McKinsey Report: Automation Could Displace 36 Million Jobs by 2035
A new report from the McKinsey Global Institute, published on September 29, predicts that automation and AI could reduce labor demand for approximately 36 million jobs in the U.S. by 2035. While these technologies may eliminate or significantly alter many roles, they are also expected to create over 40 million new positions during the same period. The report highlights ten occupations most at risk of automation impact based on current employment numbers and projected changes in labor demand. Office and administrative support jobs top the list with an estimated reduction of 38% due to automation. Other high-risk sectors include food service, retail, manufacturing, and transportation. However, some roles may be 'reinvented' rather than replaced—such as legal work, where AI could handle routine tasks like research while human judgment remains essential. The report emphasizes that although the transition will challenge 11 million workers who must switch occupations within a decade, there is potential for growth in new fields. McKinsey director Tanguy Catlin notes that demand from automation-driven changes may outweigh job losses overall.
