Will AI replace Industrial Production Managers?

Not as a job, but it is already doing parts of the work. Across the 116 official task statements scored for Industrial Production Managers (United States, SOC 11-3051), 37% of the importance-weighted core work is made of tasks today's AI could already do most of. The overall exposure score is 46 out of 100 (range 40–51, band: partial). 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 “Industrial Production Managers” can AI already do?

The highest-scoring tasks in release 2026-q4.1 are: “Prepare and maintain production reports or personnel records” (93/100, very high); “Produce reports regarding nonconformance of products or processes, daily production quality, root cause analyses, or quality trends” (93/100, very high); “Record, review, or maintain daily logs, reports, maintenance, and other records associated with geothermal operations” (93/100, very high). 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 “Industrial Production Managers” stay human?

About 47% 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: “Operate energized high- or low-voltage hydroelectric power transmission system substations, according to procedures and safety requirements” (0/100, minimal); “Test, maintain, or repair electrical power distribution machinery or equipment, using hand tools, power tools, and testing devices” (0/100, minimal); “Draw samples of biofuels products or secondary by-products for quality control testing” (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 “Industrial Production Managers” do about AI?

Start from the ledger rather than the headline: 37% of this job's weighted core work is exposed, and roughly 47% 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 Industrial Production Managers 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 116 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.

US dataswitch to UK

Industrial Production Managers

managing safety programs at power generation facilities, operating energized high- or low-voltage hydroelectric power transmission system substations and identifying quality problems or areas for improvement and recommending solutions. If that's your week, this page is about your job.

The honest answer

This job is splitting in two: maintaining records of hydroelectric facility operations is work AI now does quickly and cheaply, and inspecting hydroelectric facilities, including switchyards, control houses or relay houses is work it can't touch.

Your move: what you can actually do about this ↓

Where the work sits, by task weight

shifting to AI: 37%
changing shape: 16%
staying human: 47%

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

Whole-job exposure score 46 out of 100 (40–51 allowing for uncertainty): partial exposure, across 116 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 industrial production managers 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.

Which half fills your week decides your exposure. The ledger below shows which rows you can move toward.

Your week, as this page understands it

Plan, direct, or coordinate the work activities and resources necessary for manufacturing products in accordance with cost, quality, and quantity specifications. The job title says “industrial production managers”. The real job is the part underneath: inspecting hydroelectric facilities, including switchyards, control houses or relay houses, for normal operation or adherence to safety standards. 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 industrial production managers is not one task. It is 116 scored ones, and they are nowhere near equally exposed. The most durable of them, on this evidence, is inspecting hydroelectric facilities, including switchyards, control houses or relay houses, for normal operation or adherence to safety standards, and the ledger below shows exactly why.

Where the work sits, by task weight

shifting to AI: 37%
changing shape: 16%
staying human: 47%

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

How we know this

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.

One task scored differently between repeat runs, so its range on this page is wider. We would rather show the wobble than hide it.
12 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.

Shifting to AI

43 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.

Reviewing biomass operations performance specifications to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements
This is reading one thing and writing another: biomass operations performance specifications in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 5 · Core
Source: “Review biomass operations performance specifications to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 66 out of 100 (62–70 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, high 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: Checking performance specifications against regulatory requirements is document comparison software does thoroughly.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 1/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Reviewing and updating standard operating procedures or quality assurance manuals
This is reading one thing and writing another: standard operating procedures in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Review and update standard operating procedures or quality assurance manuals.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 81 out of 100 (77–85 allowing for uncertainty): very high exposure, high 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: Procedures and quality manuals follow fixed formats, so software drafts and updates them well before formal approval.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 4/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 1/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Reviewing logs, datasheets or reports to ensure adequate production levels or to identify abnormalities with biofuels production equipment or processes
This is reading one thing and writing another: logs, datasheets or reports in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Review logs, datasheets, or reports to ensure adequate production levels or to identify abnormalities with biofuels production equipment or processes.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 75 out of 100 (71–79 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, high 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: Reading logs and datasheets for abnormal readings is exactly the pattern-spotting software does reliably.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Maintaining records of hydroelectric facility operations
This is reading one thing and writing another: records of hydroelectric facility operations in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Maintain records of hydroelectric facility operations, maintenance, or repairs.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 93 out of 100 (89–97 allowing for uncertainty): very high exposure, high 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: Operations, maintenance and repair records are compiled from existing data, which software maintains accurately.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 4/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.

Changing shape

20 tasks

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.

Reviewing quality documentation necessary for regulatory submissions and inspections
The software now makes the first pass at this work, but someone has to be answerable for the result, and it cannot be the software. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Review quality documentation necessary for regulatory submissions and inspections.” (O*NET 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; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Software can check regulatory documents for gaps, but a qualified quality professional normally has to stand behind submissions.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Identifying and evaluating equipment, procedural or conditional inefficiencies involving geothermal plant systems
The software now makes the first pass at equipment, procedural or conditional inefficiencies involving geothermal plant, but the deciding part still needs a person. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Identify and evaluate equipment, procedural, or conditional inefficiencies involving geothermal plant systems.” (O*NET 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: Spotting inefficiencies in plant systems is analysis of operating data, with someone confirming it against the equipment.
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.
Communicating geothermal plant conditions to employees
The software now makes the first pass at geothermal plant conditions, but the deciding part still needs a person. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Communicate geothermal plant conditions to employees.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 48 out of 100 (41–55 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: Passing on plant conditions to staff is routine communication software can generate from control system data.
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 1/4 · how much data exists 3/4.

Staying human

53 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.

Managing safety programs at power generation facilities
The ratings behind this row put safety programs well outside what today's tools can do on their own.
importance 5 · Core
Source: “Manage safety programs at power generation facilities.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 32 out of 100 (25–39 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.
The rating behind it: Safety documentation and tracking can be automated, but running a safety programme depends on someone accountable being on site.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 1/4 · needs an accountable person 1/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Directing operations, maintenance or repairing of hydroelectric power facilities
This work happens in the physical world: operations, maintenance or repairing of hydroelectric power facilities, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Direct operations, maintenance, or repair of hydroelectric power facilities.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 20 out of 100 (13–27 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; work that happens in the physical world; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Software can plan and track facility work, but directing operations, maintenance and repairs means being at the plant.
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 2/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Supervising production employees in the manufacturing of biofuels
This work happens in the physical world: production employees, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Supervise production employees in the manufacturing of biofuels, such as biodiesel or ethanol.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 20 out of 100 (13–27 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; work that happens in the physical world; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Schedules and instructions can be automated, but supervising production staff means being on the plant floor.
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 2/4 · how much data exists 3/4.

