Are you concerned that automation or emerging technologies might cost you your job? While experts warn that many roles susceptible to automation could decline, numerous occupations are expected to grow significantly over the next decade. Sectors such as health care, technology, social services, business and finance, and renewable energy will see some of the fastest expansion.
Drivers of this growth include an aging population, broader insurance coverage, and the expansion of health-related services. As these services grow, they create demand for administrative and support roles—boosting jobs in IT, data security, and financial management.
Below is a curated list of fast-growing occupations that will be in high demand, with job counts, projected growth, typical education requirements and a short summary of what each role involves. All figures are sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
50. Food and Beverage Serving Worker
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Total number of jobs: 5,406,600
Projected job growth (2018–28): 14 percent
Median salary: $21,750
Education: None
Bottom line: Food and beverage workers perform a variety of tasks in restaurants and other eating and drinking establishments, including customer service, cash handling, food preparation, cleaning and stocking. Many work part time or on shift schedules, and the occupation has relatively high rates of workplace injury and illness.
49. Personal Care Aide
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Total number of jobs: 3,253,000
Projected job growth: 36 percent
Median salary: $24,020
Education: High school diploma
Bottom line: Personal care aides support people with disabilities, cognitive impairment or chronic illnesses by assisting with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, household chores, appointments and meal preparation. Their role is nonmedical but essential for independent living.
48. Home Health Aide
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Total number of jobs: 3,253,000
Projected job growth: 37 percent
Median salary: $24,200
Education: High school diploma
Bottom line: Home health aides provide personal care and some basic health-related services—such as changing bandages or helping with mobility—for patients in private residences or group homes. Demand is rising with the aging population.
47. Physical Therapist Aide
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Total number of jobs: 49,800
Projected job growth: 23 percent
Median salary: $26,240
Education: High school diploma
Bottom line: Physical therapist aides perform nonclinical tasks like cleaning treatment areas, moving patients and handling administrative duties. Much of their training occurs on the job, and employers value strong computer and interpersonal skills.
46. Medical Assistants
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Total number of jobs: 686,600
Projected job growth: 23 percent
Median salary: $33,610
Education: Certificate or diploma in medical assisting
Bottom line: Medical assistants combine clinical and administrative responsibilities—recording patient information, scheduling, assisting during exams and preparing specimens. Short certificate programs prepare many for entry into this role.
45. Veterinary Technologists and Technicians
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Total number of jobs: 109,400
Projected job growth: 19 percent
Median salary: $34,420
Education: Associate degree (technicians) or bachelor’s degree (technologists) in veterinary technology
Bottom line: Veterinary technologists and technicians perform lab tests, assist in surgeries, take X-rays and care for animals. Technologists often work in lab or research settings, while technicians typically serve clinical practices.
44. Phlebotomist
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Total number of jobs: 128,300
Projected job growth: 23 percent
Median salary: $34,480
Education: Phlebotomy program certificate
Bottom line: Phlebotomists collect blood for testing, transfusions and research. Certification programs are often short, and strong interpersonal and record-keeping skills are essential since phlebotomists frequently interact directly with patients.
43. Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists
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Total number of jobs: 15,200
Projected job growth: 8 percent
Median salary: $39,600
Education: High school diploma
Bottom line: These specialists inspect public and private land for fire hazards, enforce fire codes and recommend mitigation strategies. Many come from firefighting backgrounds, and some positions require degrees in fire science, engineering or chemistry.
42. Medical Records and Health Information Technician
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Total number of jobs: 215,500
Projected job growth: 11 percent
Median salary: $40,350
Education: Postsecondary certificate in health information technology
Bottom line: Health information technicians organize and secure medical records, ensuring paper and electronic files are accurate and accessible. They classify and code health information for billing, research and tracking disease trends.
41. Massage Therapist
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Total number of jobs: 159,800
Projected job growth: 22 percent
Median salary: $41,420
Education: Postsecondary certification program
Bottom line: Massage therapists use hands-on techniques to relieve pain, reduce stress and improve mobility. They often complete programs of at least 500 hours covering anatomy, physiology and specialized modalities.
40. Solar Photovoltaic Installers
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Total number of jobs: 9,700
Projected job growth: 63 percent
Median salary: $42,680
Education: High school diploma
Bottom line: Solar PV installers plan, assemble, install and maintain solar systems. They evaluate site conditions, mount panels, wire electrical systems and handle maintenance. Much training is provided on the job.
39. Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder and Mental Health Counselor
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Total number of jobs: 304,500
Projected job growth: 22 percent
Median salary: $44,630
Education: Bachelor’s degree in a related field
Bottom line: These counselors assess and treat individuals with addiction, behavioral disorders or mental health issues. They develop treatment plans, provide therapy and offer education and outreach to patients and families.
38. Marriage and Family Therapist
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Total number of jobs: 55,300
Projected job growth: 22 percent
Median salary: $50,090
Education: Master’s degree in marriage and family therapy, psychology or related field
Bottom line: Marriage and family therapists help couples, families and individuals manage relationship issues, resolve conflict and develop coping strategies. They may also provide referrals to community resources and other mental health services.
37. Wind Turbine Technician
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Total number of jobs: 6,600
Projected job growth: 57 percent
Median salary: $54,370
Education: Certificate or associate degree in wind energy technology
Bottom line: As wind power expands, technicians who install and maintain turbines are increasingly needed. Training includes technical education and on-the-job experience, often supplemented by safety and climbing certifications.
36. Physical Therapist Assistant
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Total number of jobs: 98,400
Projected job growth: 27 percent
Median salary: $58,040
Education: Associate degree from a physical therapist assistant program
Bottom line: PT assistants work under physical therapists to help patients recover movement and manage pain through exercises, stretches and use of equipment. They may also handle administrative tasks in care settings.
35. Occupational Therapy Assistant
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Total number of jobs: 51,700
Projected job growth: 31 percent
Median salary: $60,220
Education: Associate degree in occupational therapy assistance
Bottom line: OT assistants help patients develop or regain skills needed for daily living and work. They follow plans set by occupational therapists, track progress and help prepare therapy materials and equipment.
34. Respiratory Therapist
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Total number of jobs: 134,000
Projected job growth: 21 percent
Median salary: $60,280
Education: Associate or bachelor’s degree in respiratory therapy
Bottom line: Respiratory therapists treat patients with breathing and cardiopulmonary conditions, perform diagnostic tests, develop treatment plans with physicians and teach patients how to use respiratory equipment. They also provide emergency respiratory care.
33. Market Research Analyst
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Total number of jobs: 681,900
Projected job growth: 20 percent
Median salary: $63,120
Education: Bachelor’s degree in market research or related field
Bottom line: Market researchers collect and analyze data on consumer behavior, preferences and trends. They use surveys, focus groups and statistical tools to help organizations understand customers and make data-driven decisions.
32. Cartographer
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Total number of jobs: 11,800
Projected job growth: 15 percent
Median salary: $64,430
Education: Bachelor’s degree in cartography, geography, geomatics or surveying
Bottom line: Modern cartographers create digital and interactive maps for online and mobile use. They collect and interpret geographic data and often conduct surveys to support urban and regional planning.
31. Social and Community Services Manager
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Total number of jobs: 168,800
Projected job growth: 13 percent
Median salary: $65,320
Education: Bachelor’s degree in social work, public administration, public health, business or related field
Bottom line: These managers oversee community and human service programs, identify needs, design or improve services, write grant proposals, supervise staff and handle program administration and outreach.
30. Orthotists and Prosthetists
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Total number of jobs: 9,100
Projected job growth: 20 percent
Median salary: $69,120
Education: Master’s degree in orthotics and prosthetics
Bottom line: Orthotists and prosthetists design and fit braces and artificial limbs to restore mobility. Their work includes patient assessment, measurements, device fabrication and adjustments, plus patient training and follow-up care.
29. Web Developer
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Total number of jobs: 160,500
Projected job growth: 13 percent
Median salary: $69,430
Education: Associate degree in web design or related field
Bottom line: Web developers build and maintain websites, handling both design and technical performance. They need skills in programming and graphic design; some roles require a bachelor’s in computer science.
28. Registered Nurse
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Total number of jobs: 3,059,800
Projected job growth: 12 percent
Median salary: $71,730
Education: Bachelor’s degree in nursing
Bottom line: Registered nurses coordinate and deliver patient care, monitor conditions, perform procedures and educate patients and families. Many nurses specialize in areas like oncology, pediatrics or geriatrics.
27. Diagnostic Medical Sonographers
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Total number of jobs: 72,900
Projected job growth: 19 percent
Median salary: $72,510
Education: Associate degree or certificate in sonography
Bottom line: Sonographers operate imaging equipment to produce diagnostic sonograms. As noninvasive imaging becomes more common, demand for trained sonographers is increasing.
