At high school and college graduation ceremonies, it’s common to hear speakers encourage young people to follow their passions. The idea is that if you land a job you love, you’ll put in more effort, and success and financial stability will naturally follow.
But in reality, things don’t always play out that way. If the job you’re passionate about is in a shrinking field—journalism, for example—you might spend years struggling just to find and hold onto a position. And even if you do, if it doesn’t pay a living wage, covering daily expenses will remain a challenge.
These days, career experts are increasingly suggesting a different approach: instead of chasing a passion, work on building a passion for a job you can excel at. If possible, pick one that offers a good salary and is in a growing industry. That way, instead of scrambling for job opportunities, you’ll have employers competing to hire you.
How to Identify High-Paying Fields
The Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH) from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is a valuable tool for pinpointing promising career fields. It provides detailed insights into hundreds of occupations, describing the nature of the work and typical work settings.
What’s more, the OOH has a versatile search function. You can sort jobs by growth rate, salary, and the education or training required. This tool can show you the highest-paying, fastest-growing careers you’re qualified for now with your current education—and it can also help you decide if pursuing a college degree or other credentials is likely to be worthwhile.
Job Growth
The top jobs of the past aren’t necessarily good bets for the future. For instance, 50 to 75 years ago, U.S. manufacturing was booming; well-paid factory jobs offered workers with limited education a path to the middle class. But today, outside a few high-tech sectors, those jobs are mostly gone.
In the 2020s, more career opportunities lie in fields like healthcare, personal care, food service, and technology. The OOH predicts that most of these fields will grow by over 10% between 2023 and 2033, while the overall economy is projected to grow by 7%.
Earning Potential
A good job should let you live comfortably. Even at the start of your career, you should be able to pay all bills, afford small luxuries, and still save for emergencies. As you advance, your income should grow to help you meet long-term goals: buying a home, funding your kids’ education, or saving for retirement.
So what income level is needed to hit these goals? The U.S. Census Bureau reports that the median household income in the U.S. is $70,784. But this isn’t enough to support a family in every state. A Zippia analysis shows that a middle-class family needs about $41,000 annually to get by in Arkansas, but over $122,000 in Hawaii.
Still, in 45 out of 50 states, an income of $75,000 puts you in the middle class—making this a solid benchmark for a middle-class salary.
Educational Requirements
Many high-growth, high-paying jobs require a college degree; some even need advanced education, like medical school. This leaves many young people in a tough spot: they need a degree to get these desirable jobs, but earning one takes years and costs tens of thousands of dollars. It’s not always clear if a higher-paying job will make up for starting adult life with heavy student loan debt.
However, some high-paying jobs don’t require a college degree. Some can be obtained with a two-year associate’s degree, and others require non-academic training. Better yet, many of these jobs are in fast-growing fields—meaning your chances of getting hired after training might be better than those of some college graduates.
Top Career Fields for the Next Decade
By combining these factors, we can identify careers that look promising over the next 10 years. All jobs on this list meet these criteria:
- Fast growth: In fields the OOH predicts will grow faster than average—at least 13% between 2021 and 2031.
- Plenty of new jobs: Expected to add at least 14,000 new positions between 2021 and 2031 (even fast-growing small fields may not offer many openings).
- A livable wage: With a median annual pay of at least $75,000 (the median means half earn more, half earn less).
Most of these careers fall into three broad categories: healthcare, finance, and technology—all fast-growing sectors with high earning potential. Within these, there’s a wide range of roles: from patient care to people management to computer work. Whatever your skills, there’s likely a fit.
1. Software Developer
Software developers design and code software for devices like computers and smartphones. Some create apps for specific tasks; others work on operating systems for devices and networks. They figure out user needs, design and test software to meet those needs, update older programs, and document software to ensure long-term functionality.
- Work Environment: They typically work for software publishers or tech companies, mostly at computers. Most are based in corporate offices, though some work remotely. They usually work full-time and in teams.
- Educational Requirements: Most have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field; some employers prefer a master’s. Strong programming skills and experience are key—many gain experience through internships. They must stay updated on new programming languages and tools.
- Earnings: The OOH reports a median annual wage of $109,020 (2021).
- Job Growth: There were 1.62 million software developers in 2021. The OOH predicts 25% growth by 2031, adding 411,400 new jobs.
2. Medical and Health Services Manager
Healthcare is a large, complex industry. Beyond patient care, there’s scheduling, billing, record-keeping, and coordinating with other providers. Medical and health services managers oversee these tasks, freeing up healthcare providers to focus on patients.