Show the other 106 tasks

Preparing and maintaining production reports or personnel records
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: production reports in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Prepare and maintain production reports or personnel records.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 93 out of 100 (89–97 allowing for uncertainty): very high exposure, high 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: Production reports and personnel records are assembled from existing system data, which software compiles accurately.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 4/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Producing reports regarding nonconformance of products or processes
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: reports regarding nonconformance of products in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Produce reports regarding nonconformance of products or processes, daily production quality, root cause analyses, or quality trends.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 93 out of 100 (89–97 allowing for uncertainty): very high exposure, high 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: Nonconformance, daily quality and trend reports are generated from existing test data, which software writes up well.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 4/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Recording, reviewing or maintaining daily logs, reports, maintenance and other records associated with geothermal operations
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: logs, reports, maintenance and other records in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Record, review, or maintain daily logs, reports, maintenance, and other records associated with geothermal operations.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 93 out of 100 (89–97 allowing for uncertainty): very high exposure, high 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: Daily logs, maintenance records and reports are compiled from system data, which software maintains accurately.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 4/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Compiling and recording operational data on forms or in log books
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: operational data in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Supplemental
Source: “Compile and record operational data on forms or in log books.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 93 out of 100 (89–97 allowing for uncertainty): very high exposure, high 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: Recording operational data on forms or in log books is routine entry work software already automates.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 4/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Preparing reports on biomass plant operations
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: reports in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Prepare reports on biomass plant operations, status, maintenance, and other information.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 93 out of 100 (89–97 allowing for uncertainty): very high exposure, high 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: Operations, status and maintenance reports are compiled from data already recorded, which software writes up accurately.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 4/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Preparing reports on operations and system productivity or efficiency
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: reports in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance not published
O*NET hasn't yet published importance ratings for this occupation's tasks, so the ordering here is ours, not theirs.
Source: “Prepare reports on operations and system productivity or efficiency.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 93 out of 100 (89–97 allowing for uncertainty): very high exposure, high 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: Productivity and efficiency reports are built from system data, which software can assemble and write up.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 4/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Maintaining current knowledge of the quality control field
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: current knowledge of the quality control field in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 3 · Core
Source: “Maintain current knowledge of the quality control field, relying on current literature pertaining to materials use, technological advances, or statistical studies.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 83 out of 100 (79–87 allowing for uncertainty): very high exposure, high 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: Keeping up with quality control literature and statistical studies is reading and summarising, which software does quickly.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 4/4.
Reviewing statistical studies, technological advances or regulatory standards and trends to stay abreast of issues in the field of quality control
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: statistical studies in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Review statistical studies, technological advances, or regulatory standards and trends to stay abreast of issues in the field of quality control.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 83 out of 100 (79–87 allowing for uncertainty): very high exposure, high 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: Reviewing published studies, standards and technology trends is reading and summarising that software does quickly.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 4/4.
Monitoring permit requirements for updates
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: permit requirements in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance not published
O*NET hasn't yet published importance ratings for this occupation's tasks, so the ordering here is ours, not theirs.
Source: “Monitor permit requirements for updates.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 83 out of 100 (79–87 allowing for uncertainty): very high exposure, high 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: Permit rules are published, so tracking changes and flagging what applies is straightforward automated research.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 4/4.
Documenting testing procedures, methodologies or criteria
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: procedures, methodologies or criteria in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Document testing procedures, methodologies, or criteria.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 81 out of 100 (77–85 allowing for uncertainty): very high exposure, high 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: Writing up test methods, criteria and methodology is documentation work software produces reliably from existing practice.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 4/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 1/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Preparing environmental permit applications or compliance reports
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: environmental permit applications in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Supplemental
Source: “Prepare environmental permit applications or compliance reports.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 81 out of 100 (77–85 allowing for uncertainty): very high exposure, high 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: Permit applications and compliance reports follow prescribed formats and existing data, which software prepares well.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 4/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 1/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Maintaining records to demonstrate compliance with safety and environmental laws
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: records in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance not published
O*NET hasn't yet published importance ratings for this occupation's tasks, so the ordering here is ours, not theirs.
Source: “Maintain records to demonstrate compliance with safety and environmental laws, regulations, or policies.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 81 out of 100 (77–85 allowing for uncertainty): very high exposure, high 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: Compliance records follow set formats and draw on existing data, which software maintains reliably ahead of formal sign-off.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 4/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 1/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Initiating or coordinating inventory or cost control programs
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: inventory in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 3 · Core
Source: “Initiate or coordinate inventory or cost control programs.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 75 out of 100 (71–79 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, high 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: Inventory and cost control programmes are built on system data using standard methods software applies well.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Developing or implementing production tracking or quality control systems
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: production in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Develop or implement production tracking or quality control systems, analyzing production, quality control, maintenance, or other operational reports to detect production problems.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 75 out of 100 (71–79 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, high 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: Building tracking systems and reading operational reports for problems is data work software does well.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Generating and maintaining quality control operating budgets
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: quality control operating budgets in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Generate and maintain quality control operating budgets.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 75 out of 100 (71–79 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, high 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: Departmental budgets are built from known costs using standard methods software handles well.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Identifying quality problems or areas for improvement and recommending solutions
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: quality problems in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Identify quality problems or areas for improvement and recommend solutions.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 75 out of 100 (71–79 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, high 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: Finding quality problems in data and suggesting fixes is analysis software performs to a usable standard.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Identifying critical points in the manufacturing process and specifying sampling procedures to be used at these points
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: critical points in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Identify critical points in the manufacturing process and specify sampling procedures to be used at these points.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 75 out of 100 (71–79 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, high 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: Choosing control points and sampling plans follows established statistical method software applies well.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Monitoring performance of quality control systems to ensure effectiveness and efficiency
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: performance of quality control systems in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Monitor performance of quality control systems to ensure effectiveness and efficiency.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 75 out of 100 (68–82 allowing for uncertainty): high 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: Watching how well control systems perform is a matter of tracking data over time.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Developing operating plans and schedules for geothermal operations
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: plans in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Develop operating plans and schedules for geothermal operations.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 75 out of 100 (71–79 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, high 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: Building operating plans and schedules from demand and maintenance data is planning work software does well.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Developing or managing budgets for geothermal operations
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: budgets in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Develop or manage budgets for geothermal operations.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 75 out of 100 (71–79 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, high 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: Operating budgets are built from known costs and volumes using standard methods software handles well.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Preparing and managing biofuels plant or unit budgets
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: biofuels plant in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Prepare and manage biofuels plant or unit budgets.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 75 out of 100 (71–79 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, high 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: Plant budgets are built from known costs and production volumes using methods software applies well.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Conducting cost, material and efficiency studies for biofuels production plants or operations
