The U.S. job market is going to look noticeably different a decade from now. The economy is expected to add 5.2 million jobs between 2024 and 2034, with growth concentrated in a few clear areas: healthcare for an aging population, technology built around AI and data, and renewable energy. Meanwhile, retail, administrative support, and a growing number of desk jobs are contracting. Knowing which direction things are moving is useful whether you're choosing a career path, thinking about going back to school, or looking for work that's unlikely to be automated away in the next ten years.
The fastest-growing jobs by percentage aren't always the ones adding the most positions. Some are growing fast simply because they're still small fields. A few of these careers require professional degrees and years of supervised training. Others need a two-year associate's degree or a paid apprenticeship. The path matters as much as the destination.
All growth projections and salary figures come from the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Wind turbine service technician
Projected growth by 2034: 50%.
Wind turbine technicians, sometimes called wind techs or windsmiths, inspect, maintain, and repair wind turbines. It's physical, outdoor work that often involves climbing towers that can reach 300 feet. The job requires comfort with heights, mechanical aptitude, and the ability to troubleshoot electrical and hydraulic systems. Most of the work is on-site at wind farms, many of which are in rural areas across the Midwest, Texas, and the Pacific Northwest.
This is the single fastest-growing occupation in the country right now, driven by continued expansion of U.S. wind energy infrastructure. The catch is scale: even at 50% growth, the field is small enough that it will add only around 6,800 new jobs by 2034. That said, hiring is consistent and the work can't be outsourced or automated.
Getting started: Most employers want a technical certificate or associate's degree in wind energy technology or a related field, which community colleges and technical schools typically offer as a one-to-two-year program. Some programs are co-developed with employers and include job placement. Apprenticeships also exist through some wind companies. The Department of Energy's Wind Energy Technologies Office tracks workforce development programs by region.
Solar photovoltaic installer
Projected growth by 2034: 42%.
Solar installers set up, connect, and maintain solar panel systems on rooftops and at ground-level solar farms. The work is physical: expect rooftop work, tight conduit runs, and outdoor conditions in all weather. Residential installation tends to be faster-paced and more varied; utility-scale solar work is more repetitive but often involves more hours and higher pay.
Solar is the second-fastest-growing occupation in the country and will add roughly 12,000 jobs by 2034. Demand is driven by falling equipment costs, state and federal incentives, and continued expansion of utility-scale solar projects. Pay is decent for a field that requires relatively little formal training, and experienced installers with electrical certifications can earn considerably more than the median.
Getting started: Most solar employers require a high school diploma and provide on-the-job training, though some prefer a certificate in photovoltaics or a related trade. Completing an NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners) certification significantly improves employability and pay. Electrical apprenticeship programs are another route in, since licensed electricians are in demand at larger solar installations. CareerOneStop's training finder lists local PV training programs by zip code.
Nurse practitioner
Projected growth by 2034: 35%.
Nurse practitioners are registered nurses with advanced graduate training who can diagnose conditions, prescribe medications, and manage ongoing care, independently in many states. NPs work in primary care, urgent care, specialty clinics, hospitals, and an expanding number of school and community settings. They are increasingly filling the gap left by physician shortages, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
This is one of the fastest-growing occupations in the country and one of the highest-paying on this list. The combination of salary, job security, and scope of practice makes it a realistic long-term target for people working in healthcare support roles who want to advance. The workload is demanding and the path is long, but NPs consistently report high job satisfaction and strong career flexibility.
Getting started: You need to be a registered nurse first, which requires either an associate's degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor's (BSN), followed by passing the NCLEX-RN licensing exam. From there, an NP requires a master's degree (MSN) or doctorate (DNP) from an accredited program, plus national certification in a specialty area (family, pediatric, adult-gerontology, etc.). The full path typically takes 6 to 8 years from start to finish. Many RNs pursue NP programs while working, since most MSN programs offer evening and online options.
Data scientist
Projected growth by 2034: 34%.
