Job growth is an important consideration when choosing a career. Some of the fastest-growing jobs, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), include nurse practitioners, wind turbine service technicians, and data scientists.
Whether you’re preparing to enter the job market or switching careers, it’s good to know which industries and fields have the brightest hiring outlook. Keep reading for a breakdown of the fastest-growing jobs in 2024 and beyond.
Key Points
• Energy, healthcare, computers, and data science sectors drive job growth in 2024.
• Wind turbine service technicians and solar photovoltaic installers lead job growth due to renewable energy demand.
• Healthcare roles like nurse practitioners and medical managers are expanding with high earning potential.
• Data scientist and information security analyst roles are growing and are crucial for data management and cybersecurity.
• Operations research analysts and computer scientists develop innovative solutions but jobs require advanced education.
What Is Considered a Fast-Growing Job?
The BLS regularly projects which occupations will see the highest growth. The most recent data available predicts changes from 2023 to 2033. Some occupations grow faster than others as demand for those jobs rises. A fast-growing job is one that’s expected to grow at an above-average rate. Our list includes both on-site roles and remote opportunities. (Here’s a great roundup of more work-at-home jobs for retirees and stay-at-home parents.)
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Who Should Consider a Fast-Growing Job?
Fast-growing jobs are appealing to a wide range of people because it can be easier to find a position when there are more openings to go around. Companies may also be more likely to offer signing bonuses to attract talent.
However, it’s important to consider whether the current demand is sustainable over the long term. After large numbers of people rush to fill jobs in a specific industry, hiring may then taper off.
The economy is another consideration. A job that’s fast-growing in a healthy economy may be less so in a downturn or recession. In-demand jobs that are connected to entertainment, travel, or recreation, for example, may be less attractive if people are cutting back their spending on trips to the movies, vacations, or costly hobbies.
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Pros and Cons of Being in a Fast-Growing Job
Every job has advantages and disadvantages, and fast-growing fields are no exception. Considering the potential benefits and drawbacks can help you to decide if pursuing a fast growing job makes sense for you.
| Pros of Fast-Growing Jobs | Cons of Fast-Growing Jobs |
|---|---|
| More room for advancement at a faster pace | Accelerated job growth in newer industries may not be sustainable over the long term |
| Higher salaries if demand for qualified workers outpaces supply | Fast growth does not always translate to higher pay, especially in fields that don’t require higher education |
| Opportunity to get in on the ground floor of a new industry or sector that’s poised for long-term growth and development | May be more demanding in terms of the time involved and scope of duties |
What to Expect in a Fast-Growing Job
One of the main advantages of a fast-growing job is that it may be easier to get hired when demand is high. Employers may also offer higher pay or enhanced employee benefits to attract talent. If a high salary is important to you, check out this list of the highest paying jobs by state.
bigger entry-level salary isn’t guaranteed. Fast-growing tech jobs, for instance, will pay more than food service jobs even if demand is at a similar level.
If you do manage to snag a higher salary with a fast-growing job, it’s important to think about what you’ll be required to do in exchange for those paychecks. For example, accepting a role with a clean energy startup could pay well, but if the company is small, you might be expected to work well beyond the standard 40-hour week.
No matter the size of your paycheck, it helps to stay on top of your budget. A spending app lets you see all of your money in one place.
Top 10 Fastest-Growing Jobs in 2024
The BLS collects data on job growth and employment outlook across a variety of occupations. We’re breaking down the fastest growing jobs through 2033.
You may also be interested in our list of trades that make the most money.
1. Wind Turbine Service Technician
Median annual pay: $61,770
Job growth outlook: 60%
Job description: Install, repair, and service wind turbines. May work full-time or on-call for emergency repairs.
Job duties:
• Install wind turbines
• Make necessary repairs to turbine equipment
• Complete regular maintenance and service to keep turbines operating properly
Pros:
• Technical or trade school degree may be the only required education
• Opportunity to travel
• Job growth should hold steady as the industry develops
Cons:
• Long on-the-job training period
• Candidates must be comfortable with heights
• Higher potential for accidental injury
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2. Solar Photovoltaic Installers
Median pay: $48,800/year
Job growth outlook: 48%
Job description: Also called PV installers, solar photovoltaic installers are responsible for assembling and maintaining systems that convert sunlight into energy. They may also connect the system’s solar panels to the electrical grid. This job may be salaried or hourly.
