The 20 Most In-demand Jobs Over the Next Decade

The fastest-growing, most in-demand job over the next decade sounds like something one might find in a science fiction novel. Solar panel installers, or solar photovoltaic installers, will be in demand through 2028, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ latest employment projections. The BLS anticipates that today’s 9,700 solar photovoltaic installers will grow 63 percent to 15,800 workers over the next 10 years. Those in this position, which involves maintaining, installing and assembling solar panel systems on structures such as rooftops, report a median annual wage of more than $42,000 per year. 

Aside from solar panel work, the BLS indicates that the demand for healthcare workers will also increase greatly. Personal care aides and home health aides top the list of fast-growing occupations, and median annual salaries hover around $24,000 per year. The round-the-clock job is typically associated with low pay for great demands — both mentally and physically — which is expected to become more common as the aging population grows. According to The New York Times, over the past 10 years, home healthcare has grown 150 percent to nearly 2.3 million workers. About one-third of professionals are immigrants, and they are mostly women of color. 

Overall, the BLS anticipates that 8.4 million jobs will come about over the next decade, with an estimated 169.4 million working Americans by 2028. People 65 years of age and older are projected to remain in the workforce longer, while the number of working young Americans between the ages of 16 and 24 will continue to decline. This decrease can be attributed to displaced opportunities as older employees fill positions historically held by younger adults as well as the fact that more young people are going to school.

Service-providing occupations will continue to grow, particularly for those in social assistance and healthcare, construction, and private educational services. However, wholesale trade, retail trade, the federal government, utilities, and manufacturing sectors are expected to lose jobs. 

Below are the top 20 most in-demand jobs over the next decade as well as their educational requirements, projected growth between 2018 and 2028, the number of available jobs in both 2018 and 2028, and their median annual wages.

What Are the 20 Most In-Demand Jobs Over the Next Decade?

1. Solar Photovoltaic Installers

Due to the strong, recent push for sustainable and renewable energy sources, the job market is booming for skilled solar photovoltaic installers. These professionals, to put it simply, are responsible for installing solar panel systems and solar panels in fields, on houses and buildings, and other locations as well as connecting panels to electrical systems, performing maintenance, and troubleshooting. Employment of solar photovoltaic (PV) installers, often called PV installers, is projected to grow 63 percent between 2018 and 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations. However, the long-term outlook is heavily dependent on cost, government incentives, and the continued improvement of PV panels.

Educational Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent, moderate-term on-the-job training
Projected Growth, 2018-2028: 63 percent

• 2018 Total Employment: 9,700
• 2028 Projected Total Employment: 15,800

Median Annual Wage, 2018: $42,680

2. Wind Turbine Service Technicians

Wind turbine service technicians are also in high demand, mainly due to the recent push for renewable energy. Like PV installers, wind turbine service technicians repair, maintain, and install renewable energy systems. Employment of these professionals, also known as windtechs, is expected to grow 57 percent from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations. However, due to the small size of the occupation itself, the growth will only produce about 3,700 new jobs over the next 10 years. The development of taller towers with larger blades has lowered the cost of wind power generation, making it more competitive with natural gas, coal, and other forms of power generation. Therefore, as more are erected, additional service technicians will be needed to install and maintain the turbines.

Educational Requirements: Postsecondary nondegree award, long-term on-the-job training  
Projected Growth, 2018-2028: 57 percent

• 2018 Total Employment: 6,600
• 2028 Projected Total Employment: 10,300

Median Annual Wage, 2018: $54,370

3. Home Health Aides

Home health aides are tasked with providing in-home, personalized assistance to those needed extra help performing day-to-day functions, including those with chronic illnesses, physical disabilities, and cognitive disabilities. Duties of the job may involve assisting in tasks like changing bandages, meal planning and preparation, and bathing or dressing. Overall employment of home health aides is projected to grow 37 percent from 2018 to 2028. As the baby boomers age and the elderly population grows, the demand for the services of home health aides will also continue to increase. Families are becoming more reliant on home care as an alternative to hospitals or nursing homes, while many clients also look to reduce their medical expenses by staying or returning to their homes.

Educational Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent, short-term on-the-job training
Projected Growth, 2018-2028: 37 percent

• 2018 Total Employment: 831,800
• 2028 Projected Total Employment: 1,136,600

Median Annual Wage, 2018: $24,200 

4. Personal Care Aides

Similar to home health aides, personal care aides also serve populations who need extra care and help with their daily living requirements. However, personal care aides are more focused on providing non-medical services. Duties may include housekeeping, keeping their clients engaged, driving or arranging transportation, bathing and dressing, and helping with meal planning and preparation. Employment of personal care aides is projected to grow 36 percent between 2018 and 2028, resulting in the addition of more than 881,000 jobs over the next decade. Personal care aides may find employment with private households, residential care facilities, and public or private agencies.