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: cost, material and efficiency studies in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Conduct cost, material, and efficiency studies for biofuels production plants or operations.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 75 out of 100 (71–79 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, high 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: Cost, material and efficiency studies are calculations on production data software performs quickly and well.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Reviewing logs, datasheets or reports to ensure adequate production levels and safe production environments or to identify abnormalities with power production equipment or processes
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: logs in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Review logs, datasheets, or reports to ensure adequate production levels and safe production environments or to identify abnormalities with power production equipment or processes.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 75 out of 100 (71–79 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, high 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: Reading logs and reports for abnormal or unsafe readings is pattern-spotting software does reliably.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Preparing and managing biomass plant budgets
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: biomass plant budgets in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Prepare and manage biomass plant budgets.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 75 out of 100 (71–79 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, high 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: Plant budgets are assembled from known costs and output figures using standard methods software handles well.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Planning and scheduling plant activities
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: plant activities in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Plan and schedule plant activities, such as wood, waste, or refuse fuel deliveries, ash removal, and regular maintenance.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 75 out of 100 (71–79 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, high 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: Scheduling fuel deliveries, ash removal and routine maintenance is a planning problem software solves well.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Evaluating power production or demand trends to identify opportunities for improved operations
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: power production in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Evaluate power production or demand trends to identify opportunities for improved operations.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 75 out of 100 (71–79 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, high 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: Analysing production and demand trends for improvement opportunities is data work software performs to a usable standard.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Optimizing operational costs and productivity consistent with safety and environmental rules and regulations
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: operational costs in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance not published
O*NET hasn't yet published importance ratings for this occupation's tasks, so the ordering here is ours, not theirs.
Source: “Optimize operational costs and productivity consistent with safety and environmental rules and regulations.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 75 out of 100 (71–79 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, high 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: Balancing cost and output within safety and environmental limits is an optimisation problem software handles well.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Developing budgets or approving expenditures
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: budgets in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Develop budgets or approve expenditures for supplies, materials, or human resources, ensuring that materials, labor, or equipment are used efficiently to meet production targets.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 66 out of 100 (59–73 allowing for uncertainty): high 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: Budget building is standard financial work software drafts well, though committing the money is a manager's authority.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 1/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Creating and implementing inspection and testing criteria or procedures
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: inspection in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Create and implement inspection and testing criteria or procedures.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 66 out of 100 (59–73 allowing for uncertainty): high 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: Inspection and test procedures follow documented practice software drafts well, before a quality lead approves them.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 1/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Approving proposals for the acquisition
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: proposals in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Approve proposals for the acquisition, replacement, or repair of biofuels processing equipment or the implementation of new production processes.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 66 out of 100 (59–73 allowing for uncertainty): high 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: The case for buying or replacing equipment can be prepared by software, though approving the spend is a manager's decision.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 1/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Developing or implementing policy evaluation procedures for hydroelectric generation activities
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: policy evaluation procedures in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Develop or implement policy evaluation procedures for hydroelectric generation activities.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 66 out of 100 (62–70 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, high 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: Writing policy evaluation procedures is documented drafting work that AI produces well from existing frameworks.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 1/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Developing or reviewing budgets, annual plans, power contracts, power rates
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: budgets, annual plans, power contracts, power rates in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Develop or review budgets, annual plans, power contracts, power rates, standing operating procedures, power reviews, or engineering studies.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 66 out of 100 (59–73 allowing for uncertainty): high 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: Budgets, plans, contracts and rate reviews are document and calculation work software drafts well before sign-off.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 1/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Reviewing processing schedules or production orders to make decisions concerning inventory requirements
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: schedules in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Review processing schedules or production orders to make decisions concerning inventory requirements, staffing requirements, work procedures, or duty assignments, considering budgetary limitations and time constraints.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 64 out of 100 (60–68 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, high 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: Matching orders against stock, staffing and budget limits is scheduling arithmetic software performs quickly and well.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Participating in the development of product specifications
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: the development of product specifications in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Participate in the development of product specifications.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 64 out of 100 (57–71 allowing for uncertainty): high 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: Product specifications follow documented formats software drafts well, with engineers agreeing the final numbers.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Directing the tracking of defects
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: the tracking of defects in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Direct the tracking of defects, test results, or other regularly reported quality control data.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 64 out of 100 (60–68 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, high 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: Defect and test tracking is database work software handles well, with a manager deciding what gets watched.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Communicating quality control information to all relevant organizational departments
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: quality control information in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Communicate quality control information to all relevant organizational departments, outside vendors, or contractors.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 64 out of 100 (60–68 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, high 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: Circulating quality information to departments, vendors and contractors is routine communication software drafts and sends well.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Analyzing quality control test results and providing feedback and interpretation to production management or staff
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: quality control test results in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Analyze quality control test results and provide feedback and interpretation to production management or staff.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 64 out of 100 (60–68 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, high 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: Interpreting test results is statistical work software does well, though explaining it to production staff involves a conversation.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Planning or managing hydroelectric plant upgrades
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: hydroelectric plant upgrades in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Plan or manage hydroelectric plant upgrades.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 64 out of 100 (57–71 allowing for uncertainty): high 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: Planning and managing an upgrade is largely analysis, scheduling and documentation that software supports well.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Planning or coordinating hydroelectric production operations to meet customer requirements
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: hydroelectric production operations in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Plan or coordinate hydroelectric production operations to meet customer requirements.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 64 out of 100 (60–68 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, high 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: Planning generation to meet customer demand is a scheduling and forecasting problem software solves well.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Monitoring development of new products to help identify possible problems for mass production
changing shape
The software now makes the first pass at development of new products, but the deciding part still needs a person. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Monitor development of new products to help identify possible problems for mass production.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 58 out of 100 (51–65 allowing for uncertainty): partial exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch.
The rating behind it: Software can flag risky features from design and test data, though judging what will fail at scale draws on experience.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Coordinating or recommending procedures for facility or equipment maintenance or modification
changing shape
The software now makes the first pass at procedures, but the deciding part still needs a person. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 3 · Core
Source: “Coordinate or recommend procedures for facility or equipment maintenance or modification, including the replacement of machines.” (O*NET 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: Maintenance and replacement plans can be drafted from equipment records, though the recommendation depends on seeing the machines.
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.
Reviewing and approving quality plans submitted by contractors
changing shape
The software now makes the first pass at quality plans, but someone has to be answerable for the result, and it cannot be the software. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 3 · Core