Data scientists collect, process, and analyze large datasets to find patterns, build models, and inform decisions. They work across healthcare, finance, retail, logistics, and government, and and the work ranges from writing code that cleans messy data to building machine learning models to presenting findings to executives. Strong statistical knowledge and programming fluency (particularly in Python or R) are the core requirements.
The rapid growth here is directly tied to AI expansion. Organizations building AI systems, training models, and analyzing the outputs of automated tools need people who can work with data at scale. This is one of the few tech occupations where demand is clearly accelerating rather than leveling off. It also pays well and tends to offer remote work flexibility.
Getting started: Most data science roles require at least a bachelor's degree in a quantitative field: statistics, computer science, mathematics, or a related discipline. Some employers, particularly in tech, will consider candidates with strong portfolios and relevant project experience even without a formal degree. Graduate programs in data science exist at most major universities, and several well-regarded online programs (including through Coursera, edX, and university certificate tracks) offer structured paths into the field. Building a portfolio of public projects on GitHub and competing in Kaggle challenges is a recognized way to demonstrate competency to employers.
Information security analyst
Projected growth by 2034: 29%.
Information security analysts protect organizations' computer networks and systems from cyberattacks, data breaches, and unauthorized access. They monitor for threats, investigate incidents, implement security software, and develop policies to reduce risk. As the volume and sophistication of cyberattacks on U.S. businesses continues to rise, the demand for security professionals is climbing fast across every industry.
This is one of the most reliably in-demand tech careers right now. Healthcare organizations, financial institutions, government agencies, and defense contractors all face serious security obligations, and persistent talent shortages. Pay is strong at the median and considerably higher for experienced analysts and those with security clearances.
Getting started: Most positions require a bachelor's degree in computer science, cybersecurity, or a related field, though employers increasingly value certifications alongside or even instead of degrees. The CompTIA Security+ is a widely recognized entry-level credential; more advanced roles typically require Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), CISSP, or similar. Cybersecurity bootcamps have proliferated in the last few years and can prepare candidates for entry-level roles in 6 to 12 months. The CISA's National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (NICE) lists training programs and scholarship opportunities for those entering the field.
Computer and information research scientist
Projected growth by 2034: 26%.
These are the people developing new computing approaches, including designing algorithms, advancing artificial intelligence, and solving complex technical problems that don't yet have established solutions. The work is primarily research-oriented and happens in universities, government labs, and the R&D divisions of large tech companies. It's the highest-paying occupation on this entire list, driven by intense demand for people who can push the boundaries of what AI and computing systems can do.
The role is distinct from software development in that the goal is advancing knowledge and capability rather than building products for deployment. Most positions are in academia or at companies like Google, Microsoft, IBM, and national laboratories. Federal funding for AI research has expanded significantly, creating additional opportunities in government-affiliated programs.
Getting started: This occupation almost always requires a doctoral degree in computer science, AI, or a closely related field. A master's may be sufficient for some research support roles, but independent research positions and most industry R&D roles expect a PhD. If you're interested in this path but not yet in graduate school, undergraduate coursework in algorithms, machine learning, and mathematics is the foundation. Strong research experience and published or presented work during graduate school is typically required for competitive positions.
Medical and health services manager
Projected growth by 2034: 23%.
Medical and health services managers, also called healthcare administrators or practice managers, plan, direct, and coordinate the operations of hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities. The work involves budgeting, staffing, regulatory compliance, and managing the day-to-day business functions that keep medical practices running. It sits at the intersection of healthcare and business.
This is one of the largest occupations on this list in terms of raw job growth, expected to add around 142,900 positions by 2034. Healthcare organizations are growing fast and need experienced managers to run them efficiently. The field rewards people who are comfortable with both healthcare systems and business operations, and can navigate complex regulatory environments.
