10 Jobs That Grew More Than 30 Percent This Year

Staying up-to-date on economic trends is essential in a job search. An occupation you may be interested in could be declining in growth, while a similar role might be popping up at companies everywhere.

Pulling data from national employment resources, CareerBuilder's Supply & Demand Portal has compiled a sample of occupations for which job listings have grown by more than 30 percent since this time last year. "The world's dependency on technology, the pervasiveness of social media and the need to drive sales and expand into new markets are all driving double-digit growth across a variety of fields," says Matt Ferguson, CEO of CareerBuilder. Here are 10 occupations that have experienced more than 30 percent growth in job listings since last year:


1. Software engineer*
Software engineers and developers are the creative minds behind computer programs. Some develop the applications that allow people to do specific tasks on a computer or other device. Others develop the underlying systems that run the devices or control networks. With the proliferation of smart devices and the Internet, and the race to get innovations to market first, tech-savvy workers are in high demand.

• Percent increase in year-over-year job listings: 74 percent.

2. Customer-service representative
Customer-service representatives interact with customers on behalf of an organization. They provide information about products and services and respond to customer complaints. Some also take orders and process returns. Companies continue to invest in strengthening customer loyalty and extending sales opportunities across industries.

• Percent increase in year-over-year job listings: 50 percent.

3. Social-media manager
A position that didn't exist in many companies five years ago, social-media managers are being added to employee rosters as companies tap into the power of Facebook, Twitter and other venues to increase visibility, market their products and manage brand perceptions.

• Percent increase in year-over-year job listings: 48 percent.

4. Truck driver
Heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers transport goods from one location to another. Most tractor-trailer drivers are long-haul drivers and operate with a capacity of at least 26,001 pounds per gross vehicle weight. They deliver goods over intercity routes, sometimes spanning several states. An uptick in manufacturing activity and the demand for goods and services are keeping the roads busy.

• Percent increase in year-over-year job listings: 45 percent.

5. Pharmacy technician
Pharmacy technicians help licensed pharmacists dispense prescription medication. An aging population and a sharp increase in the number of Americans with access to medical care are driving demand across health-related professions.

• Percent increase in year-over-year job listings: 43 percent.

6. Training and development manager
Training and development managers plan, direct and coordinate programs to enhance the knowledge and skills of an organization's employees. They also oversee a staff of training and development specialists. Despite a tough job market, one-third of employers currently have positions for which they can't find qualified candidates, and half of all employers reported they have plans to hire and train workers who have no experience in their industries. They need training managers to help fill the gaps for high-skill positions and get employees up-to-speed.

• Percent increase in year-over-year job listings: 41 percent.

7. Financial analyst
Financial analysts provide guidance to businesses and individuals making investment decisions. They assess the performance of stocks, bonds and other types of investments. Still recovering from one of the deepest recessions felt across the globe, companies need individuals who can provide guidance on market trends and investment decisions.

• Percent increase in year-over-year job listings: 39 percent.

8. Video editor
Film and video editors and camera operators record images that entertain or inform an audience. Editors construct the final productions from many different images that camera operators capture. 48 hours of video are uploaded on YouTube every minute. Companies continue to invest in ways to take their messages and initiatives viral. Video has become integral in the way that organizations share news about their organizations externally and internally.

• Percent increase in year-over-year job listings: 36 percent.

9. Sales representative
Sales representatives sell goods for wholesalers or manufacturers to businesses, government agencies and other organizations. They contact customers, explain product features, answer any questions that their customers may have and negotiate prices. Companies need individuals who can deepen market penetration and drive topline growth for their organizations.

• Percent increase in year-over-year job listings: 35 percent.

10. Chef/cook
Chefs and cooks oversee the daily food preparation at restaurants or other places where food is served. They direct kitchen staff and handle any food-related concerns. Restaurant and food-service jobs are increasing as the economy improves and households have more flexibility in spending.

• Percent increase in year-over-year job listings: 34 percent.

Source: AOL

Top Employers of Veterans

Once they've received their last paycheck from Uncle Sam, where do most military folks go to find the next one? It turns out that many don't travel far. Former military members often get picked up by companies that work directly with the federal government and the military.