Source: “Review and approve quality plans submitted by contractors.” (O*NET 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; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Software can check a contractor's quality plan thoroughly, though approval normally comes from an accountable quality manager.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Monitoring geothermal operations, using programmable logic controllers
changing shape
The software now makes the first pass at geothermal operations, but the deciding part still needs a person. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Monitor geothermal operations, using programmable logic controllers.” (O*NET 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: Controller data is read on screens and software spots drift well, though the control room sits at the plant.
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.
Managing parts and supplying inventories for biomass plants
changing shape
The software now makes the first pass at parts, but the deciding part still needs a person. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 3 · Core
Source: “Manage parts and supply inventories for biomass plants.” (O*NET 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: Stock levels and reordering are database tasks software manages well, though parts still have to be checked in the store.
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.
Monitoring the operating status of biomass plants by observing control system parameters
changing shape
The software now makes the first pass at the operating status of biomass plants, but the deciding part still needs a person. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 4 · Supplemental
Source: “Monitor the operating status of biomass plants by observing control system parameters, distributed control systems, switchboard gauges, dials, or other indicators.” (O*NET 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: Control system readings are watched on screens and software spots drift well, though the control room is at the plant.
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.
Developing or implementing projects to improve efficiency
changing shape
The software now makes the first pass at projects, but the deciding part still needs a person. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Develop or implement projects to improve efficiency, economy, or effectiveness of hydroelectric plant operations.” (O*NET 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: Improvement projects can be designed from operating data, though putting them in place happens in the plant.
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.
Creating or enforcing hydrostation voltage schedules
changing shape
The software now makes the first pass at hydrostation voltage schedules, but the deciding part still needs a person. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 4 · Supplemental
Source: “Create or enforce hydrostation voltage schedules.” (O*NET 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: Voltage schedules are calculated from system data, though enforcing them happens at the station.
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.
Checking hydroelectric operations for compliance with prescribed operating limits
changing shape
The software now makes the first pass at hydroelectric operations, but the deciding part still needs a person. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Check hydroelectric operations for compliance with prescribed operating limits, such as loads, voltages, temperatures, lines, or equipment.” (O*NET 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: Checking loads, voltages and temperatures against limits is automated monitoring, with staff acting on exceptions at the plant.
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.
Instructing vendors or contractors on quality guidelines
changing shape
The software now makes the first pass at vendors, but the part that matters is a person saying it and standing behind it. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Instruct vendors or contractors on quality guidelines, testing procedures, or ways to eliminate deficiencies.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 53 out of 100 (46–60 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; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Guidance documents can be generated, though getting a supplier to change how they work depends on the relationship.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 2/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Obtaining permits for constructing, upgrading or operating geothermal power plants
changing shape
The software now makes the first pass at permits, but someone has to be answerable for the result, and it cannot be the software. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 4 · Supplemental
Source: “Obtain permits for constructing, upgrading, or operating geothermal power plants.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 48 out of 100 (41–55 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; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Application paperwork can be prepared by software, though obtaining a permit runs through named responsible people and regulators.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Developing or enforcing procedures for normal operation of manufacturing systems
changing shape
The software now makes the first pass at procedures, but the deciding part still needs a person. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance not published
O*NET hasn't yet published importance ratings for this occupation's tasks, so the ordering here is ours, not theirs.
Source: “Develop or enforce procedures for normal operation of manufacturing systems.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 48 out of 100 (41–55 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: Operating procedures are documents software drafts well, but making people follow them needs someone on site.
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 1/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Evaluating new testing and sampling methodologies or technologies to determine usefulness
changing shape
The software now makes the first pass at new testing and sampling methodologies or technologies, but the deciding part still needs a person. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 3 · Core
Source: “Evaluate new testing and sampling methodologies or technologies to determine usefulness.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 43 out of 100 (36–50 allowing for uncertainty): partial exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch.
The rating behind it: Judging whether a new test method is useful usually means trying it out on the real process.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · 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.
Identifying opportunities to improve plant electrical equipment
changing shape
The software now makes the first pass at opportunities, but the deciding part still needs a person. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Identify opportunities to improve plant electrical equipment, controls, or process control methodologies.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 43 out of 100 (36–50 allowing for uncertainty): partial exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch.
The rating behind it: Software can suggest control improvements from operating data, but knowing what suits the plant comes from working with it.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · 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.
Reviewing plans and conferring with research or supporting staff to develop new products or processes
changing shape
The software now makes the first pass at plans, but the part that matters is a person saying it and standing behind it. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Review plans and confer with research or support staff to develop new products or processes.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 40 out of 100 (33–47 allowing for uncertainty): partial exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Software can review plans and summarise options, but developing new products with research staff happens through discussion.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 2/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Conferring with marketing and sales departments to define client requirements and expectations
changing shape
The software now makes the first pass at marketing, but the part that matters is a person saying it and standing behind it. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 3 · Core
Source: “Confer with marketing and sales departments to define client requirements and expectations.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 40 out of 100 (33–47 allowing for uncertainty): partial exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Software can summarise customer requirements, but pinning down expectations with sales and marketing happens in discussion.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 2/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Responding to problems
changing shape
The software now makes the first pass at problems, but the part that matters is a person saying it and standing behind it. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Respond to problems related to ratepayers, water users, power users, government agencies, educational institutions, or other private or public power resource interests.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 40 out of 100 (33–47 allowing for uncertainty): partial exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Standard replies can be drafted, but handling ratepayers, agencies and water users usually means someone speaking for the utility.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 2/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Coordinating the selection and implementation of quality control equipment
staying human
The ratings behind this row put the selection well outside what today's tools can do on their own.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Coordinate the selection and implementation of quality control equipment, such as inspection gauges.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 37 out of 100 (30–44 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.
The rating behind it: Software can compare gauges and test equipment on paper, but selecting and installing them involves the shop floor.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 1/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Directing product testing activities throughout production cycles
staying human
The ratings behind this row put product testing activities throughout production cycles well outside what today's tools can do on their own.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Direct product testing activities throughout production cycles.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 37 out of 100 (30–44 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.
The rating behind it: Test plans and schedules can be generated, but directing testing through a production run needs someone in the plant.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 1/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Identifying and communicating power system emergencies
staying human
The rules require a named, qualified person to answer for power system emergencies, and that person cannot be a piece of software.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Identify and communicate power system emergencies.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 36 out of 100 (26–46 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence, and it moved between repeat runs, so the range is widened.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Control systems already flag faults and raise alerts, though grid emergencies need an authorised person taking charge.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 1/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Negotiating materials prices with suppliers
staying human
The value here is that a specific person handles materials prices and stands behind it. That is earned, not computed.
importance 4 · Supplemental
Source: “Negotiate materials prices with suppliers.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 35 out of 100 (28–42 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Software can prepare the price analysis, but agreeing terms with a supplier is a negotiation between people.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 2/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Directing or coordinating production, processing, distribution or marketing activities of industrial organizations
staying human
The value here is that a specific person handles production, processing and stands behind it. That is earned, not computed.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Direct or coordinate production, processing, distribution, or marketing activities of industrial organizations.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 30 out of 100 (23–37 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Software can plan and track production activity, though steering the departments that carry it out relies on managers talking.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 1/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 2/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Reviewing operations and conferring with technical or administrative staff to resolve production or processing problems
staying human
The value here is that a specific person handles operations and stands behind it. That is earned, not computed.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Review operations and confer with technical or administrative staff to resolve production or processing problems.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 30 out of 100 (23–37 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Reports point to the problem, but resolving it usually means walking the line and talking with technical staff.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 1/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 2/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Instructing staff in quality control and analytical procedures
staying human
