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Vehicle paint technicians

applying coats of paint to surfaces for decoration or protection, performing quality control checks to maintain high standards in panel repair and demonstrating colour identification skills to achieve correct colour match. If that's your week, this page is about your job.

The honest answer

AI changes the edges of this job, not the middle: applying coats of paint to surfaces for decoration or protection is work software can't reach.

Your move: what you can actually do about this ↓

What shifts is calculating and estimating paint volume requirements for each job: the paper around the work, not the work.

Your week, as this page understands it

Vehicle paint technicians apply paint, cellulose, vinyl stickers and wraps and other protective or decorative materials to the bodywork of motor vehicles. The job title says “vehicle paint technicians”. The real job is the part underneath: applying coats of paint to surfaces for decoration or protection. That is the thing someone has to be right about.

The exposed part of this job is specific, and we won’t pretend it is coming back. But vehicle paint technicians is not one task. It is 50 scored ones, and they are nowhere near equally exposed. The most durable of them, on this evidence, is applying coats of paint to surfaces for decoration or protection, and the ledger below shows exactly why.

Where the work sits, by task weight

shifting to AI
0%
changing shape
2%
staying human
98%

These bars are tasks changing hands, not people being counted out. The ledger below shows which.

Whole-job exposure score 4 out of 100 (3–9 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, across 50 scored tasks. The number is the support for the sentence above it, not a headline about anyone’s future.

How we know this

What is measured: Every published task statement for vehicle paint technicians is rated on five dimensions: can a model produce the output, does the work need a body in a room, does it need a legally accountable person, does it depend on a person being trusted in the moment, and how much data exists. A published formula turns those five ratings into the score; the model never writes the number.

How the bar is built: Each task’s share of the bar is its published importance weight, so a task you do all day counts for more than one you do twice a year.

Release: 2026-q4.1, scores computed 2026-08-04. Read the full method.

Your job, task by task

These are the official task statements for this occupation, in plain English, sorted by what the evidence says is happening to each one. The official wording sits under every line so you can check the rewrite against it.

Shifting to AI

0 tasks

Tasks today’s tools can already do most of. This is the part we will not soften: where these rows are the bulk of your week, the week changes.

Nothing in this job’s scored task list landed in this group. That is the measurement, not an editorial choice, and it is worth knowing either way.

Changing shape

1 task

Tasks where the machine takes the producing and a person keeps the checking, the deciding, or the answering-for-it. For most jobs this is the biggest group, and it is where "transformation, not termination" is literally visible.

  • Calculating and estimating paint volume requirements for each job

    The software now makes the first pass at paint volume requirements, but the deciding part still needs a person. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.

    importance 80 · 5233/00
    Source: “Calculate and estimate paint volume requirements for each job.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 56 out of 100 (49–63 allowing for uncertainty): partial exposure, medium confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch.

    The rating behind it: Working out how much paint a job needs is arithmetic from measurements and coverage rates, which software does reliably.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 1/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.

Staying human

49 tasks

Tasks that stay with a person, because they happen in the physical world, because the rules need someone accountable, or because the value is that a specific person does them.

  • Applying coats of paint to surfaces for decoration or protection

    This work happens in the physical world: coats of paint, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 95 · 5233/00
    Source: “Apply coats of paint to surfaces for decoration or protection.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Putting coats of paint onto a surface needs a person with a brush or spray gun in the room.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.

  • Applying finishes and coatings to vehicles for protection and aesthetics

    This work happens in the physical world: finishes, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 95 · 5233/00
    Source: “Apply finishes and coatings to vehicles for protection and aesthetics.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Coating a car body is done by hand in a spray booth, so software cannot carry out the work.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.

  • Applying paint, primer and basecoat to vehicles

    This work happens in the physical world: paint, primer and basecoat, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 95 · 5233/00
    Source: “Apply paint, primer, and basecoat to vehicles.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Spraying a vehicle is skilled physical work in a paint booth.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.

  • Following defined processes to restore vehicles to a high-quality paint finish

    This work happens in the physical world: defined processes, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 95 · 5233/00
    Source: “Follow defined processes to restore vehicles to a high-quality paint finish.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Restoring a paint finish means physically preparing and spraying the vehicle, which needs a person in the booth.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.

