Top positions in science, technology, and engineering
By Debra Auerbach, CareerBuilder writer
It's no secret that STEM jobs (science, technology, engineering and math) are some of the hottest careers to pursue. In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, STEM jobs will increase by 9 million from 2012-2022.
While these industries are ripe with opportunities for any type of worker with the right skills, they've historically been male-dominated. In 2009, women represented less than 25 percent of STEM jobs. But the good news is that's quickly changing, in part due to initiatives like the one driven by the White House, which empower young women to pursue these areas of study.
While major strides have been taken to diversify the STEM workforce, there are some occupations that have higher percentages of women than others. Here's a list* of six jobs – spanning the science, technology, engineering and math fields – that have the highest percentage of women:
1. Clinical psychologists assess, diagnose and treat mental, emotional and behavioral disorders. Counseling psychologists advise people on how to deal with problems. School psychologists apply psychological principles and techniques to education-related and developmental issues.
Percentage of women: 68 percent
Average hourly wage: $33.39
2012 – 2022 growth: 11 percent
Education: Doctoral/professional degree
2. Epidemiologists are public health professionals who investigate patterns and causes of disease and injury in humans.
Percentage of women: 53 percent
Average hourly wage: $34.34
2012 – 2022 growth: 10 percent
Education: Master's degree required
3. Physical scientists conduct research tasks within a chosen field of study. Sample job titles include chemist, biochemist, astronomer, geologist, physiologist, environmental scientist and physicist.
Percentage of women: 41 percent
Average hourly wage: $45.05
2012 – 2022 growth: 5 percent
Education: Bachelor's degree
4. Statisticians use statistical methods to collect and analyze data and help solve real-world problems in business, engineering, the sciences or other fields.
Percentage of women: 41 percent
Average hourly wage: $38.28
2012 – 2022 growth: 27 percent
Education: Master's degree
5. Database administrators use specialized software to store and organize data, such as financial information and customer shipping records.
Percentage of women: 38 percent
Average hourly wage: $38.04
2012 – 2022 growth: 15 percent
Education: Bachelor's degree
6. Environmental engineers use the principles of engineering, soil science, biology and chemistry to develop solutions to environmental problems.
Percentage of women: 26 percent
Average hourly wage: $40.93
2012 – 2022 growth: 15 percent
Education: Bachelor's degree
Employers and recruiters: For more information on women in STEM and tips for attracting STEM workers, download a free report here.