Educational Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent, short-term on-the-job training
Projected Growth, 2018-2028: 36 percent

• 2018 Total Employment: 2,421,200
• 2028 Projected Total Employment: 3,302,100

Median Annual Wage, 2018: $24,020 

5. Occupational Therapy Assistants

Occupational therapy assistants help with various therapeutic activities in occupational therapy settings such as social service agencies, nursing homes, hospitals, and educational facilities. Daily duties may include helping adolescents with developmental disabilities in coordination and socialization exercises, assisting with rehabilitative and/or stretching exercises, recording the progress of their patients, and teaching patients to use special assistive equipment. Employment of occupational therapy assistants is projected to grow 33 percent over the next decade, resulting in about 14,500 new jobs. Demand for skilled occupational therapy assistants is anticipated to grow in response to the health needs of a growing elderly population and the aging baby-boom generation.

Educational Requirements: Associate degree, short-term on-the-job training
Projected Growth, 2018-2028: 33 percent

• 2018 Total Employment: 43,800
• 2028 Projected Total Employment: 58,300

Median Annual Wage, 2018: $57,620  

6. Information Security Analysts

Nearly every aspect of society depends on how well complex information systems can function. As a result, information security analysts play a critical role in the security and safety of our information. These professionals must have thorough technical knowledge of protective measures, threats to data security, software, hardware, and information systems. This occupation is projected to grow 32 percent over the next 10 years, particularly as a result of the increasing frequency of cyberattacks. Financial institutions and banks, as well as other industries such as healthcare, will need to increase their information security capabilities to prepare for growing cybersecurity threats and protect personal data and privacy.

Educational Requirements: Bachelor’s degree
Projected Growth, 2018-2028: 32 percent

• 2018 Total Employment: 112,300
• 2028 Projected Total Employment: 147,700

Median Annual Wage, 2018: $98,350  

7. Physician Assistants

There is no shortage of demand for good help, especially in the medical sciences. Physician assistants work alongside healthcare workers, surgeons, and doctors to perform duties such as educating patients on care procedures, assessing treatment progress, and collecting and reviewing patients’ medical histories. Physician assistants can be found in all areas of medicine, including specializations such as geriatric care, podiatry, surgery, emergency medicine, psychiatry, and family care. Employment of physician assistants is expected to grow 31 percent over the next decade, and this demand will increase due to the aging and growing population. Job prospects are particularly attractive for those working in rural and medically underserved areas.

Educational Requirements: Master’s degree 
Projected Growth, 2018-2028: 31 percent

• 2018 Total Employment: 118,800
• 2028 Projected Total Employment: 155,700

Median Annual Wage, 2018: $108,610

8. Statisticians

Statisticians are tasked with analyzing and applying data. Utilizing advanced knowledge of mathematics, prediction, and statistical interpretation, these professionals work with insurance and finance companies, universities, research institutions, and healthcare services, among others, to predict outcomes and trends. To do so, they design experiments, polls, and surveys and apply statistical and mathematical principles to anticipate problems and trace them to their source. With organizations of all sizes and sorts relying on statisticians to help make critical decisions, the field is projected to grow 31 percent over the next 10 years. Growth is expected to result from the more widespread use of statistical analysis to make informed policy, healthcare, and business decisions.

Educational Requirements: Master’s degree 
Projected Growth, 2018-2028: 31 percent

• 2018 Total Employment: 44,400
• 2028 Projected Total Employment: 58,000

Median Annual Wage, 2018: $87,780 

9. Nurse Practitioners

Nurse practitioners, also known as advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), can act as specialty or primary care providers, prescribing care plans and assessing patient needs. Duties may include consulting with physicians or other medical professionals, prescribing and administering medication, conducting and analyzing tests, and performing physical examinations. Like doctors, nurse practitioners may be employed within specific areas of medicine such as geriatrics, pediatrics, or general medicine. They can be found working in settings such as residential care facilities, private clinics, and hospitals. Employment of nurse practitioners is projected to grow 28 percent over the next 10 years, resulting in approximately 53,300 new jobs. This growth will occur due to the increased demand for healthcare services from the aging population.

Educational Requirements: Master’s degree 
Projected Growth, 2018-2028: 28 percent

• 2018 Total Employment: $189,100
• 2028 Projected Total Employment: $242,400

Median Annual Wage, 2018: $113,930 

10. Speech-Language Pathologists

Sometimes called speech therapists, speech-language pathologists are tasked with assessing, diagnosing, treating, and helping to prevent swallowing and communication disorders in adults and children. In medical facilities, these professionals work with occupational therapists, physical therapists, psychologists, social workers, surgeons, and physicians. Employment of speech-language pathologists is projected to grow 27 percent from 2018 to 2028, producing approximately 41,900 more jobs over the next 10 years. As the population ages, there will be more instances of health conditions such as dementia or strokes, which can cause language or speech impairments and, therefore, a greater need for professionals to identify and treat these disorders. 

