Fastest Declining Jobs (and What to Do Instead)
Data-driven ranking based on Bureau of Labor Statistics employment projections (2024-2034). Learn which occupations face the steepest declines and what alternatives to consider.
Technology, automation, and changing business practices are transforming the job market. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, these 12 occupations face the fastest percentage declines in employment from 2024 to 2034. If you're in one of these fields—or considering entering one—it's critical to understand the trends and explore alternative career paths.
Why These Jobs Are Declining
The common thread: automation, digital transformation, and efficiency improvements are eliminating the need for routine, repetitive tasks. Office automation software, artificial intelligence, outsourcing, and digital communication are replacing jobs that were once essential. Manufacturing automation and declining industries (like coal mining and print media) are also major factors.
Top 12 Fastest Declining Occupations
Word Processors and Typists
Why it's declining: Microsoft Word, Google Docs, speech-to-text software, and other tools have made specialized typing jobs obsolete. Professionals now do their own word processing.
Alternative careers: Administrative Assistant, Executive Assistant, Data Entry (though also declining), Customer Service Representative
Roof Bolters, Mining
Why it's declining: Decline of coal mining industry, automation of mining processes, environmental regulations, and shift to renewable energy.
Alternative careers: Heavy Equipment Operator, Construction Laborer, Wind Turbine Technician, Solar Installer (growing fields)
Telephone Operators
Why it's declining: Automated phone systems, direct dialing, online customer service, and AI chatbots have eliminated the need for human operators.
Alternative careers: Customer Service Representative, Call Center Agent, Technical Support Specialist
Switchboard Operators (Including Answering Service)
Why it's declining: Automated phone systems, voicemail, virtual receptionists, and cloud-based phone systems have replaced human switchboard operators.
Alternative careers: Receptionist, Administrative Assistant, Customer Service Representative, Virtual Assistant
Data Entry Keyers
Why it's declining: Optical character recognition (OCR), AI data extraction, automated forms, and direct digital input are eliminating manual data entry.
Alternative careers: Database Administrator, Data Analyst, Administrative Assistant, Medical Records Technician
Foundry Mold and Coremakers
Why it's declining: Automation in manufacturing, 3D printing technology, and offshore production have reduced demand for manual mold-making.
Alternative careers: Machinist, CNC Operator, 3D Printing Technician, Manufacturing Technician
Telemarketers
Why it's declining: Do Not Call regulations, consumer resistance, shift to digital marketing, AI-powered calling systems, and spam call blockers.
Alternative careers: Sales Representative, Digital Marketing Specialist, Customer Service Representative, Inside Sales
Engine and Other Machine Assemblers
Why it's declining: Robotics and automation in manufacturing, offshore production, and improved efficiency have reduced manual assembly jobs.
Alternative careers: Industrial Machinery Mechanic, Robotics Technician, Manufacturing Engineer Technician, Quality Control Inspector
Order Clerks
Why it's declining: E-commerce platforms, automated ordering systems, customer self-service portals, and inventory management software have eliminated manual order processing.
Alternative careers: Customer Service Representative, Supply Chain Coordinator, Logistics Analyst, E-commerce Specialist
Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks
Why it's declining: Automated payroll software (ADP, Paychex, Gusto), cloud-based time tracking, and HR information systems have automated most payroll tasks.
Alternative careers: Human Resources Specialist, Accountant, Payroll Manager (supervisory role), Benefits Administrator
File Clerks
Why it's declining: Digital document management, cloud storage, electronic health records, and paperless offices have eliminated manual filing.
Alternative careers: Records Manager, Information Coordinator, Administrative Assistant, Document Specialist (digital focus)
Office Machine Operators (Except Computer)
Why it's declining: Multifunctional copiers/printers, digital document distribution, cloud-based printing, and office automation have reduced the need for dedicated machine operators.
Alternative careers: IT Support Specialist, Print Production Technician, Office Administrator, Graphic Production Specialist
What Should You Do If You're in a Declining Field?
Strategies for Career Transition
- Upskill into technology: Learn the tools replacing your job—database management, automation software, data analytics, cloud platforms
- Pivot to related but growing fields: Customer service, healthcare administration, IT support, skilled trades
- Move into supervisory or management roles: Even declining fields need managers—shift from doing the work to managing the people/processes
- Pursue education/certifications: Community colleges offer affordable training programs in growing fields like healthcare, tech, and skilled trades
- Consider remote/digital alternatives: Virtual assistants, remote customer service, freelance digital work
- Leverage transferable skills: Attention to detail, organization, customer service—these matter across industries
- Act now, not later: The earlier you transition, the more time you have to build experience in a new field
High-Growth Fields to Consider Instead
If you're looking to transition out of a declining occupation, consider these high-growth fields:
- Healthcare: Registered Nurse, Physical Therapist, Medical Assistant, Home Health Aide (aging population driving demand)
- Technology: Software Developer, Cybersecurity Analyst, Data Scientist, Cloud Architect (digital transformation everywhere)
- Skilled Trades: Electrician, Plumber, HVAC Technician, Wind Turbine Technician (labor shortages, can't be automated)
- Business Services: Management Analyst, Financial Advisor, Market Research Analyst, Human Resources Specialist
- Education & Training: Postsecondary Teacher, Corporate Trainer, Instructional Coordinator
- Green Energy: Solar Installer, Wind Turbine Technician, Energy Auditor (fastest growing occupations)
Data Source
All employment projections and salary data sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)Fastest Declining Occupations table andOccupational Outlook Handbook. Data reflects 2024-2034 projections released in 2025.
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