Job duties:
• Measure, cut, and assemble the support structure for solar panels
• Install solar modules, panels, and support structures, then activate and test the system.
• Perform routine PV system maintenance
Pros:
• Significant job growth is expected through 2033
• Higher education may not be required
• There may be opportunities for advancement in the field
Cons:
• Requires lifting and handling heavy equipment
• Candidates should have strong math and communication skills
• Must be comfortable with heights
3. Nurse Practitioner
Median pay: $126,260
Job growth outlook: 46%
Job description: Nurse practitioner (NP) is one of the fastest-growing healthcare jobs. NPs can act as primary care providers or specialty care providers in doctor’s offices, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities. NPs may specialize in a particular type of care, such as geriatrics or pediatrics.
Job duties:
• Assess patients to determine care needs
• Determine how to improve or manage patient health
• Develop strategies for implementing a plan of care
Pros:
• High earning potential (an all-in-one money tracker tool can help you stay on top of your money game)
• Well above-average job growth
• Opportunity to specialize
Cons:
• Potentially a highly stressful job
• Requires advanced education
• May require working long shifts
4. Data Scientist
Median pay: $108,020/year
Job growth outlook: 36%
Job description: Extract and analyze data. May collect or categorize data, offer interpretations of data, or create visual representations to showcase their findings. These individuals typically work in an office setting or from home. Because this role doesn’t require much interaction with customers or colleagues, it can be a good job for antisocial people.
Job duties:
• Collect and organize data
• Test data and use it to develop algorithmic models
• Analyze data to create recommendations for business entities
Pros:
• Competitive pay and outstanding earning potential
• Opportunity to work a flexible schedule or remotely
• May appeal to people looking for a creative-adjacent job
Cons:
• Some aspects of the job may be tedious or boring
• Hours can be long and require the completion of menial tasks
• Master’s degree or higher may be required for certain jobs
5. Information Security Analyst
Median pay: $120,360/year
Job growth outlook: 33%
Job description: Information security analysts review an entity or organization’s security measures and develop strategies for protecting and safeguarding data. This is one of the fastest-growing IT jobs as more companies turn their focus to increasing cybersecurity in order to prevent fraud or data hacks. This is a strong option if you need a job that will pay off your student loans.
Job duties:
• Analyze security measures in order to look for potential flaws or weak spots
• Develop cybersecurity strategies to enhance a company or organization’s data safety
• Maintain security software, including encryption and firewall services
Pros:
• Job growth may be sustainable long term as more companies seek to step up their cybersecurity efforts
• Salary ranges are competitive compared to other fast-growing jobs
• May offer opportunity for remote work
Cons:
• Some jobs may require a master’s degree or higher
• May be required to complete tasks on short notice
• Potentially stressful and high-pressure
6. Medical and Health Services Manager
Median pay: $110,680/year
Job growth outlook: 29%
Job description: Responsible for managing their facility and coordinating medical and health services for patients. Should be up to date on the latest laws, regulations, and technology in healthcare.
Job duties:
• Create and execute policies, goals, and procedures for facility
• Ensure facility complies with laws and regulations
• Recruit, train, and manage staff
Pros:
• Competitive salary
• Flexible hours
• Room for advancement for those interested in leadership roles
Cons:
• Hours may be long
• May be required to have a bachelor’s degree, a license, and/or work experience
• The job has a high rate of injury and illness
7. Physician Assistant
Median pay: $130,020/year
Job growth outlook: 28%
Job description: Responsible for examining, diagnosing, and treating patients under the supervision of a physician. PAs can work in a variety of settings, including a hospital, doctor’s office, outpatient care center.
