Artificial Intelligence (AI) has transformed various industries, leading to increased efficiency, cost savings, and innovative solutions. However, its rapid adoption has also resulted in significant job losses. In 2024, AI-driven automation replaced thousands of jobs across different sectors, raising concerns about the future of work and salary trends. As AI continues to evolve, many fear that the pace of job displacement will accelerate in 2025 and beyond.

In this article, we will explore the industries most affected by AI layoffs in 2024, break down the specific roles that were eliminated, analyze the salary reductions that followed, and predict which jobs are at risk in 2025. Additionally, we will provide insights on how workers can adapt and thrive in an AI-driven economy.

Industries Most Affected by AI Layoffs in 2024

Technology Sector

The technology sector was among the hardest hit by AI automation. With advancements in machine learning, natural language processing, and robotics, many roles traditionally handled by humans became redundant. AI systems, including chatbots, automation tools, and generative AI models, significantly reduced the need for human intervention in various tasks.

• Google: 12,000 layoffs, primarily affecting recruitment, customer support, and software testing roles. AI-powered hiring systems and automated QA tools replaced human workers.
• Microsoft: 10,000 layoffs in technical support and sales as AI chatbots and virtual assistants took over customer interactions.
• Amazon: 27,000 job cuts, mainly in warehouse operations, HR, and customer service, due to AI-powered logistics and automation software. Amazon’s smart fulfillment centers reduced the need for human labor.
• Meta: 10,000 layoffs, with roles in content moderation and marketing affected. AI algorithms enhanced automated content filtering and digital advertising, making some human roles obsolete.
• Dell: 12,500 job cuts, mostly in IT support and administrative roles. AI-driven IT management reduced the need for large support teams.

Salary Impact: $70,000 – $180,000 per year

Finance & Banking

The finance sector has always been data-driven, making it a prime candidate for AI disruption. Banks and financial institutions leveraged AI for fraud detection, risk assessment, and compliance automation, reducing the need for human employees. AI-driven robo-advisors and automated trading systems further minimized job opportunities for analysts and advisors.

• Goldman Sachs: 3,200 layoffs as AI took over risk analysis and financial modeling tasks. Machine learning algorithms improved investment predictions, reducing reliance on human analysts.
• JPMorgan Chase: 5,000 layoffs, particularly in loan processing, compliance, and fraud detection. AI-powered risk assessment tools streamlined decision-making.
• Wells Fargo & Citibank: Over 8,000 layoffs as AI-powered digital banking tools became more sophisticated, reducing the need for traditional banking staff.

Salary Impact: $80,000 – $250,000 per year

Retail & E-Commerce

Retail and e-commerce companies implemented AI to streamline supply chain management, automate customer service, and optimize sales strategies. AI-driven inventory management and automated checkout systems reduced the need for human employees.

• Walmart: 2,000 job cuts as AI-driven logistics and automated cashier systems became mainstream.
• eBay: 1,000 layoffs, primarily in customer support roles, as AI chatbots improved response times.
• Shopify: 1,500 layoffs due to automation of customer service functions and AI-powered marketing strategies.

Salary Impact: $50,000 – $120,000 per year

International Layoffs Due to AI

India & The Philippines

AI automation had a significant impact on outsourcing hubs like India and the Philippines, where over 100,000 call center and IT service jobs were lost as companies adopted AI-powered customer support and backend processing.

Europe

• Deutsche Bank: 3,000 layoffs due to AI-based compliance systems.
• HSBC (UK): 5,000 job cuts as AI-driven financial advisory tools gained popularity.
• Tesco (UK): 4,200 layoffs as self-checkout AI systems replaced human cashiers.

China

Over 300,000 factory jobs were eliminated in major cities like Shenzhen, Guangzhou, and Beijing due to the adoption of AI-powered robotics in manufacturing.

Salary Impact (International): $5,000 – $150,000 per year

Projected 2025 Layoffs Due to AI

The impact of AI layoffs is expected to accelerate in 2025, with new technologies and innovations poised to replace even more roles across various industries. Some companies are already announcing plans to implement more extensive AI solutions, which will likely lead to a surge in layoffs. The following sectors are expected to be significantly impacted in 2025:

Healthcare & Medicine

AI in healthcare, including diagnostic tools and robotic surgery, is set to replace a range of administrative and support roles, including medical transcriptionists, some nursing assistants, and medical billing staff.

• General Electric Healthcare: Plans to reduce its workforce by 10,000 positions as AI-driven diagnostic tools and robot-assisted surgery take over more routine tasks.
• Siemens Healthineers: Projected 8,000 job cuts, with automation in medical imaging and robotic procedures reducing the need for support personnel.

Transportation & Logistics

AI in the transportation industry, particularly autonomous vehicles and AI-driven logistics, will likely cause massive disruptions. Drivers, warehouse workers, and logistics coordinators will be some of the first affected by these advancements.

• Uber: Expected layoffs of up to 5,000 positions as autonomous driving technologies begin to replace human drivers in major cities.
• FedEx: 15,000 job cuts as AI and robotics take over more package sorting and delivery functions.

Customer Service & Call Centers

The global customer service industry is likely to see major disruptions with the widespread implementation of advanced AI chatbots, virtual assistants, and automated customer service solutions.

• AT&T: Anticipated 7,000 layoffs as AI-driven call centers and chatbots fully replace human customer service agents.
• Teleperformance: 12,000 job cuts projected globally as AI-powered systems take over customer inquiries and complaints.

Salary Impact (2025 Projection): $50,000 – $180,000 per year

Conclusion: The Future of Work in an AI-Driven World

AI-driven automation reshaped the workforce in 2024, leading to mass layoffs. However, new opportunities are emerging for those who embrace AI advancements and develop future-proof skills.

To remain competitive, companies must balance AI adoption with workforce reskilling, while employees must take proactive steps to upgrade their skill sets. The job market is shifting, and those who embrace AI will have the best chance of success.