- Work Environment: They work in settings with many patients and providers, such as medical practices, hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes.
- Educational Requirements: Typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in healthcare or a related field, plus healthcare experience. Many have master’s degrees (taking 2–3 years, including a supervised work year).
- Earnings: Median income of $101,340 (2021, OOH).
- Job Growth: 480,700 jobs in 2021; projected 28% growth by 2031, adding 136,200 positions.
3. Management Analyst
Management analysts (or management consultants) help businesses operate more efficiently. They observe company procedures, interview staff, analyze financial data, and advise managers on cutting costs (e.g., streamlining staff) or boosting revenue (e.g., increasing daily output).
- Work Environment: They often work with multiple clients, splitting time between their office and clients’ worksites. The job may involve travel and long hours to meet tight deadlines.
- Educational Requirements: At least a bachelor’s degree (common majors: business, social science, engineering). Many employers prefer an MBA. Relevant work experience is valued (e.g., accountants for tax firms).
- Earnings: OOH reports a median salary of $93,000 (2021); Payscale estimates it at ~$70,000.
- Job Growth: 950,600 jobs in 2021; 11% growth by 2031, adding 108,400 positions.
4. Nurse Practitioner (NP)
NPs are advanced nurses with more training and authority than registered nurses (RNs). Instead of just assisting doctors, they can perform many doctor-like tasks: diagnosing illnesses, prescribing medication, and managing patient care (per the American Association of Nurse Practitioners).
- Work Environment: They work in clinics, hospitals, urgent care centers, nursing homes, private practices, schools, or public health departments.
- Educational Requirements: Must first be a licensed RN (with a bachelor’s or associate’s in nursing), then complete a graduate program and earn national certification.
- Earnings: Median income of $123,780 (2021, OOH); hospital-based NPs earn the most, school-based the least.
- Job Growth: 300,000 NPs in 2021 (BLS); OOH predicts 40% growth for NPs and other advanced practice nurses by 2031, adding 118,600 jobs.
5. Financial Manager
Every organization—from small grocery stores to Fortune 500 companies—needs to manage money. Larger businesses often hire financial managers to handle this. They track income and spending, find ways to boost profits and cut costs, create financial reports, manage investments, and guide long-term financial goals.
- Work Environment: They work for businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies—common employers include banks, insurance firms, and investment companies. They’re high-level staff who collaborate with executives and data teams, often working full-time (sometimes over 40 hours/week).
- Educational Requirements: Typically a bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, or business administration; some employers prefer a master’s. Several years of financial experience (e.g., banking, accounting) are required.
- Earnings: Median income of $131,710 (2021, OOH).
- Job Growth: 730,800 jobs in 2021; 17% growth by 2031, adding 123,100 positions.
6. Logistician
Supply chains are networks that get supplies to manufacturers and products to buyers—often large and complex, with multiple links (e.g., for a table: woodcutters, mills, assemblers, stores, and transporters). A single link failure can disrupt the whole chain (e.g., 2020 car shortages due to computer chip shortages). Logisticians organize and maintain supply chains, managing a product’s life cycle from production to delivery.
- Work Environment: They work across industries—either in-house at a company or for logistics-specialized firms (e.g., freight companies). Most work full-time during regular hours; the job is fast-paced and can be stressful.
- Educational Requirements: Most have a bachelor’s degree, but some companies hire those with a two-year degree (useful majors: business, logistics). Relevant experience (e.g., clerk, dispatcher, military service) may substitute for a degree.
- Earnings: Median pay of $77,030 (2021, OOH).
- Job Growth: 195,000 jobs in 2021; 28% growth by 2031, adding 54,100 positions.
7. Physical Therapist
Physical therapists help people with injuries or illnesses that cause pain or limit movement. They use techniques like stretches, exercises, and body manipulation to improve mobility and reduce pain.
- Work Environment: They work in hospitals, private offices, clinics, nursing homes, or patients’ homes.
- Educational Requirements: Must earn a doctor of physical therapy (DPT) degree from an accredited program (3 years post-college).
- Earnings: Median income of $95,620 (2021, OOH).
- Job Growth: 238,800 jobs in 2021; 17% growth by 2031, adding 40,400 positions.
8. Information Security Analyst
Businesses hire these analysts to protect their computer networks and systems from cybercrime. They install antivirus software and safeguards, monitor for breaches, investigate incidents, test networks for vulnerabilities, and create recovery plans (e.g., removing malware, restoring data from backups).
- Work Environment: They work across industries—computing, finance, insurance, consulting—and typically work full-time (sometimes over 40 hours/week).
