Report reveals the fastest growing and declining jobs in 2025

As AI and other technologies reshape the global labor landscape and accelerate its evolution, the latest World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs Report sheds light on the key trends that will impact industries and workers alike. From the rise of artificial intelligence and automation to the growing demand for green technologies, the report offers valuable insights into which careers are set to grow and which may face significant decline. 

Click through to explore the fastest growing and declining jobs, and what these changes mean for the future of work as we know it.

Top fastest declining jobs

With the rapid growth of the digital and tech sectors, the report predicts that administrative and operational roles will be hit hardest. It also highlights that robots and automation are expected to displace five million more jobs than they create.

15. Telemarketers

Automated messages and AI-powered support assistants are growing in popularity, not just in sales but also in customer service and complaint departments. However, many customers find it frustrating to interact with machines instead of human representatives.

14. Legal secretaries

As legal technology evolves, tasks traditionally handled by legal secretaries, like document management and research, are increasingly being performed by software, reducing the need for human involvement in these roles.

12. Claims adjusters, examiners, and investigators

Similarly, many tasks traditionally performed by these professionals, such as assessing damage, processing claims, and conducting investigations, are now automated with sophisticated software and data analytics tools.

10. Door-to-door sales workers

As more consumers turn to e-commerce for convenience, the need for in-person sales has sharply decreased. Additionally, automated online platforms and targeted digital ads are replacing traditional door-to-door sales tactics.

8. Material-recording and stock-keeping clerks

Automation and advanced inventory management systems like RFID (radio frequency identification), which allows businesses to track inventory in real time with minimal human intervention, are reducing the need for manual data entry and stock management.

6. Printing and related trades workers

Consumers and businesses increasingly rely on digital formats, while advancements in digital printing technology have automated many production processes, minimizing the need for manual labor.

4. Cashiers and ticket clerks

The rise of self-checkout kiosks and online ticketing platforms is rapidly eliminating jobs for cashiers and ticket clerks. Automated systems are quickly replacing human workers in retail stores and transportation hubs.

2. Bank tellers

As more customers opt for online banking, mobile apps, and self-service kiosks for routine transactions, the demand for in-person services at bank branches has decreased. Additionally, many banks are incorporating AI and automation to handle tasks such as account management and money transfers.

Top fastest growing jobs

Unsurprisingly, the fastest growing jobs are heavily concentrated in the tech sector, mirroring the anticipated impact of new technologies on the job market. A staggering 86% of survey respondents expect AI and information processing to revolutionize their businesses by 2030. Another key area of growth identified in the survey is the environmental sector.

14. DevOps engineers

DevOps engineers help streamline processes, improve collaboration, and speed up the delivery of high-quality software, making them essential in today’s tech-driven landscape.

12. Environmental engineers

As the urgency to combat climate change, reduce waste, and address pollution grows, engineers specializing in renewable energy, water treatment, and sustainable infrastructure are expected to be in high demand.

11. Data analysts and scientists

From health care to finance, companies are increasingly relying on data-driven decision-making, creating a surge in job opportunities for professionals who can extract meaningful insights from complex information.

10. Internet of Things specialists

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected through smart devices, the demand for Internet of Things (IoT) specialists is rapidly growing. The expansion of smart cities, autonomous vehicles, and wearable technology further accelerates the need for skilled professionals in this field.

8. UI and UX designers

As businesses increasingly prioritize user-friendly digital experiences, many companies are investing heavily in professionals who can create intuitive, accessible, and engaging interfaces.

6. Data warehousing

Data warehousing specialists are in high demand as businesses grapple with the increasing volume and complexity of their data. These professionals are crucial for designing and implementing robust data storage systems that enable efficient retrieval and analysis.

4. Software and app developers

In a world where nearly every industry depends on software and apps (whether for internal operations or to serve customers), the demand for professionals who can build, maintain, and improve these systems is steadily increasing.

3. AI and machine learning specialists

AI and machine learning have rapidly evolved from emerging technologies to essential tools across industries, driving a surge in demand for specialists. These professionals are key to developing algorithms, training models, and implementing AI solutions.

2. FinTech engineers

Payments and accounts are increasingly shifting from traditional banking systems to virtual apps and software, while money itself is transforming with the rise of digital currencies like Bitcoin. This trend creates a demand for professionals who can develop innovative technologies in digital payments, blockchain, and online banking solutions.