The day-to-day work of helping injured patients move more freely requires a mix of skillful, hands-on care and organizational acumen. Physical therapist assistants (PTAs) are part of a clinical team that makes sure that both clients and the business side of a therapy practice move smoothly. Just as physical therapists aid doctors in creating and executing treatment plans, assistants aid therapists in helping patients with movement difficulties caused by injury or disease. They're tasked with everything from cleaning therapy spaces to recording accurate data on patient progress, teaching proper exercise techniques, and showing patients how to use crutches or canes.
This career is growing more quickly than most other healthcare jobs, and at a much faster rate than the jobs of physical therapists that oversee them. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment growth for PTAs should average 45.7 percent between 2010 and 2020.
Salary
According to the BLS, PTAs earned a median salary of $51,040 in 2011. The best-paid earned about $71,200, while the lowest-paid earned less than $32,030. While the largest number of jobs are centered in large cities such as Chicago or New York, the top-paying metropolitan areas for this career are in Texas.Salary Range
75th Percentile $60,250
Median $51,040
25th Percentile $41,320
Training
Many PTA programs offer two-year associate's degrees, but students must graduate from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) to be eligible for the licensure exam required by most states. About a quarter of that education should be in a clinical environment, and that's where the job hunt should start, experts say.
2013/3/30
Epidemiologist - The 100 Best Jobs and Careers for 2013
Whether they are investigating the triggers of an infection at a public health agency or collecting blood samples at an outpatient care center, epidemiologists examine the causes of diseases to prevent them from transmitting and recurring. “The role is basically like a public health officer for the hospital,” says Tom Talbot, an infectious disease physician who has worked at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville for nine years. An epidemiologist chiefly conducts infection surveillance—tracking infections, reading the data yielded, assessing where problems may reside, and deciding where intervention is needed. Talbot says epidemiologists have the opportunity to provide thoughtful, scientific analysis to help improve the care of patients and the safety of healthcare workers. “There are lots of unanswered questions that bright, energetic people are needed to help address,” he says. These professionals might work at hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, or in colleges, universities, and professional schools.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts employment growth of about 35.8 percent between 2010 and 2020, faster than the average for all occupations. Job prospects look promising, especially for epidemiologists and medical scientists looking to work in pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing or at outpatient care centers.
Salary
Epidemiologists rank in the top tier of best-paid healthcare workers. In fact, these medical professionals raked in a comfortable $64,220 in 2011. The highest-paid epidemiologists cross the $100,000-mark, earning a whopping $100,020. The lowest-paid earn about $43,380. Areas of the industry that pay well include outpatient care centers and scientific research and development services. The best-compensated in the profession live in the metro areas of San Diego, Oakland, Calif., and San Francisco.Salary Range
75th Percentile $80,170
Median $64,220
25th Percentile $51,830
Training
Most employers require epidemiologists earn at least a master’s degree in public health from an accredited postsecondary institution. Some epidemiologists go a step further, earning Ph.Ds. in their chosen fields. Pertinent epidemiology coursework includes public health, biology, and biostatistics, and classes might emphasize statistical design. Many epidemiologists also hold medical degrees. In fact, med students spend their first two years taking courses in anatomy, biochemistry, physiology, pharmacology, psychology, microbiology, pathology, medical ethics, and laws governing medicine. Internships or shadowing opportunities are recommended for those interested in gaining experience in the profession.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts employment growth of about 35.8 percent between 2010 and 2020, faster than the average for all occupations. Job prospects look promising, especially for epidemiologists and medical scientists looking to work in pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing or at outpatient care centers.
Salary
Epidemiologists rank in the top tier of best-paid healthcare workers. In fact, these medical professionals raked in a comfortable $64,220 in 2011. The highest-paid epidemiologists cross the $100,000-mark, earning a whopping $100,020. The lowest-paid earn about $43,380. Areas of the industry that pay well include outpatient care centers and scientific research and development services. The best-compensated in the profession live in the metro areas of San Diego, Oakland, Calif., and San Francisco.Salary Range
75th Percentile $80,170
Median $64,220
25th Percentile $51,830
Training
Most employers require epidemiologists earn at least a master’s degree in public health from an accredited postsecondary institution. Some epidemiologists go a step further, earning Ph.Ds. in their chosen fields. Pertinent epidemiology coursework includes public health, biology, and biostatistics, and classes might emphasize statistical design. Many epidemiologists also hold medical degrees. In fact, med students spend their first two years taking courses in anatomy, biochemistry, physiology, pharmacology, psychology, microbiology, pathology, medical ethics, and laws governing medicine. Internships or shadowing opportunities are recommended for those interested in gaining experience in the profession.
Veterinary Technologist & Technician - The 100 Best Jobs and Careers for 2013
Veterinary technologists and technicians are sort of like animal nurses: They handle lab work, radiology, nursing care, surgery assistance, and dozens of other tasks. "We do everything except diagnose, prescribe, and do surgery," says Julie Legred, a veterinary technician and board member at the National Association of Veterinary Technicians. They often work in private clinics and animal hospitals, assisting veterinarians with the care of animals. While the job might sound like a lot of fun, Legred is quick to point out that "it's not just holding puppies." She adds: "You're not going to make a lot of money, you have to pick up poo, and you get peed on." In other words, the work isn't glamorous, so only those with a real commitment to animal care tend to stay in the field.
As with veterinarians, the number of jobs for veterinary technologists and technicians is expected to surge between 2010 and 2020: The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a growth rate of 52 percent. The BLS attributes that growth to the increasing importance of pets to Americans, along with their willingness to pay for more advanced medical treatments.
Salary
The BLS reports that veterinary technologists and technicians earned a median salary of $30,140 in 2011. The highest-paid workers earned $44,740, while the lowest-paid workers earned $20,880. Technologists and technicians working in scientific fields and university settings tend to earn the most, and top-paying metropolitan areas include Sacramento, Calif., Madison, Wis., and San Jose, Calif.Salary Range
75th Percentile $36,660
Median $30,140
25th Percentile $25,010
Training
Veterinary technologists and technicians earn two- or four-year degrees in veterinary technology. While they share many of the same responsibilities, technologists typically hold four-year bachelor's degrees in veterinary technology, whereas technicians hold two-year associate's degrees. They must also pass an exam and become certified, licensed, or registered, depending on the state. Strong science and math backgrounds are important, says Legred, since much of the job involves drug calculations and lab tests.
Reviews & Advice
Legred urges aspiring veterinary technologists and technicians to find a local vet tech and speak to them about their job. Since there are more than 11 specialties in the field, including clinical pathology and emergency care, jobs can vary widely. Legred says gaining strong math and science backgrounds early in one's education is key, along with cultivating passion for the job.
As with veterinarians, the number of jobs for veterinary technologists and technicians is expected to surge between 2010 and 2020: The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a growth rate of 52 percent. The BLS attributes that growth to the increasing importance of pets to Americans, along with their willingness to pay for more advanced medical treatments.
Salary
The BLS reports that veterinary technologists and technicians earned a median salary of $30,140 in 2011. The highest-paid workers earned $44,740, while the lowest-paid workers earned $20,880. Technologists and technicians working in scientific fields and university settings tend to earn the most, and top-paying metropolitan areas include Sacramento, Calif., Madison, Wis., and San Jose, Calif.Salary Range
75th Percentile $36,660
Median $30,140
25th Percentile $25,010
Training
Veterinary technologists and technicians earn two- or four-year degrees in veterinary technology. While they share many of the same responsibilities, technologists typically hold four-year bachelor's degrees in veterinary technology, whereas technicians hold two-year associate's degrees. They must also pass an exam and become certified, licensed, or registered, depending on the state. Strong science and math backgrounds are important, says Legred, since much of the job involves drug calculations and lab tests.
Reviews & Advice
Legred urges aspiring veterinary technologists and technicians to find a local vet tech and speak to them about their job. Since there are more than 11 specialties in the field, including clinical pathology and emergency care, jobs can vary widely. Legred says gaining strong math and science backgrounds early in one's education is key, along with cultivating passion for the job.
School Psychologist - The 100 Best Jobs and Careers for 2013
The responsibilities of school psychologists extend well beyond lending an ear to uneasy parents and troubled administrators about the academic struggles of a student. As a researcher, they comb through test scores to analyze whether a child is a candidate for special services. Other techniques used to assess a child's needs include observation, review of school records, and consultation with parents and school personnel. Administration is also a critical component of the occupation, as school psychologists are responsible for maintaining special education reports, confidential records, records of services provided, and behavioral data. While a majority of school psychologists work in the school system, they can also work in residential treatment centers, local mental health agencies, or start their own private practice.
In the coming years, classrooms will swell and educate more students who have special needs, learning disabilities, and behavioral issues. Schools tending to their needs will increase demand for school psychologists. The Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS) expects employment growth of nearly 22 percent in the occupation by 2020.