- Educational Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field; some employers prefer an MBA in information systems. Relevant experience is valued (e.g., database administrators for database security roles).
- Earnings: Median salary of $102,600 (2021, OOH).
- Job Growth: 163,000 jobs in 2021; 35% growth by 2031, adding 56,500 positions.
9. Speech-Language Pathologist
Also called speech therapists, they work with patients who have speech or swallowing difficulties. They assess issues, diagnose causes, and develop treatment plans.
- Work Environment: Nearly 40% work in schools; others in healthcare settings (doctor’s offices, hospitals, nursing homes). Some are self-employed.
- Educational Requirements: Most have a master’s degree in speech-language pathology. No specific undergraduate major is required, but prerequisite courses may be needed.
- Earnings: Median pay of $79,060 (2021, OOH).
- Job Growth: 159,800 jobs in 2021; 21% growth by 2031, adding 34,000 positions.
10. Physician Assistant (PA)
PAs work under doctors’ supervision to provide patient care, similar to NPs. They can examine patients, order/interpret tests, diagnose illnesses, prescribe medication, and deliver treatments (e.g., immunizations, setting broken bones). In rural areas, they may serve as primary providers.
- Work Environment: They work in doctor’s offices, hospitals, clinics, etc., mostly full-time.
- Educational Requirements: A master’s degree from an accredited program (at least 2 years post-college). Many have prior experience as RNs, paramedics, or EMTs.
- Earnings: Median salary of $121,530 (2021, OOH).
- Job Growth: 139,100 jobs in 2021; 28% growth by 2031, adding 38,400 positions.
11. Industrial Engineer
Engineers design, build, or maintain systems; industrial engineers focus on systems that industries use to produce goods and services—complex systems involving workers, machines, materials, energy, and information. Their job is to make these parts work together efficiently, applying skills to tasks from factory operations to payroll systems.
- Work Environment: They work across settings, often traveling to observe businesses (e.g., a day in a factory, then office work to improve efficiency).
- Educational Requirements: Most have a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering (or related fields like mechanical engineering). Research/teaching roles may require a master’s; some schools offer 5-year programs for bachelor’s + master’s.
- Earnings: Median income of $95,300 (2021, OOH).
- Job Growth: 301,000 jobs in 2021; 10% growth by 2031, adding 30,600 positions.
12. Producer or Director
These professionals collaborate to create stage and screen productions—movies, TV shows, plays, commercials. They select scripts, hire actors, make design decisions, and oversee production. Directors handle the creative side; producers manage the business side, though roles overlap.
- Work Environment: They work in theaters or on film sets. Theater directors may tour with productions; film/TV crews may travel for location shoots. Hours are long and irregular, with tight schedules.
- Educational Requirements: Most have a bachelor’s degree in film or a related field, plus experience in production (e.g., as actors, editors, or cinematographers).
- Earnings: Median salary of $79,000 (2021, OOH).
- Job Growth: 166,200 jobs in 2021; 8% growth by 2031, adding 12,800 positions.
13. Operations Research Analyst
These analysts help businesses solve complex problems cost-effectively. Using mathematical and analytical methods, they figure out how to allocate resources, manage supply chains, schedule production, and set prices (e.g., helping a supermarket arrange shelves or an automaker plan production).
- Work Environment: They mostly work in offices, sometimes traveling to meet clients or observe processes. Nearly all work full-time, often in teams.
- Educational Requirements: Most entry-level roles require a bachelor’s degree (majors: business, operations research, math, engineering, computer science). Some employers prefer a master’s.
- Earnings: Median income of $82,360 (2021, OOH).
- Job Growth: 104,200 jobs in 2021; 23% growth by 2031, adding 24,200 positions.
14. Web Developer
Web developers are responsible for a website’s appearance and functionality—determining load speed, traffic capacity, coding, adding elements (graphics, audio), testing, and monitoring traffic. There are subroles: front-end developers handle user interaction and design; back-end developers manage the site’s framework; webmasters maintain sites.
- Work Environment: Most work at computers but also attend team meetings to discuss client needs. About 18% are self-employed; others work in computer design, publishing, consulting, or advertising.
- Educational Requirements: Varies—some employers hire high school graduates, others require an associate’s or bachelor’s degree (e.g., computer science). Back-end roles often need a degree. All need HTML and publishing tool skills (e.g., Flash). Online bootcamps (e.g., Codecademy) are available.
- Earnings: Median salary of $78,300 (2021, OOH).
