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The Skill Inside the Task: How AI and Robotics Reshape the Structure of Work

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  • Cossu, Fenicia

Abstract

We examine how exposure to artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics reshapes the skill composition of occupations. Using O*NET data from 2006 to 2019, we construct indicators tracking the importance of seven broad skill categories within each occupation over time. We link these indicators to task-based measures of technological exposure at the occupational level. We then focus on the effect of AI and robotics in altering the skill composition of high-, middle- and low-skilled groups of occupations. We find that AI primarily affects high-skill occupations by increasing the importance of Technical and Resource Management skills and decreasing that of Systems and Social skills. Robotics instead boosts Technical skills in middle and low-skill occupations and reduces Process skills in low-skilled ones. Notably, neither AI nor robots affect the importance of Complex Problem Solving skills.

Suggested Citation

  • Cossu, Fenicia, 2025. "The Skill Inside the Task: How AI and Robotics Reshape the Structure of Work," MPRA Paper 125404, University Library of Munich, Germany.
    • Handle: RePEc:pra:mprapa:125404
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Daron Acemoglu & David Autor & Jonathon Hazell & Pascual Restrepo, 2022. "Artificial Intelligence and Jobs: Evidence from Online Vacancies," Journal of Labor Economics, University of Chicago Press, vol. 40(S1), pages 293-340.
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    3. Daron Acemoglu & Pascual Restrepo, 2020. "Robots and Jobs: Evidence from US Labor Markets," Journal of Political Economy, University of Chicago Press, vol. 128(6), pages 2188-2244.
    4. Paul Goldsmith-Pinkham & Isaac Sorkin & Henry Swift, 2020. "Bartik Instruments: What, When, Why, and How," American Economic Review, American Economic Association, vol. 110(8), pages 2586-2624, August.
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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • J23 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Labor Demand
    • J24 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Human Capital; Skills; Occupational Choice; Labor Productivity
    • O3 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights
    • O33 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Technological Change: Choices and Consequences; Diffusion Processes

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