A cog in the machine/wheel

Pro Tip 1/3

Feeling Unimportant

Emphasizes feeling undervalued and replaceable within a big system.

With all the automated processes, I'm just a cog in the machine at the factory.

Pro Tip 2/3

Lack of Influence

Highlights lack of power to effect change or make significant decisions.

You're a cog in the wheel there; you won't be able to change their policy.

Pro Tip 3/3

Organizational Humility

Can express awareness of one's modest role or position in a complex structure.

As interns, we're just cogs in the wheel, but we're learning a lot.