Artificial intelligence is poised to significantly reshape the U.S. labor market, with certain professions more exposed than others, according to a new report from Bank of America. The research underscores that jobs involving repetitive or routine functions—whether mental or physical—are the most susceptible to disruption.
Fast food and counter staff, retail sales clerks, and cashiers rank among the highest-risk roles, as automation technologies like self-checkout stations and ordering kiosks continue to spread. Each of these occupations shows exposure levels above 4%, far higher than most other industries.
The analysis also places a range of service-based positions near the top of the risk spectrum. Customer service representatives, stock clerks, janitors, and cleaners could see significant displacement as AI systems increasingly take on responsibilities such as scheduling, inventory tracking, and workflow optimization.
Truck drivers and housekeepers are also identified as vulnerable, with the advancement of autonomous vehicles and robotics threatening to disrupt their sectors.
Knowledge-based roles are not immune either. Professions such as paralegals, lawyers, public relations specialists, and loan officers are expected to feel growing pressure as AI tools become more adept at reviewing contracts, producing reports, and handling financial data.
The study even highlights roles like tax preparers, telemarketers, and journalists, pointing to the rapid adoption of generative AI software.
Bank of America’s researchers caution that while AI will inevitably displace some categories of work, the technology could also unlock new efficiencies and opportunities. Manufacturing, for instance, may benefit from AI-powered production lines, while financial institutions already use AI for fraud detection and risk oversight. Still, the adjustment will not be without challenges.
“AI’s ability to automate both routine cognitive and manual tasks puts many jobs at risk,” BofA Global Research analysts wrote, stressing that managing a fair transition for affected workers will be a critical issue.
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