Forbes Just Named 20 New Agentic AI Jobs. Most of Them Won't Exist in Two Years.

Forbes recently published a list of 20 new agentic AI jobs that are supposedly set to revolutionize the workforce. The catch? Most of these titles will be obsolete within 18 months. This is not just an opinion; it’s a prediction based on the rapid evolution of AI technology and the relentless pace of change in the job market. While it’s exciting to think about new roles and opportunities, the reality is that many of these positions exist in a bubble that’s about to burst.

The Illusion of Stability in AI Roles

When we talk about agentic AI, we are referring to systems that can operate autonomously, making decisions and taking actions without human intervention. This is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it opens the door to new job roles that require oversight, management, and integration of these sophisticated systems. On the other hand, it also means that many roles are rendered redundant as AI continues to improve.

Take positions like "AI Ethics Manager" or "AI Integration Specialist." They sound essential today, but as AI becomes more reliable and self-sufficient, the need for such specialized roles will diminish. Why would a company hire someone to oversee an AI system that requires minimal human intervention? The lifespan of these roles is limited by the very technology they aim to manage.

Job Titles vs. Job Functions

The problem lies in conflating job titles with job functions. Just because Forbes has highlighted 20 new roles doesn't mean there will be a sustained demand for them. Many of these positions are simply repackaged versions of existing roles. For instance, "AI Workflow Optimizer" is just another way of saying "Project Manager" with a tech twist. As AI tools become more user-friendly, the functions associated with these roles will be absorbed into existing job descriptions, further diluting their significance.

Additionally, the tech industry has a tendency to throw around trendy titles to attract talent. "AI Experience Designer" might sound appealing, but how many companies truly need to hire someone specifically for that role when most designers can adapt to AI tools quickly? The allure of these titles may lead to a hiring frenzy, but the reality is that most will find themselves redundant as AI tools advance and become more integrated into day-to-day operations.

The Future is Unpredictable

If there’s one thing we can count on in the tech industry, it’s that unpredictability is the only constant. The jobs of tomorrow will not only require different skills but will also likely exist in entirely different contexts than what we envision today. The rapid advancement in AI means that skills can become outdated almost overnight. This isn’t just a concern for job seekers; it’s a reality that founders and businesses must reckon with.

Startups that are looking to capitalize on these new roles should tread carefully. Investing time and resources into training employees for jobs that may not exist in a year or two is a risky gamble. Instead, companies should focus on building a flexible workforce that can adapt to change, ensuring that their team members possess skills that are universally applicable across various roles.

Rethinking Workforce Strategies

As we reflect on these so-called new agentic AI jobs, the emphasis should be on adaptability rather than specificity. The workforce of the future should be built on a foundation of continuous learning, where employees are encouraged to evolve alongside technology. This means prioritizing skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and emotional intelligence, which are less likely to be replaced by AI.

Moreover, the focus should shift from creating new job titles to fostering an innovative culture that embraces change. Leaders should encourage employees to take ownership of their roles and develop a mindset that thrives in uncertainty. This is where true job security lies—not in a title, but in the ability to pivot and grow as the landscape evolves.

Ultimately, the narrative surrounding AI jobs should be one of caution. While Forbes may celebrate the emergence of new roles, the reality is that most of them will vanish as quickly as they appeared. Founders and businesses need to prepare for a future where adaptability is key and where the only constant is change. Are you ready to embrace this future, or are you still chasing fading job titles?