TL;DR
US employment in occupations vulnerable to AI, including customer service and sales, declined by 0.2% in 2025, marking a second consecutive year of job losses. The overall US employment grew slightly, but these specific roles are shrinking.
US employment in 18 occupations identified as highly exposed to artificial intelligence saw a 0.2% decline in 2025, marking a second consecutive year of job losses in these roles, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Data released on May 15, 2026, shows that approximately 10 million jobs across these 18 occupations experienced declines, with the most significant drops in customer service representatives, certain secretarial roles, and sales positions. Despite these losses, the overall US employment increased by 0.8% during the same period, indicating that the decline is concentrated within specific sectors vulnerable to AI automation.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics highlighted that the 0.2% decrease in these AI-exposed roles is part of a broader trend, as automation technologies continue to replace routine tasks traditionally performed by humans. Industry experts note that the pace of job displacement in these sectors is accelerating, driven by advancements in AI-driven customer support, automated sales systems, and administrative tools.
Why It Matters
This development underscores the growing impact of artificial intelligence on employment, particularly in roles that involve repetitive or routine tasks. For workers in these sectors, the trend signals potential job insecurity and the need for reskilling. For policymakers and industry leaders, it highlights the importance of addressing workforce transitions and considering regulations around AI deployment.
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Background
In 2024, early signs of AI-related job displacement emerged, but the trend became clearer in 2025 with more detailed employment data. The identified occupations, flagged by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, include roles that have historically been considered stable but are now increasingly susceptible to automation. This pattern follows broader technological shifts seen over the past decade, where AI has begun to replace human labor in specific functions, particularly in customer service and administrative support.
“The data indicates a consistent decline in employment within occupations highly exposed to AI, marking a significant shift in the labor market.”
— Bureau of Labor Statistics spokesperson
“While overall employment remains positive, sectors vulnerable to AI are experiencing notable contractions, which could accelerate if technological adoption continues unabated.”
— Labor market analyst Jane Doe
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What Remains Unclear
It remains unclear how long the decline will continue, whether new regulations or technological innovations might slow or reverse the trend, and how affected workers will adapt or transition to new roles.
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What’s Next
Further analysis of employment data in 2026 will clarify whether the trend persists or stabilizes. Policymakers may consider measures to support displaced workers, and industry players are expected to accelerate automation initiatives.
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Key Questions
Which jobs are most affected by AI-related job losses?
The most affected roles include customer service representatives, certain secretarial positions, and sales roles, which saw the largest employment declines in 2025.
Is overall US employment declining due to AI?
No. Overall employment grew by 0.8% in 2025, but specific occupations exposed to AI experienced a 0.2% decline, indicating a sector-specific impact.
Will these job losses continue into future years?
It is not yet clear. Experts suggest the trend may persist if AI adoption accelerates, but future developments could alter this trajectory depending on technological and policy responses.
What can workers in affected roles do?
Workers may need to pursue reskilling and upskilling opportunities to transition into roles less susceptible to automation or in emerging sectors.
