5 Jobs That Will Grow 30 Percent Over the Next Decade

August 17, 2017

These are somewhat uncertain economic times. Despite the fact that the unemployment rate is 4.3 percent — the lowest it’s been in years — fears about the future persist. Many workers are concerned about automation and how it will impact their profession. Also, wages are growing slowly and have been for quite some time.

At the end of the day, the job market is just like everything else — the only constant is change. So, it’s important to have our finger on the pulse of the economy in order to prepare for the future. Here are a few jobs that are expect to grow significantly in the years to come, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

1. Nurse practitioners.

Nurse practitioners currently earn a median salary of $91,357 annually, according to PayScale’s survey. These professionals are expected to enjoy excellent job security for years to come. The work requires extensive education and training. Nurse practitioners have at least a master’s degree, and they’re expected to pursue ongoing education in order to stay up-to-date. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects there will be 10,000 to 49,999 new jobs created in this profession between 2014 and 2024.

2. Wind turbine service technicians.

Alternative energy sources are expected to expand considerably over the course of the next few years. Technicians who know how to service these turbines should be in high demand. These workers often learn their trade by attending a technical school and through on-the-job training. This job is expected to grow by 108 percent from 2014 to 2024, according to the BLS.

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3. Personal financial advisors.

Expect around 50,000 new jobs for personal financial advisors in the years to come. As life expectancy expands, and as baby boomers (and other generations) age and face retirement, the need for personal financial advisors should grow. These professionals currently earn a median annual salary of $60,377.

4. Physical therapists and related occupations.

Another profession that’s expected to grow thanks to the aging baby-boomer population is that of physical therapists. Several other related jobs also made the list. Physical therapist aides and physical therapist assistants are also projected to grow by 30 percent or more between 2014 and 2024.

5. Commercial divers.

Commercial divers work to install, repair, etc., structures or equipment that are beneath the surface of the water. It is a significantly male-dominated field: 97 percent of commercial divers are male, according to PayScale data. Jobs in the profession are expected to grow by 34 percent between 2014 and 2024. These workers, who must be experienced swimmers and divers, typically require additional training from employers. The work of commercial divers is dangerous and not for the faint of heart.