AI is already impacting the job market, as a Stanford study found that some early-careers jobs are being replaced by the advanced technology, with other roles being highly augmented.

Disruption is expected across the workforce as AI takes hold, but a working paper from Stanford found that certain roles are already being more heavily affected than others, showing signs of what is to come.

The study found that overall, entry-level roles in white collar industries are being hardest hit by AI, with less hiring opportunities in these sectors.

However, those who already possess these jobs are often not facing replacement from AI at the same rate.

This points to one of the first distinctions the study recognised in how AI is transforming the workforce. While AI may be able to replace “book knowledge” and therefore remains competitive against new entrants, it lacks the tact and knowledge of an experienced worker.

Young people (aged 22 to 25 years) applying for roles in more AI-exposed industries are being hardest hit, while the same age group in less AI-exposed industries are seeing job growth, the study found.

This revealed another distinction in how AI is being used in different vocations: in some instances, AI is being used to automate work, while in other occupations, it augments it.

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Employment for young people declined in jobs where AI automated work, while employment grew in jobs where AI is augmentative.

The roles most exposed to automation according to the study were customer service reps, software developers, accountants, and receptionists. Augmented roles were classified as ranging from registered nurses, repair workers, or even CEOs.

In-person work, also notably without much administrative work, remained the least susceptible to any type of AI disruption, and included repair workers, cleaners, taxi drivers, and labourers.

Job security for entry-level workers appears to rely on the level of automation of their prospective job field, as well as any relevant experience they may have.