Salary
According to the BLS, school psychologists earned $67,880 in 2011. The best-paid earned about $110,410 while the lowest-paid earned less than $39,060. Top-paying areas of the industry include employment services, business schools and computer and management training, and scientific research and development services. If you're looking for a position in a geographic area that compensates well, consider the metropolitan areas of Trenton, N.J., San Luis Obispo, Calif., and Hanford, Calif.Salary Range
75th Percentile $88,030
Median $67,880
25th Percentile $50,820
Reviews & Advice
During the final stages of the graduate program, aspiring school psychologists set the wheels in motion for landing a job via an internship. "For a lot of people, their internship turns into a job," explains Kelly Vaillancourt, director of government relations for the National Association of School Psychologists. While school budget cuts in recent years have slowed this trend, Vaillancourt notes that the shortage in school psychologists makes for a very hospitable job market: "It's rare when school psychologists are unable to find employment."
In the coming years, classrooms will swell and educate more students who have special needs, learning disabilities, and behavioral issues. Schools tending to their needs will increase demand for school psychologists. The Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS) expects employment growth of nearly 22 percent in the occupation by 2020.
Salary
According to the BLS, school psychologists earned $67,880 in 2011. The best-paid earned about $110,410 while the lowest-paid earned less than $39,060. Top-paying areas of the industry include employment services, business schools and computer and management training, and scientific research and development services. If you're looking for a position in a geographic area that compensates well, consider the metropolitan areas of Trenton, N.J., San Luis Obispo, Calif., and Hanford, Calif.Salary Range
75th Percentile $88,030
Median $67,880
25th Percentile $50,820
Reviews & Advice
During the final stages of the graduate program, aspiring school psychologists set the wheels in motion for landing a job via an internship. "For a lot of people, their internship turns into a job," explains Kelly Vaillancourt, director of government relations for the National Association of School Psychologists. While school budget cuts in recent years have slowed this trend, Vaillancourt notes that the shortage in school psychologists makes for a very hospitable job market: "It's rare when school psychologists are unable to find employment."
Mechanical Engineer - The 100 Best Jobs and Careers for 2013
It takes creativity to shepherd a theoretical device into a practical reality. To do so, mechanical engineers employ a methodical process that entails research, design, developing, building, and testing various devices. Computers are vital for tweaking a design and gauging how it will function. But to produce a fully refined product, mechanical engineers use grittier items like electric generators, industrial production equipment, and material-handling systems. When confronted with the more complex and analytical portions of the occupation, being a wiz in areas like calculus and trigonometry is a major bonus.
According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS), employment in the field is expected to grow by a little less than 9 percent over the next decade, bringing along 21,300 new positions. But the broad opportunities within that small hiring window should leave aspiring mechanical engineers encouraged. Architecture, alternative energies, remanufacturing, and nanotechnology are subsets of this profession that will have open doors for candidates with the right education and experience. "One of the fun things about engineering is that there's something in it for anybody," says Tom Loughlin, executive director of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers.
Salary
According to the BLS, mechanical engineers earned a median salary of $79,230 in 2011. The best-paid earned about $119,950, while the lowest-paid earned less than $51,340. Areas of the industry that pay well include lessors of real estate, oil and gas extraction, and bakeries and tortilla manufacturing. The top-paying metropolitan areas for the occupation include Idaho Falls, Idaho, Bloomington, Ill., and Sheboygan, Wis.Salary Range
75th Percentile $98,580
Median $79,230
25th Percentile $63,470
Training
For most mechanical engineering jobs, you'll need a bachelor's degree bearing the occupation’s name. Hopeful managers have an even higher educational standard to meet: a master's degree, in most cases. Along with a degree from an accredited program and four years of relevant work experience, those offering their services on an independent basis must pass a state exam for licensure, a requirement in all 50 states as well as the District of Columbia. According to Loughlin, however, an associate's degree can be enough to land an entry-level job.
Reviews & Advice
"Like other professions, it helps to have some inside demonstrative ability in the field," says Loughlin. "Many schools are using capstone-type projects which give students a chance to sharpen their engineering skills, but also their organizational, management, and communication skills." Other professional organizations where you can pick up practical experience and broaden your professional network include Engineers Without Borders, Engineering for Change, and demographic-specific groups like Society of Women Engineers.
According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS), employment in the field is expected to grow by a little less than 9 percent over the next decade, bringing along 21,300 new positions. But the broad opportunities within that small hiring window should leave aspiring mechanical engineers encouraged. Architecture, alternative energies, remanufacturing, and nanotechnology are subsets of this profession that will have open doors for candidates with the right education and experience. "One of the fun things about engineering is that there's something in it for anybody," says Tom Loughlin, executive director of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers.
Salary
According to the BLS, mechanical engineers earned a median salary of $79,230 in 2011. The best-paid earned about $119,950, while the lowest-paid earned less than $51,340. Areas of the industry that pay well include lessors of real estate, oil and gas extraction, and bakeries and tortilla manufacturing. The top-paying metropolitan areas for the occupation include Idaho Falls, Idaho, Bloomington, Ill., and Sheboygan, Wis.Salary Range
75th Percentile $98,580
Median $79,230
25th Percentile $63,470
Training
For most mechanical engineering jobs, you'll need a bachelor's degree bearing the occupation’s name. Hopeful managers have an even higher educational standard to meet: a master's degree, in most cases. Along with a degree from an accredited program and four years of relevant work experience, those offering their services on an independent basis must pass a state exam for licensure, a requirement in all 50 states as well as the District of Columbia. According to Loughlin, however, an associate's degree can be enough to land an entry-level job.
Reviews & Advice
"Like other professions, it helps to have some inside demonstrative ability in the field," says Loughlin. "Many schools are using capstone-type projects which give students a chance to sharpen their engineering skills, but also their organizational, management, and communication skills." Other professional organizations where you can pick up practical experience and broaden your professional network include Engineers Without Borders, Engineering for Change, and demographic-specific groups like Society of Women Engineers.
Interpreter & Translator - The 100 Best Jobs and Careers for 2013
While interpreters and translators are both converters of language, they do so in distinct ways. Sign language interpreters rely upon a set of quick hands and a concentrative mind to relay the words of speaker to a hearing-impaired audience. Acquiring those necessary skills is an involved process. "In order to be fluent, that takes years," says Janet Bailey, government affairs representative for the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf. Interpreters also work in spoken language. Some work settings require not only fluency in a second language, but the ability to interpret that language in relation to a field rich in its own terminology. For example, those assisting non-English speaking individuals in a court room must have a concrete understanding of legal lingo.
Translators rely on the power of a precise pen to convert written materials from one language to another. The aim is to make the cross-language version a carbon copy of its original. While interpreters work in schools, hospitals, courtrooms, and conference centers, translators often labor from the confines of their home. Having a knack for marketing is beneficial for freelance interpreters and translators seeking to broaden their clientele.
As diversity in the United States increases, so too does the demand for spoken-language interpreters. Those fluent in French, German, Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish should consider their job prospects bright. Sign language interpreters should also expect an employment boom. This comes courtesy of video relay, a Skype-like service that enables the deaf to communicate with an interpreter online. Meanwhile, persistent interaction with the rest of the globe and the needs of the military mean increased employment of translators in the years to come. By 2020, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 42 percent growth in employment in the occupation, with a little less than 25,000 new positions.
Salary
According to the BLS, interpreters and translators earned a median of $44,160 in 2011. The best-paid earned about $88,010 while the lowest-paid earned less than $23,710. Areas of the industry that pay well include computers systems design and related services; management, scientific, and technical consulting services; and federal executive branch. According to the BLS, the East Coast is home to the top-paying metropolitan areas of Washington D.C., Syracuse, N.Y., and Newark, N.J.Salary Range
75th Percentile $62,170
Median $44,160
25th Percentile $32,020
Training
In July of 2012, the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf gave a more formal coating to the process of becoming a nationally certified interpreter, requiring that aspiring hearing interpreters have a bachelor's degree before testing. Other organizations, like the American Translators Association and the International Association of Conference Interpreters, offer various forms of certification as well. Between formal education, certification, and state regulations, becoming an interpreter and translator can be an involved process. While having formal education is becoming increasingly important, those seeking to enter the field must, above all else, be fluent in English and another language.
Reviews & Advice
Internships are a great way to gain valuable work experience and give your resume greater appeal. Volunteering, working alongside more experienced interpreters, and networking with those already established in the field are also great avenues for bolstering your job prospects. Some interpreters create their own job market by building up a freelance practice. Occasionally, they will contact agencies for outside jobs.
Translators rely on the power of a precise pen to convert written materials from one language to another. The aim is to make the cross-language version a carbon copy of its original. While interpreters work in schools, hospitals, courtrooms, and conference centers, translators often labor from the confines of their home. Having a knack for marketing is beneficial for freelance interpreters and translators seeking to broaden their clientele.