Online salary database PayScale has come up with a list of the most common employers of former military service men and women. It turns out that companies who contract with the military or federal government prefer hiring workers who are familiar with those organizations. "A key skill that military people have going for them is that they understand how to work with the government and the military," say Katie Bardaro, lead data analyst at PayScale. For example, General Electric made jet engines for the military during World War II and has also been involved in nuclear weapons production. It would certainly make sense to have their production, engineering and logistics teams as military-savvy as they can be.

Bardaro says to keep in mind, too, that it's not just the engineering or technical jobs at these companies that benefit from military know-how. From human resources to finance and marketing, employing people who know how decisions are made and deals are cut for government agencies helps these companies succeed.

"These companies deal with big, complicated, international projects. People with military experience are well-equipped to handle that," says Bardaro.

Who are the big employers? Bardaro says that they fall into three categories: the aerospace industry, weapons and defense contracting, and working for the government directly.

Below are examples of jobs where employers might prefer military savvy and the average, annual salaries for those jobs, according to PayScale.


Aerospace Industry Companies:
The Boeing Company, Lockheed Martin Corporation, Northrop Grumman Corporation

Job Title	Average Annual Salary
Senior Systems Engineer	$85,800
Aerospace Engineer	$79,400
Electrical Engineer	$71,500

Weapons and Security Companies:
Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC), Booz, Allen, and Hamilton, L-3 Communications

Job Title	Average Annual Salary
Principal Systems Engineer	$103,000
Imagery Analyst	$68,900
Systems Engineer(Computer Networking/IT)	$67,900

Government Agencies:
Department of Veterans Affairs, Department of Defense, U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Job Title	Average Annual Salary
Government Program Manager	$78,100
Budget Analyst	$60,300
Contract Specialist	$58,500

Source: AOL

The Best Paying Jobs of the Future

The U.S. unemployment rate peaked at 10% in October 2009 and has since slowly improved, flirting with 8% earlier this month. Despite the downward trend, the rate is still more than double prerecession levels. As the economy continues to recover and more people return to the workforce, many are trying to find the right career — one that is hiring and pays well.

Knowing which jobs will be in high demand and pay the most is a good place to start. To serve as a guide, 24/7 Wall St. identified the best paying jobs of the future. These jobs will grow the most in the next decade, some as much as 60% by 2020. They also have median salaries that are close to double the national average of $34,450, and in some cases more.


Many of these occupations will be in highest demand because of changes in the nation’s population and in the way the country’s businesses operate. Last year, the first baby boomers turned 65. As this generation gets older, increasing medical needs will require more health care professionals. Of the 10 high-paying, high-growth occupations we reviewed, six are in the medical field.

Because most of these positions are in the medical field, many require at least a master’s degree, and in many cases a doctoral degree. However, four have less demanding educational requirements, including the three that are growing the most. A career as a sonographer, projected to grow 43.5% with a median salary of $64,380, typically just requires an associate’s degree.

24/7 Wall St. identified the best paying jobs that also will have the highest demand for new workers in the future based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ National Employment Matrix, which forecasts job growth between 2010 and 2020 for the bureau’s more-than 1,000 listed jobs. The Matrix was used to identify the professions that are going to grow the most as a percentage of 2010 employment figures by 2020. Of those, we then narrowed the list to jobs that also had a median annual income of at least $60,000 in 2010, 75% higher than the $34,450 national median average, and at least 5,000 positions. Using the BLS Occupational Employment Statistics, 24/7 Wall St. also identified the states with the highest concentration of jobs as of May 2011.

These are the best paying jobs of the future:

1. Biomedical Engineers

 
> Pct. increase: 61.7%
> Total new jobs (2010-2020): 9,700
> Median income: $81,540
> States with the most jobs per capita: Massachusetts, Utah, Minnesota

The work of biomedical engineers typically involves designing or maintaining biomedical equipment, such as artificial organs and X-ray machines. These jobs often require a great deal of technical knowledge in fields such as biology, engineering, math and chemistry. Because of this, a bachelor’s degree is typically needed. The professional requirements come with impressive compensation. The median income for such jobs was $81,540 and the top 10% earned more than $126,990. Between 2010 and 2020, the number of biomedical engineers is projected to rise by 61.7%, more than four times the projected growth rate for all jobs, which is 14%. To explain its growth projections for the profession, the BLS cites the baby boomer generation’s growing demand for biomedical devices and procedures as it “seeks to maintain its healthy and active lifestyle.”



