Tech executives have frequently cautioned that artificial intelligence has already reached the proficiency of entry-level staff, with predictions suggesting it could cut white-collar employment in half by 2030. Given this context, many are now focusing on the healthcare sector, which boasts low unemployment, the potential for salaries exceeding $200,000, and a profession that is less likely to be overtaken by automated systems in the near future.
However, individuals contemplating medical school should bear in mind an important fact: job security does not always equate to job satisfaction.
A 2025 study conducted by the shift work platform Deputy, which encompassed responses from 1.28 million users, indicates that roles such as doctors, paramedics, and chiropractors rank among the least satisfied in the workforce. Approximately 38% of workers in doctors' offices and medical clinics reported dissatisfaction with their jobs. Chiropractors and personnel in critical and emergency services also showed considerable unhappiness. Interestingly, when considering roles in animal health, four out of the five least satisfying jobs in the UK today are tied to the healthcare field.
Despite the perceived fulfillment associated with healthcare careers, employees in this sector often experience burnout, exacerbated by demanding hours and high-stakes situations.
The report identifies several factors contributing to low morale: “Staff shortages, emotional challenges, unpredictable schedules, and an aging population” are significant elements affecting employee happiness.
Below are the top 10 sectors with the highest levels of dissatisfaction, according to the study:
1. Doctors’ Office/Medical Clinic – 37.84% 2. Animal Health – 17.95% 3. Chiropractors – 12.93% 4. Critical & Emergency Services – 12.05% 5. Call Centres – 12.00% 6. Catering – 8.60% 7. Delivery and Postal Services – 6.97% 8. Care Facilities – 6.22% 9. Cleaning Services – 5.80% 10. Private Services (e.g., Chefs, Gardeners) – 5.62%
In contrast, it appears that Generation Z is finding greater happiness in hospitality roles.
Interestingly, positions that recent graduates may have traditionally overlooked, such as those in fast food or waitressing, are emerging as potentially more fulfilling career paths. Hospitality received notable praise in Deputy’s study, with half of the ten happiest job sectors represented within it, despite the common challenges of stress, irregular hours, and lower wages.
In terms of job satisfaction, hospitality roles led the findings. Staff in sit-down restaurants (89.7%), fast food and cashier positions (82.9%), food pop-ups (82.5%), and café employees (82%) expressed some of the highest satisfaction levels across various fields.
Florists, childcare workers, and cleaners also reported significant job contentment.
The report points out that the satisfaction derived from these roles stems less from financial compensation or status and more from their daily work experiences: “These positions may enjoy structured routines, manageable workloads, and strong team bonds, underscoring the emotional importance of good operational practices and a positive workplace atmosphere.”
Separately, data indicates that wages for bartenders and baristas are currently growing at a faster rate than those for traditional office positions.
According to the research, here are the top 10 happiest sectors:
1. Tobacco, E-cigarette, and Vape Stores – 93.4% 2. Sit-Down Restaurants – 89.7% 3. Fast Food/Cashier Restaurants – 82.9% 4. Florists – 82.9% 5. Food Pop-Ups – 82.5% 6. Cafes/Coffee Shops – 82% 7. Dentists – 81.8% 8. Childcare/Community Centres – 78.4% 9. Catering – 75.3% 10. Cleaning Services – 64.3%
This article first appeared on Fortune.com on August 31, 2025.