- Job Growth: 179,100 jobs in 2021; 23% growth by 2031, adding 45,400 positions.
15. Occupational Therapist
They assist patients with injuries, illnesses, or disabilities that hinder daily tasks. They help develop or improve necessary skills and find workarounds to simplify tasks.
- Work Environment: Over half work in hospitals or occupational therapy offices; others in nursing homes, schools, or patients’ homes. They spend much time on their feet assisting patients.
- Educational Requirements: Most have a master’s degree in occupational therapy (2–3 years post-college). Some schools offer 5-year programs for bachelor’s + master’s.
- Earnings: Median salary of $85,570 (2021, OOH).
- Job Growth: 133,900 jobs in 2021; 14% growth by 2031, adding 18,600 positions.
16. Medical Scientist
Medical scientists conduct basic research to prevent and treat diseases. They study disease causes via lab work and field studies, help develop/test drugs and medical devices, and design public health programs.
- Work Environment: They work in hospital research departments, universities, drug companies, or scientific organizations—either in offices or labs. Most work full-time.
- Educational Requirements: Not an entry-level role; most have a Ph.D. in biology or another life science, or an M.D.
- Earnings: Median income of $95,310 (2021, OOH).
- Job Growth: 119,200 jobs in 2021; 17% growth by 2031, adding 20,800 positions.
17. Data Scientist
Data science involves collecting raw data and turning it into usable information. Data scientists work with diverse data—sales figures, political polls, streaming habits—and use tools like mathematical models, algorithms, programming languages, and machine learning to process it.
- Work Environment: They work across industries (any large company needs data analysis). Most work at computers and need strong math and tech skills.
- Educational Requirements: Typically a bachelor’s degree (majors: math, statistics, computer science, engineering). Most have advanced degrees—88% have at least a master’s, 46% have doctorates (KDnuggets).
- Earnings: Median annual wage of $100,910 (2021, OOH).
- Job Growth: 113,300 jobs in 2021; 36% growth by 2031, adding 40,500 positions.
18. Statistician
Statistics is a math branch focused on analyzing numerical data—similar to data science but more math-focused, less tech-focused. Statisticians work in fields like economics, business, biology, and education (e.g., helping a company analyze sales data to identify customer trends).
- Work Environment: Many work for the government or private research firms, often in teams with scientists or engineers.
- Educational Requirements: Most roles require a master’s degree in math or statistics; some entry-level jobs accept a bachelor’s.
- Earnings: Median annual wage of $96,280 (2021, OOH).
- Job Growth: 36,100 jobs in 2021; 31% growth by 2031, adding 11,200 positions.
19. Airline Pilot
Airline pilots fly planes, helicopters, and commercial aircraft. Their job isn’t just in-flight: they pre-flight check fuel, safety, weight, and balance; monitor weather; prepare flight plans; and in the cockpit, track systems, communicate with air traffic control, and handle emergencies.
- Work Environment: Most work for commercial airlines; others in roles like helicopter ambulance services or crop dusting. Hours are irregular, often with layovers. Hazards include jet lag, noise, weather risks, and stress.
- Educational Requirements: Need flight training and a commercial pilot’s license from the FAA. Many airlines prefer a bachelor’s degree.
- Earnings: Median pay of $134,600 (2021, OOH).
- Job Growth: 135,300 jobs in 2021; 6% growth by 2031, adding 7,700 positions.
20. Veterinarian
Veterinarians provide medical care for animals—pets, livestock, zoo animals. Beyond treating individuals, they support public health by setting livestock living standards, preventing disease outbreaks, and ensuring food safety.
- Work Environment: Most work in private clinics or animal hospitals; some travel to farms. Others work in zoos, classrooms, or labs.
- Educational Requirements: Must earn a doctor of veterinary medicine (DVM/VMD) degree (4-year programs: 3 years of classroom/lab work, 1 year of clinical training).
- Earnings: Median pay of $100,370 (2021, OOH).
- Job Growth: 86,300 jobs in 2021; 19% growth by 2031, adding 16,800 positions.
Final Suggestion
All these careers offer good pay and growth prospects, but they’re not the only worthwhile options. The right job should do more than pay bills—it should also feel satisfying.
If none of these appeal to you, keep exploring. While chasing passion alone may not be smart, training for a job that will bore you for 40 years makes even less sense.
To find your ideal career: start with your interests and skills, identify fields that align with them, then use tools like the OOH to learn which roles in those fields offer the best opportunities and pay. This way, you can find a career you love that also covers your needs—the best of both worlds.