26. Dental Hygienist
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Total number of jobs: 219,800
Projected job growth: 11 percent
Median salary: $74,820
Education: Associate degree in dental hygiene
Bottom line: Dental hygienists perform preventive oral care—cleanings, sealants, X-rays and patient education. Programs typically take about three years at community colleges or technical schools.
25. School Psychologist
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Total number of jobs: 43,470
Projected job growth: 15 percent
Median salary: $76,990
Education: Graduate degree in school psychology
Bottom line: School psychologists assess and treat students’ learning, behavioral and emotional challenges. They work with teachers, families and other professionals to support student well-being and academic success.
24. Speech-Language Pathologists
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Total number of jobs: 153,700
Projected job growth: 27 percent
Median salary: $77,510
Education: Master’s in speech-language pathology
Bottom line: Speech-language pathologists evaluate and treat communication and swallowing disorders across the lifespan. They develop individualized treatment plans and work with patients affected by stroke, developmental conditions or injury.
23. Post-Secondary Teachers
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Total number of jobs: 1,350,700
Projected job growth: 11 percent
Median salary: $78,470
Education: Master’s or Ph.D. in specialty area
Bottom line: Postsecondary teachers instruct at colleges and trade schools, advise students, conduct research and perform administrative duties. While demand rises, much of the new teaching work will be part-time positions.
22. Psychologist
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Total number of jobs: 181,700
Projected job growth: 14 percent
Median salary: $79,010
Education: Master’s or doctoral degree in psychology
Bottom line: Psychologists study behavior, assess mental processes and provide treatment or consultation. They work in clinical, research, corporate or educational settings to support mental health and organizational needs.
21. Genetic Counselor
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Total number of jobs: 3,000
Projected job growth: 27 percent
Median salary: $80,370
Education: Master’s degree in genetics or genetic counseling
Bottom line: Genetic counselors assess inherited health risks, collect family histories, explain testing options and support patients through decision-making and education. Many specialize in prenatal, cancer or cardiovascular genetics.
20. Operations Research Analysts
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Total number of jobs: 109,700
Projected job growth: 26 percent
Median salary: $83,390
Education: Bachelor’s or master’s degree in business, engineering, mathematics or a quantitative field
Bottom line: Operations research analysts use data and modeling to solve organizational problems and improve processes. They develop practical solutions and support implementation across teams.
19. Management Analyst
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Total number of jobs: 876,300
Projected job growth: 14 percent
Median salary: $83,610
Education: Bachelor’s or master’s degree in business administration or related field
Bottom line: Management analysts (consultants) evaluate organizational practices, propose improvements, and help implement changes to boost efficiency and profitability.
18. Occupational Therapist
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Total number of jobs: 133,000
Projected job growth: 18 percent
Median salary: $84,270
Education: Master’s degree in occupational therapy
Bottom line: Occupational therapists help patients regain or maintain skills needed for everyday life and work, creating and guiding therapeutic plans and advising on home or workplace modifications.
17. Civil Engineer
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Total number of jobs: 326,800
Projected job growth: 6 percent
Median salary: $86,640
Education: Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or civil engineering technology
Bottom line: Civil engineers design, plan and oversee construction and maintenance of infrastructure—bridges, roads, water systems and buildings—handling technical analysis, permitting and project management.
16. Statistician
Canadian Business
Total number of jobs: 44,400
Projected job growth: 31 percent
Median salary: $87,780
Education: Bachelor’s or master’s degree in statistics, mathematics, economics, computer science or another quantitative field
Bottom line: Statisticians design studies, collect and analyze data, and interpret results to guide decisions across fields such as health care, government and research.
15. Physical Therapist
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Total number of jobs: 247,700
Projected job growth: 22 percent
Median salary: $87,930
Education: Doctorate degree in physical therapy (DPT)
Bottom line: Physical therapists assess and treat patients with movement limitations through personalized treatment plans that include exercises, manual therapy and equipment. They collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and educate patients and families.
14. Financial Advisor
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Total number of jobs: 271,700
Projected job growth: 7 percent
Median salary: $88,890
Education: Bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, accounting, business, mathematics or law
Bottom line: Financial advisors guide clients on investments, retirement planning, taxes and estate strategy. They assess client needs, recommend products and monitor portfolios to meet financial goals.