Educational Requirements: Master’s degree
Projected Growth, 2018-2028: 27 percent 

• 2018 Total Employment: 153,700
• 2028 Projected Total Employment: 195,600

Median Annual Wage, 2018: $77,510 

11. Physical Therapist Assistants

Working under the direct supervision of a physical therapist, physical therapist assistants observe and record the status of their patients, educate patients and their families about health maintenance, and help patients with exercise and other therapeutic activities. They may be employed at private physical therapy offices, residential care facilities, hospitals, or through government services. The physical therapist assistant occupation is projected to grow 27 percent between 2018 and 2028. While the baby-boom generation is staying more active later in life than previous generations did, these individuals are also more prone to strokes, heart attacks, and mobility-related injuries, thereby increasing the demand for the physical therapy necessary for rehabilitation.

Educational Requirements: Associate degree, short-term on-the-job training
Projected Growth, 2018-2028: 27 percent

• 2018 Total Employment: 98,400
• 2028 Projected Total Employment: 125,000

Median Annual Wage, 2018: $58,040 

12. Genetic Counselors

As the title suggests, genetic counselors are responsible for assessing risks and inherited conditions as they pertain to genetics and then counseling clients on the results. In particular, genetic counselors analyze and predict genetic complications, including birth defects or genetic disorders, in order to assist families and individuals who are considering having children. Developments and lab tests in genomics, as well as other ongoing technological innovations, are providing genetic counselors with opportunities to conduct more types of analyses. Therefore, the job outlook for genetic counselors is favorable, with employment expected to grow 27 percent from 2018 to 2028. However, because genetic counseling is a small occupation, this rapid growth will produce only around 800 jobs over the next 10 years.

Educational Requirements: Master’s degree 
Projected Growth, 2018-2028: 27 percent

• 2018 Total Employment: 3,000
• 2028 Projected Total Employment: 3,800

Median Annual Wage, 2018: $80,370  

13. Mathematicians

Beyond simply crunching numbers, mathematicians help businesses and organizations solve and prevent problems through data prediction and analysis. Therefore, they must possess strong analytical skills as well as solid communication skills in order to translate their findings into terms easily understood by those not familiar with mathematical concepts. Since the amount of digitally stored data is projected to increase over the next 10 years as more companies and people conduct business online and use smartphones and social media, businesses will increasingly rely on mathematicians to analyze the data and information collected. As a result, employment of mathematicians is projected to grow 26 percent over the next decade and produce about 700 new jobs.

Educational Requirements: Master’s degree 
Projected Growth, 2018-2028: 26 percent

• 2018 Total Employment: 2,900
• 2028 Projected Total Employment: 3,600

Median Annual Wage, 2018: $101,900

14. Operations Research Analysts

Governments, corporations, and businesses rely on operations research analysts to analyze and solve logistical problems. Their goal is to improve a company’s marketing, pricing models, supply chains, and operations. To accomplish this, operations research analysts are tasked with assessing and gathering data, developing simulations and creating predictive models, compiling reports and memos, and advising executives and managers on the best courses of action. Employment of operations research analysts is projected to grow 26 percent from 2018 to 2028, mainly due to technological advances that have made it easier and faster for organizations to get data.

Educational Requirements: Bachelor’s degree 
Projected Growth, 2018-2028: 26 percent

• 2018 Total Employment: 109,700
• 2028 Projected Total Employment: 137,900

Median Annual Wage, 2018: $83,390  

15. Software Developers, Applications

Regardless of their specific focus, whether that be creating learning apps for children or productivity apps for busy professionals, all software developers who focus on applications are responsible for analyzing, designing, and testing applications as well as troubleshooting issues and recommending upgrades for employers and clients. Applications software developers may find work in software publishing, application design firms, corporations, manufacturing companies, and insurance or financial companies. Due to the development of cloud-based computing, tablets, smartphones, and more accessible computer technologies, the demand for software developers with a specialization in applications is projected to increase 26 percent from 2018 to 2028. 

Educational Requirements: Bachelor’s degree 
Projected Growth, 2018-2028: 26 percent

• 2018 Total Employment: 944,200
• 2028 Projected Total Employment: 1,185,700

Median Annual Wage, 2018: $103,620 

16. Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists

Forest fire inspectors and prevention specialists play an important role in society, seeking to understand, prevent, anticipate, and stop wildfires to reduce the loss of human and animal life and habitation. They utilize data to assess at risk-areas to anticipate emergencies. These professionals also have a thorough knowledge of public safety regulations, communications, and issues. Employment of forest fire inspectors and prevention specialists is projected to grow 24 percent over the next 10 years, but since the occupation is small, the rapid growth will only produce about 600 jobs.