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20 Promising Career Paths for the Coming Decade
2025-08-28T15:36:55
At high school and college graduation ceremonies, it’s common to hear speakers encourage young people to follow their passions. The idea is that if you land a job you love, you’ll put in more effort, and success and financial stability will naturally follow.
But in reality, things don’t always play out that way. If the job you’re passionate about is in a shrinking field—journalism, for example—you might spend years struggling just to find and hold onto a position. And even if you do, if it doesn’t pay a living wage, covering daily expenses will remain a challenge.
These days, career experts are increasingly suggesting a different approach: instead of chasing a passion, work on building a passion for a job you can excel at. If possible, pick one that offers a good salary and is in a growing industry. That way, instead of scrambling for job opportunities, you’ll have employers competing to hire you.
How to Identify High-Paying Fields
The Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH) from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is a valuable tool for pinpointing promising career fields. It provides detailed insights into hundreds of occupations, describing the nature of the work and typical work settings.
What’s more, the OOH has a versatile search function. You can sort jobs by growth rate, salary, and the education or training required. This tool can show you the highest-paying, fastest-growing careers you’re qualified for now with your current education—and it can also help you decide if pursuing a college degree or other credentials is likely to be worthwhile.
Job Growth
The top jobs of the past aren’t necessarily good bets for the future. For instance, 50 to 75 years ago, U.S. manufacturing was booming; well-paid factory jobs offered workers with limited education a path to the middle class. But today, outside a few high-tech sectors, those jobs are mostly gone.
In the 2020s, more career opportunities lie in fields like healthcare, personal care, food service, and technology. The OOH predicts that most of these fields will grow by over 10% between 2023 and 2033, while the overall economy is projected to grow by 7%.
Earning Potential
A good job should let you live comfortably. Even at the start of your career, you should be able to pay all bills, afford small luxuries, and still save for emergencies. As you advance, your income should grow to help you meet long-term goals: buying a home, funding your kids’ education, or saving for retirement.
So what income level is needed to hit these goals? The U.S. Census Bureau reports that the median household income in the U.S. is $70,784. But this isn’t enough to support a family in every state. A Zippia analysis shows that a middle-class family needs about $41,000 annually to get by in Arkansas, but over $122,000 in Hawaii.
Still, in 45 out of 50 states, an income of $75,000 puts you in the middle class—making this a solid benchmark for a middle-class salary.
Educational Requirements
Many high-growth, high-paying jobs require a college degree; some even need advanced education, like medical school. This leaves many young people in a tough spot: they need a degree to get these desirable jobs, but earning one takes years and costs tens of thousands of dollars. It’s not always clear if a higher-paying job will make up for starting adult life with heavy student loan debt.
However, some high-paying jobs don’t require a college degree. Some can be obtained with a two-year associate’s degree, and others require non-academic training. Better yet, many of these jobs are in fast-growing fields—meaning your chances of getting hired after training might be better than those of some college graduates.
Top Career Fields for the Next Decade
By combining these factors, we can identify careers that look promising over the next 10 years. All jobs on this list meet these criteria:
- Fast growth: In fields the OOH predicts will grow faster than average—at least 13% between 2021 and 2031.
- Plenty of new jobs: Expected to add at least 14,000 new positions between 2021 and 2031 (even fast-growing small fields may not offer many openings).
- A livable wage: With a median annual pay of at least $75,000 (the median means half earn more, half earn less).
Most of these careers fall into three broad categories: healthcare, finance, and technology—all fast-growing sectors with high earning potential. Within these, there’s a wide range of roles: from patient care to people management to computer work. Whatever your skills, there’s likely a fit.
1. Software Developer
Software developers design and code software for devices like computers and smartphones. Some create apps for specific tasks; others work on operating systems for devices and networks. They figure out user needs, design and test software to meet those needs, update older programs, and document software to ensure long-term functionality.
- Work Environment: They typically work for software publishers or tech companies, mostly at computers. Most are based in corporate offices, though some work remotely. They usually work full-time and in teams.
- Educational Requirements: Most have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field; some employers prefer a master’s. Strong programming skills and experience are key—many gain experience through internships. They must stay updated on new programming languages and tools.
- Earnings: The OOH reports a median annual wage of $109,020 (2021).
- Job Growth: There were 1.62 million software developers in 2021. The OOH predicts 25% growth by 2031, adding 411,400 new jobs.
2. Medical and Health Services Manager
Healthcare is a large, complex industry. Beyond patient care, there’s scheduling, billing, record-keeping, and coordinating with other providers. Medical and health services managers oversee these tasks, freeing up healthcare providers to focus on patients.