As diversity in the United States increases, so too does the demand for spoken-language interpreters. Those fluent in French, German, Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish should consider their job prospects bright. Sign language interpreters should also expect an employment boom. This comes courtesy of video relay, a Skype-like service that enables the deaf to communicate with an interpreter online. Meanwhile, persistent interaction with the rest of the globe and the needs of the military mean increased employment of translators in the years to come. By 2020, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 42 percent growth in employment in the occupation, with a little less than 25,000 new positions.
Salary
According to the BLS, interpreters and translators earned a median of $44,160 in 2011. The best-paid earned about $88,010 while the lowest-paid earned less than $23,710. Areas of the industry that pay well include computers systems design and related services; management, scientific, and technical consulting services; and federal executive branch. According to the BLS, the East Coast is home to the top-paying metropolitan areas of Washington D.C., Syracuse, N.Y., and Newark, N.J.Salary Range
75th Percentile $62,170
Median $44,160
25th Percentile $32,020
Training
In July of 2012, the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf gave a more formal coating to the process of becoming a nationally certified interpreter, requiring that aspiring hearing interpreters have a bachelor's degree before testing. Other organizations, like the American Translators Association and the International Association of Conference Interpreters, offer various forms of certification as well. Between formal education, certification, and state regulations, becoming an interpreter and translator can be an involved process. While having formal education is becoming increasingly important, those seeking to enter the field must, above all else, be fluent in English and another language.
Reviews & Advice
Internships are a great way to gain valuable work experience and give your resume greater appeal. Volunteering, working alongside more experienced interpreters, and networking with those already established in the field are also great avenues for bolstering your job prospects. Some interpreters create their own job market by building up a freelance practice. Occasionally, they will contact agencies for outside jobs.
IT Manager - The 100 Best Jobs and Careers for 2013
Computer and information systems managers are the people you frantically call when your office computer breaks, sends you a strange error message, or otherwise doesn't do what you need it to do. These professionals, also known as IT managers, may arrive at work to find an inbox full of these requests and need to decide who best to correct the issue, or at small companies, fix it himself. But the job goes beyond troubleshooting problems. IT managers also install and upgrade an organization's computer system and protect the office network from hackers and malware. When the job is done well, many employees won't even notice the work involved. But if you haven't had an email interruption or server meltdown in the past few months, you probably have an IT manager to thank for it.
While the highest-profile jobs are in computer systems design, almost all organizations need IT managers, especially financial and insurance firms, manufacturing firms, and federal, state, and local governments. The rapidly growing healthcare industry is also expected to greatly increase its IT use, resulting in newly created positions. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts strong employment growth of 18.1 percent between 2010 and 2020. This growth will be driven by organizations upgrading their information technology systems to newer and faster networks and striving to avoid cyber threats. An estimated 55,800 new IT manager positions are expected this decade.
Training
IT managers typically need a bachelor's degree in computer or information science, including coursework in computer programming, software development, and mathematics. Many organizations also require their IT managers to have a graduate degree, such as a Master of Business Administration (MBA). Most spend five to 10 years in an IT occupation before being promoted to manager, but smaller companies generally do not require as much experience as larger companies. Successful IT managers can further advance to IT directors, chief technology officers, and perhaps even chief information officers.
Reviews & Advice
Computer and technical skills are essential, but equally important are management abilities. IT managers need to analyze a problem and pick the best and most cost-effective solution. They need to additionally lead and motivate departments of people to meet the goals of the company. "The most important thing about IT management is knowing enough about a lot of things so you can manage a lot of people who know about different things," says Kapil Patnaik, senior director of IT at TechAmerica. "If you decide to go into management, you have to learn how a system works rather than how a particular project works."
You can distinguish yourself by learning how to solve problems outside your initial area of expertise. "When something breaks, they don't always have to wait on somebody else to manage a simple situation," says Patnaik. "If you expose yourself to different technology and a myriad of situations, then when you start to manage people, you can understand their pain points and where people you are managing are coming from."
While the highest-profile jobs are in computer systems design, almost all organizations need IT managers, especially financial and insurance firms, manufacturing firms, and federal, state, and local governments. The rapidly growing healthcare industry is also expected to greatly increase its IT use, resulting in newly created positions. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts strong employment growth of 18.1 percent between 2010 and 2020. This growth will be driven by organizations upgrading their information technology systems to newer and faster networks and striving to avoid cyber threats. An estimated 55,800 new IT manager positions are expected this decade.
Training
IT managers typically need a bachelor's degree in computer or information science, including coursework in computer programming, software development, and mathematics. Many organizations also require their IT managers to have a graduate degree, such as a Master of Business Administration (MBA). Most spend five to 10 years in an IT occupation before being promoted to manager, but smaller companies generally do not require as much experience as larger companies. Successful IT managers can further advance to IT directors, chief technology officers, and perhaps even chief information officers.
Reviews & Advice
Computer and technical skills are essential, but equally important are management abilities. IT managers need to analyze a problem and pick the best and most cost-effective solution. They need to additionally lead and motivate departments of people to meet the goals of the company. "The most important thing about IT management is knowing enough about a lot of things so you can manage a lot of people who know about different things," says Kapil Patnaik, senior director of IT at TechAmerica. "If you decide to go into management, you have to learn how a system works rather than how a particular project works."
You can distinguish yourself by learning how to solve problems outside your initial area of expertise. "When something breaks, they don't always have to wait on somebody else to manage a simple situation," says Patnaik. "If you expose yourself to different technology and a myriad of situations, then when you start to manage people, you can understand their pain points and where people you are managing are coming from."
2013/3/29
Computer Programmer - The 100 Best Jobs for 2013
On a most basic level, a computer programer writes, well, programs. Programmers will also rewrite, debug, maintain, and test (and retest) software and programs that instruct the computer to accomplish certain tasks—such as storing or retrieving data—so the computer can perform better and more efficiently. A computer programmer will convert what needs to happen into one of many computer languages in existence, the most common of which are C++ and Python. According to Barry Warsaw, Ubuntu platform software engineer for Canonical, a distributor of the Ubuntu Linux operating system, talented programmers have two basic career tracks they can follow: "In some jobs, they traditionally move into management positions, at which point they may program very little or not at all," says Warsaw, who's worked mostly in the free software and open-source world for the past 30 years. "In others, they can retain their programming skills by assuming more technical and project leadership roles."
Programming certainly has its share of stressful days, but it's important to not get worked up. "Being able to stay calm, get enough sleep, eat right, and keep your mental clarity is critical to your long-term survival as a programmer," advises Warsaw. He also recommends that since telecommuting has become a more common perk of computer programmer jobs, it's of vital importance to focus on your work and not get distracted by mundane things like laundry or other errands. "It's also important to step away from the computer when work is done, spend time with family, or just recharge your batteries," he says. "The amount of flexibility you will have to do this depends greatly on your job and employer, but there's no doubt that long-term persistent stress will eventually lead to burnout."
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects computer programmer employment growth of 12 percent between 2010 and 2020, adding 43,700 more professions. The profession’s strong expected growth (as well as high median salary) helped boost computer programmer in our ranking of The Best Jobs of 2013.
Salary
The BLS reports the median annual wage for computer programmers was $72,630 in 2010. The best-paid 10 percent in the field made approximately $115,610 while the bottom 10 percent made approximately $41,710. The highest-paid in the profession work in the metropolitan areas of Rochester, Minn., San Jose, Calif., and Durham, N.C.Salary Range
75th Percentile $92,510
Median $72,630
25th Percentile $54,850
Training
Many computer programmers require at least a bachelor's degree, but a two-year degree or certificate may be adequate for some positions. Some programmers hold a college degree in information systems, computer science, or mathematics. Students seeking software engineering or programming jobs can improve their employment outlook by getting an internship. Large computer and consulting firms often train new employees in intensive, company-based programs.
Reviews & Advice
Warsaw sees programming being pervasive, diverse, and specialized. "You might need knowledge of a particular programming language, or expertise in a particular domain, but you often also need to be a generalist willing to take on any task even if you're not an expert with the technology," recommends Warsaw. "For example, if you are doing front-end Web development, you might need strong visual design skills, experience in user testing, and a knowledge of JavaScript. If you are doing back-end systems development, you might need SQL (database) and multiprocessing experience, along with fluency in the C, C++, Python, Perl, Java, and Ruby languages."
"Two critical skills that I think are underestimated are the ability to learn and the ability to collaborate," says Warsaw. "Learning is crucial to a long career as a programmer because technology changes so quickly. The hot language you are an expert in today may end up being a programming backwater tomorrow." Warsaw, who works with people from all over the world on a daily basis, emphasizes that the ability to clearly communicate ideas and listen to the ideas of others is fundamental to building a successful career. "I think the myth of the lone programmer locked in a dark cubicle is mostly just that, a myth," he says.