2. Diagnostic Medical Sonographers

> Pct. increase: 43.5%
> Total new jobs (2010-2020): 23,400
> Median income: $64,380
> States with the most jobs per capita: Rhode Island, Florida, South Dakota

Diagnostic medical sonographers work in hospitals and other facilities, conducting ultrasounds on patients and analyzing the resulting images. The BLS projects an increase of 43.5% in the number of positions between 2010 and 2020, which would raise the total number of such jobs to 77,100. Explaining the driving factors behind the growth, the BLS states that “as ultrasound technology evolves, it will be used as a substitute for procedures that are costly, invasive or expose patients to radiation.” Sonographers typically need an associate’s degree, and many employers prefer candidates to have professional certification. The top 10% of sonographers made more than $88,490 annually.

3. Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists

 
> Pct. increase: 41.2%
> Total new jobs (2010-2020): 116,600
> Median income: $60,570
> States with the most jobs per capita: Delaware, Massachusetts, New York

Market research analysts work in most industries, monitoring and forecasting marketing and sales trends, as well as collecting and analyzing data on their companies’ products or services. To become a market research analyst, a bachelor’s degree is typically required, though many analysts have a master’s degree. Citing increases in the use of market research across all industries, the BLS projects the number of positions in the field will rise to almost 400,000 by 2020. Top-earning market research analysts made more than $111,440 annually.

4. Physical Therapists

> Pct. increase: 39.0%
> Total new jobs (2010-2020): 77,400
> Median income: $76,310
> States with the most jobs per capita: Rhode Island, Vermont, Maine

Physical therapists assist patients by helping to address and correct dysfunctional movement and pain. They are required to have a postgraduate professional degree, typically a Doctor of Physical Therapy, and a license. Those completing these prerequisites join one of the fastest-growing professions in the country — by 2020, the number of positions is expected to rise by 39%. The BLS states that “demand for physical therapy services will come, in large part, from the aging baby boomers, who are staying active later in life than previous generations did.” The top 10% of physical therapists earned more than $107,920.

5. Dental Hygienists


 
> Pct. increase: 37.7%
> Total new jobs (2010-2020): 68,500
> Median income: $68,250
> States with the most jobs per capita: Michigan, Utah, Idaho

From 2010 to 2020, the number of dental hygienists is projected to rise by 37.7% to more than 250,000. Factors driving increased demand for this occupation include ongoing research linking oral health to general health, as well as an aging population keeping more of its teeth. Dental hygienists typically do not need a professional degree or previous work experience, though they often need an associate’s degree and a license. Typical job responsibilities include cleaning teeth and taking dental X-rays.



6. Audiologists

> Pct. increase: 36.8%
> Total new jobs (2010-2020): 4,800
> 2010 Median annual wage: $66,660
> States with the most jobs per capita: New Mexico, Colorado, West Virginia

Audiologists treat patients who have problems with their hearing, balance or ears. A doctoral degree is necessary, as is a state license, though exact requirements differ by state. Explaining projected job growth, the BLS notes that “hearing loss increases as people age, so an aging population is likely to increase demand for audiologists.” There are not very many audiologists, and a projected 36.8% increase in jobs would bring the total number of audiologists to 17,800 by the end of the decade. Annual salaries exceeded $102,210 for the top 10% of audiologists.

7. Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists

 
> Pct. increase: 36.4%
> Total new jobs (2010-2020): 36,400
> Median income: $76,700
> States with the most jobs per capita: Massachusetts, California, Washington

Though the roles of medical scientists vary from job to job, all study biological systems to understand their effects on human health. Medical scientists often work for the federal government, at research universities or in the private sector. By 2020, the number of medical scientists is projected to increase to more than 136,000, as the population of the United States grows and ages and the demand for prescription drugs rises. Educational requirements are quite high, with most positions asking for either a doctorate or a medical degree. The annual pay of the top 10% of medical scientists was $142,800.

