Artificial intelligence (AI) has become increasingly integrated into various sectors, with its presence felt in numerous everyday applications. However, as technology evolves, forecasts predict a significant rise in AI's prevalence in the coming years. The implications of this growth have sparked extensive discussion regarding the potential effects on employment, particularly concerning job displacement across various industries.
The Independent reports that several studies have sought to understand which professions are likely to remain insulated from the effects of AI. Focusing on employment listings and trends, researchers have identified jobs that not only retain a strong demand despite the introduction of AI tools but are also deemed "AI-proof."
A recent analysis by job search platform Adzuna, utilising data from Goldman Sachs and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), has highlighted these positions and ranked them based on offered salaries. Notably, the study revealed that roles requiring a high level of human interaction are among the safest from automation. This includes medical professionals such as dermatologists, who topped the list with an average salary of £86,229, alongside a marked increase in job vacancies—almost double compared to the preceding year.
Other medical roles identified in the report include dentists, veterinarians, and physical therapists, all of which rely heavily on bespoke human interaction. However, the analysis extended beyond the medical field; several practical, manual labour roles also demonstrated resilience against AI. These include occupations like plumbers, carpenters, and various labour positions, emphasizing the sustained need for human skills in these areas. Interestingly, less frequently mentioned jobs such as lifeguards and crane drivers also appeared in the findings, further illustrating the diversity of roles that are expected to withstand technological advancements.
Notably, positions requiring specific human judgement and critical thinking skills were also considered relatively secure. Roles such as nurses, social workers, midwives, and museum curators consistently maintained robust job listings, showcasing the ongoing demand for human responsibility and expertise in these professions.
The potential impact of AI on employment is substantial, with the International Monetary Fund having projected last year that nearly 40 per cent of all jobs could eventually be affected. The continuing conversation around AI automation emphasises the balance that must be struck between the adoption of emerging technologies and the sustaining of a skilled workforce capable of navigating the complexities of human-centric roles in a rapidly evolving job market.
Source: Noah Wire Services