13. Database Administrator
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Total number of jobs: 116,900
Projected job growth: 9 percent
Median salary: $90,070
Education: Bachelor’s degree in information or computer science
Bottom line: Database administrators design, maintain and secure databases to ensure efficient access while protecting sensitive data and enabling reliable backups and restorations.
12. Veterinarian
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Total number of jobs: 84,500
Projected job growth: 18 percent
Median salary: $93,830
Education: Doctorate degree in veterinary medicine
Bottom line: Veterinarians diagnose and treat animals, perform surgeries, vaccinate and advise on animal care. Veterinary medicine requires advanced degrees and hands-on experience working with animals.
11. Information Security Analyst
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Total number of jobs: 112,300
Projected job growth: 32 percent
Median salary: $98,350
Education: Bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field
Bottom line: Information security analysts protect systems and networks from cyber threats, monitor for breaches, develop security policies and create disaster recovery plans to minimize risk and downtime.
10. Medical and Health Services Worker
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Total number of jobs: 406,100
Projected job growth: 18 percent
Median salary: $99,730
Education: Bachelor’s degree in health administration
Bottom line: Health services managers plan, direct and coordinate medical services and operations, manage budgets and staffing, ensure compliance and work to improve the quality and efficiency of care delivery.
9. Mathematician
Kay Hinton / Emory University
Total number of jobs: 2,900
Projected job growth: 26 percent
Median salary: $101,900
Education: Master’s degree in mathematics
Bottom line: Mathematicians develop models and use computational tools to analyze data and solve problems across science, government and industry. They may combine research and teaching, or work as applied analysts in business and technology.
8. Actuary
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Total number of jobs: 25,000
Projected job growth: 20 percent
Median salary: $102,880
Education: Bachelor’s degree in mathematics, actuarial science, statistics or a related analytical field
Bottom line: Actuaries analyze financial risk using mathematical and statistical methods, often for insurance companies, to estimate the cost of future events and advise on risk-management strategies.
7. Software Developers
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Total number of jobs: 1,365,500
Projected job growth: 21 percent
Median salary: $105,590
Education: Bachelor’s degree in computer science
Bottom line: Software developers design, build and maintain software systems based on user needs, leading the development process from requirements to testing and deployment. Senior developers often take on project management responsibilities.
6. Physician Assistant
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Total number of jobs: 118,800
Projected job growth: 31 percent
Median salary: $108,610
Education: Bachelor’s degree in science or health care; master’s degree in physician assistant studies
Bottom line: Physician assistants work under physician supervision to examine, diagnose and treat patients. Their scope varies by state and practice setting, and they often serve as primary care providers in underserved areas.
5. Advanced Practice Registered Nurse
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Total number of jobs: 240,700
Projected job growth: 26 percent
Median salary: $113,930
Education: Bachelor’s degree in nursing and a master’s degree in a nursing specialty
Bottom line: APRNs—such as nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists and nurse midwives—deliver primary and specialty care, often independently. They can diagnose, prescribe medications and manage patient care.
4. Financial Manager
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Total number of jobs: 653,600
Projected job growth: 16 percent
Median salary: $127,990
Education: Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, economics or business administration
Bottom line: Financial managers oversee an organization’s financial health—preparing reports, guiding investments, analyzing trends and advising leadership to meet financial objectives and comply with regulations.
3. Computer and Systems Manager
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Total number of jobs: 414,400
Projected job growth: 11 percent
Median salary: $142,530
Education: Bachelor’s degree in computer or information science
Bottom line: Also known as IT managers, these professionals direct an organization’s technology strategy, maintain systems, ensure security and coordinate IT initiatives across departments. Larger employers often seek managers with advanced degrees such as an MBA.
2. Dentist
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Total number of jobs: 155,000
Projected job growth: 7 percent
Median salary: $156,240
Education: Doctorate degree in dental surgery or dental medicine
Bottom line: Dentists diagnose and treat oral health issues—filling cavities, performing extractions and surgeries, fitting dentures and educating patients on dental care. Some dentists specialize in areas like pediatrics or oral surgery.
1. Psychiatrist
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Total number of jobs: 25,630
Projected job growth: 16 percent
Median salary: $220,380
Education: Doctorate in medicine (MD or DO) with psychiatry residency
Bottom line: Psychiatrists are medical doctors specializing in diagnosing and treating mental illnesses. They assess both physical and mental health, can prescribe medication, and often work in hospitals, clinics or private practice. Subspecialties include addiction and forensic psychiatry.
Note: All numbers are based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data included in the original report.