The value here is that a specific person handles staff and stands behind it. That is earned, not computed.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Instruct staff in quality control and analytical procedures.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 30 out of 100 (23–37 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Teaching laboratory and control procedures relies on showing people and correcting them as they practise.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 1/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 2/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Providing direction to employees to ensure compliance with biofuels plant safety
staying human
The value here is that a specific person handles direction and stands behind it. That is earned, not computed.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Provide direction to employees to ensure compliance with biofuels plant safety, environmental, or operational standards and regulations.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 30 out of 100 (23–37 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Safety and operating standards are written down, but making sure staff follow them relies on a manager being present.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 1/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 2/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Conferring with technical and supervisory personnel to report or resolve conditions affecting biofuels plant safety
staying human
The value here is that a specific person handles technical and supervisory personnel and stands behind it. That is earned, not computed.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Confer with technical and supervisory personnel to report or resolve conditions affecting biofuels plant safety, operational efficiency, and product quality.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 30 out of 100 (23–37 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Data points to the problem, though resolving safety, efficiency and quality issues happens in conversation with plant staff.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 1/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 2/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Setting and monitoring product standards
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: product standards, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Set and monitor product standards, examining samples of raw products or directing testing during processing, to ensure finished products are of prescribed quality.” (O*NET 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: Test results can be interpreted by software, but examining raw product samples means handling them on the production floor.
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.
Collecting and analyzing production samples to evaluate quality
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: production samples, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Collect and analyze production samples to evaluate quality.” (O*NET 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: Analysing samples can be automated, but physically collecting them from the line requires someone there.
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.
Monitoring meters, flow gauges or other real-time data to ensure proper operation of biofuels production equipment
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: meters, flow gauges or other real-time data, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Monitor meters, flow gauges, or other real-time data to ensure proper operation of biofuels production equipment, implementing corrective measures as needed.” (O*NET 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: Software watches meters and gauges well, but acting on a reading often means adjusting equipment in the plant.
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.
Inspecting biomass gasification processes, equipment and facilities for ways to maximize capacity and minimize operating costs
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: biomass gasification processes, equipment and facilities, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Inspect biomass gasification processes, equipment, and facilities for ways to maximize capacity and minimize operating costs.” (O*NET 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: Process data can be analysed automatically, but inspecting gasification equipment for capacity gains means examining it.
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.
Monitoring or inspecting hydroelectric equipment
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: hydroelectric equipment, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Monitor or inspect hydroelectric equipment, such as hydro-turbines, generators, or control systems.” (O*NET 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: Software monitors turbine and generator data well, but inspecting the machinery means looking at it in the plant.
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.
Verifying that raw materials, purchased parts or components, in-process samples and finished products meet established testing and inspection standards
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: raw materials, purchased parts or components, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Verify that raw materials, purchased parts or components, in-process samples, and finished products meet established testing and inspection standards.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 25 out of 100 (18–32 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: Comparing results against standards is automatic, but verifying materials and samples means handling them in the plant.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 2/4 · needs an accountable person 1/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Selecting and implementing corrosion control or mitigation systems for geothermal plants
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: corrosion control, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Select and implement corrosion control or mitigation systems for geothermal plants.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 25 out of 100 (18–32 allowing for uncertainty): low 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: Corrosion control options are documented, but choosing and fitting them depends on the specific plant and its conditions.
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 2/4.
Monitoring transportation and storage of flammable or other potentially dangerous feedstocks or products to ensure adherence to safety guidelines
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: transportation, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Monitor transportation and storage of flammable or other potentially dangerous feedstocks or products to ensure adherence to safety guidelines.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 25 out of 100 (18–32 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: Paperwork checks can be automated, but confirming flammable material is stored and moved safely means looking at it.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 2/4 · needs an accountable person 1/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Monitoring and operating communications systems
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: communications systems, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 3 · Core
Source: “Monitor and operate communications systems, such as mobile radios.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 24 out of 100 (17–31 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: Message handling can be automated, but operating plant radios happens where the equipment and people are.
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 1/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Implementing operational and emergency procedures
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: operational, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance not published
O*NET hasn't yet published importance ratings for this occupation's tasks, so the ordering here is ours, not theirs.
Source: “Implement operational and emergency procedures.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 24 out of 100 (17–31 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: Procedures can be written by software, though putting them into practice, especially in an emergency, needs people present.
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 1/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Hiring, training, evaluating or discharge staff or resolving personnel grievances
staying human
The value here is that a specific person handles discharge staff and stands behind it. That is earned, not computed.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Hire, train, evaluate, or discharge staff or resolve personnel grievances.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 21 out of 100 (14–28 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Adverts and paperwork can be drafted, though hiring, dismissing and settling grievances are decisions people must own face to face.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 1/4 · needs an accountable person 1/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 3/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Negotiating interconnection agreements with other utilities
staying human
The rules require a named, qualified person to answer for interconnection agreements, and that person cannot be a piece of software.
importance 4 · Supplemental
Source: “Negotiate interconnection agreements with other utilities.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 21 out of 100 (14–28 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: someone qualified has to answer for it; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Connection agreements are settled through negotiation between accountable people, even though the technical terms are documented.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 3/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Overseeing geothermal plant operations, maintenance and repairs to ensure compliance with applicable standards or regulations
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: geothermal plant operations, maintenance and repairs, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Oversee geothermal plant operations, maintenance, and repairs to ensure compliance with applicable standards or regulations.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 21 out of 100 (14–28 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: Compliance checking can be largely automated, though overseeing plant operations and repairs requires presence and accountability.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 2/4 · needs an accountable person 1/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Supervising or monitoring hydroelectric facility operations to ensure that generation or mechanical equipment conform to applicable regulations or standards
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: hydroelectric facility operations, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Supervise or monitor hydroelectric facility operations to ensure that generation or mechanical equipment conform to applicable regulations or standards.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 21 out of 100 (14–28 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: Compliance checks can be automated, though supervising plant operations to standard needs an accountable person present.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 2/4 · needs an accountable person 1/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Overseeing workers, supervisors, inspectors or laboratory workers engaged in testing activities
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: workers, supervisors, inspectors or laboratory workers, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Oversee workers including supervisors, inspectors, or laboratory workers engaged in testing activities.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 20 out of 100 (13–27 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; work that happens in the physical world; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Test schedules can be managed by software, though overseeing inspectors and laboratory staff means being with them.
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 2/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Supervising employees in geothermal power plants or well fields
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: employees, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Supervise employees in geothermal power plants or well fields.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 20 out of 100 (13–27 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; work that happens in the physical world; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Rotas and instructions can be automated, but supervising people in a plant or well field means being there.
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 2/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Providing training to subordinate or new employees to improve biofuels plant safety or increase the production of biofuels
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: subordinate, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Provide training to subordinate or new employees to improve biofuels plant safety or increase the production of biofuels.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 20 out of 100 (13–27 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; work that happens in the physical world; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Training material can be drafted by software, though teaching plant staff safe working is done alongside them.
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 2/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Managing operations at biofuels power generation facilities
