Physical scientists, all other
SOC Code: 19-2099
Physical scientists, all other carries a 46% AI exposure score (High automation risk), with a median annual wage of $117,960 and +0.6% projected employment growth from 2024 to 2034 (BLS), affecting approximately 31,900 workers. Full task breakdown, skills, and employer data are below.
Proportion of tasks susceptible to AI automation (O*NET analysis)
AI Exposure vs Industry Growth
Total occupations tracked
832
Covering all SOC major groups
Data currency
2024
BLS Employment Projections
AI exposure avg
40%
Fleet-wide median across all roles
Composite score weighing O*NET task data completeness, BLS projection methodology, and cross-validation with employer risk grades.
Employment Projections
Occupation Insight
Physical scientists, all other (SOC 19-2099) carries an AI exposure score of 46%, placing it in the High automation-risk tier. This score is computed from O*NET Database 30.0 task-level analysis, where each task an occupation performs is evaluated against current generative AI, robotic process automation, and machine-learning capabilities. A score in the 40–70% range indicates meaningful automation pressure on specific task categories, but the role as a whole still requires human judgment for coordination, exception handling, or client interaction.
The economic context matters alongside the risk score. BLS counted approximately 31,900 workers in this occupation in 2024, and projects a +0.6% change through 2034 — modest growth that keeps the occupation viable even as tasks evolve. Median annual compensation stands at $117,960, reflecting both skill scarcity and the value employers place on the tasks that remain difficult to automate. Entry typically requires Bachelor's degree, plus None of related experience.
For career planners, this profile should be read alongside the task, skill, and knowledge breakdowns below and the list of employers whose workforce composition includes Physical scientists, all other. Adjacent occupations shown further down offer lateral moves that preserve industry knowledge while potentially reducing exposure. Pair the AI exposure score with the BLS employment projection and wage percentiles above for a complete career assessment.
Education & Entry Requirements
Top Tasks (O*NET)
- 1. Manage or analyze data obtained from remote sensing systems to obtain meaningful results.
- 2. Analyze data acquired from aircraft, satellites, or ground-based platforms, using statistical analysis software, image analysis software, or Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
- 3. Integrate other geospatial data sources into projects.
- 4. Organize and maintain geospatial data and associated documentation.
- 5. Compile and format image data to increase its usefulness.
- 6. Prepare or deliver reports or presentations of geospatial project information.
- 7. Discuss project goals, equipment requirements, or methodologies with colleagues or team members.
- 8. Process aerial or satellite imagery to create products such as land cover maps.
- 9. Design or implement strategies for collection, analysis, or display of geographic data.
- 10. Develop or build databases for remote sensing or related geospatial project information.
Key Skills Required
- Reading Comprehension
- Critical Thinking
- Active Listening
- Writing
- Speaking
- Science
- Mathematics
- Complex Problem Solving
- Judgment and Decision Making
- Systems Analysis
Knowledge Areas
- Geography
- Computers and Electronics
- Mathematics
- Engineering and Technology
- English Language
- Physics
- Design
- Administration and Management
- Customer and Personal Service
- Biology
Frequently Asked Questions
Will AI replace Physical scientists, all other?
Physical scientists, all other has an AI exposure score of 46%, indicating a high level of automation risk. Some tasks in this role can be augmented or partially automated by AI, but core responsibilities require human judgment.
What is the job outlook for Physical scientists, all other?
According to BLS Employment Projections 2024-2034, Physical scientists, all other is projected to grow by 0.6% over the decade. Current employment stands at approximately 31,900 workers.
What skills are needed for Physical scientists, all other?
Key skills for Physical scientists, all other include Reading Comprehension, Critical Thinking, Active Listening, and others. Typical entry-level education is Bachelor's degree.
How much do Physical scientists, all other earn?
The median annual wage for Physical scientists, all other is $117,960, according to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024). Actual earnings vary by location, experience, industry, and employer. The BLS publishes detailed wage percentiles by region in its Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics program.
What education is required for Physical scientists, all other?
The typical entry-level education for Physical scientists, all other is Bachelor's degree. Employers generally expect None of related work experience. On-the-job training typically involves None. Requirements can vary by employer and specialization.
Which companies employ Physical scientists, all other?
Physical scientists, all other roles exist across many industries and employers. Workforce composition is estimated from BLS industry-occupation employment distributions matched to SEC-registered public companies.
AI Exposure Rating
High automation risk based on 10 analyzed tasks. A moderate share of tasks may be augmented by AI tools.
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Data sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics Employment Projections 2024–2034 and O*NET Database 30.0. Employment figures are rounded. Wage data from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics (OES).