AI could remove roughly 800,000 jobs in Germany — experts explain how to prepare

Artificial intelligence is set to reshape Germany's labour market: Andrea Nahles, head of the Federal Employment Agency, estimates that about 800,000 jobs could disappear over the next 15 years, even as new occupations emerge. Experts urge workers to prepare early by updating skills, considering lateral moves, and weighing the financial consequences of a full career restart.

Structural pressures are already visible in several sectors. The automotive industry alone could lose around 225,000 positions between 2019 and 2035, according to estimates from the automotive industry association. Similar cuts have appeared in chemicals, finance, aviation and telecommunications, increasing uncertainty for employees whose roles are exposed to automation and shifting demand.

When to consider a new direction

Career counsellors say the reasons to rethink one’s profession vary: job losses, automation, or simple dissatisfaction. Research from the University of Oxford shows only one in five employees in Germany is currently satisfied with their job, while four out of five would prefer to work in something else. That widespread dissatisfaction matters for employers too, because disengaged staff are generally less productive, less innovative, take more sick leave and have higher absence rates.

For those contemplating a complete career change, the advice is to prepare deliberately. Career adviser Lena Haubold-Fromhertz recommends clarifying personal preferences and strengths first — through personality tests, professional counselling or keeping a log of daily work achievements. She also stresses the value of specific goals before handing in a resignation.

Reskilling and upskilling remain central options in a digital, AI-driven labour market. Haubold-Fromhertz gives a practical example: "You are a graphic designer and you love your work. Then you notice: Many people simply do it with AI and you no longer get orders. Then one of the options is to master these AI tools perfectly. That way you practically tie your competence to the efficiency of AI." Many training programmes today can be followed digitally and alongside existing jobs.

Experts warn there are real risks to switching careers: new roles often mean starting at lower pay and less experience, and moving from a well-paid industrial job into another field can be financially costly. Labour-law advisers also advise against signing severance offers hastily, and note that severance payments are subject to taxation. As Haubold-Fromhertz puts it: "A Plan B is always an advantage." Timely career planning can reduce anxiety and give people more control over transition choices.

Photo: press material from the event