8. Veterinarians

> Pct. increase: 35.9%
> Total new jobs (2010-2020): 22,000
> Median income: $82,040
> States with the most jobs per capita: Montana, Colorado, Iowa

In addition to pets, veterinarians tend to sick livestock, laboratory animals and other critters. The BLS projects that the number of veterinarians will increase by 22,000, or 35.9%, between 2010 and 2020. A rising national pet population, as well as the need for additional food supply inspection as the U.S. population grows, are among the reasons for the strong job growth. To practice, veterinarians must obtain a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree, currently awarded by just 28 colleges nationwide, as well as a state license.

9. Occupational Therapists


 
> Pct. increase: 33.5%
> Total new jobs (2010-2020): 36,400
> Median income: $72,320
> States with the most jobs per capita: Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire

“Occupational therapists treat patients with injuries, illnesses, or disabilities through the therapeutic use of everyday activities. They help patients develop, recover, and improve the skills needed for daily living and working,” according to the BLS. Becoming an occupational therapist requires a master’s degree, which generally takes two years to complete. The number of occupational therapists is expected to reach 145,200 by 2020, as an aging baby-boomer generation looks to maintain its independence and stay active.

10. Optometrists

> Pct. increase: 33.1%
> Total new jobs (2010-2020): 11,300
> Median income: $94,990
> States with the most jobs per capita: Hawaii, North Dakota, Montana

Optometrists specialize in the care of eyes and vision. Their responsibilities include diagnosing eye injuries and diseases, as well as prescribing glasses and contact lenses. In order to practice, they are required to have a Doctor of Optometry degree, presently awarded by just 20 accredited programs, and must be licensed by the National Boards in Optometry. Those who meet these qualifications are often extremely well-compensated: the top 10% of optometrists earned in excess of $166,400. With vision problems becoming more frequent as people grow older, the number of optometrists is expected to rise by 33.1% between 2010 and 2020.




Source: Yahoo

10 Jobs That Pay At Least $35,000 A Year

Oscar Wilde once said, "When I was young, I thought that money was the most important thing in life; now that I am old I know that it is." While his sentiment is perhaps a little cynical, it rings true, as every part of life has a price tag attached: transportation, medical bills, groceries, electricity, water and so on.
However, having a job and a paycheck are one of the great parts of life, too. If you're looking to make a specific income, here are 10 jobs to consider that pay around $35,000*:


1. Cement mason and terrazzo worker*
Description: Cement masons pour, smooth and finish concrete floors, sidewalks, roads and curbs. Using a cement mixture, terrazzo workers create durable and decorative surfaces for floors and stairways.

• Median annual pay: $35,530

2. Glazier
Description: Glaziers install glass in windows, skylights, storefronts and display cases to create distinctive designs or reduce the need for artificial lighting.

• Median annual pay: $36,640

3. Insulation worker
Description: Insulation workers install and replace the materials used to insulate buildings and their mechanical systems to help control and maintain temperature.

• Median annual pay: $35,110

4. Marriage and family therapist
Description: Marriage and family therapists help people manage or overcome problems with their family and relationships. They listen to clients and ask questions to help the clients understand their problems and develop strategies to improve their lives.

• Median annual pay: $39,710

5. Massage therapist
Description: Massage therapists treat clients by using touch to manipulate the body's soft tissues. Therapists relieve pain, rehabilitate injuries, reduce stress and aid in the general wellness of clients.

• Median annual pay: $34,900

6. Medical secretary
Description: Medical secretaries and administrative assistants perform routine clerical and organizational tasks for health-care facilities. They organize files, draft messages, schedule appointments and support other staff.

• Median annual pay: $34,660

7. Physical therapist assistant
Description: Physical therapist assistants work under the direction of physical therapists. They help patients who are recovering from injuries, illnesses and surgeries regain movement and manage pain.

• Median annual pay: $37,710

8. Self-enrichment teacher
Description: Self-enrichment teachers instruct in a variety of subjects that students take for fun or self-improvement, such as music and foreign languages. These classes generally do not lead to a degree or certification, and students take them voluntarily to learn new skills or gain understanding of a subject.