Programming certainly has its share of stressful days, but it's important to not get worked up. "Being able to stay calm, get enough sleep, eat right, and keep your mental clarity is critical to your long-term survival as a programmer," advises Warsaw. He also recommends that since telecommuting has become a more common perk of computer programmer jobs, it's of vital importance to focus on your work and not get distracted by mundane things like laundry or other errands. "It's also important to step away from the computer when work is done, spend time with family, or just recharge your batteries," he says. "The amount of flexibility you will have to do this depends greatly on your job and employer, but there's no doubt that long-term persistent stress will eventually lead to burnout."
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects computer programmer employment growth of 12 percent between 2010 and 2020, adding 43,700 more professions. The profession’s strong expected growth (as well as high median salary) helped boost computer programmer in our ranking of The Best Jobs of 2013.
Salary
The BLS reports the median annual wage for computer programmers was $72,630 in 2010. The best-paid 10 percent in the field made approximately $115,610 while the bottom 10 percent made approximately $41,710. The highest-paid in the profession work in the metropolitan areas of Rochester, Minn., San Jose, Calif., and Durham, N.C.Salary Range
75th Percentile $92,510
Median $72,630
25th Percentile $54,850
Training
Many computer programmers require at least a bachelor's degree, but a two-year degree or certificate may be adequate for some positions. Some programmers hold a college degree in information systems, computer science, or mathematics. Students seeking software engineering or programming jobs can improve their employment outlook by getting an internship. Large computer and consulting firms often train new employees in intensive, company-based programs.
Reviews & Advice
Warsaw sees programming being pervasive, diverse, and specialized. "You might need knowledge of a particular programming language, or expertise in a particular domain, but you often also need to be a generalist willing to take on any task even if you're not an expert with the technology," recommends Warsaw. "For example, if you are doing front-end Web development, you might need strong visual design skills, experience in user testing, and a knowledge of JavaScript. If you are doing back-end systems development, you might need SQL (database) and multiprocessing experience, along with fluency in the C, C++, Python, Perl, Java, and Ruby languages."
"Two critical skills that I think are underestimated are the ability to learn and the ability to collaborate," says Warsaw. "Learning is crucial to a long career as a programmer because technology changes so quickly. The hot language you are an expert in today may end up being a programming backwater tomorrow." Warsaw, who works with people from all over the world on a daily basis, emphasizes that the ability to clearly communicate ideas and listen to the ideas of others is fundamental to building a successful career. "I think the myth of the lone programmer locked in a dark cubicle is mostly just that, a myth," he says.
Veterinarian - The 100 Best Jobs for 2013
Veterinarians take care of animals, but they also do much more: They protect the safety of our food supply by inspecting livestock, promote public health by fighting animal-borne diseases, and help foster healthier relationships between people and their animal companions. "Veterinarians work hard to protect the health of humans and animals," says Doug Aspros, a Pound Ridge, N.Y.-based veterinarian and president of the American Veterinary Medical Association. He adds that the field of veterinary medicine is increasingly recognizing the powerful impact that companion animals can have on human emotional health, especially given the growth in the number of people living alone and having fewer children. "The relationship between you and your animal family really represents an area of emotional stability and support," he says, and it's one that veterinarians help foster.
The high growth rate of veterinary jobs—36 percent between 2010 and 2020—reflects the fact that more Americans have pets, and are willing to spend a lot of money on their health and care. Advancements in the field, which now include cancer treatment and even organ transplants, also contribute to the growth, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Salary
The BLS reports that veterinarians earned a median salary of $82,900 in 2011. The best-paid veterinarians earned $141,680, while the lowest-paid earned $50,480. Veterinarians working in research, federal and state government, and university systems tended to be among the highest paid, and top-paying metropolitan areas include New Haven, Conn., Lakeland-Winter Haven, Fla., and Newark, N.J.Salary Range
75th Percentile $106,420
Median $82,900
25th Percentile $65,450
Training
Veterinarians earn a doctor of veterinary medicine degree, which usually takes four years. (Many also first complete a bachelor's degree.) The coursework is science-heavy and also includes clinical rotations. "It's really important that you have a firm foundation in the sciences," says Aspros. He estimates that about half of new graduates from veterinary school go on to pursue additional training or degrees in specialties, such as epidemiology, nutrition, or surgery. Veterinarians who plan to run their own practices often seek business training, says Aspros.
Reviews & Advice
Aspros says earning additional certifications or training can help recent graduates land jobs, and those with strong communication skills are especially marketable. "There was a time when the typical vet was someone who was attracted to working with animals because they had problems working with people. Today, there's no way to be an effective veterinarian without good communication skills," he says. As a result, vet schools are increasingly incorporating communications training into their programs.
The high growth rate of veterinary jobs—36 percent between 2010 and 2020—reflects the fact that more Americans have pets, and are willing to spend a lot of money on their health and care. Advancements in the field, which now include cancer treatment and even organ transplants, also contribute to the growth, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Salary
The BLS reports that veterinarians earned a median salary of $82,900 in 2011. The best-paid veterinarians earned $141,680, while the lowest-paid earned $50,480. Veterinarians working in research, federal and state government, and university systems tended to be among the highest paid, and top-paying metropolitan areas include New Haven, Conn., Lakeland-Winter Haven, Fla., and Newark, N.J.Salary Range
75th Percentile $106,420
Median $82,900
25th Percentile $65,450
Training
Veterinarians earn a doctor of veterinary medicine degree, which usually takes four years. (Many also first complete a bachelor's degree.) The coursework is science-heavy and also includes clinical rotations. "It's really important that you have a firm foundation in the sciences," says Aspros. He estimates that about half of new graduates from veterinary school go on to pursue additional training or degrees in specialties, such as epidemiology, nutrition, or surgery. Veterinarians who plan to run their own practices often seek business training, says Aspros.
Reviews & Advice
Aspros says earning additional certifications or training can help recent graduates land jobs, and those with strong communication skills are especially marketable. "There was a time when the typical vet was someone who was attracted to working with animals because they had problems working with people. Today, there's no way to be an effective veterinarian without good communication skills," he says. As a result, vet schools are increasingly incorporating communications training into their programs.
Occupational Therapist - The 100 Best Jobs for 2013
Occupational therapists work in a number of diverse environments, such as hospitals,rehabilitation centers,schools, small medical offices, and even clients' homes. They serve patients suffering from many different conditions, including mental, physical, emotional, and developmental issues. While the nature of the job might vary substantially, the factor that links all occupational therapists is their overriding goal: To help patients perform daily living and working tasks so they can lead independent, satisfying lives. They help patients with a wide range of activities that are essential to daily life, including eating, cooking, dressing, and operating a computer. Occupational therapists work with patients that range from toddlers to the elderly. Maintaining copious records and assessments of a patient’s progress is crucial to provide the best possible care.
Growth in America's elderly population is expected to keep the job market for occupational therapists especially favorable. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects occupational therapist employment growth of 33.5 percent between 2010 and 2020, adding 36,400 more professionals to the 108,800 already-existing jobs in this field. Good job prospects help this profession rank in the top half of The Best Jobs of 2013.
Salary
The BLS reports the median annual wage for occupational therapists was $73,820 in 2011. The best-paid 10 percent in the profession made approximately $104,350, while the bottom 10 percent made approximately $49,980. The highest-paid in the profession work in the metropolitan areas of Elizabethtown, Ky., Las Vegas, and Coeur d'Alene, Idaho.Salary Range
75th Percentile $88,790
Median $73,820
25th Percentile $61,520
Training
The minimum level of education for occupational therapists is a master's degree in the field. In order to sit for the national certifying exam, occupational therapists must receive their degree from an institution accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education. Fortunately, students have many options. Most occupational therapy programs are a full-time commitment, but a growing number of schools are offering weekend and part-time programs. All accredited programs require a minimum of 24 weeks of supervised fieldwork. After graduation, candidates must pass a national certification test before obtaining their license.
Reviews & Advice
The diversity of the field makes choosing a specialization early important for occupational therapists. "The most important thing a person coming out of school can do is know where their personal professional passion lies," says Maureen Freda Peterson, chief professional affairs officer for the American Occupational Therapy Association. "It's extremely important that they are looking for something that excites them professionally." Peterson emphasizes finding a niche within the field because specialized skills and passion for their work help aspiring occupational therapists stand out among the crowd of candidates.
Growth in America's elderly population is expected to keep the job market for occupational therapists especially favorable. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects occupational therapist employment growth of 33.5 percent between 2010 and 2020, adding 36,400 more professionals to the 108,800 already-existing jobs in this field. Good job prospects help this profession rank in the top half of The Best Jobs of 2013.
Salary
The BLS reports the median annual wage for occupational therapists was $73,820 in 2011. The best-paid 10 percent in the profession made approximately $104,350, while the bottom 10 percent made approximately $49,980. The highest-paid in the profession work in the metropolitan areas of Elizabethtown, Ky., Las Vegas, and Coeur d'Alene, Idaho.Salary Range
75th Percentile $88,790
Median $73,820
25th Percentile $61,520
Training
The minimum level of education for occupational therapists is a master's degree in the field. In order to sit for the national certifying exam, occupational therapists must receive their degree from an institution accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education. Fortunately, students have many options. Most occupational therapy programs are a full-time commitment, but a growing number of schools are offering weekend and part-time programs. All accredited programs require a minimum of 24 weeks of supervised fieldwork. After graduation, candidates must pass a national certification test before obtaining their license.
