Just 20 years ago, video rental businesses were everywhere in the LA area, but with the development of internet streaming technology, they have become a thing of the past.

The phrase "jobs are disappearing" in LA is no longer a line from a horror movie.

With the rapid spread of AI, robots, and automation technology, I have compiled a list of five jobs in the LA area that are likely to say 'goodbye' within the next decade.

I've included why each job is at risk, along with insights on the workplace atmosphere, statistics, and policy changes, so grab a cup of coffee and read on.

Fast Food & Cafe Cashier

As California raised the minimum wage for fast food to $20 per hour, chain stores immediately accelerated the introduction of kiosks and AI drive-thrus. Companies like McDonald's and Carl's Jr. have announced plans to expand unmanned ordering machines to all locations starting in 2024, leading to discussions that "the kitchen may remain, but the counter will be halved."

Parking Lot & Valet Fee Collectors

In LA, when you park your car, it is increasingly common for a robot to automatically move and stack vehicles, with payment completed via an app. Some places, like Culver City Helms Bakery District, have even started operating a 'unmanned mechanical parking' system. Developers have declared that they will implement the same system in high-density buildings in downtown and Koreatown before the 2028 Olympics—jobs that involved people collecting tickets and storing keys are quickly losing their place.

Long-Distance Truck & Port Drivers

Did you know that autonomous truck test routes are already running on the I-10 and I-15 highways? The California legislature is discussing a bill that would require human safety drivers to accompany autonomous trucks over 10,000 pounds until 2029, but the industry is pushing back, claiming that "full automation is just a matter of time." Analysts predict that up to 1.7 million driving-related jobs could disappear nationwide, with at least 40,000 in LA County alone around 2035. 

Clothing Sewing (Sewers & Pattern Cutters)

Small sewing factories in downtown's 'Java Market' are already undergoing restructuring with AI pattern automation and 3D sample printing. A 2025 UCLA LPPI report pointed out that "many of the 720,000 Latino workers in LA County are in high-risk automation jobs, with sewing and fabric processing being prime examples." As fast fashion brands shift to automated factories in Mexico and Texas, the number of low-wage core workers is rapidly decreasing.

Telemarketers & Call Center Representatives

As AI voice bots evolve to the point where they are indistinguishable from human voices, the real estate, insurance, and customer service sectors are already running large-scale pilots. The LA Times reported that in 2024, the trend of "robot calls and ringless voicemails" is heating up, with small businesses replacing staff through overseas outsourcing or AI transitions. The Brookings Institution also noted that "office, sales, and telemarketing jobs are over 70% automatable," making them some of the most at-risk white-collar areas.

Survival Tips for the Future

1. Upgrade Digital & Data Skills
   Short coding and data analysis courses are offered affordably at Google Hollywood Campus and LACCD Community College.

2. Obtain Transferable Certifications
   It's beneficial to strategically acquire certifications in areas where 'human hands' are still needed, such as electric vehicle maintenance and healthcare technicians.

3. Check for Industry Restructuring Incentives
   The city and county provide job training vouchers for occupations affected by AI transitions, so check regularly to see if your job is included.

In ten years, the job landscape will change as much as the LA skyline. If you are in one of the five jobs mentioned above, choose "proactive preparation" instead of "fear." If you know the direction of change and prepare, you could be the first to seize new opportunities rather than disappearing jobs!