The majority of Americans, 74%, believe increased automation will lead to higher unemployment by taking jobs away from humans, according to a report by the American Staffing Association. The report also found that 47% of employed Americans feel automation could easily replace their jobs. 

With the recent launch of ChatGPT and other generative AI tools, millions of workers are taking advantage of the ways automation can enhance daily tasks, according to the report. But the excitement around new AI technology is tempered with fear that further advancements in automation could threaten future employment. 

The top sectors where AI is expected to replace jobs easily are industrial, 56%; engineering, IT and scientific, 51%; and clerical and administrative, 48%. 

The organization noted these findings sharply contrasted with an earlier report, which found that 73% of employed Americans did not believe robots or AI could easily replace their jobs. 

“Workers are trying to figure out what the rise of artificial intelligence means for their careers,” Richard Wahlquist, CEO of the American Staffing Association, said in a press statement. “Employers must take responsibility for helping their workforce navigate and evolve to meet rapid changes in the economy through training and upskilling. Further, it’s imperative that organizations communicate with employees as new AI technology is deployed to set expectations and provide transparency.” 

Overall, employed Americans are split on whether increased automation programs in the workplace will ultimately help or hurt their careers in the future, according to the report. While 27% said the technology would help, 26% said it would disrupt careers in the future. 

The survey was conducted online by The Harris Poll on behalf of ASA from June 20 to June 22 among 2,037 adults across the US, of whom 1,225 were employed.