Getting started: A bachelor's degree in health administration, public health, or a clinical field is the typical starting point. Many positions, especially at hospitals, prefer or require a master's degree in health administration (MHA) or business administration with a healthcare focus (MBA). People already working in clinical roles, including nurses, medical coders, and practice coordinators, often move into management positions with additional education. The American College of Healthcare Executives offers credentials and continuing education that carry weight in the field.
Actuary
Projected growth by 2034: 22%.
Actuaries use mathematics, statistics, and financial theory to assess and price risk, primarily for insurance companies, pension funds, and financial institutions. They analyze the likelihood and cost of events like death, disability, injury, and natural disasters, and use those calculations to determine premiums and reserves. It's a career that demands a high level of quantitative ability and sustained discipline to pass a series of rigorous professional exams.
Actuary is one of the few fields where the entrance credentials are almost entirely exam-based rather than degree-specific, which creates a relatively clear pathway. Demand is growing across insurance, healthcare, and government sectors. The combination of pay, job stability, and low unemployment has kept it consistently near the top of “best jobs” rankings for years.
Getting started: A bachelor's degree in mathematics, statistics, or actuarial science is the standard starting point, though the degree matters less than passing the preliminary actuarial exams administered by the Society of Actuaries (SOA) or the Casualty Actuarial Society (CAS). Most candidates take the first two exams while still in college. Employers often hire students who have passed one or two exams and then support them through the remaining ones. The exam series is long: 7 to 10 exams total, typically completed over 4 to 10 years, but each passed exam increases earning potential considerably.
Operations research analyst
Projected growth by 2034: 21%.
Operations research analysts use advanced mathematical and analytical methods to help organizations solve complex problems and improve efficiency: optimizing supply chains, routing logistics networks, scheduling airline crews, and allocating hospital resources. The work is less visible than many tech roles but deeply embedded in the operations of large companies, military organizations, and healthcare systems.
Demand is growing because the volume of data organizations deal with has expanded dramatically, and the tools to analyze it have become more powerful. Companies that use algorithms to manage inventory, pricing, or staffing need people who can design and interpret those systems. The field sits squarely in the AI-era sweet spot: technical enough to be hard to automate, broad enough to apply across dozens of industries.
Getting started: Most positions require at least a bachelor's degree in operations research, mathematics, engineering, or a quantitative social science. Many roles, particularly at the federal level, prefer or require a master's. Strong proficiency in programming (Python, R, SQL) and statistical modeling tools is expected. Several universities offer dedicated operations research programs; graduate programs in industrial engineering and applied mathematics often cover the same material. The Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences (INFORMS) offers a Certified Analytics Professional (CAP) designation that's recognized by employers.
Physical therapist assistant
Projected growth by 2034: 22%.
Physical therapist assistants (PTAs) work under the supervision of physical therapists to help patients recover from injuries, manage chronic conditions, and rebuild mobility. They guide patients through exercises, apply manual therapy, use therapeutic equipment, and track progress. The work is hands-on and physically active, with most PTAs on their feet for much of the day and frequently helping patients move.
The aging population is the primary driver here. Older adults experience more strokes, joint replacements, and mobility impairments, all of which drive demand for PT services. PTAs are a cost-effective staffing choice for physical therapy practices, hospitals, and rehab facilities, and their scope is expanding as practices try to extend the reach of licensed therapists. The median pay is solid for an associate's-level position.
Getting started: PTAs need an associate's degree from an accredited PTA program, which typically takes about two years and includes supervised clinical experience. After graduating, candidates must pass the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for PTAs and obtain state licensure. Most community colleges and technical schools with healthcare programs offer accredited PTA degrees. The American Physical Therapy Association maintains a directory of accredited PTA programs.
Physician assistant
Projected growth by 2034: 20%.
Physician assistants (PAs) are licensed medical professionals who practice medicine under the supervision of physicians, including examining patients, ordering tests, diagnosing conditions, prescribing medications, and performing minor procedures. In many rural areas and specialty clinics, PAs function with significant autonomy. The scope of practice has been expanding in most states, and the ongoing shortage of primary care physicians continues to drive demand.
