As the job market is making a fast recovery, numerous employment avenues have opened up for job-seekers. In this article, we will take a look at some of the most sought-after jobs in 2012.
Every year numerous surveys are carried out to gauge the trends in the economy, which also include assaying the jobs that are in high-demand. There are a number of factors that come into play while deciding the most favored jobs in the market. Some elements which are taken into consideration while assessing the most sought-after jobs in the market are:
- Pay
- Employment outlook
- Work environment
- Stress
- Physical demands
Jobs in which individuals derive a high level of satisfaction are usually the most desired ones in the market, however, one cannot rule out the high compensation packages that some other ‘high-pressure’ jobs have to offer. So, without further ado, let us take a look at some of the most-sought-after jobs in the market right now.
1. Software Engineer.
Blame it on our unsated desire for cell phone “apps” and “cloud computing”, software engineering is a career option that ranks highest in the list of most desirable jobs in America. The industry has had to face certain challenges in the past few years, but the demand for software developers is so robust that employers are willing to invest in people with required skills. The job outlook for software engineers is positive and is expected to increase by 38% till 2016. The average salary is in the range of $75,000 to $100,000, with New York, San Francisco and Chicago offering the best opportunities to work.
2. Mathematician
Mathematicians are second on the list of most desirable jobs, with the career option scoring highly on low physical demands and impressive job outlook. Mathematicians study mathematical theories, algorithms and use them to solve complex scientific and engineering problems. The employment outlook is great, although cut-throat competition is expected. The average salary is in the range of $65,000 to $90,000, with New York, Baltimore and Seattle being the best cities to work.
3. Actuary
Actuaries are individuals who are responsible for calculation of financial risks. They analyze statistical data and monitor the risks associated with investments, thus determining to a great extent which projects would be invested in. As per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 6 out of 10 actuaries work with insurance companies, with others gaining employment with private or government agencies as financial advisers. The salary is in the range of $55,000 to $110,000 with New York, Chicago and Hartford being the best cities to work.
4. Statistician
Statisticians analyze data collated for over a period of time to prepare reports which are crucial for planning the future course of action in organizations. Statisticians are employed by both government and private organizations. The average salary is in the range of $60,000 to $95,000, with Washington, San Francisco and Chicago being the best places to work.
5. Computer System Analyst
Computer system analysts are responsible for analyzing the business requirements of an organization and developing the necessary hardware and software systems. They check the feasibility of developing a new system by holding consultations with the management and end-users. They are also responsible for monitoring the development, implementation, testing and maintenance process of a new computer system and they also look for ways in which the existing systems can be used to meet business requirements. The average salary of a computer system analyst is in the range of $42,000 to $65,000.
6. Physical Therapist
Well, we know that physical therapy has been a great boon to us, and people who are employed in this field take great satisfaction in employing their skills to help people in recovering from various ailments. Physical therapists find employment in hospitals, but they can also work in private clinics, provided they have the necessary license to work in that particular state. A bachelor’s degree is a must, but a Master’s degree can really help in getting a better remuneration, apart from offering career advancement opportunities. The average salary is around $70,000.
7. Legal Expert
Individuals look forward to a career in law as it has the potential for career advancement, and also the average salary is very competitive. Paralegals are in demand due to the surge in the legal matters. One can either earn a certificate in paralegal studies or enroll in a school that offers a degree course in law. The median income of legal experts is around $50,000.
8. Dietitian
Many would consider the job of a dietitian to be a mundane affair, but given the rise in the national consciousness as far as healthy lifestyle is concerned, dietitians get to work with people from different sections, and it is their responsibility to help people in maintaining good health. Dietitians work with athletes and sportsperson, chalking out diet-plans, supervising the preparation of food, and helping institutions in promoting sound eating habits. The average salary of dietitians is in the range of $56,000.
9. Technical Writer
Technical writers have the responsibility of disseminating information to the public in simple words. For example, the leaflet that explains how to operate the vacuum that you just bought, is a work of a technical writer. They either have a bachelor’s degree in writing or a certificate in technical writing. They usually work from the confines of their cubicles, or some may work freelance as well. The average salary of technical writers is around $60,000.
10. Teacher
Last, but not the least, teaching as a career has commanded respect in our society for a long time, and even today, many aspiring young people want to pursue a career in teaching. The satisfaction of nurturing the future of the country is immense and the salary is also very competitive. On an average, teachers earn around $45,000 per annum.
Besides the jobs mentioned above, some other careers that are popular today are:
- Meteorologist
- Biologist
- Historian
- Audiologist
- Dental Hygienist
- Sociologist
- Accountant
- Physicist
- Financial Planner
- Philosopher
- Parole Officer
- Aerospace Engineer
- Economist
- Speech Pathologist
- Astronomer
- Loan Officer
- Petroleum Engineer
- Optometrist
- Computer Programmer
- Librarian
- Medical Technologist
- Stenographer
- Chiropractor
- Civil Engineer
- Medical Secretary
- Medical Laboratory Technician
These were some of the most sought-after jobs in America today. As you would have noticed, not all of these jobs offer the best of salaries, but the reason they are in demand is because they have a favorable employment outlook, good working environment, low stress levels and above all, a sense of satisfaction. So, whether you are starting out on your career path or thinking about a change, do take these most sought-after jobs in 2012 into consideration.