5 Hot Career Fields to Consider in 2024

The New Year offers each of us a blank slate of opportunities. Whether you’re a military professional planning to transition into civilian life soon or you’re a working professional simply seeking a change, now is the perfect time to assess your career options. Begin by evaluating your interests, aligning them with your skillset, and considering your ideal work environment. Be sure to consider the projected job growth in your chosen field, as this can significantly impact your chances of securing a job. As we step into 2024, start planning for your future success today.  

Here are 5 in-demand career fields to consider in 2024:

1. Data Analysts and Data Scientists

In this age of information, the demand for individuals who can interpret and provide insights from data continues to grow. Data scientists are projected to see a 35% increase in job opportunities from 2022-2032, with 17,700 annual job openings. A bachelor’s degree is required in most cases, and with a median salary of $103,500/year, this field is ideal for those who enjoy working with numbers.  

 2. Renewable Energy Specialists

Sustainable energy is the way of the future, with green growth leading to opportunities in many environmentally-focused occupations. The Bureau of Labor and Statistics forecasts a 45% growth rate for wind turbine service technicians (median salary of $57,320/yr) and a 22% growth rate for solar photovoltaic installers (median salary of $45,230/yr) from 2022-2032. Other career opportunities in the renewable energy space include environmental scientists and specialists, environmental science and protection technicians, environmental engineers, conservation scientists, and environmental engineering technologists and technicians. With the United States targeting 80% renewable energy generation by 2030, this industry holds a lot of growth potential. 

 3. Information Security Analysts/ Cybersecurity Experts

In the face of increasing cyber threats, the demand for Information Security Analysts and Cybersecurity Experts is expected to increase by 32% between 2022-2032. This field offers a rewarding career in safeguarding against cybercriminals and averages a median salary of $112,000 per year. With a 300% increase in reported cybercrimes since 2020 and 600,000 cybersecurity jobs currently unfilled in the U.S., the demand for skilled cybersecurity experts is critical.

4. Healthcare Professionals

With 1.8 million job openings projected annually, the healthcare industry is expected to grow much faster than average from 2022-2032. Healthcare occupations are expected to account for 2 out of every 5 new jobs added to the economy through 2032. If helping people is your passion, consider in-demand roles like a nurse practitioner, medical and health services manager, physician assistant, physical therapist, or dentist. The healthcare industry is currently experiencing a talent crisis, offering ample opportunities for those looking to make a difference. Check out this Healthcare Occupations Outlook Handbook from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics for more information about types of healthcare careers, growth projections, average salary, and more.

 5. Software Developers

With a job growth outlook of 25% between 2022-2032, a career as a software developer, quality assurance analyst, or tester is a great option if computer applications or program design is your passion. Software developer was recently listed as #1 on US News & World Report’s 2023 100 Best Jobs list.  You’ll likely need a bachelor’s degree in computer and information technology or a related field to get a foot in the door, and the median pay is $124,200/ year. There’s a pressing demand for software developers in the future, with the International Data Corporation (IDC) predicting a global shortage of 4 million developers by 2025.

As you contemplate your next career move, be sure to explore these promising fields. For more inspiration, check out the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ list of the 20 occupations with the highest projected growth rate, or browse U.S. News & World Report’s 2023 100 Best Jobs.

Consider leveraging Orion Talent’s Job Search & Recruiting services to find opportunities with top employers. There are plenty of opportunities for skilled talent nationwide here.  If you’re a military veteran, consider a recruiter-assisted job search. Or, direct apply with any of our valued HirePurpose partners. Browse their Career Pages and apply for open positions here: Featured HirePurpose Military Jobs Network Partners and HirePurpose Diversity Careers.  There are plenty of opportunities waiting for you. Take charge of your future today. 

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