  • Mixing and matching colours and shades to achieve precise vehicle paint finishes

    This work happens in the physical world: colours, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 90 · 5233/00
    Source: “Mix and match colours and shades to achieve precise vehicle paint finishes.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 14 out of 100 (7–21 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, medium confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch; work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Scanning tools and paint databases suggest the formula, but mixing and eyeballing the final match still happen at the bench.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 3/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.

  • Identifying and rectifying paint or preparation defects

    This work happens in the physical world: paint, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 90 · 5233/00
    Source: “Identify and rectify paint or preparation defects.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 8 out of 100 (1–15 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, medium confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Spotting a paint fault can be helped by cameras, but putting it right means sanding and respraying.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 1/4 · needs a body in a room 3/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.

  • Adjusting controls on infrared ovens

    This work happens in the physical world: controls, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 90 · 5233/00
    Source: “Adjust controls on infrared ovens, heat lamps, portable ventilators, or extractor units to speed the drying of surfaces between coats.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Setting ovens, lamps and extractors means being in the workshop turning the controls on the equipment.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.

  • Applying paint drying methods

    This work happens in the physical world: paint drying methods, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 90 · 5233/00
    Source: “Apply paint drying methods.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Drying a painted panel is a physical process carried out on the vehicle itself.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.

  • Applying primer coats to prepare surfaces for painting

    This work happens in the physical world: primer coats, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 90 · 5233/00
    Source: “Apply primer coats to prepare surfaces for painting.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Priming a surface means physically coating it, which needs a person standing at the wall.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.

Show the other 40 tasks

  • Performing quality control checks to maintain high standards in panel repair

    staying human

    This work happens in the physical world: quality control checks, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 85 · 5233/00
    Source: “Perform quality control checks to maintain high standards in panel repair.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 29 out of 100 (22–36 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch; work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Half of this is paperwork and checklists that software handles well; the other half is inspecting the repaired panel itself.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 2/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.

  • Testing products to ensure they meet specifications

    staying human

    This work happens in the physical world: products, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 80 · 5233/00
    Source: “Test products to ensure they meet specifications.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 20 out of 100 (16–24 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Checking a finish meets specification means measuring the actual painted panel.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 1/4 · needs a body in a room 2/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.

  • Monitoring machine operations and observing lights and gauges to detect malfunctions

    staying human

    This work happens in the physical world: machine operations, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 70 · 5233/00
    Source: “Monitor machine operations and observe lights and gauges to detect malfunctions.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 14 out of 100 (7–21 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, medium confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch; work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Sensors can flag many faults, but watching the machine run and reacting still happens on the floor.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 3/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.

  • Demonstrating colour identification skills to achieve correct colour match

    staying human

    This work happens in the physical world: colour identification skills, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 85 · 5233/00
    Source: “Demonstrate colour identification skills to achieve correct colour match.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 13 out of 100 (6–20 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, medium confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: mistakes that are cheap to catch; work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Colour-measuring devices are already good, but judging the match on the actual panel under workshop lights still needs someone there.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 3/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.

  • Implementing health and safety guidelines to ensure workplace safety

    staying human

    This work happens in the physical world: health, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 80 · 5233/00
    Source: “Implement health and safety guidelines to ensure workplace safety.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 10 out of 100 (6–14 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Guidelines are written, but putting them into practice means someone working safely in the spray shop.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 1/4 · needs a body in a room 3/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.

  • Maintaining a safe working environment

    staying human

    This work happens in the physical world: a safe working environment, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 80 · 5233/00
    Source: “Maintain a safe working environment, adhering to health and safety regulations and control of substances.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 10 out of 100 (6–14 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Handling paints and solvents safely is physical practice in the booth, not something that can be written out and left.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 1/4 · needs a body in a room 3/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.