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: operations, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Manage operations at biofuels power generation facilities, including production, shipping, maintenance, or quality assurance activities.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 20 out of 100 (13–27 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; work that happens in the physical world; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Software can plan and monitor plant activity, though running production, shipping and maintenance depends on people on site.
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 2/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Supervising operations or maintenance employees in the production of power from biomass
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: operations, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Supervise operations or maintenance employees in the production of power from biomass, such as wood, coal, paper sludge, or other waste or refuse.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 20 out of 100 (13–27 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; work that happens in the physical world; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Instructions and rotas can be automated, though supervising operations and maintenance staff means being in the plant.
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 2/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Supervising biomass plant or substation operations
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: biomass plant, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Supervise biomass plant or substation operations, maintenance, repair, or testing activities.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 20 out of 100 (13–27 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; work that happens in the physical world; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Software can schedule and track plant work, but overseeing operations, repairs and testing needs someone present.
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 2/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Supervising subordinate employees
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: subordinate employees, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance not published
O*NET hasn't yet published importance ratings for this occupation's tasks, so the ordering here is ours, not theirs.
Source: “Supervise subordinate employees.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 20 out of 100 (13–27 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; work that happens in the physical world; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Rotas and records can be automated, but supervising people at work means being on the floor with them.
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 2/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Stopping production if serious product defects are present
staying human
The rules require a named, qualified person to answer for production if serious product defects are present, and that person cannot be a piece of software.
importance 5 · Core
Source: “Stop production if serious product defects are present.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 18 out of 100 (11–25 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Halting a production line is an authority call made on the spot by someone who carries the responsibility.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 1/4 · needs a body in a room 1/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Adjusting temperature, pressure, vacuum, level, flow rate or transferring of biofuels to maintain processes at required levels
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: temperature, pressure, vacuum, level, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Adjust temperature, pressure, vacuum, level, flow rate, or transfer of biofuels to maintain processes at required levels.” (O*NET 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: Holding temperature, pressure and flow at target means working the plant's controls on site.
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.
Adjusting equipment controls to generate specified amounts of electrical power
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: equipment controls, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Supplemental
Source: “Adjust equipment controls to generate specified amounts of electrical power.” (O*NET 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: Adjusting controls to hit a set power output means working the plant's equipment on site.
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.
Operating controls to start, stop or regulate biomass-fueled generators, generator units, boilers, engines or auxiliary systems
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: controls, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Supplemental
Source: “Operate controls to start, stop, or regulate biomass-fueled generators, generator units, boilers, engines, or auxiliary systems.” (O*NET 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: Starting, stopping and regulating generators, boilers and engines is done at the plant's controls.
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.
Inspecting geothermal plant or injection well fields to verify proper equipment operations
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: geothermal plant, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Inspect geothermal plant or injection well fields to verify proper equipment operations.” (O*NET 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: Inspecting plant and injection well field equipment means walking the site and looking at it.
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.
Shutting down and restart biofuels plant or equipment in emergency situations or for equipment maintenance
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: and restart biofuels plant, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Shut down and restart biofuels plant or equipment in emergency situations or for equipment maintenance, repairs, or replacements.” (O*NET 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: Shutting down or restarting plant equipment is physical work carried out at the plant.
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.
Shutting down and restart biomass power plants or equipment in emergency situations or for equipment maintenance
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: and restart biomass power plants, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Supplemental
Source: “Shut down and restart biomass power plants or equipment in emergency situations or for equipment maintenance, repairs, or replacements.” (O*NET 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: Shutting down and restarting plant equipment is physical work done at the plant.
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.
Conducting field inspections of biomass plants
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: field inspections of biomass plants, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Conduct field inspections of biomass plants, stations, or substations to ensure normal and safe operating conditions.” (O*NET 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: Field inspections of plants and substations mean walking the site and checking conditions.
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.
Inspecting hydroelectric facilities, including switchyards, control houses or relay houses
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: hydroelectric facilities, including switchyards, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Inspect hydroelectric facilities, including switchyards, control houses, or relay houses, for normal operation or adherence to safety standards.” (O*NET 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: Inspecting switchyards, control houses and relay houses for safe operation means walking the site.
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.
Auditing and inspecting subcontractor facilities
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: subcontractor facilities, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 3 · Supplemental
Source: “Audit and inspect subcontractor facilities including external laboratories.” (O*NET 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: Auditing a subcontractor's factory or laboratory means visiting and seeing how they actually work.
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.
Performing or directing the performance of preventative maintenance on geothermal plant equipment
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: the performance of preventative maintenance, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Perform or direct the performance of preventative maintenance on geothermal plant equipment.” (O*NET 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: Preventive maintenance is hands-on work on plant equipment, whether carried out or closely directed on site.
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 1/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Providing technical direction in the erection or commissioning of hydroelectric equipment or supporting electrical or mechanical systems
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: technical direction, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Provide technical direction in the erection or commissioning of hydroelectric equipment or supporting electrical or mechanical systems.” (O*NET 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: Directing erection and commissioning work means being on site as the equipment goes in.
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 1/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Performing or directing preventive or corrective containment or cleanup to protect the environment
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: preventive, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Perform or direct preventive or corrective containment or cleanup to protect the environment.” (O*NET 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: Containment and clean-up is physical work at the site, carried out under someone answerable for it.
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.
Conducting site audits to ensure adherence to safety and environmental regulations
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: site audits, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance not published
O*NET hasn't yet published importance ratings for this occupation's tasks, so the ordering here is ours, not theirs.
Source: “Conduct site audits to ensure adherence to safety and environmental regulations.” (O*NET 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: A site audit means walking the plant and seeing conditions for yourself.
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.
Conducting well field site assessments
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: well field site assessments, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Conduct well field site assessments.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 8 out of 100 (4–12 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Assessing a well field site means going out and surveying the ground.
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.
Supervising hydropower plant equipment installations
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: hydropower plant equipment installations, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Supervise hydropower plant equipment installations, upgrades, or maintenance.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 7 out of 100 (3–11 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 value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Supervising installation, upgrade and maintenance crews means being present while the work is done.
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 2/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Troubleshooting and making minor repairs to geothermal plant instrumentation or electrical systems
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: minor repairs, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 3 · Supplemental
Source: “Troubleshoot and make minor repairs to geothermal plant instrumentation or electrical systems.” (O*NET 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: Troubleshooting and repairing instrumentation and wiring is hands-on work with tools at the plant.
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.
Drawing samples of biofuels products or secondary by-products for quality control testing
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: samples of biofuels products, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Draw samples of biofuels products or secondary by-products for quality control testing.” (O*NET 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: Drawing product and by-product samples is physical work at the plant.
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.
Testing, maintaining or repairing electrical power distribution machinery or equipment
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: electrical power distribution machinery, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Supplemental
Source: “Test, maintain, or repair electrical power distribution machinery or equipment, using hand tools, power tools, and testing devices.” (O*NET 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: Testing and repairing power distribution equipment with hand and power tools is physical 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 3/4.
Operating energized high- or low-voltage hydroelectric power transmission system substations
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: energized high-, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Supplemental
Source: “Operate energized high- or low-voltage hydroelectric power transmission system substations, according to procedures and safety requirements.” (O*NET 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; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Switching energised high-voltage substation equipment is physical work done by an authorised operator on site.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 3/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.

