26 Jobs That Won’t Be Automated 

Jobs that won’t be automated in your lifetime are most likely the jobs that require you to 

• be there in person and use critical thinking, or 
• require innovative thought, or 
• require you to be able to sympathize with other people.

Even though it seems that artificial intelligence (AI) has exploded recently, it’s actually been around since the 1950s! Job automation has been happening for even longer.

You probably remember studying the Industrial Revolution of the 1800s. Machines started to automate farm work, such as sowing seeds and harvesting crops. Previously this was all done manually.

I put together this list of jobs that won’t be automated for students who are planning for their future careers. And for people who are concerned they might lose their job to automation.

26 Jobs That Won’t Be Automated 

1 – Registered Nurse

Job Description: 

As a Registered Nurse, you’ll provide medical care, including administering medications, monitoring vital signs, and educating patients on their health. You’ll work as part of a healthcare team to develop treatment plans and help patients on their path to recovery.

Median Salary: 

$75,330 per year

Why this job won’t be automated: 

Registered Nurses rely on their medical knowledge and critical thinking skills to assess patients and make decisions about their care. 

Nurses also provide emotional support and guidance to patients and their families, which requires empathy and interpersonal skills. People want to speak with nurses, not a cold machine that outputs fake sympathy.

2 – Doctor

Job Description: 

As a Doctor, you’ll be responsible for diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries, performing medical procedures, and providing preventive care. You’ll work with a variety of patients and medical conditions, using your expertise and knowledge to improve their health outcomes.

Median Salary:  

$206,500 per year

Why this job won’t be automated:  

Rather than be replaced by automation, doctors will more likely be assisted by AI.

For instance, I had laparoscopic surgery to remove my appendix. This was surgery by a doctor with the help of a robot.

Good doctors use creativity and are excellent problem solvers. Automation will not be able to perform these tasks.

3 – Dentist

Job Description: 

As a dentist, you’ll focus on the health and care of your patient’s teeth, gums, and mouths. You’ll provide preventive care, diagnose and treat oral health issues, and perform dental procedures such as fillings, crowns, and extractions. You’ll work closely with your patients to help them maintain good oral health and prevent future problems.

Median Salary:  

$161,750 per year

Why this job won’t be automated: 

Good dentists have strong interpersonal skills to put their patients at ease and build trust. AI and automation can’t replace this personal touch. Also, it’s unlikely that robots or automation will be able to perform dental procedures in our lifetimes.

4 – Dental Hygienist

Job Description: 

As a dental hygienist, you’ll work with dentists to provide preventive care to patients, including cleaning teeth, taking X-rays, and applying fluoride treatments. You’ll also educate patients on good oral hygiene practices and help them develop a personalized care plan.

Median Salary: 

$77,890 per year

Why this job won’t be automated: 

Dental hygienists perform tasks that require human judgment and fine motor skills, such as cleaning teeth and evaluating oral health. These tasks are difficult to automate and require a high degree of precision and adaptability. 

Dental hygienists also provide patient education and emotional support, which can’t be replicated by automation.

5 – Teacher

Job Description: 

As a teacher, you’ll educate and inspire students. You’ll create lesson plans, lead classroom discussions, and work with pupils to develop critical thinking skills.

Median Salary: 

$61,660 per year

Why this job won’t be automated: 

Teaching requires a unique combination of skills that can’t be replicated by a machine, such as empathy, creativity, and adaptability. Teachers need to be able to connect with their students on a personal level and tailor their instruction to meet each student’s needs.

Find out why being a teacher is one of the best jobs for extroverts here. 

6 – Social Worker

Job Description: 

Social workers help people cope with challenging situations, such as poverty, abuse, or mental illness. They provide counseling, connect clients with community resources, and advocate for social change.

Median Salary:  

$51,760 per year

Why this job won’t be automated: 

Social work involves a lot of human interaction and empathy, which can’t be replicated by a machine. Social workers need to be able to understand their client’s unique situations and work with them to find solutions that meet their individual needs.

7 – Psychologist

Job Description: 

As a psychologist, you’ll study human behavior and mental processes. You’ll use your knowledge to develop treatments for mental illness, conduct research, and provide therapy to patients.

