Most Declining Jobs in 2025–2030

As we look ahead to 2025-2030, the job market is set to undergo major shifts. While some industries will experience growth, others will face declining demand due to automation, digitalization, and changing consumer behavior. A report by the World Economic Forum identifies the occupations most likely to shrink in the coming years.

Top 10 Declining Jobs

1. Postal Service Clerks

With the rise of digital communication and online services, traditional postal roles are becoming less essential, leading to a steady decline in demand.

2. Bank Tellers and Related Clerks

As online banking and automated financial services become more sophisticated, fewer customers visit physical branches, reducing the need for in-person banking staff.

3. Data Entry Clerks

Advancements in automation and AI-driven data processing are streamlining data management, making manual data entry roles less necessary.

4. Cashiers and Ticket Clerks

The adoption of self-checkout kiosks, contactless payments, and mobile ticketing is replacing traditional cashier and ticket clerk positions.

5. Administrative Assistants and Executive Secretaries

Companies are increasingly using AI-driven scheduling, virtual assistants, and digital collaboration tools, leading to a decline in traditional administrative roles.

6. Printing and Related Trades Workers

The shift towards digital media and online content consumption is reducing the demand for printed materials, impacting jobs in printing and publishing.

7. Accounting, Bookkeeping, and Payroll Clerks

Automation in financial record-keeping and payroll management is making manual bookkeeping roles obsolete. Many companies now use AI-powered accounting software.

8. Material-Recording and Stock Keeping Clerks

Modern inventory management systems powered by AI and robotics are streamlining warehouse operations, reducing the need for manual stock-keeping roles.

9. Transportation Attendants and Conductors

Advancements in autonomous transportation, smart ticketing, and ride-hailing platforms are leading to fewer jobs for traditional transportation attendants and conductors.

10. Door-to-Door Sales Workers, News and Street Vendors

With the growth of e-commerce and digital marketing, traditional door-to-door sales, newspaper vending, and street sales roles are becoming less viable.

Implications for the Workforce

The decline of these jobs underscores the need for adaptability and reskilling in the workforce. As automation and digitalization reshape industries, workers must focus on upskilling in technology, data analysis, digital literacy, and emerging fields like AI and cybersecurity.

Governments, businesses, and educational institutions will play a critical role in providing training opportunities to help workers transition into new, high-demand careers. Embracing these changes will be essential to thriving in the evolving job market.