Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing the future of work. A recent study by Microsoft Research has revealed that 40 job roles are at high risk of being disrupted or even replaced by AI in the coming five years. The report highlights how tools like ChatGPT and other AI models are increasingly capable of performing tasks related to communication, analysis, and content creation.

Key Points

Microsoft Research identifies 40 high-risk and 40 low-risk jobs.

Roles involving writing, editing, and communication are highly susceptible.

Jobs requiring physical labor or real-world interaction are safer.

The study uses an “AI applicability score” to determine impact.

Microsoft stresses that AI is meant to enhance, not eliminate roles.

What Is the AI Applicability Score?

At the heart of the Microsoft study is a metric called the “AI applicability score,” which assesses how effectively AI can be used to perform or support specific job tasks. A high score indicates a greater risk of job transformation or automation. According to Kiran Tomlinson, Senior Researcher at Microsoft, the score highlights where AI might change how work is done, not necessarily eliminate jobs.

“Our research shows that AI supports many tasks, particularly those involving research, writing, and communication, but does not indicate it can fully perform any single occupation,” said Tomlinson.

40 Jobs Most Likely to Be Disrupted by AI

Roles in this category often involve repetitive, analytical, or content-based work that generative AI systems are already capable of performing:

Interpreters and Translators

Writers and Authors

Customer Service Representatives

Technical Writers

Proofreaders and Copy Markers

Editors

News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists

Public Relations Specialists

Data Scientists

Market Research Analysts

Web Developers

Business Teachers (Postsecondary)

Sales Representatives (Services)

Advertising Sales Agents

New Accounts Clerks

Statistical Assistants

Telephone Operators

Ticket Agents and Travel Clerks

Broadcast Announcers and Radio DJs

Political Scientists

Historians

Mathematicians

Demonstrators and Product Promoters

Archivists

Economics Teachers (Postsecondary)

Management Analysts

Geographers

Library Science Teachers (Postsecondary)

CNC Tool Programmers

Hosts and Hostesses

Counter and Rental Clerks

Concierges

Telemarketers

Personal Financial Advisors

Public Safety Telecommunicators

Switchboard Operators

Farm and Home Management Educators

Brokerage Clerks

Models

These roles are highly vulnerable because they rely on skills that large language models can now replicate, such as summarizing data, writing reports, and answering customer queries.

40 Jobs Least Likely to Be Disrupted by AI

These roles typically require physical presence, manual dexterity, or in-person service—areas where AI still falls short:

Dredge Operators

Water Treatment Plant Operators

Rail-Track Maintenance Equipment Operators

Floor Sanders and Finishers

Logging Equipment Operators

Roofers

Helpers–Roofers

Surgical Assistants

Massage Therapists

Nursing Assistants

Phlebotomists

Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers

Dishwashers

Tire Repairers and Changers

Highway Maintenance Workers

Foundry Mold and Coremakers

Plant and System Operators

Embalmers

Gas Compressor Operators

Bridge and Lock Tenders

Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners

Motorboat Operators

Paving Equipment Operators

Ship Engineers

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons

Orderlies

Roustabouts (Oil and Gas)

Packaging and Filling Machine Operators

Machine Feeders and Offbearers

Medical Equipment Preparers

Helpers–Painters, Plasterers

Hazardous Materials Removal Workers

Prosthodontists

Automotive Glass Installers and Repairers

Supervisors of Firefighters

Tire Builders

Ophthalmic Medical Technicians

Industrial Truck and Tractor Operators

Helpers–Production Workers

These jobs are safer due to their reliance on real-world interaction, physical strength, mobility, or caregiving—areas where AI currently lacks human-like capability.

The Broader Impact of AI on Work

While Microsoft emphasizes that AI is a tool to boost productivity, the reality is more complex. Many companies may use AI to reduce headcount and cut operational costs. Even Bill Gates has cautioned that unmanaged AI growth poses significant risks to the labor market.

To mitigate disruption, governments and businesses must invest in upskilling, reskilling, and creating safety nets. This will help workers transition into roles that AI cannot easily replicate.

Conclusion

Microsoft’s report serves as both a warning and a roadmap. While AI has the power to transform industries, it’s crucial to approach this transition responsibly. Workers must prepare for change, and employers should prioritize human-centric roles that AI cannot replace. The future of work may be uncertain, but with proactive measures, it doesn’t have to be bleak.

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