6 of the Best Jobs for the Future

You’re looking at news headlines and seeing a lot of changes in the economy. Thanks to automation, robotics, and artificial intelligence, many jobs that exist now might not exist in a few years. Many people are wondering what the best jobs for the future are.

Paying attention to trends within different industries can help guide you on the job hunt. In this article, I am covering future-oriented jobs that have: high demand, competitive compensation, and longer-term stability.

Whether you’re starting a career search, just curious, or considering making a career change, I'm covering some careers you should consider in your search to find a career that’s the right fit for you.

AI and Machine Learning Specialists 

 

• Education: Bachelor’s degree or above

• Median Pay: $136,000

The workforce is witnessing the transformative power of artificial intelligence across industries. As businesses start to tap into the power of AI, there is an increasing need for experts who can design, implement, and maintain AI and machine learning systems.

Careers focused on these tools are good for individuals with a strong analytical mindset, a passion for solving complex problems, and an innate curiosity about how new technologies work. Being detail-oriented and having the ability to think critically about complex systems can also help you excel in this type of role.

To get started, you’ll need a bachelor's degree in computer science, data science, or a related field. Many specialists also pursue master's or doctoral degrees in AI, machine learning, or specialized areas of computer science. If you don’t meet those educational requirements, there are a number of certification courses you can take, such as OpenAI’s prompt engineering course.

When you’re looking for an AI or machine learning role, start your search with a tech-specific job board. Companies ranging from large tech giants to small startups are constantly on the lookout for talent to fill the surging demand for AI. Look for networking opportunities with professional organizations dedicated to AI research and development as well. This can help you get in front of the right people who might be able to give you a job on the spot. 

 

Renewable Energy Technicians 

 

• Education: Associate degree or applicable experience

• Salary: $39,810

The global push for sustainable energy solutions has increased the importance of renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydropower. As a result, there's a growing demand for technicians skilled in these renewable technologies.

People who excel in this field often have a strong interest in environmental science, coupled with practical skills like engineering and mechanics. An appreciation for hands-on work, combined with a desire to make a tangible difference in the world, can make this a rewarding long-term career as demand continues to grow.

The educational requirements for renewable energy technicians are fairly minimal. You’ll need an associate degree in renewable energy technology or prior work experience. Because demand is so high, many companies offer on-the-job training that provides you with the practical experience you’ll need to be successful.

To find a job as a renewable energy technician, look for companies in the green tech sector. Many companies regularly hire technicians to install, maintain, and optimize renewable energy systems.

Genetic Counselors 

 

• Education: Bachelors or above

• Salary: $89,990

Rapid advancements in genetic testing are opening doors to new opportunities that were previously inconceivable. Genetic counselors can play an important role for consumers by guiding individuals through potential health risks, genetic conditions, and the implications of genetic test results.

To start, you’ll need a bachelor's degree in biology, ideally emphasizing genetics. A master’s degree with clinical experience may also be helpful. You’ll need a deep understanding of genetics and strong interpersonal skills in this profession. Being empathetic, communicative, and simplifying complex genetic information for patients is key.

If this sounds like a career that might be a good fit for you, inquire about genetic counseling opportunities at local hospitals, research institutions, and private clinics. With direct-to-consumer genetic testing products, like 23andMe, growing in popularity, companies in this sector may also hire genetic counselors to add greater value to their customers.

Mental Health Professionals 

 

• Education: Master’s or above

• Salary: $49,740+

Society and culture have changed tremendously over the past few years, making mental health more important than ever. This shift, combined with a growing destigmatization of mental well-being, has led to a surge in demand for mental health professionals, including therapists, counselors, and psychologists.

Individuals who thrive in this profession are compassionate, patient, and possess a genuine desire to help others navigate their emotional and psychological challenges. Good listening skills, empathy, and the ability to create a safe space for clients are paramount.

The educational requirements for mental health professionals will vary based on the specific role. A licensed professional counselor might require a master's degree in counseling or psychology, while clinical psychologists often need a doctoral degree. Licensure, which involves both education and supervised clinical experience, is also a requirement you’ll have to meet.