  • Weighing or measuring materials and products using scales or measuring instruments

    staying human

    This work happens in the physical world: materials, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 70 · 5233/00
    Source: “Weigh or measure materials and products using scales or measuring instruments.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 10 out of 100 (3–17 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, medium confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Weighing goods means handling them, even though the numbers themselves are simple to record.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 1/4 · needs a body in a room 3/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.

  • Disposing of waste according to the appropriate code of practice

    staying human

    This work happens in the physical world: waste, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 75 · 5233/00
    Source: “Dispose of waste according to the appropriate code of practice.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 9 out of 100 (5–13 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Paint waste has to be physically segregated and handed to a registered carrier, though the paperwork can be drafted.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 1/4 · needs a body in a room 3/4 · needs an accountable person 1/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.

  • Determining paint flow, viscosity and coating quality through visual inspections

    staying human

    This work happens in the physical world: paint flow, viscosity and coating quality, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 85 · 5233/00
    Source: “Determine paint flow, viscosity, and coating quality through visual inspections.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 8 out of 100 (1–15 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, medium confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Checking flow, thickness and finish quality relies on looking at and handling the wet coating in front of you.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 1/4 · needs a body in a room 3/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.

  • Inspecting coated or plated areas

    staying human

    This work happens in the physical world: coated, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 85 · 5233/00
    Source: “Inspect coated or plated areas for defects, such as air bubbles or uneven coverage.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 8 out of 100 (1–15 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, medium confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Spotting bubbles and thin coverage means viewing the panel from several angles and feeling the surface.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 1/4 · needs a body in a room 3/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.

  • Applying sealer to properly dried finish

    staying human

    This work happens in the physical world: sealer, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 90 · 5233/00
    Source: “Apply sealer to properly dried finish.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Sealing a finished surface is hands-on work applied directly to the panel.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.

  • Conducting visual quality checks, including wet/dry film thickness testing and colour matching

    staying human

    This work happens in the physical world: visual quality checks, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 90 · 5233/00
    Source: “Conduct visual quality checks, including wet/dry film thickness testing and colour matching.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Checking coating thickness and colour on the actual surface needs a person with gauges at the work.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 1/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.

  • Filling small dents or scratches with body fillers and smooth surfaces to prepare for painting

    staying human

    This work happens in the physical world: small dents, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 90 · 5233/00
    Source: “Fill small dents or scratches with body fillers and smooth surfaces to prepare for painting.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Filling and smoothing bodywork is done by hand on the panel.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.

  • Holding or positioning spray guns to direct spray onto articles

    staying human

    This work happens in the physical world: spray guns, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 90 · 5233/00
    Source: “Hold or position spray guns to direct spray onto articles.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Holding and aiming a spray gun is pure hand skill performed at the vehicle.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.

  • Mixing paint to the desired shade using computerised colour-matching equipment

    staying human

    This work happens in the physical world: paint, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 90 · 5233/00
    Source: “Mix paint to the desired shade using computerised colour-matching equipment.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: The colour-matching machine already does the calculation; the person loads, mixes and checks the tin.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.

  • Operating paint spraying machinery to apply coatings on manufactured products

    staying human

    This work happens in the physical world: paint spraying machinery, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 90 · 5233/00
    Source: “Operate paint spraying machinery to apply coatings on manufactured products.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Running spray machinery means standing at the equipment and guiding the coating onto the product.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.

  • Preparing vehicles for painting

    staying human

    This work happens in the physical world: vehicles, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 90 · 5233/00
    Source: “Prepare vehicles for painting by masking, sanding, and performing other necessary preparation work.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Masking and sanding a vehicle is entirely manual preparation work on the bodywork.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.

  • Applying paint finishes to vehicles or fences for protection and aesthetics

    staying human

    This work happens in the physical world: paint finishes, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 85 · 5233/00
    Source: “Apply paint finishes to vehicles or fences for protection and aesthetics.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Applying paint finishes is done by hand on the item.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.

  • Applying rust-resistant undercoats and caulk and sealing seams

    staying human

    This work happens in the physical world: rust-resistant undercoats, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 85 · 5233/00
    Source: “Apply rust-resistant undercoats and caulk and seal seams.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Undercoating and sealing seams is applied by hand directly to the vehicle.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.

