Jobs Most at Risk from AI/Automation
Data-driven ranking based on Bureau of Labor Statistics employment projections, salary data, and industry trends.
Based on Bureau of Labor Statistics employment projections for 2024-2034, the following occupations face the highest risk from automation and AI. These rankings are based on projected job losses and negative growth rates, reflecting how technology is transforming the workplace. BLS analysis specifically cites AI and automation as key factors driving employment declines in many of these roles.
Top Rankings
The following 10 occupations are projected to experience the steepest employment declines from 2024 to 2034, primarily due to advances in artificial intelligence, automation, and digital transformation:
Data Entry Keyers
AI-powered optical character recognition (OCR) and automated data extraction tools can now process documents faster and more accurately than human workers, making this one of the most at-risk occupations.
Order Clerks
E-commerce platforms and automated order processing systems have largely replaced manual order entry. AI chatbots and automated fulfillment systems continue to reduce demand for human order clerks.
Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks
Automated payroll software and integrated HR management systems can now handle time tracking, tax calculations, and payment processing with minimal human intervention, significantly reducing the need for payroll clerks.
Fast Food Cooks
Automated cooking equipment, AI-powered kitchen systems, and robotic food preparation are being deployed by major fast food chains. Self-service kiosks and mobile ordering further reduce the need for kitchen staff.
Bank Tellers
Mobile banking apps, ATMs, online banking, and automated deposit systems have drastically reduced the need for in-person teller services. AI-powered chatbots now handle many customer service inquiries previously handled by tellers.
Metal/Plastic Machine Operators
Advanced robotics, computer-controlled machinery, and AI-driven manufacturing optimization are replacing manual machine operators in metal and plastic manufacturing. Smart factories with minimal human intervention are becoming standard.
Interviewers (except eligibility and loan)
AI-powered interview bots, automated survey systems, and natural language processing can now conduct preliminary interviews and data collection more efficiently than human interviewers, particularly for market research and customer surveys.
Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) Tool Operators
Advanced CNC machines with AI monitoring, predictive maintenance, and self-optimization capabilities require fewer human operators. Lights-out manufacturing facilities can run CNC operations 24/7 with minimal supervision.
Bill and Account Collectors
AI-powered collections software can analyze payment patterns, automatically send reminders, negotiate payment plans, and predict which accounts to prioritize. Automated systems handle most routine collections without human intervention.
Cashiers
Self-checkout kiosks, mobile payment apps, Amazon Go-style grab-and-go stores, and automated payment systems are rapidly replacing traditional cashiers. This occupation faces the largest numeric job loss of any occupation through 2034.
Methodology
This ranking is based on official U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Employment Projections for 2024-2034, published in August 2025. Occupations were selected and ranked by the steepest projected percentage decline in employment. The BLS specifically identifies automation, artificial intelligence, e-commerce, and digital transformation as primary drivers of these declines. All salary data is from the May 2024 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey. These projections reflect structural changes in how work is performed, not temporary economic fluctuations.
Common Themes
Jobs most vulnerable to AI and automation share several characteristics:
- Routine tasks: Occupations involving repetitive, predictable tasks that can be codified into algorithms
- Data processing: Roles focused on data entry, document processing, or information transfer that AI can perform faster and more accurately
- Digital alternatives: Jobs replaced by software, mobile apps, or online platforms (e.g., banking, ordering, payment processing)
- Manufacturing automation: Machine operation roles superseded by robotics and smart manufacturing systems
- Limited human interaction: Positions where personal touch and emotional intelligence aren't critical differentiators
How to Choose the Right Career
- Align with strengths: Choose careers that match your skills and interests, particularly those requiring creativity, complex problem-solving, or human empathy
- Research thoroughly: Use BLS data, informational interviews, and job shadowing to understand which roles are growing vs. declining
- Consider lifestyle: Salary isn't everything — factor in work-life balance, stress, job security, and location flexibility
- Plan your path: Understand education and experience requirements; invest in skills that complement rather than compete with AI
- Stay adaptable: Focus on developing skills that are hard to automate: critical thinking, emotional intelligence, creativity, complex communication, and adaptability
- Start now: Take action with courses, certifications, or entry-level roles in growing fields like healthcare, technology, and professional services
Growing Alternative Careers
If you're in an at-risk occupation, consider transitioning to these high-growth fields:
- Healthcare Support: 12.4% growth (fastest growing occupational group)
- Computer and Mathematical: 10.1% growth including software developers (15% growth)
- Healthcare Practitioners: 7.2% growth including nurse practitioners, physician assistants
- Renewable Energy: Solar and wind technician roles growing 80-180%
- Management: 6.1% growth across business and operations management
Data Source
All data sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook, Employment Projections, and Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics. Data reflects 2024 estimates and 2024-2034 projections.