Reviews & Advice
The diversity of the field makes choosing a specialization early important for occupational therapists. "The most important thing a person coming out of school can do is know where their personal professional passion lies," says Maureen Freda Peterson, chief professional affairs officer for the American Occupational Therapy Association. "It's extremely important that they are looking for something that excites them professionally." Peterson emphasizes finding a niche within the field because specialized skills and passion for their work help aspiring occupational therapists stand out among the crowd of candidates.
2013/3/28
Dental Hygienist - The 100 Best Jobs for 2013
Unlike dentists, whose responsibilities could include diagnosing and treating a patient’s dental problems, dental hygienists are primarily concerned with preventative care. They educate patients on the proper methods to brush and floss teeth, and offer guidance on the best over-the-counter products to use. Usually, they’re also the professionals that remove the harder-to-clean gunk from our teeth and gums—like tartar, stains, and plaque—when we go for a routine dentist visit. As dreaded as a trip to a dentist’s office can be, many of us may avoid the more invasive and painful dental procedures by following the advice and coaching of our hygienist. “When we see a patient’s health improve, we know we’ve done our job, and hopefully encouraged a lifetime of good health habits,” says Pam Quinones, a registered dental hygienist with more than 30 years of experience who serves as immediate past president of the American Dental Hygienists' Association (ADHA).
Job responsibilities can vary slightly by state—for example, there are parts of the country where dental hygienists may place fillings—and not all in this profession work in a private practice. Some choose to use their skills in a research-focused occupation, or to go into clinical practice in a school or public-health program. Employment for all dental hygienists will swell nearly 40 percent by 2020, which is faster than the average growth rate for most professions. In 2010, there were 181,800 hygienists, and that number should increase by nearly 70,000 new positions.
Salary
Most in this profession have earned an associate’s degree in dental hygiene. And increasingly, students are pursuing bachelor’s and master’s degrees to further their career. “There’s even a movement to create a doctoral program for dental hygiene,” says ADHA President Pam Quinones. Following your formal education, it’s preferable to receive some practical experience (like an internship) in a dental office to become better-versed on the job’s day-to-day responsibilities and challenges. Finally, you must receive licensure from the state in which you’ll work.
Reviews & Advice
Working as a dental hygienist isn’t just about scraping plaque and administering oral X-rays. Quinones says a strong work ethic, positive attitude, problem-solving skills, and strong communication skills will benefit someone hoping to enter the position. “Having a wide array of abilities and talents extends the reach of a dental hygiene degree, allowing access to fields outside of private dental practice,” she adds. “By the same token, most of these skills are developed better through experience, and they easily transfer into other arenas.”
Private practice jobs are a little harder to secure given the state of the economy, says Quinones. “However, this also … opens doors for anyone interested in utilizing their dental hygiene skills outside of dental offices,” she says. “Necessity breeds creativity, and this is a chance for dental hygienists to think outside the box, look at their skills, and apply them to a new career path.”Job Satisfaction
Upward Mobility Below Average
Stress Level Average
Flexibility High
Job responsibilities can vary slightly by state—for example, there are parts of the country where dental hygienists may place fillings—and not all in this profession work in a private practice. Some choose to use their skills in a research-focused occupation, or to go into clinical practice in a school or public-health program. Employment for all dental hygienists will swell nearly 40 percent by 2020, which is faster than the average growth rate for most professions. In 2010, there were 181,800 hygienists, and that number should increase by nearly 70,000 new positions.
Salary
Hygienists make a comfortable salary, especially considering that most of those in the profession work part-time. In 2011, their median salary was $69,280. The best-paid earned $94,850, and the bottom 10 percent earned $46,020. Many of the top-paid hygienists work in dentists’ offices, but outpatient care centers and ambulatory health care services also pay well. The profession’s best-paying metro areas include San Francisco, New Haven, Conn., and Vallejo, Calif.Salary Range
- 75th Percentile $83,310
- Median $69,280
- 25th Percentile $56,950
Most in this profession have earned an associate’s degree in dental hygiene. And increasingly, students are pursuing bachelor’s and master’s degrees to further their career. “There’s even a movement to create a doctoral program for dental hygiene,” says ADHA President Pam Quinones. Following your formal education, it’s preferable to receive some practical experience (like an internship) in a dental office to become better-versed on the job’s day-to-day responsibilities and challenges. Finally, you must receive licensure from the state in which you’ll work.
Reviews & Advice
Working as a dental hygienist isn’t just about scraping plaque and administering oral X-rays. Quinones says a strong work ethic, positive attitude, problem-solving skills, and strong communication skills will benefit someone hoping to enter the position. “Having a wide array of abilities and talents extends the reach of a dental hygiene degree, allowing access to fields outside of private dental practice,” she adds. “By the same token, most of these skills are developed better through experience, and they easily transfer into other arenas.”
Private practice jobs are a little harder to secure given the state of the economy, says Quinones. “However, this also … opens doors for anyone interested in utilizing their dental hygiene skills outside of dental offices,” she says. “Necessity breeds creativity, and this is a chance for dental hygienists to think outside the box, look at their skills, and apply them to a new career path.”Job Satisfaction
Upward Mobility Below Average
Stress Level Average
Flexibility High
2013/3/25
Web Developer - The 100 Best Jobs for 2013
We often take for granted the design and layout of websites we frequent. The ease with which we navigate through information, the page layout and typography, the color and graphic elements that grab us—this is the work of a Web developer with an eye for design and functionality. These professionals design and maintain websites, including site layout and function, to a client’s specifications. The creative side of the job includes crafting a user-friendly design, ensuring easy navigation, organizing content, and integrating graphics and audio, while the more technical responsibilities include monitoring website performance and capacity. Developers must take into account a client's products or services as well as its target market to create a site that appeals to its customers or intended audience. The job requires a knowledge of software programs, Web applications, and programming languages such as HTML, as well as a solid understanding of design principals. Work environments for Web developers vary widely, from large corporations or governments to small businesses. Developers may be full-time employees, part-time consultants, or work as freelancers on a contract basis.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 21.7 percent employment growth for Web developers between 2010 and 2020. During that time period, about 65,700 jobs will need to be filled. The profession's strong expected growth helped boost Web developer to the No. 9 spot in our ranking of The Best Jobs of 2013.
Salary
The BLS reports that Web developers made a median salary of $77,990 in 2011. The highest-paid 10 percent in the profession earned $124,860, while the lowest-paid earned $42,770 that year. The most highly compensated positions for Web developers deal with securities and commodity contracts intermediation and brokerage. The highest-paid positions can be found in the metropolitan areas of Reading, Pa., and San Jose, Sunnyvale, and Santa Clara, Calif.Salary Range
75th Percentile $101,570
Median $77,990
25th Percentile $58,300
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 21.7 percent employment growth for Web developers between 2010 and 2020. During that time period, about 65,700 jobs will need to be filled. The profession's strong expected growth helped boost Web developer to the No. 9 spot in our ranking of The Best Jobs of 2013.
Salary
The BLS reports that Web developers made a median salary of $77,990 in 2011. The highest-paid 10 percent in the profession earned $124,860, while the lowest-paid earned $42,770 that year. The most highly compensated positions for Web developers deal with securities and commodity contracts intermediation and brokerage. The highest-paid positions can be found in the metropolitan areas of Reading, Pa., and San Jose, Sunnyvale, and Santa Clara, Calif.Salary Range
75th Percentile $101,570
Median $77,990
25th Percentile $58,300
Software Developer - The 100 Best Jobs for 2013
These tech-savvy professionals are the brains behind the software systems consumers and businesses use every day, from mobile applications that make shopping and banking easier to the operating systems these programs run on. And thanks to the growing demand for computer software and new applications for mobile technology, developers should see their profession grow at a fast clip this decade.
Writing software code is one of the job's most identifiable components, but developers have many other responsibilities, including testing and debugging the software and maintaining and improving it once it's in operation. Software developers may be tasked with creating a product from scratch according to a customer's specifications or modifying existing software, and they work in a range of industries, including computer systems design, electronic product manufacturing, and finance. Collaboration is an integral part of the job, as developers frequently consult with management, clients, and other developers to solve technical challenges and determine the requirements of the software system. Developers are often natural problem-solvers who possess strong analytical skills and the ability to think outside the box.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 27.6 percent employment growth for software developers between 2010 and 2020, much faster than average for all occupations. During that time period, about 143,800 jobs will need to be filled. The profession's excellent job prospects helped it grab the No. 7 spot in our ranking of the Best Jobs of 2013.