  • Applying varnishes and paints to surfaces to achieve desired finish and protection

    staying human

    This work happens in the physical world: varnishes, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 85 · 5233/00
    Source: “Apply varnishes and paints to surfaces to achieve desired finish and protection.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Applying varnish or paint to a surface is physical work no software can carry out.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.

  • Cleaning and maintaining painting equipment

    staying human

    This work happens in the physical world: equipment, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 85 · 5233/00
    Source: “Clean and maintain painting equipment.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Cleaning and servicing spray equipment is physical workshop work.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.

  • Cleaning and maintaining spray booths

    staying human

    This work happens in the physical world: spray booths, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 85 · 5233/00
    Source: “Clean and maintain spray booths.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: A spray booth is cleaned and maintained by someone physically inside it.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.

  • Cleaning vehicle painting tools and equipment

    staying human

    This work happens in the physical world: vehicle painting tools, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 85 · 5233/00
    Source: “Clean vehicle painting tools and equipment.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Washing out guns and tools is hands-on work at the sink and bench.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.

  • Handpainting with a brush areas needing retouching or unreachable by spray gun

    staying human

    This work happens in the physical world: a brush areas, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 85 · 5233/00
    Source: “Hand-paint with a brush areas needing retouching or unreachable by spray gun.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Brushing in small areas by hand is skilled manual work at the vehicle.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.

  • Removing grease, dirt, paint or rust from surfaces using abrasives, solvents, brushes, blowtorches, washing tanks or sandblasters in preparation for paint application

    staying human

    This work happens in the physical world: grease, dirt, paint or rust, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 85 · 5233/00
    Source: “Remove grease, dirt, paint, or rust from surfaces using abrasives, solvents, brushes, blowtorches, washing tanks, or sandblasters in preparation for paint application.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Surface cleaning is physical preparation.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.

  • Sanding rough spots to ensure that finishes will adhere properly

    staying human

    This work happens in the physical world: rough spots, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 85 · 5233/00
    Source: “Sand rough spots to ensure that finishes will adhere properly.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Sanding rough spots is hands-on preparation done at the surface.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.

  • Starting vehicle paint machines using levers or buttons for coating applications

    staying human

    This work happens in the physical world: vehicle paint machines, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 85 · 5233/00
    Source: “Start vehicle paint machines using levers or buttons for coating applications.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Starting the machine means pressing its buttons in the workshop.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.

  • Utilising modern drying/curing techniques, such as ultra violet, UV), infrared and catalytic solutions, in the refinishing process

    staying human

    This work happens in the physical world: modern drying/curing techniques, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 85 · 5233/00
    Source: “Utilise modern drying/curing techniques, such as ultra violet (UV), infrared, and catalytic solutions, in the refinishing process.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Using UV, infrared or catalytic curing kit means operating that equipment around the vehicle.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.

  • Waxing and polishing vehicle bodywork for a glossy finish

    staying human

    This work happens in the physical world: vehicle bodywork, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 85 · 5233/00
    Source: “Wax and polish vehicle bodywork for a glossy finish.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Waxing and polishing bodywork is manual finishing done by hand on the car.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.

  • Dismantling, cleaning and reassemble sprayers or power equipment, using solvents, wire brushes and cloths

    staying human

    This work happens in the physical world: reassemble sprayers, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 80 · 5233/00
    Source: “Dismantle, clean, and reassemble sprayers or power equipment, using solvents, wire brushes, and cloths.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Stripping down and rebuilding a sprayer is hands-on work with solvents and brushes.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.

  • Ensuring all company tools and equipment are kept safe and in a clean

    staying human

    This work happens in the physical world: all company tools, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 80 · 5233/00
    Source: “Ensure all company tools and equipment are kept safe and in a clean, workable condition.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Keeping tools clean, safe and serviceable is physical care of the tools.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.

  • Inspecting products to ensure they meet specifications

    staying human

    This work happens in the physical world: products, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 80 · 5233/00
    Source: “Inspect products to ensure they meet specifications.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Checking that delivered products match the specification means physically examining them.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.

