AI, Task Changes in Jobs, and Worker Reallocation

How does artificial intelligence (AI) affect the content of work, and how do workers adjust to the diffusion of AI in the economy? We combine novel patent-based measures of AI and robots with individual survey data on tasks performed on the job and administrative data on worker careers to answer these important questions. In line with previous findings, robots have reduced routine tasks and increased analytical tasks, benefitting high-skilled workers. In sharp contrast, AI has reduced non-routine analytical tasks like information gathering and increased the demand for ‘high-level’ routine tasks like monitoring processes, that require a computer or tablet. These task shifts mainly occur within detailed occupations and become stronger over time. While displacement effects are small, workers have responded by switching jobs, often to less exposed industries. We also document that low-skilled workers suffer modest wage losses, while high-skilled workers have modest wage gains if they remain in their jobs. (mit Christina Gathmann und Felix Grimm)