On the Downward Slope: 9 Jobs that will Decline in the Coming Decade

Automation, AI, Robots: Real Job Replacers or Hype?

Before exploring the jobs that might become obsolete in the next few years, let's assess the reality versus hype surrounding the topic of AI, automation, and robots replacing human jobs. The projected influence of AI in the job market has been a subject of much speculation and debate. 

According to a recent report from the Pew Research Center, about 19% of American workers find themselves in jobs most susceptible to AI influence. These are roles where crucial tasks could either be replaced or supported by AI. It's a shift raising questions about the stability and future scope of various professions.

There is, however, a flip side to the argument. The rise of AI also ushers in a demand for new roles, creating a job market that seeks expertise across a wide spectrum of cutting-edge technologies. 

Positions like Deep Learning Engineers, AI Chatbot Developers, Prompt Engineers, and Automation Experts are witnessing a surge in demand. These roles represent the vanguard of the evolving workplace, revealing how new, tech-driven positions are emerging even as certain positions for other jobs may diminish.

The Next Decade's Changing Landscape

A recent survey by Resume Builder reveals that 44% of surveyed companies anticipate AI causing layoffs in 2024. 

To navigate potential job replacement by automation and generative AI, options such as upskilling, changing careers, or transitioning to different industries are crucial. 

In that context, let’s look at our compilation of jobs that could begin to vanish within the next decade.

1. Cashiers

The role of cashiers faces potential obsolescence as automation, self-checkout systems, and the surge in online shopping redefine the retail landscape. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, there is a projected 10 per cent decline in employment for cashiers from 2022 to 2032.

With the increasing prevalence of automated checkout systems in supermarkets and stores, customers can now independently scan and pay for their purchases without needing traditional cashier assistance. 

The growing preference for online shopping is further diminishing the necessity for in-person cash transactions. 

E-commerce platforms, featuring seamless digital transactions, offer a convenient alternative to traditional brick-and-mortar retail. 

As businesses strive for efficiency and cost-effectiveness, integrating automated technologies becomes a logical choice, posing a significant challenge to the continued relevance of cashiers in the evolving retail ecosystem. 

Cashiers can enhance their relevance amid automation by acquiring customer service, technology, and data analysis skills. 

Proficiency in using automated checkout systems, mastering digital payment methods, and cultivating strong interpersonal skills ensures adaptability and relevance. 

2. Data Entry Professionals

Data entry jobs may face significant challenges as automation increasingly takes over such tasks. The precision and speed offered by automated tools may soon render manual data entry less relevant. In fact, data Entry Keyer jobs are expected to decrease, with around 21,520 positions projected to be lost by 2029.

Amid this transformation, however, there is a potential pivot towards a more promising career path in data analytics and data science. 

Elevating skills to understand the sophisticated methods of harnessing data, instead of solely focusing on data entry, can empower individuals to target more advanced and contemporary job opportunities.

3. Food Service Employees 

The rise of AI technology is poised to impact the food service industry, leading to a potential decline in jobs. McKinsey suggests that declining employment in the food service sector may persist. 

Automation and AI-driven systems could streamline processes, reducing the demand for traditional food service roles. 

Individuals in this profession contemplating a career change can explore new opportunities through community college courses on platforms like Unmudl to equip themselves with contemporary skills. 

4. Quantitative Experts

Quantitative jobs face disruption as computerized mathematical modeling, chatbots, AI, and predictive analytics advance, diminishing the need for traditional quants. The precision and efficiency of automated technologies outpace manual quantitative analysis. The use of AI Advisors replacing human advisors in actively managed equity funds is observed in the stock market.

Individuals considering a career shift from this field can pivot towards data analytics, a field aligned with the evolving demands of quantitative analysis. 

Embracing skills in data analytics offers a strategic transition from traditional quantitative roles to positions that harness the power of modern computational tools. This ensures relevance in a landscape where sophisticated technological solutions are replacing conventional quant roles.

5. Assembly Line Workers

Assembly line workers confront potential job shrinkage in the next decade, especially in the manufacturing sector where there is a higher exposure to automating technologies than in the rest of the economy (52% of workers compared to 28%). This is primarily driven by the ascent of automation and robotics. 

Machines are increasingly taking on repetitive tasks, reducing reliance on human labor.  To stay relevant, professionals in this field can future-proof their careers by acquiring skills in systems automation. 

Learning how to manage and optimize automated systems ensures continued employability and positions these workers as integral contributors to the evolving manufacturing landscape, where adaptability to advanced technologies is crucial for sustained career growth.