Anthropic study reveals six jobs least likely to be replaced by AI

Artificial intelligence is expected to reshape many professions, but some jobs may remain relatively protected from automation. A recent report by AI company Anthropic identifies several occupations that currently face the lowest exposure to artificial intelligence.

The research examines how AI systems align with the tasks performed across different professions. Instead of looking at entire jobs, the study evaluates which specific tasks within those roles could be performed or accelerated by AI tools.

According to the findings, jobs that involve physical activity, in-person interaction and real-world work environments are among the least vulnerable to automation by AI systems.

Six jobs with the least AI exposure

Anthropic’s research highlights six specific occupations that currently face lower exposure to artificial intelligence:

Cooks

Motorcycle mechanics

Lifeguards

Bartenders

Dishwashers

Dressing room attendants

These roles involve tasks that require physical presence and manual work. AI systems that primarily operate through software and digital information are not easily able to perform these responsibilities.

For example, cooks prepare food using kitchen equipment and ingredients, while motorcycle mechanics repair machines using physical inspection and tools. Lifeguards monitor swimmers and respond to emergencies in real-world situations, making the role difficult to automate with AI.

Why these jobs are less vulnerable

The report explains that AI exposure depends on how many tasks within a job can be performed by artificial intelligence. Occupations involving digital tasks, such as analysing data or writing code, tend to have higher exposure.

In contrast, jobs requiring manual skills, supervision or direct service interactions remain harder for AI systems to replicate. Tasks such as repairing equipment, preparing food or providing in-person service involve real-world environments that current AI technology cannot easily manage.

The study notes that physical work, real-world manipulation and face-to-face service are common factors among roles with the lowest AI risk.

Broader job categories with lower AI risk

Anthropic also points to broader categories of work that may remain less exposed to AI. These include food service roles, hospitality jobs, maintenance and repair work, manual trades, agricultural labour and safety-related positions.

According to the report, roughly 30 percent of jobs currently show almost no risk of AI elimination because they rely heavily on physical tasks or human interaction.

While AI may continue to change how many digital tasks are performed, the findings suggest that occupations built around hands-on work and real-world environments are likely to remain less vulnerable to automation in the near term.