When Will AI Replace Ingénieurs des facteurs humains et Ergonomes ?

AI is set to automate around 45% of Human Factors Engineers and Ergonomists tasks by 2028. The initial wave will focus on user testing analysis, ergonomic assessments, and usability report generation. This automation is not a distant threat; it’s approaching rapidly.

The early impact, starting as soon as 2026, will primarily affect junior human factors specialists (0-3 years). Those focused on routine data collection and basic usability testing will see entry-level positions shrink by 25-30%. This signals a significant shift in demand for early-career professionals.

While automation is a concern, the mid-wave transformation still offers opportunities. Senior ergonomists (7+ years) with specialized skills in safety-critical systems and regulatory compliance can extend their viable careers, potentially to 2030 and beyond, especially if they pivot towards AI ethics and human-AI interaction design.

Junior human factors specialists with 0-3 years of experience are most at risk, particularly those focusing on routine data collection and basic usability testing. The AI revolution is projected to reduce entry-level positions by 25-30% as early as 2026.

Senior ergonomists (7+ years) with deep domain expertise in safety-critical systems (medical devices, automotive, aerospace) and strong stakeholder engagement skills are better positioned. Their experience with regulatory compliance (FDA, ISO standards) offers a shield, extending viable careers to 2030 and potentially 2032.

You have a realistic 3-5 year window to fundamentally adapt and future-proof your career trajectory. The key differentiator separating survivors will be their ability to embrace new technologies and evolving demands within the field.

To thrive, senior ergonomists should specialize in AI ethics and human-AI interaction design. Focusing on these emerging areas can realistically extend viable careers to 2030 and potentially 2032, ensuring continued relevance in a rapidly changing landscape.