The robots aren’t coming – they’re already here.
With 2.5 million industrial robots operating worldwide and 46.5% of energy sector jobs at high risk of automation by 2030, the workforce is transforming faster than ever. The impact reaches beyond manufacturing – even 69% of managerial tasks could be automated by the end of 2024.
This article breaks down the latest job automation statistics across industries, roles, and regions. We’ll examine automation’s effects on employment, wages, and skill requirements to help you understand the risks and opportunities for your business or career in an increasingly automated world.
Top 6 Job Automation Statistics (Editor’s Picks)
We’ve handpicked 35+ of the latest job automation statistics, facts, and trends. Here are 6 that we believe will blow you away.
| 1 | 2.5 million industrial robots are currently in use worldwide |
| 2 | By 2030, 46.5% of jobs in the energy, utilities, and mining industry in North America are at high risk of automation |
| 3 | 1.7 million manufacturing jobs have been lost to automation |
| 4 | 41 million retail jobs are at risk from automation by 2040 |
| 5 | 69% of managerial tasks could be fully automated by the end of 2024 |
| 6 | AI and automation have caused wage reductions of up to 70% since 1980 |
Job Automation Statistics
By 2030, 46.5% of jobs in the energy, utilities, and mining industries in North America are at high risk of automation (statista)
Approximately 46.5% of jobs in North America’s energy, utilities, and mining sectors are considered to be at high risk of automation. This statistic highlights the significant impact automation technologies could have on this industry, as companies increasingly adopt advanced automation tools to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.
41 million retail jobs are at risk from automation by 2040 (edoxi)
By 2040, automation could impact up to 41 million retail jobs, with cashiers, stock clerks, and customer service roles most at risk. Self-checkout, robotics, and AI are driving this shift to boost efficiency and cut costs.
AI and automation have caused wage reductions of up to 70% since 1980 (Forbes)
The rise of AI and automation has led to wage declines of as much as 70% in certain industries since 1980. Sectors with repetitive tasks, like manufacturing, have seen the largest impacts, as automation replaced many roles and lowered the demand for human labor.
1.7 million manufacturing jobs have been lost to automation so far (LEFTRONIC)
Since the year 2000, automation has replaced 1.7 million jobs in the manufacturing sector. Automation advancements, particularly in robotics and AI, have led to streamlined production but have significantly reduced the need for human labor in repetitive tasks.
73% of business leaders believe AI will double employee productivity by 2035 (AMS)
A recent survey shows that 73% of business leaders expect technology and AI to make employees at least twice as productive by 2035. This optimistic outlook reflects the transformative potential of AI tools in improving workflows, decision-making, and time management.
83% of IT leaders say workflow automation is essential for digital transformation (Kissflow)
83% of IT leaders see workflow automation as essential for successful digital transformation. Automation makes processes smoother, cuts down on errors, and boosts productivity. These benefits are crucial for keeping up with fast-evolving technology needs.
79% of customer service specialists see AI and automation as crucial to their strategies (HubSpot)
79% of customer service specialists see AI and automation as essential. This shows a clear trend: companies are using technology to boost customer interactions and streamline their processes. To keep pace, businesses should start adopting these tools. This can lead to better service and more efficient operations
75.7% of digital marketers utilize AI tools in their work (Harpa AI Technologies)
A recent survey reveals that 75.7% of digital marketers now use AI tools to enhance their campaigns. These tools help marketers break down customer data, create personalized content, and make smarter ad spending decisions. In today’s competitive digital landscape, using AI isn’t just helpful—it’s essential.
61% of sales professionals believe generative AI will enhance customer service (Salesforce)
According to survey results, 61% of sales professionals think generative AI will improve their ability to serve customers. This optimism suggests a growing recognition of AI’s potential to streamline service, personalize interactions, and respond more effectively to customer needs.
69% of HR professionals using hiring automation reported a significant time reduction in the hiring process (Kissflow)
A survey revealed that 69% of HR professionals using automation in hiring reported a significant reduction in the time spent on the hiring process. This improvement allows HR teams to streamline their workflows, focus on candidate quality, and enhance the overall efficiency of recruitment efforts.
The market for generative AI in financial services is projected to surge from $0.85 billion in 2022 to $9.48 billion by 2032 (Keymakr)
The Generative AI in Financial Services Market reached a value of $0.85 Billion in 2022 and is expected to increase at a CAGR of 28.1% from 2022 to 2032, which is equivalent to $9.48 Billion, surpassing by a large margin the number in 2022.