- Work Environment: They work in settings with many patients and providers, such as medical practices, hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes.
- Educational Requirements: Typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in healthcare or a related field, plus healthcare experience. Many have master’s degrees (taking 2–3 years, including a supervised work year).
- Earnings: Median income of $101,340 (2021, OOH).
- Job Growth: 480,700 jobs in 2021; projected 28% growth by 2031, adding 136,200 positions.
3. Management Analyst
Management analysts (or management consultants) help businesses operate more efficiently. They observe company procedures, interview staff, analyze financial data, and advise managers on cutting costs (e.g., streamlining staff) or boosting revenue (e.g., increasing daily output).
- Work Environment: They often work with multiple clients, splitting time between their office and clients’ worksites. The job may involve travel and long hours to meet tight deadlines.
- Educational Requirements: At least a bachelor’s degree (common majors: business, social science, engineering). Many employers prefer an MBA. Relevant work experience is valued (e.g., accountants for tax firms).
- Earnings: OOH reports a median salary of $93,000 (2021); Payscale estimates it at ~$70,000.
- Job Growth: 950,600 jobs in 2021; 11% growth by 2031, adding 108,400 positions.
4. Nurse Practitioner (NP)
NPs are advanced nurses with more training and authority than registered nurses (RNs). Instead of just assisting doctors, they can perform many doctor-like tasks: diagnosing illnesses, prescribing medication, and managing patient care (per the American Association of Nurse Practitioners).
- Work Environment: They work in clinics, hospitals, urgent care centers, nursing homes, private practices, schools, or public health departments.
- Educational Requirements: Must first be a licensed RN (with a bachelor’s or associate’s in nursing), then complete a graduate program and earn national certification.
- Earnings: Median income of $123,780 (2021, OOH); hospital-based NPs earn the most, school-based the least.
- Job Growth: 300,000 NPs in 2021 (BLS); OOH predicts 40% growth for NPs and other advanced practice nurses by 2031, adding 118,600 jobs.
5. Financial Manager
Every organization—from small grocery stores to Fortune 500 companies—needs to manage money. Larger businesses often hire financial managers to handle this. They track income and spending, find ways to boost profits and cut costs, create financial reports, manage investments, and guide long-term financial goals.
- Work Environment: They work for businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies—common employers include banks, insurance firms, and investment companies. They’re high-level staff who collaborate with executives and data teams, often working full-time (sometimes over 40 hours/week).
- Educational Requirements: Typically a bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, or business administration; some employers prefer a master’s. Several years of financial experience (e.g., banking, accounting) are required.
- Earnings: Median income of $131,710 (2021, OOH).
- Job Growth: 730,800 jobs in 2021; 17% growth by 2031, adding 123,100 positions.
6. Logistician
Supply chains are networks that get supplies to manufacturers and products to buyers—often large and complex, with multiple links (e.g., for a table: woodcutters, mills, assemblers, stores, and transporters). A single link failure can disrupt the whole chain (e.g., 2020 car shortages due to computer chip shortages). Logisticians organize and maintain supply chains, managing a product’s life cycle from production to delivery.
- Work Environment: They work across industries—either in-house at a company or for logistics-specialized firms (e.g., freight companies). Most work full-time during regular hours; the job is fast-paced and can be stressful.
- Educational Requirements: Most have a bachelor’s degree, but some companies hire those with a two-year degree (useful majors: business, logistics). Relevant experience (e.g., clerk, dispatcher, military service) may substitute for a degree.
- Earnings: Median pay of $77,030 (2021, OOH).
- Job Growth: 195,000 jobs in 2021; 28% growth by 2031, adding 54,100 positions.
7. Physical Therapist
Physical therapists help people with injuries or illnesses that cause pain or limit movement. They use techniques like stretches, exercises, and body manipulation to improve mobility and reduce pain.
- Work Environment: They work in hospitals, private offices, clinics, nursing homes, or patients’ homes.
- Educational Requirements: Must earn a doctor of physical therapy (DPT) degree from an accredited program (3 years post-college).
- Earnings: Median income of $95,620 (2021, OOH).
- Job Growth: 238,800 jobs in 2021; 17% growth by 2031, adding 40,400 positions.
8. Information Security Analyst
Businesses hire these analysts to protect their computer networks and systems from cybercrime. They install antivirus software and safeguards, monitor for breaches, investigate incidents, test networks for vulnerabilities, and create recovery plans (e.g., removing malware, restoring data from backups).