What this job pays, and how many people do it

Median pay: $126,060a year, the middle of the range, so half earn more and half earn less.bls-oews, 2025 · May 2025 estimates (national_M2025_dl.xlsx)
How we know this
Source: bls-oews
Reference period: May 2025 estimates (national_M2025_dl.xlsx)
Rounding: Shown as published.
People doing this job: 246,250in the US, 2025.bls-oews · May 2025 estimates (national_M2025_dl.xlsx)

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: records of hydroelectric facility operations in, a record out. The rows above are exactly that shape: maintaining records of hydroelectric facility operations and reviewing biomass operations performance specifications to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. What it cannot do is be there in the room, and that is still where hydroelectric facilities, including switchyards 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

Your week is splitting in two, and which half fills it is the whole question. Maintaining records of hydroelectric facility operations is going; inspecting hydroelectric facilities, including switchyards, control houses or relay houses is not.

So, given all that: 37% of this job's task weight sits in rows the software is already learning, 16% in rows that change shape rather than disappear, and 47% in rows it is nowhere near. That is the position, measured across 116 scored tasks. It is not a forecast about you.

The occupation is an average and you are not, so the first job below is finding out where your own week actually sits.

This week: one thing

Print the task ledger above and put your own hours next to each row. Roughly, in pen, in one sitting. Then look at which group your hours actually pile up in. Twenty minutes, this week.

What you end up holding: your own week, on one page, sorted into what is shifting and what is not
How long it takes: about twenty minutes

If printing it isn’t practical: Read the rows off this page and write the same list on the back of an envelope. Same twenty minutes, same page, and it works just as well said out loud to someone who knows the job. The point is your hours next to the rows, not the paper it is on.

Over the next 90 days

Volunteer toward the durable end, visibly. Over the next ninety days put your hand up for the work in the bottom group (inspecting hydroelectric facilities, including switchyards, control houses or relay houses) and let people see you doing it. Not a new project: the same job, with your mix deliberately tilted. The point is that when the rota or the reorganisation comes, the version of you people picture is the one doing the part that stays.

Over the next 12 months

Claim a specialism at the durable end and let the other end go. Over a year, deliberately become the person who handles inspecting hydroelectric facilities, including switchyards, control houses or relay houses, and deliberately stop being the first choice for the rows in the top group. That trade costs something, because the exposed work is often the comfortable work. Decide it on purpose rather than by drift. Before you pay for anything, use CareerOneStop - Find local training. It is free, it is the Labor Department's own service, 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 US occupations to industrial production managers (nearest by the work that AI is not taking, not by job title), and none of them survived. The closest was power plant operators: only about 9% of its durable work is work you already do, it pays 19.1% less and there are far fewer of those jobs than of yours. Your own job splits about 37/63: that share of the list sits in the top exposure band and the rest does not. On this evidence the honest move is inside the job rather than out of it. Become the person who owns “manage safety programs at power generation facilities”, and let the exposed end go.

How that was checked: this job was compared against all 830 US 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.