Salary
The Labor Department reports that software developers made a median salary of $89,280 in 2011, a decent bump from the median $87,790 salary in 2010. The highest-paid 10 percent in the profession earned $136,490 in 2011, while the lowest-paid earned $54,980. Those with a strong stomach will be interested to know that the most highly compensated positions are in the animal slaughtering and processing industry, although few positions are available in this field. (The computer systems design industry and software publishers employ the highest number of software engineers.) The highest-paid positions can be found in El Centro, Calif., and the Haverhill-North Andover-Amesbury areas of Massachusetts and New Hampshire.Salary Range
75th Percentile $111,990
Median $89,280
25th Percentile $70,300
Writing software code is one of the job's most identifiable components, but developers have many other responsibilities, including testing and debugging the software and maintaining and improving it once it's in operation. Software developers may be tasked with creating a product from scratch according to a customer's specifications or modifying existing software, and they work in a range of industries, including computer systems design, electronic product manufacturing, and finance. Collaboration is an integral part of the job, as developers frequently consult with management, clients, and other developers to solve technical challenges and determine the requirements of the software system. Developers are often natural problem-solvers who possess strong analytical skills and the ability to think outside the box.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 27.6 percent employment growth for software developers between 2010 and 2020, much faster than average for all occupations. During that time period, about 143,800 jobs will need to be filled. The profession's excellent job prospects helped it grab the No. 7 spot in our ranking of the Best Jobs of 2013.
Salary
The Labor Department reports that software developers made a median salary of $89,280 in 2011, a decent bump from the median $87,790 salary in 2010. The highest-paid 10 percent in the profession earned $136,490 in 2011, while the lowest-paid earned $54,980. Those with a strong stomach will be interested to know that the most highly compensated positions are in the animal slaughtering and processing industry, although few positions are available in this field. (The computer systems design industry and software publishers employ the highest number of software engineers.) The highest-paid positions can be found in El Centro, Calif., and the Haverhill-North Andover-Amesbury areas of Massachusetts and New Hampshire.Salary Range
75th Percentile $111,990
Median $89,280
25th Percentile $70,300
Database Administrator - The 100 Best Jobs for 2013
Databases provide the backbone of many software applications. And behind those databases are people with a talent for storing, organizing, and managing data. Database administrators—DBAs, for short—set up databases according to a company’s needs, and make sure they operate efficiently, fine-tuning, upgrading, and testing modifications as needed. They are also responsible for implementing security measures to safeguard the company's most sensitive data. The job involves resolving complex issues, so attention to detail is an essential trait in this profession, as is a passion for problem-solving. Communication skills are also important, as DBAs often work as part of a team with computer programmers and managers. Ongoing maintenance of a database frequently requires being on call, and a quarter of DBAs work more than 40 hours a week. These professionals are employed in a wide range of settings in the public and private sectors, and sometimes work as consultants.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 30.6 percent employment growth for database administrators between 2010 and 2020, much faster than the average for all occupations. During that time period, about 33,900 jobs will need to be filled. The profession's strong expected growth helped boost database administrator to the No. 6 spot in our ranking of The Best Jobs of 2013.
Salary
The Labor Department reports that database administrators made a median salary of $75,190 in 2011. The highest-paid 10 percent in the profession earned $116,870, while the lowest-paid earned $42,360 that year. Some of the most highly compensated positions can be found in these industries: computer and peripheral equipment manufacturing, communications equipment manufacturing, and natural gas distribution. The top-paying metropolitan areas for this position are clustered around San Francisco and San Jose, Calif., as well as Trenton-Ewing, N.J.Salary Range
75th Percentile $96,640
Median $75,190
25th Percentile $55,840
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 30.6 percent employment growth for database administrators between 2010 and 2020, much faster than the average for all occupations. During that time period, about 33,900 jobs will need to be filled. The profession's strong expected growth helped boost database administrator to the No. 6 spot in our ranking of The Best Jobs of 2013.
Salary
The Labor Department reports that database administrators made a median salary of $75,190 in 2011. The highest-paid 10 percent in the profession earned $116,870, while the lowest-paid earned $42,360 that year. Some of the most highly compensated positions can be found in these industries: computer and peripheral equipment manufacturing, communications equipment manufacturing, and natural gas distribution. The top-paying metropolitan areas for this position are clustered around San Francisco and San Jose, Calif., as well as Trenton-Ewing, N.J.Salary Range
75th Percentile $96,640
Median $75,190
25th Percentile $55,840
Physician - The 100 Best Jobs for 2013
As Who, Seuss, and Dre have found, attaching the honorific “doctor” to your name leverages respect. And we reserve special regard for physicians, who have undergone the extensive years of study and training to officially add that title to their moniker and practice medicine. There are two types: Medical Doctors (M.D.s) and Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.s), both of which diagnose and treat patients for a wide range of medical issues, although a D.O. might also specialize in preventative medicine and holistic patient care.
There are even more designations among physicians, according to speciality. For example, general and family physicians concentrate on general medical conditions. Internists treat and diagnose problems with internal organs. A pediatrician cares for children from infancy to teenage years. Obstetricians and gynecologists provide care related to the female reproductive system, and also treat pregnant women and deliver babies. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who treat and diagnose mental illnesses. A dermatologist treats the skin and scalp. Surgeons operate on patients to help treat a variety of medical issues, and the list of types of physicians goes on. One thing is for certain: All types are needed in abundance as baby boomers age, and as the generations behind them become more interested in preventative care. Employment for physicians and surgeons is expected to jump by 24 percent from 2010 to 2020, which translates to a cosmic 168,300 job openings.
Salary
A physician’s average salary varies. In 2011, a general internist made an average salary of $183,170, the Labor Department reports. Those with subspecialties, such as gastroenterologists, cardiologists, and urologists, had average salaries that eclipsed $187,999 in 2011. Areas of the country that pay physicians particularly well include Lowell, Mass., Texarkana, Texas, and Springfield, Mont. The lowest-paid in the profession make around $67,780.Salary Range
Median $183,170
25th Percentile $136,050
There are even more designations among physicians, according to speciality. For example, general and family physicians concentrate on general medical conditions. Internists treat and diagnose problems with internal organs. A pediatrician cares for children from infancy to teenage years. Obstetricians and gynecologists provide care related to the female reproductive system, and also treat pregnant women and deliver babies. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who treat and diagnose mental illnesses. A dermatologist treats the skin and scalp. Surgeons operate on patients to help treat a variety of medical issues, and the list of types of physicians goes on. One thing is for certain: All types are needed in abundance as baby boomers age, and as the generations behind them become more interested in preventative care. Employment for physicians and surgeons is expected to jump by 24 percent from 2010 to 2020, which translates to a cosmic 168,300 job openings.
Salary
A physician’s average salary varies. In 2011, a general internist made an average salary of $183,170, the Labor Department reports. Those with subspecialties, such as gastroenterologists, cardiologists, and urologists, had average salaries that eclipsed $187,999 in 2011. Areas of the country that pay physicians particularly well include Lowell, Mass., Texarkana, Texas, and Springfield, Mont. The lowest-paid in the profession make around $67,780.Salary Range
Median $183,170
25th Percentile $136,050
Computer Systems Analyst - The 100 Best Jobs 2013
Determining how a computer system can best serve a business or organization's needs is a key role of a computer systems analyst. As such, these professionals must be big-picture oriented and have a clear understanding of how the components within a computer system—hardware, software, and networks—work together. They're charged with analyzing that interaction and making recommendations that will ultimately help a company or organization operate more efficiently. Computer systems analysts juggle a lot of responsibilities, which can include choosing and configuring hardware and software, matching technology to users' needs, monitoring and testing the system in operation, and troubleshooting problems after implementation. Introverts need not apply: Collaboration is a big part of the job, as analysts frequently consult with management and users, as well as convey system requirements to software developers and network architects.
To succeed as a computer systems analyst, it's not necessary to know the nitty-gritty details of specific technologies, says David P. Bieg, chief operating officer for the International Institute for Business Analysis. "You need to understand how systems interact, but you don't really need to understand the core of every technology—it's really about how information and process flows through the system," he says. Although a quarter of analysts work for computer systems design firms, they are also employed in a range of industries, from science to healthcare to banking and finance.
Demand for computer systems analysts should grow at a steady clip this decade, as businesses and organizations increasingly rely on information technology. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 22.1 percent employment growth for computer system analysts between 2010 and 2020, faster than the average of all occupations. During that time period, about 120,400 jobs will need to be filled. The profession's strong growth prospects helped boost computer systems analyst to the No. 4 spot in our ranking of The Best Jobs of 2013.