- Work Environment: They work across industries—computing, finance, insurance, consulting—and typically work full-time (sometimes over 40 hours/week).
- Educational Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field; some employers prefer an MBA in information systems. Relevant experience is valued (e.g., database administrators for database security roles).
- Earnings: Median salary of $102,600 (2021, OOH).
- Job Growth: 163,000 jobs in 2021; 35% growth by 2031, adding 56,500 positions.
9. Speech-Language Pathologist
Also called speech therapists, they work with patients who have speech or swallowing difficulties. They assess issues, diagnose causes, and develop treatment plans.
- Work Environment: Nearly 40% work in schools; others in healthcare settings (doctor’s offices, hospitals, nursing homes). Some are self-employed.
- Educational Requirements: Most have a master’s degree in speech-language pathology. No specific undergraduate major is required, but prerequisite courses may be needed.
- Earnings: Median pay of $79,060 (2021, OOH).
- Job Growth: 159,800 jobs in 2021; 21% growth by 2031, adding 34,000 positions.
10. Physician Assistant (PA)
PAs work under doctors’ supervision to provide patient care, similar to NPs. They can examine patients, order/interpret tests, diagnose illnesses, prescribe medication, and deliver treatments (e.g., immunizations, setting broken bones). In rural areas, they may serve as primary providers.
- Work Environment: They work in doctor’s offices, hospitals, clinics, etc., mostly full-time.
- Educational Requirements: A master’s degree from an accredited program (at least 2 years post-college). Many have prior experience as RNs, paramedics, or EMTs.
- Earnings: Median salary of $121,530 (2021, OOH).
- Job Growth: 139,100 jobs in 2021; 28% growth by 2031, adding 38,400 positions.
11. Industrial Engineer
Engineers design, build, or maintain systems; industrial engineers focus on systems that industries use to produce goods and services—complex systems involving workers, machines, materials, energy, and information. Their job is to make these parts work together efficiently, applying skills to tasks from factory operations to payroll systems.
- Work Environment: They work across settings, often traveling to observe businesses (e.g., a day in a factory, then office work to improve efficiency).
- Educational Requirements: Most have a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering (or related fields like mechanical engineering). Research/teaching roles may require a master’s; some schools offer 5-year programs for bachelor’s + master’s.
- Earnings: Median income of $95,300 (2021, OOH).
- Job Growth: 301,000 jobs in 2021; 10% growth by 2031, adding 30,600 positions.
12. Producer or Director
These professionals collaborate to create stage and screen productions—movies, TV shows, plays, commercials. They select scripts, hire actors, make design decisions, and oversee production. Directors handle the creative side; producers manage the business side, though roles overlap.
- Work Environment: They work in theaters or on film sets. Theater directors may tour with productions; film/TV crews may travel for location shoots. Hours are long and irregular, with tight schedules.
- Educational Requirements: Most have a bachelor’s degree in film or a related field, plus experience in production (e.g., as actors, editors, or cinematographers).
- Earnings: Median salary of $79,000 (2021, OOH).
- Job Growth: 166,200 jobs in 2021; 8% growth by 2031, adding 12,800 positions.
13. Operations Research Analyst
These analysts help businesses solve complex problems cost-effectively. Using mathematical and analytical methods, they figure out how to allocate resources, manage supply chains, schedule production, and set prices (e.g., helping a supermarket arrange shelves or an automaker plan production).
- Work Environment: They mostly work in offices, sometimes traveling to meet clients or observe processes. Nearly all work full-time, often in teams.
- Educational Requirements: Most entry-level roles require a bachelor’s degree (majors: business, operations research, math, engineering, computer science). Some employers prefer a master’s.
- Earnings: Median income of $82,360 (2021, OOH).
- Job Growth: 104,200 jobs in 2021; 23% growth by 2031, adding 24,200 positions.
14. Web Developer
Web developers are responsible for a website’s appearance and functionality—determining load speed, traffic capacity, coding, adding elements (graphics, audio), testing, and monitoring traffic. There are subroles: front-end developers handle user interaction and design; back-end developers manage the site’s framework; webmasters maintain sites.
- Work Environment: Most work at computers but also attend team meetings to discuss client needs. About 18% are self-employed; others work in computer design, publishing, consulting, or advertising.
- Educational Requirements: Varies—some employers hire high school graduates, others require an associate’s or bachelor’s degree (e.g., computer science). Back-end roles often need a degree. All need HTML and publishing tool skills (e.g., Flash). Online bootcamps (e.g., Codecademy) are available.
- Earnings: Median salary of $78,300 (2021, OOH).