Power Plant Operators
Why it looked obvious: It came up as a near neighbour on the work AI is not taking: you already perform or direct preventive or corrective containment or cleanup to protect the environment, and their equivalent is to perform preventive or corrective containment or cleanup measures in hydroelectric plants to prevent…. Across both published task lists that is about 9% of the durable work in that job.
Why I am not recommending it: Almost none of it is work you already do: about 9% of the durable side of that job. That is a different job, not a next step. It is a pay cut, in those words: $102,040 against your $126,060, 19.1% less (OEWS May 2025 (both)). Retraining to earn less is a decision, not advice. And it is a narrow door: about 29,320 of those jobs against 246,250 of yours (OEWS May 2025), 12% as many seats.
Look at that job’s page anyway →
Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Workers, All Other
Why it looked obvious: It came up as a near neighbour on the work AI is not taking: you already communicate geothermal plant conditions to employees, and their equivalent is to install and maintain geothermal plant electrical protection equipment. Across both published task lists that is about 3% of the durable work in that job.
Why I am not recommending it: Almost none of it is work you already do: about 3% of the durable side of that job. That is a different job, not a next step. It is a pay cut, in those words: $49,230 against your $126,060, 60.9% less (OEWS May 2025 (both)). Retraining to earn less is a decision, not advice.
Look at that job’s page anyway →
Managers, All Other
Why it looked obvious: It came up as a near neighbour on the work AI is not taking: you already review quality documentation necessary for regulatory submissions and inspections, and their equivalent is to develop regulatory strategies and implementation plans for the preparation and submission of new…. Across both published task lists that is about 3% of the durable work in that job.
Why I am not recommending it: Almost none of it is work you already do: about 3% of the durable side of that job. That is a different job, not a next step.
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: 37% of its task weight, across 116 scored tasks. Every row behind it is printed above with the source. Check ours; ignore theirs.
The whole-job doom story
Nothing on this page says this job ends. It says the mix inside it moves. Half the rows above are unchanged or changing shape, and the plan is about which half your week sits in. That is a very different problem, and a solvable one.
Panic-buying a course
Do the twenty-minute sorting exercise first. Most people who buy a course before they have done it buy the wrong one, and the free services listed below will tell you the same thing without charging for it.
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.

If you run a team doing this job

If you run a team doing this job, the conversation you owe them is the one on this page, and sooner than feels comfortable. Show them the ledger rather than a reassurance: the rows moving toward the software are maintaining records of hydroelectric facility operations, and the rows that are not are where you want your people visible. Ask each of them to do the this-week move and bring the list to your next one-to-one. It turns a rumour into a piece of work, and it tells you which parts of your team's week are actually at stake. And say the thing out loud that a team lead usually leaves unsaid: a shrinking team is your exposure too, so do the move yourself as well.

You are reading the United States figures

The United Kingdom splits this work across more than one official group, of which Production managers and directors in manufacturing is the closest. The pay and employment figures are not directly comparable, and we do not average them together.

Switch to the United Kingdom page →partial match

In UK official statistics this job is counted as Production managers and directors in manufacturing. 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.

Anywhere in the US:
CareerOneStop - Find local training
Search what's running near you, from the Labor Department's own database, before anyone sells you a course.
Free to search; individual programs vary, and some are funded
Anywhere in the US:
American Job Center locator
An American Job Center will sit down with you for free. Find yours by ZIP code.
Free
- CareerOneStop local help hub
Anywhere in the US:
CareerOneStop - Licensed occupations finder
Check what your state actually requires before you pay for anything.
Free
Anywhere in the US:
CareerOneStop
Free

No Space for this job, but one for what is happening to it

Nothing Collab365 runs is built for industrial production managers, and we are not going to point you at the nearest one and call it a fit.

There is one that is not about a job title at all. The AI Authority is about being the person who directs these tools at work rather than the person they get compared to. That is worth saying here, because 37% of the work on this page is already inside what they can do.

Try The AI Authority free →

7 days free, no card needed. Explore up to 2 Spaces before you choose a plan: you pick a plan later, not now.

The AI Authority is a general community about working with AI, not a course for industrial production managers. You do not need it to act on anything here: the moves above cost nothing and stand on their own. The data on this page is the same either way.

Noted, and thank you. We’ll email you if a Space for industrial production managers 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 industrial production managers 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 industrial production managers existed, with researched problems, courses and people in the same boat, would you want in?

Your email

We use your email address for one thing: to tell you if a Space for industrial production managers 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 Industrial Production Managers?: Not as a job, but it is already doing parts of the work. Across the 116 official task statements scored for Industrial Production Managers (United States, SOC 11-3051), 37% of the importance-weighted core work is made of tasks today's AI could already do most of. The overall exposure score is 46 out of 100 (range 40–51, band: partial). 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 “Industrial Production Managers” can AI already do?: The highest-scoring tasks in release 2026-q4.1 are: “Prepare and maintain production reports or personnel records” (93/100, very high); “Produce reports regarding nonconformance of products or processes, daily production quality, root cause analyses, or quality trends” (93/100, very high); “Record, review, or maintain daily logs, reports, maintenance, and other records associated with geothermal operations” (93/100, very high). 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 “Industrial Production Managers” stay human?: About 47% 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: “Operate energized high- or low-voltage hydroelectric power transmission system substations, according to procedures and safety requirements” (0/100, minimal); “Test, maintain, or repair electrical power distribution machinery or equipment, using hand tools, power tools, and testing devices” (0/100, minimal); “Draw samples of biofuels products or secondary by-products for quality control testing” (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 “Industrial Production Managers” do about AI?: Start from the ledger rather than the headline: 37% of this job's weighted core work is exposed, and roughly 47% 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 Industrial Production Managers 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 116 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

One task scored differently between repeat runs, so its range on this page is wider. We would rather show the wobble than hide it.
The match between this job and its counterpart in the other country is partial, so the two pages count slightly different groups of people.
12 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: onet-dbProcessing: catalogue-bridge → onet-im-rt-weighting → task-scoring → score-aggregation
Task weights: onet-db (im-rt-with-imputed)
Scores: Rubric task_scoring_v1.0, model claude-opus-5, computed 2026-08-05.
Pay and employment: bls-oews (May 2025 estimates (national_M2025_dl.xlsx))bls-oews (May 2025 estimates (national_M2025_dl.xlsx))

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.

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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 2026-08-05. 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.