Emerging Job Roles: How Tech Disruption Shapes Careers

In the ever-evolving landscape of employment, disruptive technologies have given rise to a wave of emerging job roles that were unheard of a mere decade ago. As we look forward, the trajectory of innovation promises further transformation, with some roles fading into obscurity and new ones taking their place.

According to a recent 2023 World Economic Forum (WEF) report, over 75 percent of companies are gearing up to embrace cutting-edge technologies such as big data, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence (AI) within the next five years. The report also highlights a significant shift: companies estimate that machines currently handle 34 percent of all business-related tasks, while humans account for the remaining 66 percent. Predictions indicate that automation may take over approximately 42 percent of business tasks by 2027.

While innovation indeed threatens certain job roles, it simultaneously paves the way for the evolution of others. Let's delve into some of these transformative careers.

AI Ethics Officers: Navigating Responsible AI Development

In the realm of technology, AI ethics officers play a pivotal role. These professionals are tasked with ensuring that artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies are developed and deployed in an ethical and responsible manner. Their responsibilities encompass assessing the ethical implications of AI systems, identifying and mitigating biases in AI algorithms, and promoting fairness and transparency.

The demand for AI ethics officers in India and around the world is steadily growing. As AI becomes increasingly integrated across sectors, including finance, healthcare, and e-commerce, these experts are critical in maintaining ethical standards.

Metaverse Careers: Exploring a Digital Frontier

The metaverse, heavily reliant on augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), has gained significant prominence. Major brands like Nike, Disney, Hyundai, and Gucci have ventured into this digital frontier, creating immersive experiences for users. Consequently, a myriad of career opportunities have sprung up within the metaverse, ranging from virtual architects to digital experience designers.

Blockchain Specialists: Guardians of Distributed Ledgers

Blockchain experts specialize in distributed ledger technology (DLT), maintaining the integrity and security of blockchain networks and applications. These professionals are crucial in sectors like finance and supply chain management, where transparency and security are paramount.

Job postings for blockchain and cryptocurrency roles have seen an astonishing 804 percent increase between April 2020 and April 2022, indicating the rapidly growing demand for these experts.

Telemedicine Doctors: Expanding Healthcare Access

Telemedicine doctors have emerged as key players in the healthcare industry, providing remote medical consultations and treatments through video calls and telemedicine platforms. Their role has become even more vital, particularly in remote and underserved areas, contributing to the expansion of healthcare access.

The growth of telemedicine in India, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has led to a surge in demand for telemedicine doctors, catering to the diverse healthcare needs of a geographically dispersed population.

Drone Operators: Navigating the Skies

Drone operators are responsible for piloting unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) used in various applications, from aerial photography to surveillance and even package delivery. With e-commerce giants like Amazon incorporating drones into their delivery services, the demand for skilled drone operators is on the rise.

In India, a majority of open job profiles in the drone industry are for drone pilots, showcasing the significance of these roles in both established firms and startups.

Social Media Influencers: Redefining Brand Promotion

The digital era has given birth to social media influencers who wield the power to engage and grow a dedicated following on platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok. They leverage their influence to promote products, services, or causes, often collaborating with brands for sponsored content.

As the number of internet users surges, social media influencers have become virtual brand ambassadors, earning significant incomes by promoting products and services online.

Data Protection Officers: Safeguarding Privacy and Compliance

Data Protection Officers (DPOs) are responsible for ensuring an organization's compliance with data protection and privacy regulations, such as Europe’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and India’s Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act. They manage a company’s data privacy policies, conduct risk assessments, and oversee data security measures to protect sensitive information.

India has witnessed a substantial 21 percent growth in the supply of DPOs over the past two years, while the demand for DPOs has surged by 32 percent in that time, according to data put together for Moneycontrol by job portal foundit.

AR/VR Developers: Crafting Immersive Digital Experiences

Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) developers are at the forefront of creating immersive digital experiences. They develop software applications and environments that offer interactive, three-dimensional experiences, ranging from games and simulations to training programs.

The metaverse, which depends on AR/VR technologies, has already gained prominence with major brands present in the space. Some notable examples of the metaverse include Reactland by Nike, MagicBand+ by Disney, Mobility Adventure by Hyundai Motor Company