Microsoft’s report on the occupational implications of generative AI has sparked concern among professionals, with many jobs deemed “most at risk” due to their high crossover with AI. The list includes historians, translators, writers, customer service representatives, sales reps, and more.
While Microsoft claims that high applicability doesn’t automatically mean these roles will be replaced by AI, employers have been cutting jobs and pausing hiring to make way for enhanced productivity. Companies like Amazon have announced AI-driven workforce reductions, leaving workers scrambling to understand which careers might soon disappear.
The report highlights knowledge work roles, such as computer, math, or administrative work, that are most exposed to AI. Sales jobs, involving sharing and explaining information, are also high on the list. However, not all jobs will be affected by AI, with certain hands-on roles like dredge operators, bridge and lock tenders, and water treatment plant and system operators remaining relatively untouched.
Industry leaders, including Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, warn that every job will be impacted by AI in some way, emphasizing its need to be adapted to. Even those with a four-year degree are not immune, as the report found higher AI applicability for occupations requiring a Bachelor’s degree than lower requirements.
In contrast, the healthcare sector is experiencing growth, particularly in home health and personal care aid industries. Career paths with low AI exposure, such as truck driving and operating machinery, are also expected to create new job opportunities.
The study acknowledges its limitations, focusing on generative technology and recognizing that other applications of AI may affect occupations involving machine operation and monitoring. As the AI revolution accelerates, continued research is essential to understand its societal and economic impact.
Source: https://fortune.com/2025/07/31/microsoft-research-generative-ai-occupational-impact-jobs-most-and-least-likely-to-impact-teaching-office-jobs-college-gen-z-grads