Job duties:
• Examine and diagnose patients
• Prescribe medication
• Educate patients on their health issues
Pros:
• Can be rewarding to help care for patients
• Competitive pay, particularly for jobs at outpatient care centers and hospitals
• Can work in a variety of specialized areas, such as dermatology, pathology, or emergency medicine
Cons:
• Work can be physically and emotionally demanding
• May be required to work nights, weekends, or holidays
• Must have a bachelor’s degree or higher and be licensed
8. Computer and Information Research Scientist
Median pay: $145,080
Job growth outlook: 26%
Job description: Use expertise and experience to improve existing technologies and create new ones. The work can help fuel innovation and solve problems in science, medicine, and business, among other fields.
Job duties:
• Develop and/or improve computer software and hardware
• Create new computing languages and tools
• Design and oversee experiments on software systems
Pros:
• Opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects
• Ability to help create innovations and improvements
• Can specialize in various fields, including artificial intelligence or robotics
Cons:
• Much of the work is online, which could be an issue for extroverted people
• Most jobs typically require a master’s degree or Ph.D.
• May work long hours
9. Physical Therapist Assistant
Median pay: $64,080/year
Job growth outlook: 25%
Job description: Collaborate with physician therapists to help patients regain their mobility and manage their pain. PTAs may also be responsible for cleaning and setting up treatment areas or moving patients around the facility.
Job duties:
• Treat patients through exercise, massage, and other interventions, under the supervision of a physical therapist
• Record the patient’s progress and share progress with the physical therapist
• Help move patients in and/or out of treatment area
Pros:
• Solid earning potential
• May have the option to work part-time
• Helping patients recover can be professionally rewarding
Cons:
• Often requires standing for long periods of time
• Moving patients could put strain on the body
• May be required to work nights and weekends
10. Operations Research Analyst
Median pay: $83,640/year
Job growth outlook: 26%
Job description: Evaluate a company’s operations using advanced analytical and mathematical techniques, and recommend ways to increase efficiency and solve problems.
Job duties:
• Analyze data to identify or solve operational problems
• Provide recommendations to decision makers
• Document and present finding to support recommendations
Pros:
• May have opportunities for advancement
• Often work on teams, which can be a good fit for extroverts
• Can help businesses operate more efficiently
Cons:
• Advanced education and training are often required
• Role can be demanding
• May be required to work in the office
Fastest-Growing Jobs by 2025 Outlook
The fastest growing jobs in 2024 include all of the options listed above. Other jobs projected to have above-average growth through 2033 include:
• Occupational therapy assistants
• Actuaries
• Financial examiners
• Home health and personal care aides
• Veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers
• Veterinary technologists and technicians
• Logisticians
• Veterinarians
• Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors
• Epidemiologists
Which job skills will be most in demand in the future? According to the World Economic Forum, the following skills will be highly sought after by employers within the next few years:
• Analytical thinking
• Creative thinking
• Resilience, flexibility, and agility
• Motivation and self-awareness
• Curiosity and lifelong learning
• Technological literacy
• Dependability and attention to detail
Some of these are “soft skills,” meaning they’re based around communication and self-management. However, it’s clear that technological skills and computer skills will continue to be an important consideration for employers in the future.
The Takeaway
The Bureau of Labor Statistics regularly publishes lists of jobs with good potential for recent grads and career changers. This year’s list of the top fields for job growth include energy, healthcare, computers, and data science. It’s a wide range, with something for everyone. And while some roles require a college degree, others welcome high school grads.
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FAQ
What is the most needed job in 2024?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nurse practitioners are among the fastest growing jobs for 2024 and beyond. That’s due largely to increased demand for healthcare providers during the pandemic era, but it was also one of the fastest growing jobs pre-COVID.
What job has the highest future growth?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that wind turbine service technicians are set to see the highest job growth through 2033. As the country looks to reduce carbon emissions — and demand for electricity increases — more wind turbines are expected to be built. This will likely create more job opportunities for qualified service technicians who can install and maintain the equipment.
Which jobs will be in demand in the next 10 years?
Some of the jobs that will be in the highest demand in the next 10 years include nurse practitioners, wind turbine service technicians, data analysts, information security analysts, and medical and health services managers.
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