Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria
Overall Exposure
2025 vs 2023
Theoretical Exposure
32What AI could do
Observed Exposure
8What AI actually does
Automation Risk Score
14Displacement risk
3-Year Outlook (2025 → 2028)
Projected changes in AI automation metrics over the next 3 years based on estimated data.
Overall Exposure
2025 → 2028 (estimated)
Theoretical Exposure
2025 → 2028 (estimated)
Observed Exposure
2025 → 2028 (estimated)
Automation Risk
2025 → 2028 (estimated)
Exposure Metrics (2023 - 2028)
Detailed Metrics Table
| Year | Overall | Theoretical | Observed | Risk | Data Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 12 | 25 | 4 | 10 | actual |
| 2024 | 15 | 28 | 6 | 12 | actual |
| 2025 | 18 | 32 | 8 | 14 | actual |
| 2026 | 21 | 35 | 10 | 16 | estimated |
| 2027 | 24 | 38 | 13 | 18 | estimated |
| 2028 | 27 | 41 | 16 | 20 | estimated |
Task Breakdown
About This Occupation
If you work as an Institution or Cafeteria Cook, AI has limited but growing influence on your role. With an automation risk of 14/100 and overall exposure at 18%, this occupation remains largely hands-on. The most AI-impacted area is inventory management and supply ordering at 42% automation, while actual cooking stays at just 12%. This is classified as an 'augment' role, where AI tools assist with planning and logistics rather than replacing physical food preparation. BLS projects +6% growth through 2034, with median annual wage of $33,600. Institutional food service continues to expand as hospitals, schools, and corporate campuses grow, and AI-powered menu planning systems help optimize nutrition, reduce waste, and accommodate dietary restrictions at scale.
Frequently Asked Questions
With an automation risk score of 14%, Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria has a low risk of AI replacement. Most tasks in this role require skills that are difficult for AI to replicate, such as complex decision-making, physical dexterity, or deep interpersonal interaction. AI is more likely to serve as a supportive tool.
The AI automation risk score for Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria is 14% (2025 data). Overall AI exposure is 18%, with 32% theoretical exposure and 8% observed exposure. The risk trend from 2023 to 2025 is +4 points.
The tasks with the highest automation potential for Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria are: Manage inventory and order food supplies (42%), Plan menus and calculate food quantities for large groups (35%), Ensure food safety and sanitation compliance (28%). These rates reflect how much of each task current AI systems can handle, based on research data from Anthropic and academic sources.
The BLS projects +6% employment change for Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria from 2024 to 2034. Combined with an overall AI exposure of 18%, this occupation is experiencing both traditional labor market shifts and AI-driven transformation. Workers should monitor both employment trends and AI capability growth.
Since AI primarily augments capabilities in this role, professionals in Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria should embrace AI as a productivity multiplier. Focus on learning to use AI tools effectively, developing higher-order analytical and creative skills, and positioning yourself as someone who can leverage AI to deliver greater value.