Median Salary:  

$82,180 per year

Why this job won’t be automated: 

Psychology is a complex field that requires a deep understanding of human emotions and behavior. Psychologists need to be able to build trust and rapport with their patients, analyze complex data, and develop customized treatment plans based on each patient’s unique needs.

Most patients want to connect with a real human for these issues.

8 – Psychiatrist

Job Description: 

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in the treatment of mental illness. They diagnose and treat patients using a variety of methods, such as therapy, medication, and other interventions.

Median Salary: 

$220,380 per year

Why this job won’t be automated: 

Psychiatry requires a unique combination of medical expertise and psychological knowledge. Psychiatrists need to be able to diagnose and treat complex mental health conditions using a variety of methods, and they must be able to communicate effectively with their patients to build trust and ensure effective treatment.

It is likely dangerous to allow automation to diagnose and prescribe drugs to patients.

9 – Hair Stylist / Barber

Job Description: 

As a hair stylist or barber, you’ll use your creativity to give clients fresh and stylish haircuts, colors, and treatments. You’ll have the power to make someone’s day by making them look and feel their best.

Median Salary:  

$26,440 per year

Why this job won’t be automated: 

Hair styling and barbering require a unique blend of technical skill and artistry that won’t be replicated by a machine. Plus, some clients value the personal connection and expertise that only a human stylist can provide.

In the 1980s, there was a device called the Flowbee that attempted to automate haircuts. It never became popular.

10 – Cosmetologist

Job Description: 

As a cosmetologist, you’ll do more than just hair. You’ll also apply makeup, give facials, and provide other beauty treatments to help people look and feel their best. With your skills, you can help people enhance their natural beauty and feel more confident.

Median Salary: 

$28,530 per year

Why this job won’t be automated: 

Cosmetology requires a personal touch and a deep understanding of each client’s unique needs and preferences. From choosing the right shade of lipstick to creating the perfect hairstyle, a human cosmetologist brings a level of expertise and creativity that can’t be matched by a machine.

Although the Jetsons predicted this in the 1960s, this will probably not happen in our lifetimes:

11 – Entertainers (Actors, Singers, Comedians, etc.)

Job Description: 

As an entertainer, you’ll use your talent to captivate audiences and make people laugh, cry, or dance. Whether you’re on stage or in front of the camera, you have the power to transport people to a different world and make them forget their problems.

Median Salary: 

Varies widely based on the type of entertainer.

Why this job won’t be automated: 

Entertainment is all about human connection and emotion. No matter how advanced technology gets, it can never replace the energy and excitement of a live performance or the unique personality and style of a talented entertainer.

Yes, there are AI influencers, and you can create AI singers and voices, and AI such as Chat-GPT can write comedy scripts. But people still want to connect with real human entertainers. In the future, there will be both AI-generated entertainment and human entertainment.

Being an entertainer can be one of the best jobs that pay 100k a year without a degree. 

12 – Masseuse

Job Description: 

As a masseuse, you’ll use your hands to help people relax, reduce stress, and alleviate pain. With your knowledge of different massage techniques and the human body, you can provide customized treatments that leave your clients feeling rejuvenated and refreshed.

Median Salary:  

$43,620 per year

Why this job won’t be automated: 

Massage is a highly personalized and intuitive practice that requires a deep understanding of the human body and a connection with each client. While there may be machines that can provide basic massage services, they can never replicate the healing touch and human intuition of a skilled masseuse.

For instance, I love my foot massage machine. But I still prefer a massage from a professional whenever I can afford the treat!

13 – Chiropractor

Job Description: 

Chiropractors help patients with health problems of the neuromusculoskeletal system, such as back and neck pain, by manipulating the spine and other joints.

Median Salary: 

$71,410 per year

Why this job won’t be automated: 

Chiropractic treatment requires human interaction and the ability to physically manipulate a patient’s joints based on their individual needs, making it difficult to automate.

14 – Police Officer

Job Description: 

Police officers protect the public by enforcing laws, responding to emergencies, and maintaining order in communities.

