How to Decide If an In-Demand Job Is Right for You

Are you seeking to make a career change and wondering what God is calling you to do next? Are you between jobs and want to make wise career decisions? Or, are you a student planning your initial career path and wondering how you can best serve God with your gifts?

Whatever your situation, is it is important to know the future trends in the job market for jobs that are of interest to you. Job market trends give you a good sense of the needs in the world that jobs address. Resources like the ONET and the Occupational Outlook Handbook can be helpful to better understand the salary, training and job outlook for prospective jobs. However, making wise career decisions should include other information.

As career counselors we often find that clients who are in work that is a poor fit have made their decision by asking only two questions: "How much money does the career pay?" and "How good is the job market for this career?" While these are excellent questions to ask, when they are the only questions asked, individuals often end up in work that is not engaging, rewarding or meaningful.

This is what happens to many workers; statistics from Gallup found that 65% of people are in jobs in which they are not engaged and that they find dissatisfying. Don’t let the pursuit of money and security become "calling blockers" that hinder you from doing the things God created you to do on this earth.

Questions about salary and the job market are important questions, but they are secondary questions. The most important question when exploring job options is, "How well does this type of work fit my God-given design?" God has given you gifts to use in meeting needs in the world.God has given you enthusiasm for meeting particular needs in the world.

As you consider your gifts and the enthusiasm you have for meeting needs in the marketplace, you will find your calling for a job.

If you are unsure about the type of occupations that would best fit your skills and interests, you may want to consider career testing and counseling services that can help you to find career and financial success. Also, career assessments like the CareerFitTest.com can help you to identify your skills and interest to explore jobs that fit you, and to learn about salary and job outlook information.

Every year there are articles that describe the top jobs for the next five years. Typically, these articles based their data on findings from the US Department of Labor. This information can be helpful but keep in mind that if your goal is to find work that God is calling you to do, this is secondary information after you have taken the time to assess your skills, interests, values and needs in the world you are excited about helping to meet.

Only then will you be able to make better decisions as you read about the salary and job outlook of occupations you are considering.

With that in mind, below is a list of the 15 most in-demand careers as listed by Indeed.com. The list includes job duties, working environment, salary, and job outlook from the Occupational Outlook Handbook. By clicking on the job title, you can find current jobs on Indeed.com. Keep in mind that many other jobs are in-demand and you can explore them using tools like the ONET and OOH. Also, keep in mind that there will be jobs that are not showing much growth but have a lot of job openings.And there will be jobs that could fit you well that have fewer job openings and thus are more competitive. If God has called you into a career that has fewer job openings, His unlimited power will help you find work that uses the gifts He has given to you.

Most In-Demand Jobs:

1. Home Health Aide

Home health and personal care aides monitor the condition of people with disabilities or chronic illnesses and help them with daily living activities.

Work Environment

Home health and personal care aides work in a variety of settings, including clients’ homes, group homes, and day services programs. Most aides work full time, although part-time work is common. Work schedules may vary.

How to Become a Home Health or Personal Care Aide

Home health and personal care aides typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, but some positions do not require it. Those working in certified home health or hospice agencies may need to complete formal training or pass a standardized test.

Pay

The median annual wage for home health aides and personal care aides was $25,280 in May 2019.

Job Outlook

Overall employment of home health and personal care aides is projected to grow 34 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. As the baby-boom generation ages and the elderly population grows, the demand for the services of home health and personal care aides will continue to increase.

2. Nursing Assistant

What Nursing Assistants and Orderlies Do

Nursing assistants provide basic care and help patients with activities of daily living. Orderlies transport patients and clean treatment areas.

Work Environment

Most nursing assistants and orderlies work in nursing and residential care facilities and in hospitals. They are physically active and may need to help lift or move patients.

How to Become a Nursing Assistant or Orderly

Nursing assistants often need to complete a state-approved education program and pass their state’s competency exam to become licensed or certified. Orderlies typically have at least a high school diploma.

Pay

The median annual wage for nursing assistants was $29,660 in May 2019.

The median annual wage for orderlies was $28,980 in May 2019.

Job Outlook

Overall employment of nursing assistants and orderlies is projected to grow 8 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. As the baby-boom population ages, nursing assistants and orderlies will be needed to help care for an increasing number of older patients.

3. Construction Worker

What Construction Laborers and Helpers Do

Construction laborers and helpers perform many tasks that require physical labor on construction sites.

Work Environment

Most construction laborers and helpers typically work full time and do physically demanding work. Some work at great heights or outdoors in all weather conditions. Construction laborers have one of the highest rates of injuries and illnesses of all occupations.

How to Become a Construction Laborer or Helper

Construction laborers and helpers learn their trade through on-the-job training. Formal education is not typically required.

