The Future of Jobs in South Africa is changing rapidly due to advances in technology, automation, artificial intelligence (AI), and global economic shifts. Many traditional jobs are disappearing as companies embrace digital transformation and automated solutions.
At the same time, new opportunities are emerging, requiring different skills and adaptability. In this article, we explore the jobs at risk, the industries that are growing, and how individuals can prepare for the future of work in South Africa.
Jobs That Might Not Exist in South Africa in 10 Years
The following jobs are at risk of disappearing as South Africa moves towards a digital economy:
1. Cashiers
Why it’s disappearing:
The retail industry is shifting towards self-service checkouts, contactless payments, and e-commerce. Major retailers like Shoprite, Pick n Pay, and Woolworths are already adopting self-checkout systems, reducing the need for cashiers.
Future-proof alternative:
Explore careers in e-commerce management, digital payment systems, and customer experience design.
Source: Business Tech – “Retail Automation Trends in South Africa”
2. Bank Tellers
Why it’s disappearing:
With mobile banking apps, online financial services, and digital ATMs, banks are closing physical branches. South African banks like FNB, Standard Bank, and Capitec are investing in digital banking solutions.
Future-proof alternative:
Consider careers in financial technology (fintech), cybersecurity, and digital banking services.
Source: IT Web – “The Impact of Fintech on Traditional Banking Jobs“
3. Travel Agents
Why it’s disappearing:
Consumers are now booking flights, hotels, and travel packages online using Booking.com, Airbnb, and Travelstart, reducing demand for travel agents.
Future-proof alternative:
Shift to online travel consulting, digital tourism marketing, or luxury/eco-tourism specialisation.
Source: Forbes – “The Digital Disruption of the Travel Industry“
4. Postal Service Workers
Why it’s disappearing:
With the rise of email, online messaging, and courier services like DHL and Aramex, fewer people rely on traditional postal services.
Future-proof alternative:
Consider roles in logistics, courier service management, and digital communication.
Source: South African Post Office Annual Report
5. Print Journalists
Why it’s disappearing:
Traditional newspapers are struggling as consumers shift to online news, blogs, and social media for information. Major South African publications like The Sunday Times and Mail & Guardian are moving towards digital platforms.
Future-proof alternative:
Become a digital journalist, content creator, or social media strategist.
Source: Business Insider – “How the Digital Shift is Changing Journalism”
6. Call Center Agents & Telemarketers
Why it’s disappearing:
AI-powered chatbots and automated customer service are replacing human call centers. Many companies now use AI-driven chat assistants.
Future-proof alternative:
Develop skills in AI-driven customer service, chatbot programming, and online customer engagement.
Source: Gartner Report on AI in Customer Service
7. Factory & Assembly Line Workers
Why it’s disappearing:
The manufacturing industry is embracing robotics and automation to improve efficiency. Companies like Toyota SA and BMW Rosslyn are investing in smart factories.
Future-proof alternative:
Learn robotics, industrial automation, and machine maintenance.
Source: World Economic Forum – “The Future of Work in Manufacturing”
8. Receptionists & Administrative Assistants
Why it’s disappearing:
Businesses are replacing traditional receptionists with AI assistants, automated scheduling software, and chatbots.
Future-proof alternative:
Move into virtual assistance, business automation management, or digital workflow coordination.
Source: Harvard Business Review – “The Role of AI in Office Automation”
9. Taxi & Ride-Hailing Drivers
Why it’s disappearing:
Self-driving cars are being tested worldwide, and in the future, services like Uber and Bolt may adopt autonomous vehicles.
Future-proof alternative:
Explore roles in fleet management, electric vehicle maintenance, and smart transport logistics.
Source: The Guardian – “The Future of Self-Driving Cars and Ride-Sharing”
10. Bookkeepers & Data Entry Clerks
Why it’s disappearing:
AI-driven accounting software like Xero, QuickBooks, and Sage is replacing manual bookkeeping and data entry.
Future-proof alternative:
Shift to financial data analysis, AI-assisted accounting, and cloud-based finance management.
Source: PwC – “The Digital Transformation of Accounting”
Related: Top 10 Jobs AI Can’t Replace in South Africa Anytime Soon
What Jobs Will Be in Demand in South Africa?
As certain jobs disappear, new opportunities are emerging. Here are future-proof careers:
1. Digital Marketing & Social Media Experts
Why it’s growing:
Businesses need online visibility. Skills in SEO, content creation, and digital advertising are highly valuable.
Source: HubSpot – “The Future of Digital Marketing Careers”
2. Renewable Energy Technicians
Why it’s growing:
South Africa is investing in solar and wind energy, creating demand for solar panel installation and renewable energy expertise.
Source: Eskom Annual Report on Renewable Energy
3. Healthcare & Wellness Professionals
Why it’s growing:
South Africa’s aging population and increased health awareness are driving demand for nurses, caregivers, and mental health specialists.
Source: WHO – “The Future of Healthcare Professions”
4. Artificial Intelligence & Robotics Specialists
Why it’s growing:
AI is transforming industries, and data scientists, machine learning engineers, and robotics specialists will be in demand.
Source: MIT Technology Review – “The Future of AI in Work”
5. Cybersecurity Experts
Why it’s growing:
With cyber threats on the rise, companies need cybersecurity professionals to protect sensitive data.
Source: Cybersecurity SA Report
6. E-commerce & Logistics Experts
Why it’s growing:
As online shopping expands, jobs in warehousing, online store management, and logistics planning will grow.
Source: Statista – “E-commerce Growth in South Africa”
7. Online Education & E-Learning Developers
Why it’s growing:
More people are learning online, creating a demand for online teachers, course developers, and e-learning specialists.
Source: UNESCO – “The Digital Shift in Education”
How to Prepare for the Future of Jobs
- Learn Digital Skills – Coding, AI, and digital marketing are in high demand.
- Stay Informed – Follow job market trends and industry news.
- Develop Soft Skills – Creativity, problem-solving, and adaptability are key.
- Be Open to Change – Embrace lifelong learning and upskilling.
Source: World Economic Forum – “Top Skills for the Future of Jobs”
The Future of Jobs is Exciting!
While some careers are disappearing, new opportunities are emerging. By learning new skills and adapting, South Africans can thrive in the future job market.
Start preparing today for a successful career in the Future of Jobs.
