Finding work as a typist, telemarketer, or switchboard operator is set to become significantly harder over the next decade, according to fresh data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
The BLS released its updated labor market projections, highlighting jobs expected to shrink between 2023 and 2033.
Word processors and typists top the list, with employment projected to plunge by 38% or 15,200 jobs. Switchboard operator positions are also on the chopping block, with a 25% decline expected, translating to 11,300 fewer roles.
The driving force behind these declines? Automated systems and related technologies, including artificial intelligence, are poised to replace many office and administrative support roles, the BLS noted.
While the overall U.S. labor market is projected to grow by a modest 0.4% annually through 2033—a pace much slower than the previous decade—the composition of job growth is shifting.
As the nation ages, most new jobs will emerge in healthcare and social assistance.
On the flip side, employment in retail is projected to drop as e-commerce continues to erode brick-and-mortar sales.
Cashiers, for instance, are on track to see a massive decline, with 353,100 fewer jobs by 2033—a 10.6% reduction, the largest among all categories.
These 10 occupations are forecasted to experience the steepest declines over the next decade:
1. Word Processors and Typists
– Projected decline: 38.0%
– Job loss: 15,200
– Median wage: $46,450
2. Roof Bolters, Mining
– Projected decline: 32.0%
– Job loss: 600
– Median wage: $66,600
3. Telephone Operators
– Projected decline: 26.4%
– Job loss: 1,200
– Median wage: $38,080
4. Switchboard Operators, Including Answering Service
– Projected decline: 25.2%
– Job loss: 11,300
– Median wage: $36,750
5. Data Entry Keyers
– Projected decline: 25.0%
– Job loss: 41,000
– Median wage: $37,790
6. Foundry Mold and Coremakers
– Projected decline: 24.6%
– Job loss: 2,900
– Median wage: $44,300
7. Loading and Moving Machine Operators, Underground Mining
– Projected decline: 22.9%
– Job loss: 1,200
– Median wage: $64,070
8. Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic
– Projected decline: 22.9%
– Job loss: 500
– Median wage: $49,670
9. Telemarketers
– Projected decline: 21.5%
– Job loss: 18,300
– Median wage: $34,480
10. Engine and Other Machine Assemblers
– Projected decline: 21.3%
– Job loss: 10,400
– Median wage: $50,270
As businesses increasingly adopt automation, these projections serve as a stark reminder of the evolving landscape of the U.S. labor market.
The challenge now lies in adapting to these changes and preparing the workforce for the jobs of tomorrow.
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