As we approach 2025, the manufacturing industry is undergoing a seismic shift. Advancements in automation and new technologies are reshaping the workforce, particularly in roles that have been essential for decades. While some positions are projected to decline significantly, there are opportunities for employers and job seekers to stay ahead of these changes and adapt to a rapidly evolving environment.
At Timpl, we understand the importance of workforce planning and the value of preparing for the future. By recognizing the roles that are disappearing and reskilling for the positions of tomorrow, both employers and job seekers can position themselves for success in an increasingly automated world.
Here’s a breakdown of some of the most impacted roles in manufacturing, where automation and technological advancements are expected to cause significant job reductions. These roles, with heavy reliance on manual processes, are predicted to decline by 14% or more over the next decade. (Data Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
1. Foundry Mold and Coremakers
Projected Decline (2023–2033): -25%
Projected Annual Job Openings: 700
Foundry mold and coremaking is one of the most affected areas, with automation taking over much of the work. Today, machines are faster and more precise than human labor in mold creation.
For Employers: It’s critical to start integrating automated machinery and invest in training programs to transition your workforce into roles that involve overseeing or operating these systems.
For Job Seekers: The future lies in roles that involve machine operation and maintenance. Upskilling in CNC machinery and digital manufacturing will help you stay competitive.
2. Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic
Projected Decline (2023–2033): -22%
Projected Annual Job Openings: 100
Patternmaking is becoming more digital with the rise of 3D printing and CAD technologies. These tools now handle what was once painstaking manual work.
For Employers: Consider investing in digital design technology and offering reskilling opportunities for your workers to transition into CAD and 3D printing roles.
For Job Seekers: Gaining expertise in digital design tools will provide you with the skills needed to excel in this evolving field.
3. Engine and Other Machine Assemblers
Projected Decline (2023–2033): -21%
Projected Annual Job Openings: 3,700
Automated assembly lines are increasingly taking over engine and machine assembly. The speed, consistency, and safety of these systems make manual labor in this area less necessary.
For Employers: Upskill your employees to manage and troubleshoot automated systems. This will ensure you have a workforce that can handle the more complex aspects of modern assembly.
For Job Seekers: Shifting to roles that require expertise in automation, robotics, and machine monitoring will secure job stability in the future.
4. Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Projected Decline (2023–2033): -19%
Projected Annual Job Openings: 400
Drilling and boring are becoming highly automated, with machines performing the tasks previously done by skilled workers. This shift reduces the demand for manual operators.
For Employers: As automation takes over, consider reskilling your team in the operation of automated machines and digital troubleshooting.
For Job Seekers: Look into expanding your skills in machine optimization and robotics, as these areas will be key to thriving in manufacturing’s future.
5. Prepress Technicians and Workers
Projected Decline (2023–2033): -19%
Projected Annual Job Openings: 2,200
The printing industry is increasingly relying on automated prepress systems. These systems reduce human error and increase speed, making manual prepress roles less necessary.
For Employers: Invest in automation technology and provide workers with the opportunity to transition into more advanced roles like digital press operators and system optimizers.
For Job Seekers: Upskilling in digital printing and automation will provide opportunities in growing sectors within the manufacturing space.
6. Refractory Materials Repairers, Except Brickmasons
Projected Decline (2023–2033): -18%
Projected Annual Job Openings: 0
As automation takes over the repair of refractory materials, the demand for these specialized roles is declining. It’s essential to prepare for the transition into more sustainable manufacturing roles.
For Employers: Help your employees transition by offering training in automated machine operation and repair.
For Job Seekers: Transitioning into roles that focus on machine maintenance or overseeing automated systems will provide better long-term prospects.
7. Model Makers, Metal and Plastic
Projected Decline (2023–2033): -18%
Projected Annual Job Openings: 200
Model-making, once a manual process, is now being replaced by advanced machinery, including 3D printing. As technology advances, fewer workers will be needed in traditional model-making roles.
For Employers: Integrating 3D printing technology and offering training in digital manufacturing will help your team stay relevant.
For Job Seekers: Learning 3D modeling, CAD, and 3D printing will open doors to new opportunities in manufacturing and design.