Those looking to embark on a career in mental health can explore opportunities in hospitals, private practices, schools, and community health centers. Additionally, the rise of teletherapy platforms has created a new avenue for professionals to offer their services remotely.

 

Digital Content Creators 

• Education: No Minimum

• Salary: $50,000+

According to Grand View Research, the digital content creator economy is expected to increase by 13.5% by the end of the decade. Platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Spotify have made it easy for individuals to create content and turn it into a viable career. Thanks to these different mediums, digital content creators, ranging from vloggers to podcasters, have carved out spaces where they can express, inform, entertain, and even educate their audiences.

Success as a digital content creator hinges on creativity, authenticity, and an understanding of your audience. The top digital content creator of 2022 made $110 million! While formal education might not be a strict requirement, courses in digital marketing, video production, or sound editing can provide valuable skills. Jobs like Social Media Manager can take your digital content creation career to the next level.

Getting started as a digital content creator is easy. All you need to do is start posting. Choose a platform that aligns with your strengths and interests. Begin building a content library to share with your audience. Network with other creators, attend digital content workshops, and stay updated with platform-specific trends. With dedication and a unique voice, monetization opportunities—from ad revenues to brand partnerships—can follow.

 

Elderly Care Specialists 

 

• Education: Certification or above

• Salary: $30,180+

The world is getting older. Thanks to this shift, there’s a growing need for workers to care for the world’s aging population. Elderly care specialists, trained to cater to the physical, emotional, and social needs of older adults, will see a surge in demand as the world grapples with this demographic change.

Individuals who excel in this profession often possess a mix of medical knowledge, patience, compassion, and strong interpersonal skills. They are able to understand and meet the needs of the elderly, from managing chronic illnesses to offering companionship.

Educational and training requirements vary based on the specific role within elderly care. For instance, geriatric nurses or gerontologists might need formal degrees and certifications, while personal care aides might not need any formal education at all.

There is a wide variety of opportunities within the realm of elder care. You can find job opportunities in senior living communities, home care agencies, hospitals, and specialized elderly care clinics. As overall demand grows, there's going to be a rising trend of specialized care services focusing on holistic well-being, memory care, and rehabilitation that professionals in this sector can tap into.

How to Find the Best Career Path for the Next Decade – and Beyond

Once you’ve looked at all of the new opportunities on the horizon, you’ll want to devise a game plan to find the best plan for you. Follow these steps to set yourself up for success in the years to come.

• Leverage Salary Tools: Use online tools from websites like CareerFitter’s job search tool, Glassdoor, Payscale, or Salary.com. This will help you gauge the average compensation for specific roles and locations to make sure you land a competitive salary.

• Do a Self-Assessment: Evaluate your strengths, interests, and values. Consider taking a career personality assessment to gain insights into professions that align with your innate preferences.

• Conduct an Industry Analysis: Research industries showing strong growth potential over the next decade. Look for sectors resilient to economic downturns and those poised to benefit from technological and societal shifts.

• Develop Your Skills: Identify the skills and qualifications required for your desired career path. Invest in continued education, whether it's a formal program, online courses, or workshops, to ensure you're well-prepared for the future job market.

• Network Strategically: Engage with professionals in your target industry. Attend conferences, join relevant associations, and leverage platforms like LinkedIn to build connections. Networking can provide insights into industry trends and open doors to job opportunities.

• Plan for Uncertainties: Stay informed about global and local economic trends. Familiarize yourself with recession-proof jobs in the industry you’re targeting and identify strategies on how to prepare for layoffs, just in case. Having a backup plan can offer peace of mind in unpredictable times.

• Continue to Learn: The future job market will value adaptability. Take supplemental courses and hit the books to stay competitive. This can also help you improve your skills and command a higher salary.

Which Job is Right for Me?

With so many new career options, finding the one that resonates with your strengths, values, and passions can feel overwhelming. It's not just about the paycheck or job demand – it's about aligning your work with who you truly are. 

Recognizing your unique talents and understanding how they fit into the professional world is the key to finding a career you love. Using career assessments and career tests can help you learn more about yourself while putting you on the right path to discover a career that's genuinely meant for you.