Median Salary: 

$67,290 per year

Why this job won’t be automated: 

Police officers must make decisions based on complex and dynamic situations that involve human behavior, emotions, and interactions, making it difficult to automate.

Police officers made our list of best jobs without a degree!

The 1987 movie Robocop is a science fiction tale about the bad things that would happen if we had AI police officers:

15 – Pastor / Priest / Rabbi / Clergy

Job Description: 

Clergy members provide spiritual guidance and leadership to their communities by leading worship services, performing religious rites, and providing counseling and support to those in need.

Median Salary:  

$52,840 per year 

Why this job won’t be automated: 

The role of clergy is deeply rooted in human emotion, spirituality, and personal connection, making it difficult to automate.

16 – Plumber

Job Description: 

Plumbers install and repair pipes, fixtures, and other plumbing systems in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.

Median Salary: 

$56,900 per year 

Why this job won’t be automated: 

Plumbing requires problem-solving skills, adaptability, and the ability to work with a variety of materials and equipment in various settings, making it difficult to automate.

17 – Electrician

Job Description: 

Electricians install and maintain electrical systems in homes, businesses, and other buildings.

Median Salary: 

$57,910 per year 

Why this job won’t be automated: 

Electricians must have in-depth knowledge of electrical systems, be able to troubleshoot complex issues, and work in various environments, making it difficult to automate.

18 – Home Repair Person

Job Description: 

Home repair persons fix and maintain household appliances, systems, and structures, including plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems.

Median Salary: 

$40,860 per year

Why this job won’t be automated: 

Home repair requires problem-solving skills, adaptability, and the ability to work with a variety of materials and tools in various settings. It’s hard to imagine a machine or robot doing this job in our lifetimes.

19 – Physical Therapist

Job Description: 

Physical therapists help patients recover from injuries and illnesses by developing treatment plans and using exercise, massage, and other techniques to improve their mobility and manage their pain.

Median Salary: 

$91,010 per year 

Why this job won’t be automated: 

Physical therapy requires personalized treatment plans based on individual patient needs and the ability to adapt treatment based on the patient’s progress, making it difficult to automate.

Being a physical therapist is one of our top fun jobs that pay well!

20 – Occupational Therapist

Job Description: 

Occupational therapists help patients recover from injuries or disabilities by developing treatment plans that help them perform daily activities and tasks at home and work.

Median Salary: 

$87,280 per year 

Why this job won’t be automated: 

Occupational therapy requires personalized treatment plans based on individual patient needs and the ability to adapt treatment based on the patient’s progress, making it difficult to automate.

21 – Fitness Trainer

Job Description: 

As a fitness trainer, you’ll help people get in shape and reach their fitness goals through personalized training and nutrition plans. You’ll work one-on-one or with groups in a gym, fitness studio, or remotely through online coaching.

Median Salary: 

$42,250 per year

Why this job won’t be automated: 

While technology can provide personalized workout plans, it can’t replace the human touch of a fitness trainer who can motivate and inspire clients, make adjustments to their form and technique, and provide real-time feedback.

Sure, products like Peloton can yell at you to go harder, but many people want a trainer in person to hold them accountable and to help them with their personal challenges, such as working out with injuries and limitations.

22 – Instructor for anything physical such as Karate, Dance, Jiu-Jitsu, Barre, etc.

Job Description: 

As an instructor for physical activity, you’ll teach students how to improve their technique, gain strength and flexibility, and achieve their goals.

Median Salary: 

About $20 per hour or more depending on many factors.

Why this job won’t be automated: 

While there are online tutorials and instructional videos, nothing can replace the personal attention and guidance of an experienced instructor who can provide feedback, adjust technique, and help students progress at their own pace.

23 – Judge

Job Description: 

As a judge, you’ll be responsible for ensuring that legal cases are conducted fairly and impartially. You’ll listen to arguments from both sides, evaluate evidence, and make decisions that can have a profound impact on people’s lives.

Median Salary: 

$133,840 per year

Why this job won’t be automated: 

The complex nature of legal cases, especially felony criminal charges, along with the need for human interpretation and decision-making, make it unlikely that judges will be replaced by machines anytime soon.

24 – Athlete

Job Description: 

As an athlete, you’ll train, maintain physical fitness, and participate in competitions.

