Job searching isn't easy. It takes a lot of energy, focus, and perseverance. If you don't have a clear idea of what you want to do, the process can be all the harder. If you don't know which industries you want to target, consider aiming for career tracks that are in high demand. It might not be exactly what you want to do, but searching for jobs in a field that desperately needs new workers can help put you on a path to financial stability.
Fast Company took data from around the web and determined that there are three jobs that need far more workers than they have available. Each career path includes a wide variety of specializations, as well as flexible options in terms of where the jobs are located and the education they require.
1. Nurse
Healthcare jobs have been on the rise for a few years, and there are no signs of that slowing down. In fact, some say that there is an imminent healthcare staffing crisis. According to Marcia Faller, RN, PhD, and chief clinical officer at AMN Healthcare, there are too many job postings, not enough nurses to fill them, and not enough nurses being trained.
In 2014, nursing schools turned away roughly 69,000 qualified applicants. Although they were qualified to attend, many nursing schools don't have enough resources or staff to train them all. Regardless, those who can work their way through the pipeline will be greeted by an industry hungry for new professionals to take care of an aging U.S. population, and replace the half of all nurses who are over 50 and retiring soon.
Check out recent listings for nursing jobs.
2. Software Developer
Digital technology has taken the world by storm, and the need for software developers and other computer-savvy personnel is only growing. Professionals in this career track usually specialize in certain languages and with certain programs. Regardless, it requires an analytical mind and strong problem-solving skills.
Professionals in this field tend to change jobs frequently. In fact, 42% are likely to change jobs in just one or two years. While this isn't great for companies, it's a strong strategy for these professionals. They usually change jobs to chase new opportunities with higher potential for growth as well as larger paychecks. Software and app developers pull a median hourly wage of $45.92, but these jobs require deep knowledge of the field as well as a strong work ethic.
Check out recent listings for software developer jobs.
3. Driver
Nearly four decades ago, the most common jobs in the U.S. were farmer, secretary, and machine operator. Now, drivers have taken the lead. Although drivers specialize in a wide variety of types of vehicles and cargo, the most common job postings ask for heavy and tractor trailer truck drivers. In fact, on one website there were one million monthly postings for these positions, but only about 100,000 of them were filled each month. Considering drivers can pull about $19 an hour, this is an industry and career option with large growth potential.
Check out recent listings for driver jobs.
