10 AI-Proof Jobs That Pay Over $70K

In the past year, there has been an increasing number of layoffs, especially in the tech sector, with over 260,000 in 2023. Some of these layoffs were influenced by the rapid advancement and integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the workplace. This has ignited widespread concern over job security, with AI’s role in decision making processes coming under scrutiny. Amidst these uncertainties, there are certain jobs that remain secure from AI’s reach for a variety of reasons, from the necessity of human intuition to roles requiring emotional intelligence and creative thinking.

Here are 10 high paying jobs that are the safest from AI.

Veterinarians provide medical care to animals, requiring specialized knowledge of animal health, surgery, and treatment. They must communicate effectively with animal owners and make decisions based on a combination of scientific knowledge and experience. The emotional and ethical considerations involved in animal care cannot be replicated by AI. The median annual salary for Veterinarians is approximately $100,370.

Construction managers plan, coordinate, and oversee construction projects from start to finish, ensuring they are completed on time and within budget. They must solve unforeseen issues, manage teams, and communicate with a wide range of stakeholders. The dynamic nature of construction projects and the need for human oversight make this role less prone to automation. The median annual salary for construction managers is around $97,180.

Marketing managers develop strategies to promote products or services, requiring creativity, market insight, and an understanding of consumer behavior. They must adapt to rapidly changing markets and consumer preferences. The creative and strategic elements of marketing, combined with the need for human intuition, safeguard this role from AI. The median annual salary for marketing managers is about $142,170.

Cybersecurity analysts play a crucial role in protecting an organization’s information systems and networks from a wide range of cyber threats. They continuously monitor and analyze the organization’s security posture, perform vulnerability assessments, and develop strategies to defend against cyber attacks. The dynamic nature of cyber threats requires them to constantly update their knowledge and adapt to new technologies and tactics, making their role critical and challenging for AI to replicate. The median annual salary for cybersecurity analysts is approximately $103,590, reflecting the high demand for their specialized skills in an increasingly digital world.

Architects design buildings and structures that are not only functional and safe but also aesthetically pleasing, blending art, science, and technology in their work. They must understand and interpret client needs, environmental factors, and zoning laws to create designs that meet all requirements and standards. The creativity, vision, and complex problem-solving involved in architectural design are deeply human attributes that AI cannot fully emulate, ensuring the profession remains indispensable. The median annual salary for architects is around $82,320.

Pharmacists dispense medications and advise patients on their proper use and potential side effects, requiring a detailed understanding of chemistry and human biology. They must also consider the complexities of drug interactions and patient-specific factors. The nuanced nature of patient care and the need for personalized advice protects this profession from AI. The median annual salary for pharmacists is about $128,710.

Environmental scientists study and develop solutions to environmental problems, such as pollution control, resource conservation, and sustainable development. Their work involves collecting and analyzing data, conducting field research, and creating policies that protect natural resources and public health, requiring an interdisciplinary approach that AI cannot replicate. The median annual salary for environmental scientists is approximately $73,230.

Occupational therapists help patients develop, recover, or maintain daily living and work skills. Providing personalized care that addresses physical, psychological, and environmental barriers. Their work is based on a holistic understanding of human occupation and wellness, requiring creative problem-solving and interpersonal skills to tailor interventions to individual needs. The median annual salary for occupational therapists is around $86,280.

Software developers design, build, and maintain software systems and applications, a process that requires not only technical coding skills but also creative problem-solving and the ability to understand user needs. Their work is fundamental to the functioning of economies and societies, driving innovation in virtually all sectors of the global economy. The median annual salary for software developers is approximately $110,140.

Human resources managers oversee the administrative functions of an organization, including recruitment, training, and compliance with labor laws. They play a key role in shaping organizational culture and ensuring employee satisfaction. The interpersonal skills, empathy, and strategic planning involved are difficult for AI to replicate. The median annual salary for human resources managers is approximately $121,220.

The introduction of artificial intelligence has started a transformative era in the global workforce, compelling a reevaluation of the skills and roles that define human contribution. Yet, amidst these changes, the enduring value of certain careers, rooted in creativity, empathy, and complex decision-making, remains undiminished. As we navigate this evolving landscape, the symbiosis between human ingenuity and AI’s capabilities emerges as a cornerstone for future growth and innovation, underscoring the irreplaceable nature of human insight in a technology driven world.