72% of organizations are planning to increase their investment in AI (Big Data Wire)
A recent survey shows that 72% of organizations plan to increase their spending on AI technologies. This reflects a clear shift in confidence, as companies see AI’s potential to improve efficiency and sharpen decision-making.
Global Robotics Installations by Industry
Electronics leads robotics installations with 28% of new robots globally (statista)
Electronics is the largest customer industry for robotics, accounting for 28% of all newly installed robots worldwide. The high demand for precision and efficiency in electronics manufacturing, particularly for tasks like component assembly and inspection, drives substantial robotics adoption.
Automotive industry follows with 25% of new robot installations (Site Selection Magazine)
The automotive sector makes up 25% of global robotics installations. Robotics in automotive manufacturing improves both productivity and safety, handling tasks such as welding, painting, and parts assembly—areas where automation has become essential for the industry’s efficiency.
Metal and machinery sector accounts for 12% of new robotics installations (statista)
The metal and machinery sector is the third-largest market for robotics, at 12% of new installations. Automation supports metal fabrication processes like cutting, welding, and material handling, reducing manual labor in these high-demand areas.
Plastics and chemicals represent 4% of robotics installations worldwide (Site Selection Magazine)
With 4% of new robot installations, the plastics and chemical industry increasingly turns to robotics to improve production precision and worker safety. Robots in this field help automate material handling, product assembly, and quality control tasks.
Food and beverage sector sees 3% of new robotics installations (statista)
The food and beverage industry accounts for 3% of robotics installations, using robots for packaging, sorting, and quality checks. In this sector, robotics also addresses challenges related to hygiene and speed in handling products, helping meet rising consumer demand efficiently.
Here’s a quick look at the top-ranking countries for robot density:
| Rank | Country | Robot density (per 10,000 employee) |
| 1 | South Korea | 1012 |
| 2 | Singapore | 730 |
| 3 | Germany | 415 |
| 4 | Japan | 397 |
| 5 | China | 392 |
Generative AI Adoption Rate In The US by Industry
Marketing and advertising leads with 37% AI adoption rate (SEO AI)
Marketing and advertising lead with a 37% AI adoption rate, using generative AI for content creation, personalized campaigns, and in-depth customer insights to drive innovation and efficiency.
Technology Follows With 35% AI Adoption Rate (statista)
The technology industry is close behind in AI adoption, with a 35% rate. Companies are using AI to simplify coding, speed up prototyping, and improve debugging. These applications help teams work more efficiently, allowing them to develop and refine products faster.
Consulting Reaches 30% AI Adoption Rate (SEO AI)
Consulting firms report a 30% AI adoption rate, applying generative AI to data analysis, trend identification, and reporting, enabling consultants to deliver faster, data-rich insights to clients.
Teaching sees 19% AI adoption rate (statista)
Teaching has a 19% AI adoption rate, with educators beginning to use AI tools for lesson planning and grading, which helps teachers dedicate more time to student-centered learning.
Accounting records a 16% AI adoption rate (statista)
Accounting shows a 16% AI adoption rate, as firms cautiously explore AI tools for data processing and tax preparation to reduce manual tasks while meeting high accuracy standards.
Healthcare holds a 15% AI adoption rate (statista)
Healthcare maintains a 15% AI adoption rate, with AI mainly supporting administrative tasks like report generation and patient communication, though privacy and compliance concerns slow wider use.
U.S. Cities with Highest Job Automation Risks
Las Vegas, Nevada leads the list with 15.80% of jobs at risk due to automation (Unmudl)
Las Vegas leads U.S. cities in job automation vulnerability, with 15.8% of roles at risk of being automated. The city’s economy is heavily dependent on service jobs in tourism and entertainment, many of which involve repetitive tasks suited for automation.
Miami, Florida ranks second, with 15.01% of jobs at risk of automation (Unmudl)
The city’s large retail, hospitality, and service sectors make it particularly vulnerable to automation, especially in roles that involve customer interactions and routine tasks.
Louisville, Kentucky places third with 14.99% of jobs at risk of automation (Unmudl)
The city’s economy includes a significant number of manufacturing and logistics jobs, many of which face potential automation due to advancements in robotics and AI.
Orlando, Florida is fourth, with 14.64% of its jobs susceptible to automation (Unmudl)
As a hub for tourism, many of Orlando’s service roles—especially in theme parks and hospitality—are highly vulnerable to automation.
Grand Rapids, Michigan comes in fifth with 14.54% of jobs at risk due to automation (Unmudl)
Known for its manufacturing base, the city has many roles in production and logistics, where automation can efficiently replace repetitive tasks.
