23May

AI and Automation: Which Jobs Will Thrive or Disappear?

We are living through one of the most transformative periods in human history. The rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation technologies—from self-learning algorithms to robotic process automation (RPA) and machine vision—is reshaping industries, economies, and the very definition of work.

According to a McKinsey report, by 2030, up to 800 million global workers could be displaced by automation, while new job categories will emerge that never existed before. The question is no longer if AI will impact jobs—it’s how.

In this article, we explore which jobs are at high risk of automation, which roles are likely to thrive, and how professionals, students, and businesses can future-proof their careers in this fast-evolving digital landscape.

🧠 What Is AI and Automation?

Before diving into specific jobs, it's important to understand the technologies driving this shift.

➤ Artificial Intelligence (AI)

AI refers to machines mimicking human intelligence. It includes:

Machine Learning (ML): Systems that learn from data.
Natural Language Processing (NLP): Machines understanding language (like ChatGPT).
Computer Vision: Machines analysing images or video.
Generative AI: Tools that can create content, code, art, and more.

➤ Automation

Automation involves using machines or software to perform tasks with minimal human intervention. This includes:

Robotic Process Automation (RPA) for repetitive business tasks.
Industrial Automation in manufacturing.
Self-service kiosks, chatbots, and more.

AI makes automation smarter—learning, adapting, and performing tasks that once required human decision-making.

⚠️ Jobs at High Risk of Disappearing

AI and automation are not “taking jobs” randomly—they're replacing tasks that are:

Repetitive
Rule-based
Predictable
Easily digitized

Here are the jobs most at risk:

1. Data Entry Clerks

Why at risk: Repetitive, rule-based, easily automated with RPA.
Timeline: Already declining.
Alternatives: Transition to data analysis or quality assurance roles.

2. Telemarketers

Why at risk: Outpaced by AI-powered chatbots and predictive dealers.
Decline: AI can handle calls, answer questions, and even sell.
Tip: Move into sales strategy or client relationship management.

3. Cashiers

Why at risk: Self-checkout kiosks and mobile payment systems.
Trend: Supermarkets and fast-food chains are moving to cashier-less stores.
Opportunity: Transition into customer experience or inventory management roles.

4. Assembly Line Workers

Why at risk: Robotic arms and industrial automation are faster and safer.
Industries affected: Automotive, electronics, packaging.
Future-proof: Upskill in robotics maintenance or quality control.

5. Travel Agents

Why at risk: Most travel bookings are now done through apps and websites.
Replaced by: AI-powered travel assistants and recommendation engines.
Reposition: Become a niche travel planner or experience designer.

6. Legal Assistants and Paralegals

Why at risk: AI can analyse legal documents, review contracts, and flag risks.
AI tools: Dontay, Luminance, and others.
Safe Zone: Specialize in legal tech or compliance.

7. Journalists Writing Basic News

Why at risk: AI can now write financial reports, sports recaps, and weather summaries.
Future focus: Investigative journalism, opinion writing, or multimedia storytelling.

8. Bank Tellers and Clerks

Why at risk: Mobile banking and AI-driven chatbots like Erica (Bank of America).
Opportunity: Shift to financial advisory and personalized banking.

9. Fast Food Workers

Why at risk: Automated kitchen equipment, robot cooks, and kiosks.
Example: Flippy the robot chef (used in U.S. burger chains).
Future-proofing: Move toward customer service or kitchen tech roles.

✅ Jobs That Will Thrive in the Age of AI

Jobs that require creativity, emotional intelligence, critical thinking, adaptability, and human touch are safe—and in many cases, will thrive alongside AI.

1. AI & Machine Learning Specialists

Why it thrives: Demand is exploding as every sector adopts AI.
Roles: AI engineer, machine learning developer, NLP specialist.
Salary: $120,000 – $200,000+

2. Cybersecurity Experts

Why it thrives: As more systems go digital, cyber threats grow.
Roles: Penetration tester, security analyst, cloud security expert.
AI Complement: AI detects threats, but humans still manage security strategy.

3. Data Scientists and Analysts

Why it thrives: AI runs on data, and we need humans to interpret and strategize.
Skills needed: Python, R, SQL, statistics, visualization tools.
Next step: Specialize in ethical AI and bias detection.

4. Healthcare Professionals

Why it thrives: Doctors, nurses, and therapists offer human care that AI can’t replicate.
AI Augmentation: AI helps in diagnosis, but care and empathy are irreplaceable.
Growth roles: Genetic counsellors, AI-assisted radiologists, mental health therapists.

