As automation and artificial intelligence reshape the workplace, concerns over job security are growing for many across the UK. Official statistics indicate that approximately 1.5 million roles in England – equating to 7.4% of all jobs – face a high risk of automation, with office-based and repetitive tasks being particularly vulnerable.
The Rise of the Human Touch: Careers AI Can't Replicate
However, a significant number of careers are proving resilient to this technological shift. Analysis by the UK CV platform MyPerfectCV has identified nine professions expected to remain in strong demand over the next decade. These roles, which rely on physical skill, adaptive problem-solving, and genuine human interaction, present a stable and promising path for workers.
"Automation changes tasks more than it replaces whole jobs," explained Jasmine Escalera, a career expert at MyPerfectCV. "Roles that combine fine motor skills, problem-solving in unpredictable settings and real client interaction are proving remarkably durable. For many Britons, that means the trades and other hands-on careers offer stability, mobility and strong earning potential in 2026 and beyond."
The Nine Most Automation-Resistant UK Jobs
The list highlights practical, hands-on careers where human expertise remains irreplaceable:
- Electrician: Fault-finding, on-site safety decisions, and varied working conditions defy automation. Typical pay ranges from £26,000 for beginners to over £50,000, with self-employed professionals earning £60,000+.
- Plumber: Emergency call-outs and unique systems require quick thinking. Newly qualified plumbers earn around £30,000, rising to £45,000+, or £60,000+ when self-employed.
- Carpenter/Joiner: Precision work and on-site adaptations need skilled craftsmanship. Pay spans £24,000 to £47,000, with higher earnings for business owners.
- Bricklayer: Changing sites, weather, and materials demand constant adjustment. Earnings typically range from £25,000 to £45,000, increasing on major projects.
- Car Mechanic: Modern repairs, from EVs to complex diagnostics, require expert hands. Salaries range from £22,000 to £42,000, with extra for specialists.
- Roofer: Safety awareness and judgment at height cannot be replicated by machines. Pay is between £21,000 and £40,000, boosted by overtime and supervisory roles.
- Painter and Decorator: High-quality finishes and customer rapport need both skill and people skills. Entry pay is £19,000-£22,000, rising to £28,000-£35,000+.
- Gardener and Landscaper: Design, seasonal planning, and plant care keep these jobs human-led. Typical earnings are £19,500 to £26,000, with specialist landscapers earning £35,000+.
- Hairdresser or Barber: Personal style, trust, and customer relationships make automation impossible. Pay ranges from £19,000 to £30,000, with top salon owners earning £60,000+.
Why These Roles Offer Lasting Security
These careers are safeguarded by a combination of factors that technology struggles to match. They require manual dexterity and coordination in challenging environments, from cramped spaces to outdoor sites. Crucially, they demand on-the-spot judgment and problem-solving when unexpected issues arise.
Perhaps most importantly, they depend on authentic human connection – building client trust, clear communication, and providing a personalised service. In many trades, human assessment is also vital for ensuring safety, a component machines cannot fully guarantee.
What This Means for UK Job Seekers
The findings come at a critical time, as the UK already faces significant shortages of skilled workers in sectors like construction, vehicle repair, and landscaping. This demand is projected to grow, offering long-term job stability and strong earning potential for those pursuing practical careers.
For individuals concerned about automation, these paths present a compelling alternative. With apprenticeships, trade qualifications, and hands-on training widely accessible, many can be entered without a university degree. They represent a route into secure, respected, and future-proof work that continues to value the irreplaceable human element.
