Choosing the best career can be a daunting task, given the myriad of options available and the ever-changing job market. Whether you’re just starting your professional journey or considering a mid-life career switch, understanding which careers offer the most promise, satisfaction, and growth opportunities is crucial. In this article, we will explore the top careers across various industries, highlighting roles that not only offer competitive salaries and job security but also provide personal fulfillment and the chance to make a meaningful impact. From tech and healthcare to creative fields and emerging industries, we’ll delve into the best career paths that can help you achieve your professional and personal goals. We compared 10 different expert lists to come away with the seven most recommended career paths. Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
The List: Best Careers, According to Experts
1. Nurse Practitioner
Nursing and healthcare as a whole are growing rapidly. Being a healthcare practitioner is a great job for anyone who wants plenty of opportunity in their future. “Nurse practitioners are registered nurses with additional education. Extra schooling allows these professionals to take patient histories, perform physical exams, order labs, analyze lab results, prescribe medicines, authorize treatments and educate patients and families on continued care,” writes U.S. News.
There will be a massive projected change in employment from 2021 to 2031 for nurse practitioners. As many as 112,700 new jobs will be created, according to Insider. With that being said, you don’t have to worry about the longevity of a career in this field.
2. Software Engineer
As technology continues to wrap itself around everything we do, we need engineers to design and innovate the softwares behind them. As it turns out, you could make a good living doing this work. According to GlassDoor, software engineers’ median base salary is $116,638.
“Software engineers build computer software, a broad category that could apply to computer games, mobile apps, web browsers or any other computer-based system. Most jobs require a degree in computer science or computer engineering, plus proficiency in programming languages like Java and Python,” writes CBS News.
3. Information Systems Manager
You’ll notice tech and healthcare jobs sort of dominate this list. Another top candidate for best career is an IS manager. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, information systems managers make $102,690 per year.
“Before becoming IS managers, individuals generally have several years of experience under their belt in a related field. In general, larger organizations require more-seasoned IT managers than smaller companies or startups do. According to the BLS, a chief technology officer (CTO), who supervises the entire technology function at a larger organization, will often need more than 15 years of IT experience,” according to Investopedia.
4. Health Specialties Teachers
Teaching is a calling for some. If you’re interested in health or the human body, educating the next generation is a hot job right now and will only grow as the healthcare field does. The projected change in employment from 2021 to 2031 for healthcare specialties teachers is 59,400, according to Insider.
“The majority of health specialty teachers work in colleges or universities. However, some work in medical hospitals, trade schools, or junior colleges. Depending on the field that you are teaching in, additional licensure and certifications will be required. Health specialties include pharmacists, social workers, psychologists, veterinarians, dentists, and others. And, you can get paid to teach them!” according to CareerFitter.