Artificial intelligence and automation are rapidly transforming global industries, putting once-secure jobs at risk. Recent layoffs at Microsoft and IBM highlight the accelerating shift.
Microsoft has eliminated approximately 300 roles in its latest round of cuts, following 6,000 layoffs in 2024 and 10,000 in 2023. Software engineers accounted for over 40% of the recent job losses in Washington state, while project managers made up nearly 30%, despite Microsoft’s explanation of “reducing management layers.” The company’s global headcount has dropped from 232,000 in 2023 to 228,000.
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Meanwhile, IBM has reportedly automated nearly 8,000 HR roles, deploying its AI-powered “AskHR” system to handle payslip inquiries, onboarding, and more. Only tasks requiring human judgment and strategic input remain.
These moves mark a deeper trend of automation rewriting job roles. Experts warn that while AI may not replace entire professions, it is already replacing large portions of many.
Here are 12 careers that may not survive this shift—unless workers adapt.
Content Writer
Tools such as ChatGPT and Jasper are producing written content at scale. Startups and marketing firms are increasingly replacing junior writers with AI tools that deliver more output at lower cost.
Writers can explore roles in brand storytelling, content strategy, AI prompt design, or editorial leadership.
Junior Programmer
Low-code platforms and AI code assistants like GitHub Copilot are handling basic programming tasks. Entry-level developers risk being replaced by faster, automated systems.
Developers can pivot to roles in cybersecurity, DevOps, data infrastructure, or machine learning design.
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Hotel Front Office Manager
Self-check-in kiosks, virtual assistants, and automated booking systems are taking over front desk operations in hotels. Chains are investing in efficiency over human interaction.
Opportunities exist in guest experience design, loyalty programme strategy, and luxury hospitality planning.
Academic Philosopher
Pure academic philosophy is facing declining relevance in today’s job market. Without links to applied fields, funding and opportunities remain limited.
Philosophers can move into AI ethics, digital policy, environmental ethics, or tech-focused humanities research.
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Social Researcher / Field Surveyor
Traditional surveys and fieldwork are giving way to digital analytics, behaviour tracking, and online feedback tools.
New paths include user experience (UX) research, behavioural data analysis, and human-centred design.
Librarian
Digital catalogues and online databases have reduced the demand for traditional library roles. Libraries are shifting focus to digital access and automation.
Skills in digital archiving, academic data management, and information architecture are increasingly valuable.
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Cartographer
Maps are now created and updated by satellite technology and algorithms. Human input is needed less often.
Combining geography with climate science, drone mapping, or emergency response planning offers new career directions.
Recruiter (Non-Technical)
AI tools now scan CVs, shortlist candidates, and handle initial screenings. Generalist recruiters face reduced demand.
Specialisation in human resources analytics, inclusion strategy, or organisational development is key.
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Tour Operator
Online travel platforms and AI assistants can build complete itineraries, book hotels, and suggest local experiences.
Operators can offer unique travel packages such as cultural tours, medical travel, or luxury experiences.
Political Analyst
Data-driven tools now lead election modelling and sentiment tracking. Traditional analysis without tech skills is losing ground.
Roles in data journalism, geopolitical analysis, and digital advocacy remain in demand.
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Video Editor (Entry-Level)
Basic editing tasks can now be completed using AI-powered tools. Platforms offer templates and auto-editing features.
Editors can focus on motion graphics, storytelling, or creative direction to remain competitive.
Project Manager
AI platforms manage timelines, assign tasks, and track progress. This reduces the scope of project managers in many settings.
Shifting towards strategic leadership, agile coaching, and product development provides new relevance.