  • Stirring or thinning paints using spatulas or power mixing equipment

    staying human

    This work happens in the physical world: paints, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 80 · 5233/00
    Source: “Stir or thin paints using spatulas or power mixing equipment.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Stirring and thinning paint is a physical job at the mixing bench.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.

  • Making adjustments to machines to obtain the proper dispersion of spray

    staying human

    This work happens in the physical world: adjustments, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 75 · 5233/00
    Source: “Make adjustments to machines to obtain the proper dispersion of spray.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Adjusting a gun for the right spray pattern is done by hand while testing it.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.

  • Operating lifting or moving devices to move equipment or materials for painting access areas

    staying human

    This work happens in the physical world: devices, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 75 · 5233/00
    Source: “Operate lifting or moving devices to move equipment or materials for painting access areas.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Operating lifts and moving gear around the workshop needs someone physically doing it.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.

  • Regulating machine pressure, temperature, speed and feed rates by turning valves and dials

    staying human

    This work happens in the physical world: machine pressure, temperature, speed and feed rates, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 75 · 5233/00
    Source: “Regulate machine pressure, temperature, speed, and feed rates by turning valves and dials.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Turning valves and dials requires hands on the machine.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.

  • Attaching hoses or nozzles to machines using spanners and pliers

    staying human

    This work happens in the physical world: hoses, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 70 · 5233/00
    Source: “Attach hoses or nozzles to machines using spanners and pliers.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Fitting hoses and nozzles with spanners is manual assembly work.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.

  • Measuring chemicals or compounds in accordance with detailed instructions or formulas

    staying human

    This work happens in the physical world: chemicals, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 70 · 5233/00
    Source: “Measure chemicals or compounds in accordance with detailed instructions or formulas.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Weighing out chemicals to a formula is hands-on work at the bench.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.

  • Removing materials, parts or workpieces from painting or coating machines using hand tools

    staying human

    This work happens in the physical world: materials, parts or workpieces, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 70 · 5233/00
    Source: “Remove materials, parts, or workpieces from painting or coating machines using hand tools.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Taking parts out of a coating machine by hand is physical work at the machine.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.

  • Setting up portable equipment, ventilators, extractor units and scaffolding

    staying human

    This work happens in the physical world: portable equipment, ventilators, extractor units, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.

    importance 70 · 5233/00
    Source: “Set up portable equipment including ventilators, extractor units, and scaffolding.” (UK task statement)
    How this row was scored

    Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.

    Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.

    The rating behind it: Setting up ventilators, extractors and scaffolding means lifting and positioning equipment on site.

    The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.

What this job pays, and how many people do it

Median pay
£34,500a year, before tax, the middle of the range, so half earn more and half earn less.ashe-t14, 2025 · ASHE 2025 provisional (reference April 2025)Provisional, because the ONS revises this figure in the autumn.
How we know this

Source: ashe-t14

Reference period: ASHE 2025 provisional (reference April 2025)

Rounding: Shown to the nearest £100. The exact published figure is in the downloadable dataset. We do not render pounds the survey cannot support.

People doing this job
15,500in the UK, 2026.nomis-aps · Apr 2025-Mar 2026 (latest APS 12-month period)This headcount comes from a survey, not a census, so treat it as a good estimate rather than an exact count.

What is deliberately not here: a forecast of how many of these jobs exist in ten years. Where an official projection exists for a market we publish it with its vintage; where it does not, we leave the space empty rather than borrow the other country’s number.

Why this is shifting

The reason is boringly specific. Most of what is shifting here is reading one thing and writing another: paint volume requirements in, a record out. The rows above are exactly that shape: calculating and estimating paint volume requirements for each job. What it cannot do is be there in the room, and that is still where coats of paint get done. Which is why this page talks about your tasks changing, not your job ending.

Your move

Over a pint: what I’d tell you if you were my friend

Start with what does not change: applying coats of paint to surfaces for decoration or protection is the middle of this job, and the evidence on this page says it stays with a person.

So, given all that: 0% of this job's task weight sits in rows the software is already learning, 2% in rows that change shape rather than disappear, and 98% in rows it is nowhere near. That is the position, measured across 50 scored tasks. It is not a forecast about you.