- Job Growth: 179,100 jobs in 2021; 23% growth by 2031, adding 45,400 positions.
15. Occupational Therapist
They assist patients with injuries, illnesses, or disabilities that hinder daily tasks. They help develop or improve necessary skills and find workarounds to simplify tasks.
- Work Environment: Over half work in hospitals or occupational therapy offices; others in nursing homes, schools, or patients’ homes. They spend much time on their feet assisting patients.
- Educational Requirements: Most have a master’s degree in occupational therapy (2–3 years post-college). Some schools offer 5-year programs for bachelor’s + master’s.
- Earnings: Median salary of $85,570 (2021, OOH).
- Job Growth: 133,900 jobs in 2021; 14% growth by 2031, adding 18,600 positions.
16. Medical Scientist
Medical scientists conduct basic research to prevent and treat diseases. They study disease causes via lab work and field studies, help develop/test drugs and medical devices, and design public health programs.
- Work Environment: They work in hospital research departments, universities, drug companies, or scientific organizations—either in offices or labs. Most work full-time.
- Educational Requirements: Not an entry-level role; most have a Ph.D. in biology or another life science, or an M.D.
- Earnings: Median income of $95,310 (2021, OOH).
- Job Growth: 119,200 jobs in 2021; 17% growth by 2031, adding 20,800 positions.
17. Data Scientist
Data science involves collecting raw data and turning it into usable information. Data scientists work with diverse data—sales figures, political polls, streaming habits—and use tools like mathematical models, algorithms, programming languages, and machine learning to process it.
- Work Environment: They work across industries (any large company needs data analysis). Most work at computers and need strong math and tech skills.
- Educational Requirements: Typically a bachelor’s degree (majors: math, statistics, computer science, engineering). Most have advanced degrees—88% have at least a master’s, 46% have doctorates (KDnuggets).
- Earnings: Median annual wage of $100,910 (2021, OOH).
- Job Growth: 113,300 jobs in 2021; 36% growth by 2031, adding 40,500 positions.
18. Statistician
Statistics is a math branch focused on analyzing numerical data—similar to data science but more math-focused, less tech-focused. Statisticians work in fields like economics, business, biology, and education (e.g., helping a company analyze sales data to identify customer trends).
- Work Environment: Many work for the government or private research firms, often in teams with scientists or engineers.
- Educational Requirements: Most roles require a master’s degree in math or statistics; some entry-level jobs accept a bachelor’s.
- Earnings: Median annual wage of $96,280 (2021, OOH).
- Job Growth: 36,100 jobs in 2021; 31% growth by 2031, adding 11,200 positions.
19. Airline Pilot
Airline pilots fly planes, helicopters, and commercial aircraft. Their job isn’t just in-flight: they pre-flight check fuel, safety, weight, and balance; monitor weather; prepare flight plans; and in the cockpit, track systems, communicate with air traffic control, and handle emergencies.
- Work Environment: Most work for commercial airlines; others in roles like helicopter ambulance services or crop dusting. Hours are irregular, often with layovers. Hazards include jet lag, noise, weather risks, and stress.
- Educational Requirements: Need flight training and a commercial pilot’s license from the FAA. Many airlines prefer a bachelor’s degree.
- Earnings: Median pay of $134,600 (2021, OOH).
- Job Growth: 135,300 jobs in 2021; 6% growth by 2031, adding 7,700 positions.
20. Veterinarian
Veterinarians provide medical care for animals—pets, livestock, zoo animals. Beyond treating individuals, they support public health by setting livestock living standards, preventing disease outbreaks, and ensuring food safety.
- Work Environment: Most work in private clinics or animal hospitals; some travel to farms. Others work in zoos, classrooms, or labs.
- Educational Requirements: Must earn a doctor of veterinary medicine (DVM/VMD) degree (4-year programs: 3 years of classroom/lab work, 1 year of clinical training).
- Earnings: Median pay of $100,370 (2021, OOH).
- Job Growth: 86,300 jobs in 2021; 19% growth by 2031, adding 16,800 positions.
Final Suggestion
All these careers offer good pay and growth prospects, but they’re not the only worthwhile options. The right job should do more than pay bills—it should also feel satisfying.
If none of these appeal to you, keep exploring. While chasing passion alone may not be smart, training for a job that will bore you for 40 years makes even less sense.
To find your ideal career: start with your interests and skills, identify fields that align with them, then use tools like the OOH to learn which roles in those fields offer the best opportunities and pay. This way, you can find a career you love that also covers your needs—the best of both worlds.