The Future of Work: How Human-Level AI Could Lead to a Job Apocalypse

Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) is no longer a distant dream. Ben Goertzel, the AI researcher who coined the term AGI, predicts that human-level AI will arrive within two to three years. This breakthrough promises to change technology and society profoundly. Yet, it also raises urgent questions about the future of work. Goertzel warns that once AGI reaches human-level intelligence, most current jobs could become obsolete, leading to what many call a job apocalypse. This post explores what this means for workers, which jobs face the greatest risk, and how society might adapt.

Human-level AI working with humans in an office

What Is Human-Level AI and Why Does It Matter?

Human-level AI, or AGI, refers to artificial intelligence that can perform any intellectual task a human can. Unlike today's AI, which excels at specific tasks like language translation or image recognition, AGI will understand, learn, and apply knowledge across a wide range of activities. This means it could think creatively, solve complex problems, and adapt to new situations just like a person.

The arrival of AGI will mark a turning point in technology. It could accelerate innovation, improve healthcare, and solve global challenges. However, it also threatens to disrupt the job market on an unprecedented scale. Goertzel highlights that the transition to AGI-driven work will not be sudden but gradual, similar to how generative AI tools have slowly changed industries since 2022.

Which Jobs Are Most at Risk?

Contrary to early predictions, the first jobs to face disruption are not manual labor roles but many office-based professions. Lawyers, graphic artists, and other knowledge workers are already seeing AI tools automate tasks like document review, design, and data analysis. This trend is expected to accelerate with AGI.

At the same time, trades such as plumbing and electrical work, as well as educators, may remain relevant longer. These jobs require hands-on skills, human judgment, and personal interaction that are harder for AI to replicate quickly.

Examples of Impacted Roles

• Legal professionals: AI can review contracts and case law faster and more accurately than humans.

• Graphic designers: AI tools generate creative content, reducing the need for human designers.

• Writers and journalists: Automated content creation tools can produce articles and reports.

• Customer service agents: Chatbots and virtual assistants handle many inquiries without human help.

  
  

Jobs Likely to Persist Longer

• Plumbers and electricians: Require physical work and problem-solving on-site.

• Teachers: Need emotional intelligence and adaptability in classrooms.

• Healthcare workers: Personal care and complex decision-making remain challenging for AI.

  
  

Robotic arm handling manual tasks in workshop

Economic and Social Consequences

The rise of AGI could trigger a massive shift in the economy. With many jobs becoming obsolete, millions of workers may face unemployment or the need to retrain for new roles. This “job apocalypse” could widen income inequality and strain social safety nets.

Goertzel emphasizes that society must prepare for this change by investing in education, reskilling programs, and policies that support displaced workers. Governments and businesses will need to rethink how work is structured and how people earn a living.

Potential Responses

• Universal basic income: Providing a safety net for those without traditional jobs.

• Lifelong learning: Encouraging continuous skill development to adapt to new roles.

• Job redesign: Creating new roles that complement AI rather than compete with it.

  
  

How to Prepare for the Future

Individuals and organizations can take steps now to prepare for the coming changes:

• Stay informed: Follow AI developments and understand their impact on your field.

• Develop soft skills: Creativity, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence will remain valuable.

• Embrace technology: Learn to work alongside AI tools to enhance productivity.

• Explore new career paths: Consider roles in AI oversight, ethics, and maintenance.

  
  

Person learning AI concepts on laptop at home

Looking Ahead