So the thing worth your attention is not the job going away. It is the layer around it. Calculating and estimating paint volume requirements for each job is the part turning into software, and being the person who understands that layer is worth money.

This week: one thing

Ask the one question. Find whoever is bringing new software into your workplace (the manager, the office, whoever runs the system) and ask them what it is meant to do to paint volume requirements, and what it is not meant to touch. Ten minutes, this week, before anyone decides it for you.

What you end up holding
a straight answer about what is actually being rolled out, and when
How long it takes
ten minutes

If there’s nobody obvious to ask, or you’d rather not ask your manager: Put the same question to your union rep, your shift lead or the person who has been there longest, in person, over a break. Same ten minutes, same answer, and you will usually get a straighter one. Write down what they say. The note is the artifact, and it tells you whether coats of paint are in scope or not. Nothing to log into, no licence needed.

Over the next 90 days

Get inside the tool rollout rather than waiting for it. Over the next ninety days, ask to be in the group that tests, checks or signs off whatever new system arrives near calculating and estimating paint volume requirements for each job. It is usually an unglamorous seat that nobody fights for, and it is the one that decides how the software is used on your job rather than to it.

Over the next 12 months

On this evidence I would not retrain out of this job, and I will say that plainly rather than hedge it. The task list here is dominated by work that stays with a person. What I would do with a year is get formally recognised for the layer around it (the systems, the compliance, the planning), so you are the one who understands the software instead of the one it is done to. Before you pay for anything, spend an hour with National Careers Service. It is free and government-funded, and it is listed below with the rest of the free routes.

The roads out of here, and why I am not sending you down them

I looked at the obvious moves out of this job, and here is what I found.

I checked the 12 nearest UK occupations to vehicle paint technicians (nearest by the work that AI is not taking, not by job title), and none of them survived. The closest was painters and decorators: only about 19% of its durable work is work you already do. And on the numbers you do not need one. This job scores 4/100 here, with only 0% of the task list in the top band, and “apply coats of paint to surfaces for decoration or protection” is not work that hands over cleanly. None of them beats deepening what you already have.

How that was checked: this job was compared against all 412 UK occupations in this release on their official task statements, and the 12 nearest were examined one by one. A move that turns on an industry, an employer or a qualification rather than on the work itself will not show up in a check like that. And this release carries no licence register, so anything you are weighing needs that looked up separately.

3 moves I checked and rejected

These are the obvious-looking jumps. They are here with their reasons rather than quietly dropped, because the ones that fail are worth knowing about. It is one less thing to turn over at night.

  • Painters and decorators

    Why it looked obvious: It came up as a near neighbour because one of your tasks is on their list in the same words: “apply coats of paint to surfaces for decoration or protection”. Across the whole of both lists that adds up to about 19% of the work in that job the software is not taking.

    Why I am not recommending it: You would be starting most of it from nothing: about 19% of the durable work in that job is work you do today, and the rest you would be learning while the bills carried on.

    Look at that job’s page anyway →

  • Metal making and treating process operatives

    Why it looked obvious: It came up as a near neighbour because one of your tasks is on their list in the same words: “conduct visual quality checks”. Across the whole of both lists that adds up to about 15% of the work in that job the software is not taking.

    Why I am not recommending it: You would be starting most of it from nothing: about 15% of the durable work in that job is work you do today, and the rest you would be learning while the bills carried on.

    Look at that job’s page anyway →

  • Vehicle body builders and repairers

    Why it looked obvious: It came up as a near neighbour because one of your tasks is on their list in the same words: “apply paint, primer, and basecoat to vehicles”. Across the whole of both lists that adds up to about 11% of the work in that job the software is not taking.

    Why I am not recommending it: You would be starting most of it from nothing: about 11% of the durable work in that job is work you do today, and the rest you would be learning while the bills carried on.

    Look at that job’s page anyway →

What I’d stop worrying about

A friend tells you what not to spend fear on. This is that list.

  • The headline number you read somewhere

    The big “X% of jobs” figures are about the whole economy, not about you. The number that describes your job is on this page: 0% of its task weight, across 50 scored tasks. Every row behind it is printed above with the source. Check ours; ignore theirs.

