APR 16 · 2026TAKEOVER METER
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Role File · Critical Risk

Toll Collector.

Collects tolls at toll booths. Nearly entirely automated through electronic toll systems.

US workers

16K

Avg. salary

$34K

AI risk

95%

Horizon

2-3 years

Assessment

Where this role sits on the index.

Automation risk95%

This role sits on the front line of displacement — meaningful automation within 2–3 years.

The Brief

What's at stake.

Toll collectors collect fees from vehicles. Electronic toll collection (E-ZPass, FasTrak) and cashless payment systems have already automated this role. Camera-based license plate recognition handles toll collection without human interaction.

Task Analysis

Where the work goes.

AI will handle

  • 01Collect tolls
  • 02Process payments
  • 03Provide change
  • 04Issue receipts
  • 05Maintain toll booth

You stay relevant

  • 01Direct traffic
  • 02Handle special cases
  • 03Report issues

Stay ahead

The playbook.

Required

Core skills

  • Cash handling
  • Customer service
  • Accuracy
  • Traffic safety
  • Basic computer skills

Emerging

Future skills

  • Customer service excellence
  • Problem-solving
  • Safety management

Leverage

Learn AI as a multiplier

Mastering the tools that automate parts of this role is the most reliable way to stay in demand.

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Sources

How we built this file.

01Bureau of Labor Statistics
02ITS Society

Diagnostic

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