Salary
The Labor Department reports that computer system analysts made a median salary of $78,770 in 2011. The highest-paid 10 percent in the profession earned $120,060 that year, while the lowest-paid earned $49,370. Some of the most highly compensated analyst positions support the mining and oil and gas extraction industries as well as scientific research and development. Two niche industries that pay computer systems analysts particularly well are animal slaughtering and processing and motion picture and video, but job seekers should note that there are relatively few positions available in these fields. Location-wise, the highest-paying jobs can be found in the Northeast region of the country.Salary Range
75th Percentile $98,490
Median $78,770
25th Percentile $62,260
To succeed as a computer systems analyst, it's not necessary to know the nitty-gritty details of specific technologies, says David P. Bieg, chief operating officer for the International Institute for Business Analysis. "You need to understand how systems interact, but you don't really need to understand the core of every technology—it's really about how information and process flows through the system," he says. Although a quarter of analysts work for computer systems design firms, they are also employed in a range of industries, from science to healthcare to banking and finance.
Demand for computer systems analysts should grow at a steady clip this decade, as businesses and organizations increasingly rely on information technology. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 22.1 percent employment growth for computer system analysts between 2010 and 2020, faster than the average of all occupations. During that time period, about 120,400 jobs will need to be filled. The profession's strong growth prospects helped boost computer systems analyst to the No. 4 spot in our ranking of The Best Jobs of 2013.
Salary
The Labor Department reports that computer system analysts made a median salary of $78,770 in 2011. The highest-paid 10 percent in the profession earned $120,060 that year, while the lowest-paid earned $49,370. Some of the most highly compensated analyst positions support the mining and oil and gas extraction industries as well as scientific research and development. Two niche industries that pay computer systems analysts particularly well are animal slaughtering and processing and motion picture and video, but job seekers should note that there are relatively few positions available in these fields. Location-wise, the highest-paying jobs can be found in the Northeast region of the country.Salary Range
75th Percentile $98,490
Median $78,770
25th Percentile $62,260
Pharmacist - The 100 Best Jobs
Even during a tough job market, the unique mix of medical knowledge and people skills required to run a pharmacy counter remain in demand. The more than 272,320 pharmacists in the United States dispense medicine and advice in tens of thousands of retail pharmacies and hospitals, as well as in mail-order, clinical, or corporate settings. Earnings potential remains relatively high in the field, and wages have climbed slightly from a year ago. While hiring has cooled a bit in recent years, experts say an aging population and increasingly complex medicines will keep industry growth healthy for years to come. A recent focal point in the industry is medication therapy management, or MTM. Pharmacists counsel patients by thoroughly reviewing their medications and finding the best way to reduce drug-related costs, but more importantly, the goal of MTM is to improve the quality of a patient's life.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 25.4 percent employment growth for pharmacists by 2020, with the field adding 69,700 new jobs. Solid employment growth and a high median salary help make pharmacist a top contender on this year's list of Best Jobs.
Salary
According to the BLS, the median annual salary for a pharmacist was $113,390 in 2011. The best-paid 10 percent made approximately $144,090 a year, while the lowest-paid made approximately $84,490. The field's best-compensated areas include residential mental health or rehabilitation facilities and consulting services. The highest-paid in the profession work in California near the metropolitan areas of El Centro, Napa, and Santa Cruz-Watsonville.Salary Range
75th Percentile $129,310
Median $113,390
25th Percentile $101,360
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 25.4 percent employment growth for pharmacists by 2020, with the field adding 69,700 new jobs. Solid employment growth and a high median salary help make pharmacist a top contender on this year's list of Best Jobs.
Salary
According to the BLS, the median annual salary for a pharmacist was $113,390 in 2011. The best-paid 10 percent made approximately $144,090 a year, while the lowest-paid made approximately $84,490. The field's best-compensated areas include residential mental health or rehabilitation facilities and consulting services. The highest-paid in the profession work in California near the metropolitan areas of El Centro, Napa, and Santa Cruz-Watsonville.Salary Range
75th Percentile $129,310
Median $113,390
25th Percentile $101,360
Registered Nurse - The 100 Best Jobs
Nurses may be most visible at the hospital bedside or in the doctor’s office, but this fast-growing community of more than 2.7 million workers is rapidly expanding into a host of specialized jobs ranging from elder care to oncology. While many RNs work in hospitals or physicians’ offices treating and educating patients, explaining prescriptions and procedures, administering medication, or managing medical records, more are finding jobs in public health, home care, or alternate care settings such as rehabilitation centers, schools or businesses. Within the field, you can focus on the care of patients following heart surgery as a cardiovascular nurse, or aid in treating brain or spinal cord injuries as a neuroscience nurse. Even in a tough economy, nursing has flourished compared with most other occupations. Thanks in part to an aging population, long-term job growth is expected to be much faster than the national average. The largest number of new jobs will appear as physicians’ offices expand and staff up. Solid employment growth and a wide range of job prospects help make registered nursing a top healthcare job, as well as the No. 2 career on our list of The Best Jobs of 2013.
Between 2010 and 2020, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects registered nurse employment growth of 26 percent, thanks in large part to higher healthcare demand from aging Baby Boomers.
Salary
The BLS reports the median annual wage for a registered nurse was $65,950 in 2011. The best-paid 10 percent of RNs made more than $96,630, while the bottom 10 percent earned less than $44,970. The highest wages are reserved for personal care nurses, or those working for private-sector pharmaceutical or medical-device manufacturers. By location, the highest-paid positions are clustered in the metropolitan areas of northern California, including municipalities in and around San Jose, Oakland, and San Francisco.Salary Range
75th Percentile $80,390
Median $65,950
25th Percentile $53,770
Between 2010 and 2020, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects registered nurse employment growth of 26 percent, thanks in large part to higher healthcare demand from aging Baby Boomers.
Salary
The BLS reports the median annual wage for a registered nurse was $65,950 in 2011. The best-paid 10 percent of RNs made more than $96,630, while the bottom 10 percent earned less than $44,970. The highest wages are reserved for personal care nurses, or those working for private-sector pharmaceutical or medical-device manufacturers. By location, the highest-paid positions are clustered in the metropolitan areas of northern California, including municipalities in and around San Jose, Oakland, and San Francisco.Salary Range
75th Percentile $80,390
Median $65,950
25th Percentile $53,770
Dentist - The 100 Best Jobs
A trip to the dentist can be a harrowing experience. The prospect of sharp instruments poking our gums or prodding our teeth can wreak havoc on the psyche. That’s why Dr. Maria Lopez Howell, D.D.S., urges her fellow dentists to stay attuned to patients’ needs and concerns. Howell has worked as a practicing dentist for 29 years and also serves as consumer advisor spokeswoman for the American Dental Association. According to her, this is the best way to gain a patient’s trust: “Always ask them what matters most to them, so you can make their appointments comfortable and less stressful,” she says. “At the end of the day, that’s what we want. We want our patients to be happy.”
You might find a dentist at an outpatient care center or hospital, but you’re most likely to visit one at a private office or clinical setting. Dentists work alongside dental assistants, who help with record-keeping, sterilizing instruments, and teeth-cleaning. And like a dental hygienist, a dentist might also clean teeth and educate patients on proper dental care. Their other duties could also include extracting teeth, fitting dentures, and filling cavities. Some choose to specialize in areas that range from treating serious oral problems and diseases to straightening teeth and performing oral surgery.
The need for professionals to examine our teeth, fill and (in some cases) refill our cavities isn’t fading. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts employment growth of about 21 percent between 2010 and 2020, above the average for all occupations. Work opportunities are especially plentiful for those who work in traditional dentist offices and other health practitioner offices. There should be more than 25,000 new openings in this profession in the next eight years.
Salary
According to the BLS, dentists earned $142,740 in 2011, or approximately $68.62 per hour. The best-paid earned more than $187,999, while the lowest-paid earned less than $74,490. Dentists who work in private offices are paid particularly well, but so are those who work alongside other health practitioners. Certain cities also compensate well—specifically, the metro areas of Manchester, N.H., Tyler, Texas, and Rocky Mount, N.C.Salary Range
Median $142,740
You might find a dentist at an outpatient care center or hospital, but you’re most likely to visit one at a private office or clinical setting. Dentists work alongside dental assistants, who help with record-keeping, sterilizing instruments, and teeth-cleaning. And like a dental hygienist, a dentist might also clean teeth and educate patients on proper dental care. Their other duties could also include extracting teeth, fitting dentures, and filling cavities. Some choose to specialize in areas that range from treating serious oral problems and diseases to straightening teeth and performing oral surgery.
The need for professionals to examine our teeth, fill and (in some cases) refill our cavities isn’t fading. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts employment growth of about 21 percent between 2010 and 2020, above the average for all occupations. Work opportunities are especially plentiful for those who work in traditional dentist offices and other health practitioner offices. There should be more than 25,000 new openings in this profession in the next eight years.
Salary
According to the BLS, dentists earned $142,740 in 2011, or approximately $68.62 per hour. The best-paid earned more than $187,999, while the lowest-paid earned less than $74,490. Dentists who work in private offices are paid particularly well, but so are those who work alongside other health practitioners. Certain cities also compensate well—specifically, the metro areas of Manchester, N.H., Tyler, Texas, and Rocky Mount, N.C.Salary Range
Median $142,740
The 100 Best Jobs
All jobs aren't created equal. In fact, some are simply better than the rest. U.S. News 100 Best Jobs of 2013 are the occupations that offer a mosaic of employment opportunity, good salary, manageable work-life balance, and job security. Some careers offer just the right mix of these components—for instance, our top tier is filled with tech and healthcare jobs—but the list also includes strong showings from occupations in the social services and business sectors. Even construction jobs enter the fray this year. Read more on how we rank the best jobs, and check out our full list.