Educational Requirements: High school diploma; bachelor’s degree in fire science preferred
Projected Growth, 2018-2028: 24 percent 

• 2018 Total Employment: 2,200
• 2028 Projected Total Employment: 2,800

Median Annual Wage, 2018: $39,600

17. Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary

Postsecondary health specialties teachers instruct others in the intricacies of their chosen field such as veterinary science, therapy, pharmacy, dentistry, or medicine. These professionals are typically employed by trade schools, junior colleges, or four-year universities or colleges. To become a postsecondary health specialties teacher, a professional degree or doctorate is required. Field-specific certification may also be necessary for some positions. The number of students attending postsecondary institutions is projected to increase as students continue to seek higher education. Therefore, the employment of postsecondary health specialties teachers is also expected to grow by as much as 23 percent between 2018 and 2028. 

Educational Requirements: Doctorate or professional degree
Projected Growth, 2018-2028: 23 percent

• 2018 Total Employment: 254,800
• 2028 Projected Total Employment: 313,900

Median Annual Wage, 2018: $97,370

18. Phlebotomists

The primary job of a phlebotomist is to draw blood for research, donations, transfusions, and blood tests. Therefore, this occupation requires thorough knowledge of medical practices, medical terminology, and medicine. Phlebotomists may find employment in a variety of medical settings, including ambulatory healthcare services, blood banks, doctor’s offices, and hospitals. Blood analysis remains a critical function in hospitals and medical laboratories. Therefore, the demand for phlebotomists will remain high as physicians and healthcare professionals require blood work for diagnosis and analysis. The employment of phlebotomists is projected to grow 23 percent over the next decade, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Educational Requirements: Postsecondary nondegree award 
Projected Growth, 2018-2028: 23 percent

• 2018 Total Employment: 128,300
• 2028 Projected Total Employment: 157,800

Median Annual Wage, 2018: $34,480 

19. Physical Therapist Aides

Although physical therapist aides do not perform any physical therapy services or tasks, they play an important supportive role in physical therapy practices. They are responsible for preparing and cleaning up treatment areas, performing clerical tasks, helping patients move between therapy areas, and washing linens. Physical therapist aides may find work in physical therapy practices, including residential care facilities, doctor’s offices, hospitals, and physical therapy offices. Employment of physical therapist aides is projected to grow 23 percent between 2018 and 2028, mainly due to the increasing health needs of the aging population.

Educational Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent, short-term on-the-job training
Projected Growth, 2018-2028: 23 percent

• 2018 Total Employment: 49,800
• 2028 Projected Total Employment: 61,200

Median Annual Wage, 2018: $26,240  

20. Medical Assistants

Medical assistants play a critical role in many different medical settings. These professionals perform basic healthcare duties such as measuring vital signs, preparing fluid samples, and administering medications and injections as well as complete daily administrative tasks such as scheduling, data entry, and record-keeping. Employment of medical assistants is expected to grow 23 percent over the next decade. As the aging baby-boom population grows, so will the demand for preventive medical services, which are typically provided by physicians. As a result, physicians will look to hire additional medical assistants who can perform routine clinical and administrative duties and allow the doctors to see more patients.

Educational Requirements: Postsecondary nondegree award
Projected Growth, 2018-2028: 23 percent

• 2018 Total Employment: 686,600
• 2028 Projected Total Employment: 841,500

Median Annual Wage, 2018: $33,610  

Conclusion

Following the recent recession, many Americans are anxious about their job prospects over the next 10 years. Workers find themselves looking upon an uncertain future in an increasingly connected and globalized political and economic landscape. While some may inherit businesses and careers from their families, and some may choose to pursue their passions, others are left asking: What comes next? 

Workers who have lost their jobs through cutbacks, layoffs, or outsourcing find themselves facing alternative career choices as well as the additional educational requirements to prepare for these occupations. Older workers are often talked into early retirement, while new college graduates are struggling to find entry-level positions. Still others are looking for other forms of employment after experiencing little in terms of salary advancement.

Fortunately, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. As we have seen, many of the top 20 most in-demand jobs over the next 10 years reflect our increasing dependence upon, and fascination with, technology. Others revolve around the country’s changing demographics, particularly due to the aging of the baby boomer generation. Some jobs grow from the need for renewable, new energy sources, while still others are centered upon our need for established energy sources. Regardless, there are plenty of rewarding, lucrative, and available career options for determined job-seekers in America. We hope that the above list of the 20 most in-demand jobs over the next decade serves as a helpful starting point.

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