China Adds 12 New Occupations in Digital and Green Sectors

China’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security (MOHRSS) has published a public notice proposing 12 new official occupations, alongside several new job types, in a move that reflects the country’s rapidly evolving labor market. The announcement, covered by Xinhua News Agency and People’s Daily, includes roles spanning digital technology, artificial intelligence, green energy, and specialized services.

Background and Process

The new occupations were identified through a public solicitation process launched in September 2025, followed by expert review and consultation with central government agencies. The public comment period runs until July 17, 2026, after which the occupations will be incorporated into the National Classification of Occupations (国家职业分类大典). This marks the 8th batch of new occupations since 2019, bringing the total number of newly added occupations to over 120.

According to the MOHRSS notice, “after public comment, revision, and improvement, the new occupations will ultimately be incorporated into the National Classification of Occupations, and relevant practitioners will be able to enjoy relevant national policy benefits according to regulations.” The ministry also stated it will “develop corresponding national occupational standards to provide guidance for enterprises and training institutions in conducting vocational education training and talent evaluation.”

The 12 New Occupations

The proposed occupations reveal several key trends in China’s labor market:

Digital Economy and AI

Multiple roles carry the “S” (digital occupation) designation, including Digital Twin Engineering Technician, Embodied Intelligent Robot Application Technician, Industrial Product Digital Modeler, and Sports Data Analyst. These roles reflect China’s strategic push toward digitalization and embodied AI, a field where Chinese companies are increasingly competitive.

Green Energy Transition

Three occupations carry the “L” (green occupation) designation: Microgrid Administrator (also marked as digital), Hydrogen Fuel Cell Manufacturing Worker, and Electrolytic Hydrogen Production Worker. These roles align directly with China’s carbon neutrality goals and the accelerating green energy transition.

Specialized Services

Other notable additions include Ship Shore-based Management Engineering Technician, reflecting China’s expanding maritime sector; Animal Experiment Engineering Technician, indicating growth in biomedical research; and Enterprise Sustainable Development Planner, highlighting the growing corporate focus on ESG compliance.

Traditional Crafts

In a notable departure from technology-focused roles, the list includes Fragrance Artisan (制香香艺师), representing official recognition of traditional Chinese cultural crafts within the modern occupational framework.

New Job Types

In addition to the 12 occupations, MOHRSS also announced several new job types (工种), including Low-altitude Logistics Operator, Intelligent Agent Developer, New Energy Vehicle Inspector, and Aging-friendly Renovation Designer. The inclusion of the aging-friendly designer role underscores China’s response to its rapidly aging population and the growing need for accessible infrastructure.

Significance of Official Recognition

Official recognition as a state-classified occupation carries substantial benefits. Practitioners gain access to relevant national policies and support, while MOHRSS develops national occupational standards that guide training and certification programs. This creates clearer career development pathways for workers in emerging fields and enables universities and vocational schools to develop targeted training programs.

Historical Context

Since 2019, MOHRSS has published seven batches covering 110 new occupations. The 2022 revision of the National Classification of Occupations added 158 net new occupations compared to the 2015 edition, bringing the total to 1,639 occupations. Previous batches have included roles in AI, big data, blockchain, smart manufacturing, healthcare, and new energy.

Analysis and Implications

The 12th batch of new occupations sends a clear signal to workers, educators, and employers about where the Chinese government sees future employment growth. The heavy emphasis on digital and green occupations reflects Beijing’s strategic priorities: digital transformation of the economy and the transition to carbon neutrality by 2060.

The inclusion of embodied intelligent robot application technician as a formal occupation is particularly significant, highlighting China’s strategic focus on embodied AI and robotics. Chinese companies have been making substantial advances in this field, and formal occupational recognition will likely accelerate talent development.

What’s Next

Following the close of the public comment period on July 17, 2026, MOHRSS will revise the proposed occupations based on feedback before final incorporation into the National Classification of Occupations. The ministry will then develop corresponding national occupational standards, which will shape vocational training curricula and certification requirements across the country.

As China’s economy continues its structural transformation, these new occupational categories provide a roadmap for the workforce of the future — one increasingly defined by the intersection of digital innovation, environmental sustainability, and specialized expertise.