Pay

The median annual wage for construction laborers and helpers was $36,000 in May 2019.

Job Outlook

Overall employment of construction laborers and helpers is projected to grow 5 percent from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations. 

4. Physical Therapy Aide

What Physical Therapist Assistants and Aides Do

Physical therapist assistants and aides are supervised by physical therapists to help patients regain movement and manage pain after injuries and illnesses.

Work Environment

Most physical therapist assistants and aides work in physical therapists’ offices or in hospitals. They are frequently on their feet as they set up equipment and help care for patients.

How to Become a Physical Therapist Assistant or Aide

Physical therapist assistants entering the occupation typically need an associate’s degree from an accredited program and a license or certification. Physical therapist aides usually need a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training.

Pay

The median annual wage for physical therapist aides was $27,000 in May 2019.

The median annual wage for physical therapist assistants was $58,790 in May 2019.

Job Outlook

Overall employment of physical therapist assistants and aides is projected to grow 29 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. Demand for physical therapy is expected to increase in response to the healthcare needs of an aging population and individuals with chronic conditions, such as diabetes and obesity.

5. Truck Driver

What Delivery Truck Drivers and Driver/Sales Workers Do

Delivery truck drivers and driver/sales workers pick up, transport, and drop off packages and small shipments within a local region or urban area.

Work Environment

Delivery truck drivers and driver/sales workers have a physically demanding job. Driving a truck for long periods can be tiring. When loading and unloading cargo, drivers do a lot of lifting, carrying, and walking.

How to Become a Delivery Truck Driver or Driver/Sales Worker

Delivery truck drivers and driver/sales workers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent to enter these occupations. However, some opportunities exist for those without a high school diploma. Workers undergo 1 month or less of on-the-job training. They must have a driver’s license from the state in which they work and have a clean driving record.

Pay

The median annual wage for driver/sales workers was $25,860 in May 2019.

The median annual wage for light truck drivers was $34,730 in May 2019.

Job Outlook

Overall employment of delivery truck drivers and driver/sales workers is projected to grow 5 percent from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations.

6. Medical Technologist

What Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians Do

Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians collect samples and perform tests to analyze body fluids, tissue, and other substances.

Work Environment

Many clinical laboratory technologists and technicians work in hospitals. Others work in medical and diagnostic laboratories or doctors’ offices. 

How to Become a Clinical Laboratory Technologist or Technician

Clinical laboratory technologists typically need a bachelor’s degree. Technicians usually need an associate’s degree or a postsecondary certificate. Some states require technologists and technicians to be licensed.

Pay

The median annual wage for clinical laboratory technologists and technicians was $53,120 in May 2019.

Job Outlook

Overall employment of clinical laboratory technologists and technicians is projected to grow 7 percent from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations. An increase in the aging population is expected to lead to a greater need to diagnose medical conditions, such as cancer or type 2 diabetes, through laboratory procedures.

7. Operations Research Analyst

What Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians Do

Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians collect samples and perform tests to analyze body fluids, tissue, and other substances.

Work Environment

Many clinical laboratory technologists and technicians work in hospitals. Others work in medical and diagnostic laboratories or doctors’ offices.

How to Become a Clinical Laboratory Technologist or Technician

Clinical laboratory technologists typically need a bachelor’s degree. Technicians usually need an associate’s degree or a postsecondary certificate. Some states require technologists and technicians to be licensed.

Pay

The median annual wage for clinical laboratory technologists and technicians was $53,120 in May 2019.

Job Outlook

Overall employment of clinical laboratory technologists and technicians is projected to grow 7 percent from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations. An increase in the aging population is expected to lead to a greater need to diagnose medical conditions, such as cancer or type 2 diabetes, through laboratory procedures.

8. Financial Advisor

What Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians Do

Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians collect samples and perform tests to analyze body fluids, tissue, and other substances.

Work Environment

Many clinical laboratory technologists and technicians work in hospitals. Others work in medical and diagnostic laboratories or doctors’ offices.

How to Become a Clinical Laboratory Technologist or Technician

Clinical laboratory technologists typically need a bachelor’s degree. Technicians usually need an associate’s degree or a postsecondary certificate. Some states require technologists and technicians to be licensed.

Pay

The median annual wage for clinical laboratory technologists and technicians was $53,120 in May 2019.

Job Outlook

Overall employment of clinical laboratory technologists and technicians is projected to grow 7 percent from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations. An increase in the aging population is expected to lead to a greater need to diagnose medical conditions, such as cancer or type 2 diabetes, through laboratory procedures.

9. Registered Nurse

What Registered Nurses Do

Registered nurses (RNs) provide and coordinate patient care and educate patients and the public about various health conditions.

Work Environment

Registered nurses work in hospitals, physicians’ offices, home healthcare services, and nursing care facilities. Others work in outpatient clinics and schools.