8. Cutters and Trimmers, Hand
Projected Decline (2023–2033): -18%
Projected Annual Job Openings: 500
Automation is making manual cutting and trimming in various sectors less common. As these tasks become more automated, fewer hand operators will be needed.
For Employers: Automation technology is a critical investment. Upskill your team to operate and monitor these automated systems.
For Job Seekers: Focus on building skills in machine operation and optimization for automated cutting and trimming systems.
9. Grinding and Polishing Workers, Hand
Projected Decline (2023–2033): -18%
Projected Annual Job Openings: 900
With more grinding and polishing tasks being automated, human labor is no longer as critical in these roles. Machines now perform these tasks faster and more consistently.
For Employers: Training your employees in machine troubleshooting and optimization will be key to adapting to this change.
For Job Seekers: Transitioning into roles that involve overseeing automated systems in grinding and polishing will position you for success.
10. Print Binding and Finishing Workers
Projected Decline (2023–2033): -18%
Projected Annual Job Openings: 3,400
Print binding and finishing processes are increasingly automated, reducing the need for manual labor in tasks such as folding, trimming, and binding.
For Employers: Automating these processes will increase efficiency, but investing in reskilling your workforce to operate these new systems will ensure minimal disruption.
For Job Seekers: Learning to operate and optimize automated print binding systems will provide you with in-demand skills.
11. Timing Device Assemblers and Adjusters
Projected Decline (2023–2033): -16%
Projected Annual Job Openings: 0
With advancements in precision machinery, the need for manual timing device assemblers and adjusters is rapidly declining.
For Employers: Transitioning to automated assembly lines and providing upskilling programs will help retain a skilled workforce.
For Job Seekers: Emphasize training in automation and robotics to adapt to the evolving demands of the industry.
12. Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Projected Decline (2023–2033): -16%
Projected Annual Job Openings: 700
Automation in forging processes is reducing the reliance on human operators. Machines can now perform these tasks more efficiently, with fewer errors.
For Employers: Reskilling your workforce to manage automated forging machines will help ensure production runs smoothly.
For Job Seekers: Focusing on machine operation and automation will prepare you for new opportunities in the manufacturing field.
13. Aircraft Structure, Surfaces, Rigging, and Systems Assemblers
Projected Decline (2023–2033): -16%
Projected Annual Job Openings: 2,600
Automation in the aerospace industry is taking over many of the tasks traditionally performed by aircraft assemblers. This includes surface assembly, rigging, and system installation.
For Employers: Providing training in robotics and automation for your workforce will help them adapt to new methods of assembly.
For Job Seekers: Specializing in robotic systems and automation will give you an edge in the aerospace manufacturing industry.
14. Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters
Projected Decline (2023–2033): -15%
Projected Annual Job Openings: 4,900
While metal fabrication is still a critical part of manufacturing, automation is gradually reducing the need for manual welders and fitters.
For Employers: Invest in training programs that incorporate robotic welding and metal fabrication technologies.
For Job Seekers: Explore careers in automated welding systems, which are increasingly becoming essential in structural metal fabrication.
15. Shoe Machine Operators and Tenders
Projected Decline (2023–2033): -14%
Projected Annual Job Openings: 500
Automation is gradually replacing manual shoe machine operators as technology advances. Machines can now produce shoes with greater speed and precision.
For Employers: Reskill your employees in automated machine management to ensure they remain relevant as the shoe manufacturing process becomes more automated.
For Job Seekers: Focusing on automation in manufacturing, especially related to footwear production, will ensure you’re ready for future opportunities in this field.
Preparing for the Future: Embracing Change in Manufacturing
The manufacturing industry is in the midst of a digital transformation. Automation is increasingly taking over tasks that were once done by humans. While this change brings challenges, it also opens the door for new roles and opportunities. Employers and job seekers who stay ahead of these shifts by reskilling and embracing technology will be best positioned to thrive.
At Timpl, we specialize in helping employers build resilient, skilled workforces and assist job seekers in navigating the evolving job market. Whether you’re looking to reskill your team or find the right job in manufacturing’s future, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Connect with our team today!