  • The headlines about your trade disappearing

    They are usually about the technology, not the timetable. Changes to work like applying coats of paint to surfaces for decoration or protection arrive through rules, insurance and money, slowly and visibly. This page tracks the task evidence and will move when it moves.

  • Retraining out of a job that is holding up

    On this evidence I would not spend money leaving. Spend it on the layer around the job instead: the tools, the paperwork, the planning. That is where the change actually is.

  • The “obvious” next job everyone suggests

    I checked the obvious moves and most of them did not survive. The reasons are printed with the routes above, including the pay and the gate. A move that fails on the numbers is worth knowing about so you can stop turning it over at night.

You are reading the United Kingdom figures

The United States splits this work across more than one official group, of which Coating, Painting, and Spraying Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders is the closest. The pay and employment figures are not directly comparable, and we do not average them together.

Switch to the United States page →partial match

In US official statistics this job is counted as Coating, Painting, and Spraying Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders. Pay and employment stay on this page’s own group; the task list and the scores do not cross over.

Your route through this

Where to go next, and what it costs

Free, and complete

The moves above cost nothing. These are the real services that go with them: public, government-funded, and free at the point of use. Nothing on this page is behind an email address or a payment.

Why there is no community here

Collab365, who build this site, run paid Spaces for a small number of subjects, and none of them is built for this job. We are not going to point you at the nearest one and call it a fit.

So the free services listed on this page are the whole answer, and it is the same answer we would give a friend.

Noted, and thank you. We’ll email you if a Space for vehicle paint technicians launches. Nothing else.

That did not look like an email address, so nothing was saved. Have another go below.

We could not save that. The fault is ours, not yours, and your address was not stored. Please try again later.

No Space for vehicle paint technicians yet. Should there be one?

Collab365 Spaces is built by the same people as this site. We find the problems that AI and automation are creating inside one kind of work, then solve them as short courses, briefings and Blueprints. Each Space is the community too, so the research and the people doing your job are in the same place.

What a Space actually is, in full

Collab365 launches new communities where the need is real. If one for vehicle paint technicians existed, with researched problems, courses and people in the same boat, would you want in?

We use your email address for one thing: to tell you if a Space for vehicle paint technicians launches. We never sell it, never use it for unrelated marketing, and every email has a one-click unsubscribe. Our privacy policy has the full version.

This unlocks nothing. Every figure, every row and every step on this page is already yours, whether you fill this in or not.

No deadline on any of this. The page will still be here, and the data is refreshed on a published schedule rather than when someone wants a headline.

Questions people ask about this job

Will AI replace Vehicle paint technicians?
Not as a job, but it is already doing parts of the work. Across the 50 official task statements scored for Vehicle paint technicians (United Kingdom, SOC 5233), 0% of the importance-weighted core work is made of tasks today's AI could already do most of. The overall exposure score is 4 out of 100 (range 3–9, band: minimal). That is a statement about tasks, not about headcount: this measures what AI could do, not whether any employer adopts it, whether the law allows it, or whether doing the routine parts faster creates more demand for the human parts. Figures are from release 2026-q4.1.
Which tasks in “Vehicle paint technicians” can AI already do?
The highest-scoring tasks in release 2026-q4.1 are: “Calculate and estimate paint volume requirements for each job” (56/100, partial); “Perform quality control checks to maintain high standards in panel repair” (29/100, low); “Test products to ensure they meet specifications” (20/100, low). Each score comes from five published 0–4 ratings turned into a number by a published formula, and each carries the model's one-sentence reason on the page.
Which tasks in “Vehicle paint technicians” stay human?
About 98% of this job's task weight sits in work that scores low for AI exposure. The lowest-scoring tasks in release 2026-q4.1 are: “Set up portable equipment including ventilators, extractor units, and scaffolding” (0/100, minimal); “Remove materials, parts, or workpieces from painting or coating machines using hand tools” (0/100, minimal); “Measure chemicals or compounds in accordance with detailed instructions or formulas” (0/100, minimal). Low scores usually mean the task needs a body in a room, a legally accountable human, or trust built in real time. Those are the three things the scoring rubric treats as gates rather than obstacles.
What should someone working in “Vehicle paint technicians” do about AI?
Start from the ledger rather than the headline: 0% of this job's weighted core work is exposed, and roughly 98% is not. The practical move is to spend more of your week on the tasks that score low, the ones above, and to get fluent at directing AI through the tasks that score high, because those are the parts that change whether or not you are ready for them. This page does not predict your job, and nothing here is career advice tailored to you: the score describes the occupation, not the person.
How is the AI exposure score for Vehicle paint technicians calculated?
Each official task statement for the occupation is rated on five published 0–4 dimensions (output replicability, physical embodiment, licensed accountability, real-time human trust, and data availability) by claude-opus-5 using scoring prompt task_scoring_v1.0. The model never writes the score; a published formula turns the five ratings into a 0–100 number, so every score can be recomputed by hand. The occupation figure is the importance-weighted mean across 50 scored tasks. The prompt, the rubric, the formula and the full dataset are published at https://futureproof.collab365.com/method and https://futureproof.collab365.com/data/2026-q4.1 under CC BY 4.0.