PA is a demanding career path but an extremely stable and well-compensated one. Hiring is strong in primary care, surgery, emergency medicine, dermatology, and orthopedics. It's a popular target for people already in healthcare support or clinical roles who want to advance to a prescribing level without completing a full medical degree.
Getting started: PA programs require a bachelor's degree and typically two to three years of direct patient care experience before admission. The competition is stiff and clinical hours matter. PA programs themselves are typically two to three years, leading to a master's degree. Graduates must pass the PANCE national certification exam administered by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. The full path usually takes 6 to 8 years from undergraduate through graduation, but PA programs are more numerous and geographically accessible than medical school programs.
Psychiatric technician
Projected growth by 2034: 20%.
Psychiatric technicians care for people with mental illness and developmental disabilities in inpatient settings: hospitals, residential treatment facilities, and state psychiatric centers. They monitor patients, assist with daily activities, administer medications under supervision, restrain patients in crisis, and document behavioral changes. The work is emotionally demanding and carries real safety risks, but it offers a direct path into behavioral health with relatively low educational requirements.
This occupation is growing because the broader mental health crisis has intensified demand across every level of care, and inpatient facilities have struggled with chronic understaffing. The pay is the lowest of the healthcare roles on this list, which is part of why turnover is high and openings are plentiful. For people who want to enter behavioral health, this is one of the more accessible entry points. Experienced psychiatric techs with additional credentials often advance into counseling or nursing roles.
Getting started: Requirements vary by state and employer. Some positions require only a high school diploma plus on-the-job training; others want a postsecondary certificate or associate's degree in psychiatric technology or a related field. California is notable for having a formal, licensed psychiatric technician credential requiring its own training program and licensure exam. A Certified Psychiatric Technician (CPT) credential from the National Association of Psychiatric Technicians is recognized in many states and demonstrates competency to employers even where licensure isn't required.
Occupational therapy assistant
Projected growth by 2034: 18%.
Occupational therapy assistants (OTAs) help patients, typically people recovering from injuries, surgery, or illness, as well as those with developmental or cognitive disabilities, regain or develop the ability to perform daily tasks: dressing, cooking, writing, working. They implement treatment plans developed by occupational therapists and track patient progress. The work is hands-on and varied, happening in hospitals, schools, nursing homes, outpatient clinics, and increasingly in patients' homes.
OTA is one of the better-compensated associate's-level healthcare support positions. It pays more at the median than physical therapist assistants and considerably more than home health aides, with comparable entry requirements. Demand is driven by the aging population's rising need for rehabilitation and long-term care services, the same demographic force pushing growth across most of this list.
Getting started: OTAs need an associate's degree from an accredited program, which includes supervised clinical fieldwork. After graduation, they must pass the NBCOT certification exam to become a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) and obtain state licensure. The American Occupational Therapy Association maintains a searchable directory of accredited OTA programs across the country. Programs typically take two years and are offered at community colleges and technical schools.
Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselor
Projected growth by 2034: 17%.
Counselors in this field work with people managing addiction, mental health conditions, behavioral disorders, and often several of these at once. The settings range from outpatient clinics and community health centers to residential treatment facilities, jails, hospitals, and schools. The work involves individual and group therapy, case management, crisis intervention, and helping clients build support systems and coping strategies. It's meaningful, difficult, and consistently in high demand.
The mental health crisis has accelerated hiring at every level of this field. Opioid addiction, anxiety and depression rates, and demand for outpatient services are all elevated. The field projects around 48,300 job openings per year on average through 2034, a number that reflects both growth and high turnover, since burnout is a real issue. Counselors who pursue advanced credentials and private practice can earn well above the median. Entry-level positions are more accessible than many healthcare roles.
