Opinion | How AI is Transforming Job Roles, the Workforce, and Employment

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been around for quite a while, and it is increasingly improving our daily lives. From robots that greet people at shopping centres to search engines that suggest what we might like, AI is making things easier and more efficient.

AI innovations have brought many benefits across different industries. Processes are faster and more efficient, helpful technologies are now everywhere, and predictions are more accurate than ever.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is changing jobs by creating new roles and automating everyday tasks, with 20-50 million new jobs expected by 2030, especially in fields like healthcare and pharmaceuticals. Though some industries might lose certain jobs, the overall economy is likely to benefit from greater productivity. As AI develops, understanding its effects on jobs and the economy is essential.
AI is already reshaping the workforce, with clear changes in jobs and hiring. As it grows, businesses and workers need to adapt to stay successful. In this article, we’ll explore how AI impacts the workforce, how it helps workers and businesses be more efficient, and the pros and cons of using AI on a larger scale.
Impact of AI on Job Roles
The rise of automation and AI is transforming job roles across industries, including high-tech manufacturing. Advanced technology now automates many manual and repetitive tasks, boosting efficiency and productivity. This shift, however, is changing job roles, making some obsolete while new ones are created. For instance, manufacturing workers now need skills to operate and maintain machines and robots handling manual tasks. AI in manufacturing is also creating new roles like data analysts, AI programmers, and machine learning specialists.
These new roles need a mix of technical skills and an understanding of business processes. Future jobs will require technical skills, creativity, and adaptability to use automation and AI effectively. As AI changes the job market, individuals must adapt to stay relevant and competitive by developing in-demand skills like data analytics, machine learning, and programming, which can be gained through courses, workshops, or certifications.
Another way to stay competitive is to use AI to enhance human capabilities and work more efficiently by learning to work with AI tools and systems. Staying informed about AI developments in one’s industry by following publications, attending conferences, and networking with peers is also important.
Finally, flexibility and adaptability are key as the job market continues to evolve with AI and new technologies. By embracing change and continually learning, individuals can succeed in a world where AI is transforming work.
Impact of AI on the Workforce
AI’s impact on the workforce is complex. It automates repetitive tasks, shifts skill needs, and sometimes displaces jobs. This can be good for employees, allowing them to focus on more complex, creative work, but it also raises concerns about job loss and changing job demands. AI is also opening new roles, especially in areas like data analytics, machine learning, and AI development.
Despite its benefits, there are concerns about AI’s broader impact on jobs. Job displacement may lead to unemployment and require people to learn new skills. There is also a risk of bias and discrimination in AI algorithms, which can negatively affect marginalized groups.
Privacy and security are key concerns as AI grows. Protecting personal data and keeping AI systems secure from cyber threats is essential. However, AI can boost efficiency and productivity, and as it advances, it will likely create more job opportunities for those with the right skills.
Impact of AI on Employment
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping the job market by creating new roles and enhancing existing ones. As AI continues to advance, it’s essential to understand its effects on jobs, the new types of roles it’s introducing, and its potential impact on unemployment rates and the economy.
A report by McKinsey & Company predicts that AI will generate 20-50 million new jobs globally by 2030 in fields like healthcare, manufacturing, and finance. New roles emerging due to AI include:
1. AI Trainers and Teachers: These professionals train AI systems to ensure accuracy, effectiveness, and development of new applications.
2. Data Analysts and Scientists: With more data from AI, there is a growing need for those who can analyse and draw insights, helping businesses make better decisions.
3. Human-Machine Teaming Managers: These managers ensure effective collaboration between humans and AI, boosting productivity.
4. AI Ethics and Policy Specialists: As AI becomes more common, specialists are needed to address ethical and policy issues, ensuring responsible use.
AI is creating roles requiring critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving. It is also improving existing jobs by enhancing accuracy in tasks like quality control and data analysis. In healthcare, for example, AI assists doctors with diagnoses and treatment, leading to better patient outcomes and reduced workloads for medical staff.
There is debate about AI’s effect on unemployment and the economy. While it creates new opportunities, AI also displaces jobs, especially those involving routine tasks. According to the World Economic Forum, AI could displace 75 million jobs by 2025 but will also create 133 million new roles, resulting in a net gain of 58 million jobs globally. Job displacement, however, will vary by industry and region, with manufacturing seeing greater losses, while healthcare and education are expected to grow.
AI also has economic implications. It can boost productivity and output, leading to economic growth. However, there are concerns that it might widen the wealth gap, as those skilled in AI could earn more than those without these skills.

Technology is evolving rapidly, and so are our job roles. Automation and AI are reshaping the way we work, with noticeable effects across many industries. While some jobs are at risk of being automated, others are adapting to include AI in daily tasks.
As AI continues to grow, we must take a proactive approach to balance its benefits with the needs of workers and society. This includes being prepared for changes in the job market and learning new skills to succeed in the digital age.
Addressing potential job losses from automation is also important. Strategies should be in place to support workers at risk of displacement, providing training and education to help them transition into new roles.
Though there are challenges, AI’s integration into job roles can drive innovation, boost efficiency, and improve our quality of life. By fully leveraging AI’s potential, we can create new jobs, grow the economy, and address global challenges.
AI’s impact on job roles is both significant and broad. Taking a proactive approach will help ensure that AI’s benefits are balanced with the needs of workers and society. This can lead to a future where AI and human workers collaborate effectively to achieve shared goals and drive progress.

By Firdous Javid Beig
firdousjavid1@gmail.com