Where these numbers come from

About the data on this page

  • Provisional, because the ONS revises this figure in the autumn.
  • This headcount comes from a survey, not a census, so treat it as a good estimate rather than an exact count.
  • The match between this job and its counterpart in the other country is partial, so the two pages count slightly different groups of people.
  • 21 of this occupation's scored task statements carry a score that was measured under a different occupation's context, because the statement is shared between jobs and has only been scored once so far. Each one names the occupation it was measured under in the free routes below; none is presented as a measurement for this job.
  • Task clusters are not derived in this release, so the task-cluster field is empty and no Collab365 Space routing is attached to this occupation yet.
Task statements
gaisi-indexProcessing: catalogue-bridge → ssc-relatedness-weighting → task-scoring → score-aggregation
Task weights
gaisi-index (relatedness)
Scores
Rubric task_scoring_v1.0, model claude-opus-5, computed 2026-08-05.
Pay and employment
ashe-t14 (ASHE 2025 provisional (reference April 2025))nomis-aps (Apr 2025-Mar 2026 (latest APS 12-month period))

Figures on this page come from release 2026-q4.1, published 2026-08-05. Every release keeps its own permanent address, so a figure you cite in March is still there, unchanged, in November.

The plain-English wording on this page is assembled directly from the task statements and the published ratings, not written by hand for this occupation. That is why it is specific, and it is also why we say so.

The routes and free resources further up are today’s, not the release’s (last reviewed 2026-08-05). A route is an offer, not a historical fact, so it moves on its own clock.

How we score a jobDownload this releaseLook up another job

Using these figures?

Cite this

Everything on this site is published under CC BY 4.0. Quote it, chart it, sell something built on it. Just say where it came from, and cite the dated release rather than the site, so the figure you quote stays checkable.

Plain text

Collab365 (2026). Collab365 Futureproof: task-level AI exposure for US and UK occupations, release 2026-q4.1 (methodVersion 2.0.0, promptVersion task_scoring_v1.0). https://futureproof.collab365.com/data/2026-q4.1. Licensed CC BY 4.0. Built with O*NET data (USDOL/ETA, CC BY 4.0); ONS data (Open Government Licence v3.0); GAISI task framework (arXiv:2507.22748, MIT); BLS data (public domain).

BibTeX

@misc{collab365futureproof2026q41,
  title        = {Collab365 Futureproof: task-level AI exposure for US and UK occupations, release 2026-q4.1},
  author       = {{Collab365}},
  year         = {2026},
  url          = {https://futureproof.collab365.com/data/2026-q4.1},
  note         = {Release 2026-q4.1, methodVersion 2.0.0, promptVersion task_scoring_v1.0, CC BY 4.0}
}

Permalink

https://futureproof.collab365.com/data/2026-q4.1

Data as of release 2026-q4.1, published . Releases never change after publication; when the figures move, a new dated release is published beside this one and this one stays exactly where it is.