Getting started: Requirements vary by role and state. Peer recovery specialist positions sometimes require only lived experience and a short training program. Most direct counseling positions require at minimum a bachelor's degree, with many employers preferring a master's in counseling, social work, or a related field. State licensure (typically LCDC, CADC, or similar credentials) usually requires a combination of education, supervised clinical hours, and a written exam. The National Association for Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors (NAADAC) offers nationally recognized credentials that are accepted across many states.
Physical therapist aide
Projected growth by 2034: 16%.
Physical therapist aides handle the support work that keeps PT clinics running: preparing and cleaning treatment areas, transporting patients, setting up equipment, and handling some clerical tasks. Unlike PTAs, aides don't perform therapy. Their role is to support the licensed professionals who do. The pay reflects that distinction, though the position is one of the most accessible entry points into a physical therapy environment.
Many people start as PT aides specifically to gain clinical exposure while completing a PTA or PT degree program. It's a legitimate foot in the door for a field with consistent hiring, and for the right person who wants to see if PT is the right career before committing to a two-year degree, it makes practical sense. The work is physically demanding and the hours often include evenings and weekends to match clinic schedules.
Getting started: Most PT aide positions require only a high school diploma. Training is provided on the job. Some employers prefer candidates with first aid and CPR certification, and any healthcare or customer service experience is helpful. Because aides work directly with patients, reliability, physical stamina, and a calm demeanor matter to employers at least as much as credentials. This is also a role where showing up, doing good work, and expressing interest in advancing tends to lead to employer support for further education.
Home health and personal care aide
Projected growth by 2034: 17%.
Expected new jobs by 2034: 739,800.
Home health and personal care aides assist elderly, disabled, and chronically ill people with daily activities: bathing, dressing, meals, medication reminders, and mobility, either in clients' homes or in residential care settings. It's one-on-one work that requires patience, physical stamina, and genuine care for the people being helped.
No occupation in the United States is projected to add more positions over the next decade. This is both a reflection of how desperately the country needs this workforce and a symptom of how underfunded long-term care remains. The pay is low relative to the physical and emotional demands. For people entering the workforce, returning to work, or looking for immediate employment, this field offers consistent availability, flexible scheduling, and a path into the broader healthcare system if they want to pursue additional credentials.
Getting started: Most positions require a high school diploma or equivalent, and many employers provide paid training. Home health aides working in Medicare- or Medicaid-certified agencies must meet federal training requirements, which vary by state but typically involve 75 hours of classroom and clinical training plus a competency evaluation. State certification requirements differ; some states require a separate Home Health Aide (HHA) or Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) credential. Many community colleges and vocational programs offer CNA training in four to twelve weeks, which broadens employment options and improves pay.
Diagnostic medical sonographer
Projected growth by 2034: 15%.
Diagnostic medical sonographers operate ultrasound equipment to produce images of organs, tissues, and blood flow that physicians use to diagnose and monitor conditions. The work requires strong technical knowledge, steady hands, and the ability to interact calmly with patients, some of whom are anxious or in pain. Sonographers specialize in areas like obstetrics, cardiology, abdominal imaging, and vascular ultrasound. The work is physically demanding in specific ways: positioning the transducer repeatedly puts strain on the wrist, shoulder, and neck.
This is a solid, well-paying healthcare support career that requires less training time than a clinical degree but pays near the median for registered nurses. Demand is driven by an aging population with higher rates of cardiovascular disease, cancer screening needs, and prenatal care. Hospitals, clinics, imaging centers, and physician offices all hire sonographers, which gives some geographic flexibility. It's consistently underpublicized as a career option relative to how well it pays for the educational investment required.
Getting started: Most positions require an associate's or bachelor's degree from an accredited sonography program, plus national registry credentials through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). Programs typically take 18 months to 4 years depending on whether they're certificate, associate's, or bachelor's level. Clinical rotations are included in accredited programs. The ARDMS administers specialty exams (OB/GYN, abdominal, cardiac, vascular) and maintaining certification requires ongoing continuing education.
