Jobs most likely to be automated by AI include those in various fields

AI is transforming how we work, especially for jobs like writers and translators, while sparing roles needing physical interaction.

: A Microsoft study examined numerous interactions with generative AI tools over nine months in 2024, mapping conversations to tasks from O*NET. Roles such as interpreters, translators, writers, and editors were found most susceptible to automation due to AI's proficiency in handling information. In contrast, jobs requiring hands-on care, like nursing assistants and phlebotomists, remain less affected by AI. The study avoided predicting job growth or shrinkage, instead focusing on AI's current influence in various occupations.

Recent studies identify jobs most vulnerable to automation by AI, particularly generative tools like Microsoft Copilot. These include roles centered on language-based tasks such as writing, editing, customer support, sales, translation, and research. A Microsoft Research study analyzed over 200,000 anonymized Copilot chats to determine how often AI could assist or fully take over a task, generating an "AI applicability score" that highlights where AI is already significantly reshaping work.

Jobs with the highest risk of automation include customer service representatives, sales staff, market research analysts, technical writers, editors, journalists, historians, and interpreters. These occupations often involve structured, repetitive language-based workflows that large language models can replicate or enhance with speed and consistency. Teaching roles in the humanities and social sciences may also be impacted, especially when it comes to content creation or grading support.

Wider economic forecasts add weight to these findings. Reports from Goldman Sachs and McKinsey estimate that up to 300 million jobs could eventually be affected by AI globally, with around 85 million roles likely to be eliminated by 2025. Entry-level white-collar positions—such as administrative assistants, junior marketers, or basic coding roles—are especially vulnerable as AI tools become more integrated into day-to-day office tasks.

On the other hand, many roles remain resilient to automation, especially those requiring emotional intelligence, physical dexterity, or unpredictable decision-making. Jobs like nurses, therapists, electricians, construction workers, primary school teachers, social workers, and massage therapists demand a human presence or judgment that current AI systems cannot replicate. These roles are expected to persist or even grow as population needs shift.

Experts stress that AI-driven job changes are not limited to job losses. In many cases, AI will augment human performance rather than replace it. Roles like data analysts, legal researchers, and digital creatives are increasingly supported by AI tools. Additionally, new job categories such as AI ethicists, prompt engineers, and model trainers are emerging. Human skills like creativity, empathy, and adaptability will become even more essential in the evolving workforce.

Sources: Windows Central, Tom's Guide, AP News, The Washington Post

Generative AIAutomationResearch