5. Creative Professions

Safe zones: Graphic designers, video producers, UX designers, writers (strategic, creative).
Why it thrives: Creativity, storytelling, and originality can’t be fully automated.

6. Educators and Trainers

Why it thrives: Education will always need human connection and customization.
New roles: AI curriculum designer, EdTech specialist, blended learning facilitator.

7. Sustainability & Green Jobs

Why it thrives: Climate change demands new skills in energy, waste, and sustainability.
AI Role: Assists in optimization, but humans lead policy, design, and implementation.

8. Digital Marketing and Branding

Why it thrives: Storytelling, brand emotion, and customer connection remain human domains.
Tech Augment: Use AI for analytics, targeting, but strategy stays human.

9. Robotics Maintenance and Repair

Why it thrives: Machines need humans to design, maintain, and repair them.
Growth: Industrial robots, drones, and autonomous vehicles.

10. Human Resource Professionals

Why it thrives: Empathy, conflict resolution, and organizational culture are human-led.
AI Use: Assists in recruitment and onboarding—but final decisions are human.

🔁 Jobs That Will Change – Not Disappear

Some roles will evolve, not vanish. Expect hybrid roles that require both human and AI collaboration.

Examples:

Traditional Job	Future Role
Accountant	Data-driven financial analyst using AI tools
Customer Service Rep	AI-enhanced customer success manager
Journalist	AI-curated content strategist
Architect	Sustainable and AI-informed building designer
Sales Executive	AI-assisted growth consultant

🌐 Industry-Wise Impact Overview

Industry	Risk Level	Notes
Manufacturing	🔴 High	Routine jobs replaced; maintenance jobs thrive
Healthcare	🟢 Low	AI assists, but human care needed
Education	🟢 Low	Hybrid models, EdTech expands
Finance	🟠 Medium	Routine tasks automated; analytics grow
Retail	🔴 High	Cashiers & clerks automated, UX roles grow
Media & Content	🟠 Medium	Routine writing automated, creative thrives
Construction	🟠 Medium	Physical labour remains; automation in planning
Legal	🟠 Medium	Basic research automated; judgment remains human

📘 How to Future-Proof Your Career

1. Learn to Work With AI

Tools: ChatGPT, Midjourney, Tableau, TensorFlow
Get used to prompting, interpreting AI outputs, and leveraging automation tools.

2. Invest in Human Skills

Critical thinking
Creativity
Communication
Leadership
Emotional intelligence

3. Focus on Lifelong Learning

Take short courses and micro-credentials.
Platforms: Coursera, edX, Udemy, LinkedIn Learning

4. Follow the Data

Jobs may disappear in one industry and reappear in another.
Keep an eye on job market trends, emerging tech, and new sectors.

5. Build a Digital + Human Hybrid Skillset

For example:

Writers can learn SEO + AI tools.
Teachers can integrate EdTech.
Managers can master productivity AI.

🧠 Ethical Considerations and Challenges

AI and automation raise important ethical questions:

Will AI deepen inequality?
Who’s responsible when AI makes a mistake?
How do we retrain millions of displaced workers?

Governments, companies, and individuals must collaborate to ensure an inclusive and human-cantered future of work.

📍 Conclusion: Embrace, Don’t Fear, the Future

The AI revolution is real—and irreversible. But instead of fearing job loss, we must focus on evolution. While automation will replace some jobs, it will also create new roles, enhance productivity, and allow humans to do more meaningful work.

FAQ’s

Will AI and automation really take away jobs?

Yes, but it's more accurate to say AI will change jobs rather than simply eliminate them. Routine, repetitive, and rule-based tasks are at high risk. However, many new roles will also emerge—especially in tech, data, and creative industries.

Can creative jobs be replaced by AI tools like ChatGPT or Midjourney?

AI can assist creative professionals but not replace them. Tools like ChatGPT and Midjourney can generate ideas or drafts, but human originality, emotional nuance, and storytelling remain essential in content creation, branding, and design.

Will AI impact jobs in developing countries more than in developed ones?

Not necessarily. While automation could impact low-skill jobs in developing countries, access to digital tools and remote AI-assisted work could also create new job opportunities. The outcome depends on education, policy, and tech access.

Is AI replacing jobs faster than we can create new ones?

In some sectors, yes. However, new roles are being created in AI development, cybersecurity, digital transformation, and sustainability. The key challenge is reskilling the workforce fast enough to match the pace of change.

What industries will see the biggest impact?