Top 10 Best Hot Jobs and Careers for 2013
Strange but true: Despite the fact that unemployment is stuck at around 9%, which translates to about 15 million Americans out of work, nearly 3 million job openings in the U.S. are going unfilled, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Why? The biggest reason is a mismatch between the qualifications employers are looking for and the skills job hunters have.
So which skills are most in demand? Here are 10 of the hottest:
1. Information technology. When career site Indeed.com recently analyzed millions of job postings on its web site, researchers found that the fastest-growing category of keywords — including HTML5, Android, mobile app, and social media — were in IT, and a new survey by tech job site Dice.com bears that out: About 65% of hiring managers said they hope to add tech staff in the first half of 2013. Roughly a quarter of those (27%) said they want to expand their IT headcount by more than 20%.
Openings for software developers who specialize in applications will rise by more than one-third (34%) by 2018, says Best Jobs for the 21st Century, a new book by job market analyst Laurence Shatkin, while companies will hire 20% more computer systems analysts. Rising pay in these fields reflects the surge in demand: The Bureau of Labor Statistics says that developers of systems software, for instance, earn an average of $94,180 per year.
2. Health care professionals. Partly due to the aging of the U.S. population, health care has been hot for a while now, and the trend shows no sign of slowing. Shatkin's research says the U.S. will need 103,900 more registered nurses every year (average salary: $64,690) well into the next decade, along with 7,860 new physical therapists per annum (average pay: $76,310). Demand for dental hygienists is up too, with a projected 36.1% growth in job openings between now and 2018 (average pay: $68,250).
3. Health care management and support staff. Don't have the training or experience to work directly with patients? No worries. "People often overlook the fact that businesspeople run health care companies," says Justin Hirsch, president of recruiting firm JobPlex. "With all the change happening in the system now, there is churn as well as growth. We're constantly seeing new openings in general management, finance, marketing, human resources, you name it."
4. Engineers. Note to college students who want their pick of job offers when they graduate: Consider majoring in engineering. A whopping 88% of employers in a new poll by the Society for Human Resource Management bemoaned the difficulty of finding enough engineers to hire. Civil engineers are in demand too: Shatkin's analysis of BLS data shows a 24.3% spike ahead in jobs for people who design roads, bridges, and other infrastructure projects (average annual pay: $77,560).
5. Industrial skills. Think U.S. manufacturing is moribund? Think again. More than two-thirds (68%) of employers in the SHRM survey pointed to a shortage of qualified new hires to replace people retiring from the skilled trades: electricians, carpenters, welders. Moreover, says Justin Hirsch, "We're seeing an increase in industrial hiring in logistics, supply-chain management, and plant management." As more companies go global, demand for expertise in logistics -- the art and science of moving stuff efficiently from one place to another -- will continue to heat up.
See also: Will you get a raise in 2013?
6. Life sciences and biotech. Medical innovators ranging in size from Big Pharma down to biotech startups are on a hiring binge: Shatkin sees a 40% jump in job openings for research scientists between now and 2018 (average salary: $76,700). As with health care companies in general, these employers will also need managers and support staff (see No. 3).
7. Salespeople. Selling has historically been the closest thing there is to a recession-proof career, and this economic downturn is no exception. Since they're the ones bringing the dough in the door, salespeople are often the first to be hired and last to get laid off. Almost three-quarters (72%) of employers in the SHRM survey said they can't get enough salespeople now.
8. Accounting and finance. Demand for accountants and finance mavens (particularly forensic accountants and compliance specialists) has been climbing steadily for the past several years, and U.S. colleges are still not turning out enough grads in these fields to fill the available openings. The SHRM survey found that more than half (54%) of employers would hire more accountants and finance experts if they could find them.
9. Discount retailers. "Not to mention any specific company names -- everyone knows who they are, anyway -- but the big national discount store companies have flourished during this recession," notes Justin Hirsch. "And most of them are hiring managers as well as in-store personnel."
10. Private equity firms. Recruiters report that private equity firms are actively seeking management talent for their portfolio companies "across all industries and all functional areas," says Hirsch. "They're poaching already-employed, seasoned managers from big companies -- people who can step into either a turnaround situation or a pre-IPO company and make it work. These are challenging jobs, and could be a real feather in a manager's cap if he or she can bring it off successfully."
Do unemployed executives have a shot? "With the right network, yes," Hirsch says. "It's about having great business acumen, especially a knack for coping with ambiguity, and being known for that. It helps to have the right connections."
So which skills are most in demand? Here are 10 of the hottest:
1. Information technology. When career site Indeed.com recently analyzed millions of job postings on its web site, researchers found that the fastest-growing category of keywords — including HTML5, Android, mobile app, and social media — were in IT, and a new survey by tech job site Dice.com bears that out: About 65% of hiring managers said they hope to add tech staff in the first half of 2013. Roughly a quarter of those (27%) said they want to expand their IT headcount by more than 20%.
Openings for software developers who specialize in applications will rise by more than one-third (34%) by 2018, says Best Jobs for the 21st Century, a new book by job market analyst Laurence Shatkin, while companies will hire 20% more computer systems analysts. Rising pay in these fields reflects the surge in demand: The Bureau of Labor Statistics says that developers of systems software, for instance, earn an average of $94,180 per year.
2. Health care professionals. Partly due to the aging of the U.S. population, health care has been hot for a while now, and the trend shows no sign of slowing. Shatkin's research says the U.S. will need 103,900 more registered nurses every year (average salary: $64,690) well into the next decade, along with 7,860 new physical therapists per annum (average pay: $76,310). Demand for dental hygienists is up too, with a projected 36.1% growth in job openings between now and 2018 (average pay: $68,250).
3. Health care management and support staff. Don't have the training or experience to work directly with patients? No worries. "People often overlook the fact that businesspeople run health care companies," says Justin Hirsch, president of recruiting firm JobPlex. "With all the change happening in the system now, there is churn as well as growth. We're constantly seeing new openings in general management, finance, marketing, human resources, you name it."
4. Engineers. Note to college students who want their pick of job offers when they graduate: Consider majoring in engineering. A whopping 88% of employers in a new poll by the Society for Human Resource Management bemoaned the difficulty of finding enough engineers to hire. Civil engineers are in demand too: Shatkin's analysis of BLS data shows a 24.3% spike ahead in jobs for people who design roads, bridges, and other infrastructure projects (average annual pay: $77,560).
5. Industrial skills. Think U.S. manufacturing is moribund? Think again. More than two-thirds (68%) of employers in the SHRM survey pointed to a shortage of qualified new hires to replace people retiring from the skilled trades: electricians, carpenters, welders. Moreover, says Justin Hirsch, "We're seeing an increase in industrial hiring in logistics, supply-chain management, and plant management." As more companies go global, demand for expertise in logistics -- the art and science of moving stuff efficiently from one place to another -- will continue to heat up.
See also: Will you get a raise in 2013?
6. Life sciences and biotech. Medical innovators ranging in size from Big Pharma down to biotech startups are on a hiring binge: Shatkin sees a 40% jump in job openings for research scientists between now and 2018 (average salary: $76,700). As with health care companies in general, these employers will also need managers and support staff (see No. 3).
7. Salespeople. Selling has historically been the closest thing there is to a recession-proof career, and this economic downturn is no exception. Since they're the ones bringing the dough in the door, salespeople are often the first to be hired and last to get laid off. Almost three-quarters (72%) of employers in the SHRM survey said they can't get enough salespeople now.
8. Accounting and finance. Demand for accountants and finance mavens (particularly forensic accountants and compliance specialists) has been climbing steadily for the past several years, and U.S. colleges are still not turning out enough grads in these fields to fill the available openings. The SHRM survey found that more than half (54%) of employers would hire more accountants and finance experts if they could find them.
9. Discount retailers. "Not to mention any specific company names -- everyone knows who they are, anyway -- but the big national discount store companies have flourished during this recession," notes Justin Hirsch. "And most of them are hiring managers as well as in-store personnel."
10. Private equity firms. Recruiters report that private equity firms are actively seeking management talent for their portfolio companies "across all industries and all functional areas," says Hirsch. "They're poaching already-employed, seasoned managers from big companies -- people who can step into either a turnaround situation or a pre-IPO company and make it work. These are challenging jobs, and could be a real feather in a manager's cap if he or she can bring it off successfully."
Do unemployed executives have a shot? "With the right network, yes," Hirsch says. "It's about having great business acumen, especially a knack for coping with ambiguity, and being known for that. It helps to have the right connections."
订阅：
博文 (Atom)