Median Salary: 

The median annual salary for professional athletes varies widely based on the sport and level of competition, but can range from $45,000 to millions of dollars per year.

Why this job won’t be automated: 

While technology can help athletes analyze and improve their performance, it can’t replace the unique physical and mental abilities that make top athletes stand out. 

E-Sports are gaining in popularity, but sports featuring real people are as popular as ever. People want to see other people compete in sports at the highest levels.

25 – Politician

Job Description: 

As a politician, you’ll be responsible for representing the interests of your constituents, developing policies and legislation, and advocating for change on local, state, or national levels.

Median Salary: 

$61,850 per year

Why this job won’t be automated: 

Politicians often need to persuade and speak in public. While people already don’t trust politicians, they are even less likely to trust AI to represent their best interests. 

26 – Business Leader or Manager

Job Description: 

As a business leader or manager, you’ll be responsible for overseeing the operations of a company, developing and implementing strategies, and leading a team of employees.

Median Salary: 

Varies widely, typically over $100,000 

Why this job won’t be automated: 

While technology can be used to optimize business operations, it can’t replace the leadership and strategic thinking skills that are essential to successful business management. 

It’s more likely that in the future, business leaders will use AI and automation to cut costs and provide data.

Related: Check out the highest-paying work-from-home jobs that don’t require a degree.

Commonly Asked Questions About Jobs that Won’t Be Automated

Which Jobs Can Not Be Automated?

Jobs that require human sympathy, human touch, creative thinking, and high levels of persuasion can not be automated. Examples of these jobs include:

• Registered Nurse
• Doctor
• Dentist
• Dental Hygienist
• Teacher
• Social Worker
• Psychologist
• Psychiatrist
• Hair Stylist / Barber
• Cosmetologist
• Fitness Instructor / Personal Trainer
• Athlete
• Entertainer
• Judge
• Police Officer
• Occupational Therapist
• Physical Therapist
• Plumber
• Electrician
• Home Repair Person

What Is a Task That Will Never Be Automated?

Creativity and innovation are tasks that are unlikely to be automated. Machines lack the imagination and intuition necessary to come up with new ideas and solve complex problems.

Tasks that require human sympathy will never be automated. This can include psychology and sales for expensive products.

What Jobs are Most in Danger of Automation?

The jobs most at risk of automation are those that are repetitive and predictable, such as data entry, assembly line work, and online customer service. Jobs that require human judgment, creativity, and social skills are less likely to be automated.

What Jobs No Longer Exist Due to Technology?

Technology has rendered many jobs obsolete, such as switchboard operators, typists, and elevator operators. The rise of automation has also significantly reduced the need for manual labor, such as factory workers and assembly line workers.

What Jobs are Least Likely to Be Automated?

Jobs that require human interaction, creativity, and critical thinking are least likely to be automated. Examples include teachers, therapists, artists, social workers, and healthcare workers. Jobs that involve physical work or require human dexterity, such as plumbers and electricians, are also unlikely to be automated.

What are Jobs that Will Be Replaced by AI?

AI is expected to replace jobs that involve routine and repetitive tasks, such as data entry, bookkeeping, and customer service. It is also likely to replace jobs that require basic decision-making, such as financial analysis and legal research.

Which Jobs Will Never Be Replaced by AI?

AI is unlikely to replace jobs that require complex human skills, such as creativity, empathy, and critical thinking. Examples include doctors, teachers, artists, and therapists. Jobs that require physical work, such as plumbers and electricians, are also unlikely to be replaced by AI.

Jobs Already Replaced by Robots?

Many jobs have already been replaced by robots, such as factory workers, assembly line workers, and data entry clerks. Self-checkout machines and automated kiosks have also replaced cashiers and retail workers.

Jobs That Won’t Be Automated Reddit

Here’s a summary of Reddit threads about jobs that won’t be automated.

Redditors think jobs that won’t be automated include:

• Counseling jobs
• Trade jobs (plumber, HVAC repair person, electrician, etc.)
• Jobs that require an understanding of human or animal psychology

*Job salary statistics from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Numbers may vary based on location, experience, and skill level.