While some jobs are at high risk of being automated, others are more resistant to automation due to the unique skills and human qualities they require.
In this article, we will explore professions with the lowest risk of automation, highlighting the characteristics that make these roles less susceptible to being replaced by machines.
Professions with Low Automation Risk
According to research on the risk of automation for various professions, the following jobs have a low likelihood of being automated. The percentages indicate the estimated risk of automation for each profession:
| Job Title | Risk Level |
|---|---|
| Recreational Therapists | 0.28% |
| First-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers | 0.30% |
| Emergency Management Directors | 0.30% |
| First-Line Supervisors of Fire Fighting and Prevention Workers | 0.30% |
| Dietitians and Nutritionists | 0.30% |
| Lodging Managers | 0.30% |
| Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers | 0.31% |
| Audiologists | 0.33% |
| Occupational Therapists | 0.35% |
| Orthotists and Prosthetists | 0.35% |
| Healthcare Social Workers | 0.35% |
| Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons | 0.36% |
| Choreographers | 0.40% |
| Sales Engineers | 0.40% |
| Physicians and Surgeons | 0.40% |
| Instructional Coordinators | 0.40% |
| Psychologists, All Other | 0.40% |
| First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives | 0.40% |
| Dentists, General | 0.40% |
| Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education | 0.40% |
| Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists | 0.40% |
| Education Administrators, Elementary and Secondary School | 0.40% |
| Podiatrists | 0.40% |
| Clinical, Counseling, and School Psychologists | 0.40% |
| Mental Health Counselors | 0.40% |
| Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers | 0.40% |
| Set and Exhibit Designers | 0.50% |
| Human Resources Managers | 0.50% |
| Recreation Workers | 0.60% |
| Training and Development Managers | 0.60% |
Characteristics of Low-Risk Professions
The professions listed above share certain characteristics that make them less susceptible to automation:
Human Interaction: Many of the professions with low automation risk involve significant human interaction and the ability to understand and respond to human emotions. For example, mental health counselors, social workers, and recreational therapists work directly with individuals to address their emotional and psychological needs. While AI can assist in certain tasks, the empathetic and interpersonal skills required in these roles are difficult to replicate with machines.
Complex Decision-Making: Jobs that require complex decision-making and problem-solving skills are less likely to be automated. For instance, emergency management directors, physicians, and surgeons must make critical decisions based on a wide range of factors, often in high-pressure situations. The ability to exercise judgment and adapt to changing circumstances is a distinctly human trait.
Creativity and Artistry: Creativity and artistic expression are areas where humans excel and machines struggle. Choreographers, set and exhibit designers, and fabric and apparel patternmakers rely on their artistic vision and creativity to produce original and aesthetically pleasing work. While AI can generate creative content to some extent, it lacks the intuitive understanding of aesthetics and the ability to create truly original and emotionally resonant art.
Specialized Knowledge and Expertise: Many low-risk professions require specialized knowledge and expertise that are acquired through years of education and experience. For example, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, dentists, and podiatrists possess in-depth knowledge of human anatomy and medical procedures. Similarly, instructional coordinators and education administrators have a deep understanding of educational principles and practices. While AI can assist with information processing and analysis, it cannot fully replicate the expertise and judgment of trained professionals.
Leadership and Supervision: Roles that involve leadership, supervision, and management of teams are less likely to be automated. First-line supervisors of mechanics, installers, repairers, and fire fighting and prevention workers, as well as human resources managers and training and development managers, need to motivate, guide, and manage diverse teams. Leadership requires interpersonal skills, emotional intelligence, and the ability to inspire and influence others—qualities that are unique to humans.
Use our calculator to find out if you need to switch careers or your job is safe from robots.
Job Automation CalculatorImplications for the Future
The low risk of automation for these professions does not imply that they will remain unchanged in the future. AI and automation technologies can still play a supportive role in enhancing productivity, improving accuracy, and reducing repetitive tasks. For example, AI-powered diagnostic tools can assist physicians and medical scientists in making more accurate diagnoses, while virtual reality technology can enhance the training and development of professionals across various fields.
As technology continues to advance, it is important for individuals in these professions to embrace lifelong learning and stay updated on technological developments relevant to their fields. By integrating technology into their work, professionals can leverage the strengths of both humans and machines to deliver better outcomes.
Conclusion
The rise of AI and automation has brought about significant changes to the job market and the nature of work. While some jobs are at risk of being automated, others remain resistant due to the unique skills and qualities they require. Professions that involve human interaction, complex decision-making, creativity, specialized expertise, and leadership are less likely to be replaced by machines.
As we navigate the future of work, it is essential to recognize the value of human skills and qualities that cannot be replicated by technology. By fostering a collaborative approach between humans and machines, we can create a future where technology enhances our capabilities and enables us to achieve more than ever before.
Cristian Gonzalez
I have been using automation tools for many years, now with the advancements of AI and Machine Learning I have been more and more interested in this topic, that's why I started Robotizados a website that helps people be informed about the risks, challenges, and opportunities of Artificial Intelligence.Use our calculator to find out if you need to switch careers or your job is safe from robots.
Job Automation Calculator