The Future of Jobs 2025–2030:

What the World Economic Forum Says About Work

As we step into the heart of the 2020s, one question looms large across boardrooms, universities, and policy circles alike:

What will work look like in five years?

The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025 offers a detailed glimpse into the shifting tectonics of the global labor market.

Fueled by AI, automation, climate change, and demographic shifts, the workplace of tomorrow will demand new skills, shed old roles, and redefine

what it means to be “employable.”

Let’s unpack the key takeaways from the report—and what they mean for workers, businesses, and policymakers over the next five years.

https://reports.weforum.org/docs/WEF_Future_of_Jobs_Report_2025.pdf

Global Labor Market Outlook: A Tidal Shift by 2030

The forecast is dramatic. Between 2025 and 2030:

• 170 million new jobs will emerge globally

• 92 million existing jobs will vanish

• The net job creation? Just around 7% growth, despite massive churn

This reflects a labor market transformation rate of 22%—meaning one in five roles will either be new or reshaped.

At the core of this upheaval? AI, automation, and the energy transition.

Fastest Growing Jobs vs. Declining Ones

Jobs on the Rise

1. 1. Technology-Driven Roles:

• Big Data Specialists

• AI & Machine Learning Engineers

• Fintech Developers

• Cloud Architects & Cybersecurity Analysts

• Software Developers & Data Scientists

2. 2. Green Economy Roles:

• Renewable Energy Engineers

• Environmental Technologists

• Electric/Autonomous Vehicle Specialists

• Sustainability Strategists

4. 3. Human-Centered & Social Roles:

• Healthcare and Nursing Professionals

• Mental Health Counselors & Social Workers

• Online Education Specialists

• Organizational Development Experts

Jobs on the Decline

1. 1. Admin & Routine Work:

• Data Entry Clerks

• Bank Tellers

• Payroll & Accounting Assistants

• Legal Secretaries

• Call Center Agents

2. 2. Manual & Logistic Roles:

• Assembly Line Operators

• Basic Construction Workers

• Postal Service & Delivery Workers

• Low-skill Transport Management

The common theme? Anything that can be automated, will be.

What’s Driving This Transformation?

1. Technology & Automation

• Over 60% of employers expect digital access to reshape work

• 58% plan to deploy AI or robotics systems

• Skills in data science, networking, and cyber resilience will be non-negotiable

2. Climate & Sustainability Transitions

• Jobs will grow in renewables, smart buildings, and ESG consulting

• Climate response will become a core business function—not a side initiative

3. Demographic Changes

• Aging populations will create demand for elder care and health services

• In contrast, younger workforces in developing nations will fuel demand for education and training systems

4. Geopolitical & Economic Instability

• Trade conflicts and supply chain redesigns are reshaping where and how work happens

• Slowing global growth may lead to restructuring in traditional sectors

The Skills That Will Matter Most

Technical Competencies:

• AI & Big Data Literacy

• Network Infrastructure & Cybersecurity

• Cloud Platforms & DevOps

• Digital Marketing & UX/UI

• Environmental Engineering & Impact Measurement

Human-Centered Skills:

• Critical Thinking & Problem Solving

• Creativity & Adaptability

• Emotional Intelligence

• Collaboration & Communication

According to the report:

• 39% of current skills will be outdated by 2025

• 59% of workers will need reskilling by 2030

What Should Companies and Governments Do?

For Companies:

• Invest in reskilling & continuous learning

• Deploy AI ethically and in tandem with human oversight

• Prioritize employee well-being with flexible work models

For Governments:

• Reform education systems to align with future skills

• Set guardrails for automation & AI adoption

• Create job-creation strategies around sustainability & green energy

Final Thoughts: The Work of the Future Starts Today

The next five years won’t be a gradual evolution—they’ll be a reset.

Work as we know it is being fundamentally redefined. Roles are shifting, skills are evolving, and institutions must respond in kind.

But it’s not all disruption. There’s opportunity in the upheaval—for those willing to learn, adapt, and lead.

AI won’t just replace jobs. With the right vision, it will help us design better ones.