San Antonio, Texas has 14.29% of jobs at risk, with impacts on low-skilled roles (Unmudl)
San Antonio’s economy faces a 14.29% automation risk, particularly in technology, military, aerospace, and healthcare sectors. Administrative roles and data entry clerks are particularly vulnerable as employers adopt AI technologies.
Phoenix, Arizona’s service sectors bring a 14.08% automation risk (Unmudl)
Phoenix has 14.08% of its jobs at risk, with high automation susceptibility in its service, sales, and office sectors. Many roles, including travel booking, cashiering, and food service, could be automated.
Salt Lake City, Utah shows a 14.03% risk, primarily affecting retail and customer service roles (Unmudl)
In Salt Lake City, 14.03% of jobs are at risk, especially in trade, transportation, and government sectors. Retail sales and customer service positions face the highest vulnerability, but the city has seen a rise in AI-related job postings, suggesting alternative opportunities in data analysis, cybersecurity, and machine learning for displaced workers.
Detroit, Michigan’s reliance on manufacturing leads to a 14.02% automation risk (Unmudl)
Detroit’s economy, historically centered on automotive manufacturing, faces a 14.02% risk from automation. The city’s widespread use of robotics in manufacturing contributes to this vulnerability, although roles requiring flexibility, like mechatronics technicians, remain less likely to be automated.
Nashville, Tennessee’s service-heavy economy has 14.00% of jobs at risk (Unmudl)
Nashville’s workforce, driven by trade, transportation, and utilities, faces a 14.00% automation risk. Office support, transportation, and food service roles are particularly vulnerable as local industries adopt AI to improve productivity.
Here’s a quick look at the top paid jobs with the lowest risk of automation:
| Occupation | Median wage (US) |
| Emergency Management Directors | $83,960 |
| Security Managers | $102,340 |
| Education Administrators | $103,460 |
| Civil Engineers | $95,890 |
| General Internal Medicine Physicians | $223,310 |
| Anthropology and Archeology Teachers | $93,650 |
| Occupational Therapists | $96,370 |
| Clinical Nurse Specialists | $86,070 |
| First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives | $101,750 |
| Hospitalists | $236,000 |
Industrial Robotics Statistics
Over 310,700 industrial robots operate in the U.S. (Zippia)
The United States now has more than 310,700 industrial robots in use, primarily in manufacturing settings. Factories rely on these robots to handle tasks like assembly, welding, and quality control, helping increase production efficiency.
2.5 million industrial robots are currently in use worldwide (Team Stage)
Across sectors like automotive, electronics, and logistics, 2.25 million industrial robots are in operation worldwide. This growth in robotics underscores a major shift in labor dynamics, as companies balance productivity demands with the cost and reliability benefits of automation.
By 2026, industrial automation will become a $264.69 billion market (Kissflow)
Forecasts indicate that the industrial automation services market will expand from $147.06 billion in 2019 to $264.69 billion by 2026. This upward trend underscores a growing reliance on automation across industries seeking operational efficiency.
The global robotics industry is projected to hit $43.32 billion in revenue by 2027 (Exploding Topics)
The global robotics industry is expected to grow significantly, reaching $43.32 billion in revenue by 2027. This growth is driven by rising demand in sectors like manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics, where robotics are increasingly used to enhance productivity and precision.
33% of the global robotics industry’s revenue is dominated by Asia (Exploding Topics)
Asia leads the world in robotics industry revenue, holding over 33% of the global market share. With powerhouse countries like Japan, China, and South Korea investing heavily in automation, the region has become a global hub for robotics manufacturing and innovation.
Conclusion
Let’s face facts: automation isn’t coming – it’s here. 2.5 million industrial robots are already working alongside humans, and the numbers keep growing.
Rather than resist this change, successful organizations and individuals will embrace it, developing new skills and finding ways to add value that machines cannot replicate. The future belongs to the adaptable.
FAQ
Which jobs are least likely to be automated?
Jobs requiring high emotional intelligence, creativity, and complex decision-making are safest. These include healthcare providers, therapists, teachers, emergency responders, and creative professionals.
What jobs will disappear first?
Roles involving repetitive tasks and data processing are most at risk, including cashiers, data entry clerks, assembly line workers, and basic accounting functions.
Will automation create new jobs?
Yes – while automation eliminates some roles, it creates new positions in AI management, robotics maintenance, and human-AI collaboration.
Which industries face the highest automation risk?
Energy, utilities, mining, and manufacturing face the highest risk, with up to 46.5% of jobs potentially automated by 2030.
What skills will be most valuable in an automated world?
Adaptability, complex problem-solving, emotional intelligence, and creativity will become increasingly valuable as routine tasks are automated.
