Have you ever considered that your next job may not currently exist?
The speed at which we work is evolving so quickly that there are jobs becoming available that very few of us have ever even heard of. As we move toward 2024, the shape of work is going to change dramatically due to developments in AI, digital transformation, new business models, and human skills that cannot be replicated by machines. This isn’t something that is on the horizon. It’s here now, and there is already significant demand for the types of jobs that will evolve as a direct result of all of these new technologies.
If you’re currently transitioning away from your traditional job into one of these new job roles, it will take both awareness and preparation to succeed in this change. Here we will examine the new occupations that will be created by 2026.
1. AI Behavior Trainer
AI Behavioral Trainers work with artificial intelligence systems to ensure that systems operate according to accepted social norms by guiding how machines produce outputs. For example, if an AI is generating an email to respond to a customer about their support request, an AI Behavioral Trainer will ensure that the email provides clear and accurate information as well as be consistent with established professional standards of communication.
Who this is for: Content creators, educators, analysts, and anyone with a keen eye for detail and judgment. It’s a role that blends human insight with technology.
2. Human-AI Experience
Designer Human-AI Experience Designers develop the way humans work with AI so that the tools are usable and helpful rather than confusing. For example, these Human-AI Experience Designers may create dashboards for project managers that present AI-generated analytics in a way that enables project managers to make the necessary decisions quickly, or create conversational interfaces that users will find comfortable and familiar.
Who this is for: Professionals with backgrounds in UX, content strategy, or psychology who enjoy creating seamless user experiences.4
3. Digital Trust and Ethics Specialist
An AI and automation compliance role is necessary for ensuring AI and automation systems remain compliant, fair, and transparent. There is great risk or potential for negative consequences as a result of errors in these areas, particularly in finance, healthcare and online marketplaces.
Who this is for: Compliance professionals, Policy Writers, Risk Management Professionals and Content Governance Professionals. This position requires critical thinking and ethical considerations for decision making.
4. AI Operations Manager
AI Operations Managers are responsible for overseeing the AI tools in operation while ensuring that AI Operation Managers are capable of delivering accurate solutions as well as providing proper oversight of all functions of the AI tools and monitoring the AI tool’s performance, scheduling the AI tool’s updates and in ensuring the AI tools meet the organization’s business objectives.
For example, an example of an AI Operations Manager in a logistics environment would use AI based systems to forecast delivery schedules, troubleshoot system issues and coordinate with several different groups of personnel when making improvements to the business systems.
Who this is for: Professionals with operational experience who enjoy process management and technology coordination.
5. Cyber Resilience Analyst
Cyber Resilience Analysts ensure that companies are prepared to respond and recover from cyber incidents as quickly as possible.
Who this is for: Professionals with a mix of technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and crisis management capabilities. Companies increasingly value people who can think ahead and keep operations running under pressure.
6. Sustainability Data Analyst
These analysts collect and track environmental data, turning complex information into clear, actionable insights. They help organizations understand their environmental footprint, make sustainable decisions, and implement strategies that reduce waste and minimize impact. By analyzing trends, measuring outcomes, and providing evidence-based recommendations, they play a crucial role in guiding businesses toward more responsible and eco-friendly practices.
Who this is for: Data analysts, business strategists, or professionals passionate about sustainability and reporting.
7. Digital Community and Trust Manager
This role focuses on building strong digital communities and long-term trust with users. It goes beyond social media to managing engagement, feedback, and reputation at scale. You will create meaningful experiences that keep users connected and valued. The role also involves analyzing community insights to drive strategy and continuously improve user satisfaction.
Who this is for: Content strategists, communication experts, and community managers who enjoy creating meaningful online experiences.
How to Prepare for 2026?
The careers rising in 2026 are diverse, but the skills and preparation strategies needed share common elements. Here’s a step-by-step guide to future proof your career:
1. Establish a Strong Base
It’s critical to have the fundamental skills required to be successful in your chosen profession. This applies to the areas of content and communications, data analysis, systems design, user experience, and ethical considerations. If you possess a solid foundation of basic skills, it will be easier for you to build upon these skills when learning more advanced concepts in your area of interest.
2. Become Fluent in AI
AI is now not just being used by IT departments but is being integrated into everyday tools used by companies. For that reason, employers are placing even more emphasis on evaluating how well their employees can use AI tools to create and review their outputs, verify their results, edit their content, and explain the thought process behind their decisions. In essence, the goal is for employees to transition from being a passive user of AI tools to critically evaluating and enhancing the products that AI tools create for them.
3. Build Data Literacy
Having some level of data literacy is now a requirement of almost every position in the workforce. The ability to read and interpret dashboards and use digital analytics tools, and extract valuable insights will position you for greater advancement in your chosen profession. The growth of data roles is expected to increase over the next decade, and both analytics and data science are projected to be two of the fastest areas in the job market that will expand significantly, compared to all other professions in the United States.
4. Know Ethical and Trust Guidelines
It is becoming increasingly important to understand and apply the principles of fairness, transparency, compliance, and user impact within not just technology but also job positions that interact with the end-users of the technologies and the data they are accessing.
5. Create a Portfolio and Proof of Skill and Accomplishment
More employers are looking to see the demonstration of capability in a given field than to see a degree from an accredited university. Creating case studies or project portfolios would demonstrate how you were able to provide solutions for problems, improve company operations, and provide insight and value to the organization.
6. Continue to be Flexible and Eager to Learn
The job skill requirements for 2026 will not be the same as they are today and will continue to change. These jobs will require continuous learning, not just a one-time training session. To keep pace with the latest industry trends, complete short-term training, work collaboratively, and extend your knowledge base by establishing a presence in related industries.
Conclusion
The jobs of 2026 will be shaped by how companies use technology to improve their operations and create better digital experiences for customers. These roles come with great opportunities, but success will depend on a mix of technical skills and human abilities, along with the willingness to adapt and keep learning. The future of work is not about humans versus technology. Today’s jobs are just the first step toward a future where people and technology work together to create real impact.
About SpringPeople:
SpringPeople is world’s leading enterprise IT training & certification provider. Trusted by 750+ organizations across India, including most of the Fortune 500 companies and major IT services firms, SpringPeople is a premier enterprise IT training provider. Global technology leaders like GenAI SAP, AWS, Google Cloud, Microsoft, Oracle, and RedHat have chosen SpringPeople as their certified training partner in India.
With a team of 4500+ certified trainers, SpringPeople offers courses developed under its proprietary Unique Learning Framework, ensuring a remarkable 98.6% first-attempt pass rate. This unparalleled expertise, coupled with a vast instructor pool and structured learning approach, positions SpringPeople as the ideal partner for enhancing IT capabilities and driving organizational success.