How to Become a Registered Nurse

Registered nurses usually take one of three education paths: a bachelor’s degree in nursing, an associate’s degree in nursing, or a diploma from an approved nursing program. Registered nurses must be licensed.

Pay

The median annual wage for registered nurses was $73,300 in May 2019.

Job Outlook

Employment of registered nurses is projected to grow 7 percent from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations. Growth will occur for a number of reasons, including an increased emphasis on preventive care; increasing rates of chronic conditions, such as diabetes and obesity; and demand for healthcare services from the baby-boom population, as this group leads longer and more active lives.

10. Web Developer

What Web Developers and Digital Designers Do

Web developers create and maintain websites. Digital designers develop, create, and test website or interface layout, functions, and navigation for usability.

Work Environment

Some web developers and digital designers work in the computer systems design and related services industry. Others are self-employed. Still others work in industries including publishing, management consulting, and advertising.

How to Become a Web Developer or Digital Designer

Educational requirements for web developers and digital designers vary, ranging from a high school diploma to a bachelor’s degree.

Pay

The median annual wage for web developers was $73,760 in May 2019.

Job Outlook

Employment of web developers and digital designers is projected to grow 8 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. Demand will be driven by the continued popularity of mobile devices and ecommerce.

11. Health Services Administrator

What Medical and Health Services Managers Do

Medical and health services managers plan, direct, and coordinate the business activities of healthcare providers.

Work Environment

Most medical and health services managers work in offices in healthcare facilities, including hospitals and nursing homes, and group medical practices.

How to Become a Medical or Health Services Manager

Most medical and health services managers have at least a bachelor’s degree before entering the field; however, master’s degrees also are common. Prospective managers typically have some work experience in an administrative or a clinical role in a hospital or other healthcare facility.

Pay

The median annual wage for medical and health services managers was $100,980 in May 2019.

Job Outlook

Employment of medical and health services managers is projected to grow 32 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. As the large baby-boom population ages and people remain active later in life, there should be increased demand for healthcare services.

12. Physical Therapist

What Physical Therapists Do

Physical therapists help injured or ill people improve movement and manage pain.

Work Environment

Physical therapists typically work in private offices and clinics, hospitals, patients’ homes, and nursing homes. They spend much of their time on their feet, actively working with patients.

How to Become a Physical Therapist

Physical therapists entering the occupation need a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree. All states require physical therapists to be licensed.

Pay

The median annual wage for physical therapists was $89,440 in May 2019.

Job Outlook

Employment of physical therapists is projected to grow 18 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. Demand for physical therapy is expected to come from aging baby boomers, who are not only staying active later in life but are susceptible to health conditions, such as strokes, that may require physical therapy. In addition, physical therapists will be needed to treat people with mobility issues stemming from chronic conditions, such as diabetes or obesity.

13. Information Security Analyst

What Information Security Analysts Do

Information security analysts plan and carry out security measures to protect an organization’s computer networks and systems.

Work Environment

Most information security analysts work for computer companies, consulting firms, or business and financial companies.

How to Become an Information Security Analyst

Most information security analyst positions require a bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field. Employers usually prefer to hire analysts with experience in a related occupation.

Pay

The median annual wage for information security analysts was $99,730 in May 2019.

Job Outlook

Employment of information security analysts is projected to grow 31 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. Demand for information security analysts is expected to be very high, as these analysts will be needed to create innovative solutions to prevent hackers from stealing critical information or causing problems for computer networks.

14. Statistician

What Mathematicians and Statisticians Do

Mathematicians and statisticians analyze data and apply mathematical and statistical techniques to help solve problems.

Work Environment

Many mathematicians and statisticians work in the federal government and in private science and engineering research companies. They may work on teams with engineers, scientists, and other professionals.

How to Become a Mathematician or Statistician

Mathematicians and statisticians typically need at least a master’s degree in mathematics or statistics. However, some positions are available to those with a bachelor’s degree.

Pay

The median annual wage for mathematicians was $105,030 in May 2019.

The median annual wage for statisticians was $91,160 in May 2019.

Job Outlook

Overall employment of mathematicians and statisticians is projected to grow 33 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. Businesses will need these workers to analyze the increasing volume of digital and electronic data.

15. Software Developer

What Software Developers Do

Software developers create the applications or systems that run on a computer or another device.

Work Environment

Many software developers work for firms that deal in computer systems design and related services, manufacturing, or for software publishers.

How to Become a Software Developer

Software developers usually have a bachelor’s degree in computer science and strong computer programming skills.

Pay

The median annual wage for software developers was $107,510 in May 2019.

Job Outlook

Employment of software developers is projected to grow 22 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. Software developers will be needed to respond to an increased demand for computer software.

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