefine success in our careers.”
Read this next: 15 High-Paying Jobs That’ll Be in Demand for Years to Come