• Median annual pay: $36,340

9. Substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselor
Description: Substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors advise people who have alcoholism or other types of addiction, eating disorders or other behavioral problems. They provide treatment and support to help the client recover from addiction or modify behavior.

• Median annual pay: $38,120

10. Survey researcher
Description: Survey researchers design or conduct surveys and analyze survey data. Many groups use surveys to collect data such as employment and salary information or to ask questions that help them understand people's opinions, attitudes, beliefs or desires.

• Median annual pay: $36,050

Source:  AOL

11 jobs for people with a bachelor's degree

Ah, college. Days filled with challenging classes, lively debates, ultimate Frisbee games and nights filled with – never mind. Higher education comes in a variety of forms, and obtaining a bachelor's degree creates new opportunities for your career and can help you land a secure, high-paying job.

Consider one of these 11 well-paying, in-demand jobs for people with a bachelor's degree:

1. Actuary*
Description: Actuaries analyze the financial costs of risk and uncertainty using mathematics, statistics and financial theory to assess the chances that an event will occur and to help businesses and clients develop policies to minimize the cost of that risk.
Job growth outlook, 2010-20: 27 percent (faster than average)
Median annual pay: $87,650

2. Advertising, promotions and marketing manager
Description: Advertising, promotions and marketing managers plan programs to generate interest in a project or service. They work with art directors, sales agents and financial staff members.
Job growth outlook, 2010-20: 14 percent (about as fast as average)
Median annual pay: $108,260

3. Biomedical engineer
Description: Biomedical engineers analyze and design solutions to problems in biology and medicine, with the goal of improving the quality and effectiveness of patient care.
Job growth outlook, 2010-20: 62 percent (much faster than average)
Median annual pay: $81,540

4. Computer system analyst
Description: Computer system analysts study an organization's computer systems and procedures and make recommendations to management to help the organization operate more efficiently and effectively. They bring business and information technology together by understanding the needs and limitations of both.
Job growth outlook, 2010-20: 22 percent (faster than average)
Median annual pay: $77,740

5. Environmental engineer
Description: Environmental engineers use the principles of engineering, soil science, biology and chemistry to develop solutions to environmental problems. They are involved in efforts to improve recycling, waste disposal, public health and control of water and air pollution.
Job growth outlook, 2010-20: 22 percent (faster than average)
Median annual pay: $78,740

6. Geoscientist
Description: Geoscientists study the physical aspects of the Earth, such as its composition, structure and processes, in order to learn about its past, present and future.
Job growth outlook, 2010-20: 21 percent (faster than average)
Median annual pay: $82,500

7. Health and safety engineer
Description: Health and safety engineers develop procedures and design systems to keep people from getting sick or injured and to keep property from being damaged.
Job growth outlook, 2010-20: 13 percent (about as fast as average)
Median annual pay: $75,430

8. Information security analyst, Web developer and computer network architect
Description: Information security analysts, Web developers and computer network architects use information technology to advance their organization's goals. Security analysts ensure a company's information stays safe from cyberattacks. Web developers create websites to give companies a public face. Computer network architects create the internal networks that workers within organizations use.
Job growth outlook, 2010-20: 22 percent (faster than average)
Median annual pay: $75,660

9. Management analyst
Description: Management analysts propose ways to improve an organization's efficiency and profitability by advising managers on how to cut costs and increase revenue.
Job growth outlook, 2010-20: 22 percent (faster than average)
Median annual pay: $78,160

10. Medical and health services manager
Description: Medical and health services managers plan, direct and coordinate medical and health services. They might manage an entire facility, specialize in managing a specific clinical area or department or manage a medical practice for a group of physicians.
Job growth outlook, 2010-20: 22 percent (faster than average)
Median annual pay: $84,270

11. Software developer
Description: Software developers are the creative minds behind computer programs. Some develop the applications that allow people to do specific tasks on a computer or other device while others develop the underlying systems that run the devices or control networks.
Job growth outlook, 2010-20: 30 percent (much faster than average)
Median annual pay: $90,530





Source: careerbuilder

10 Jobs In High Demand In 2012 And Beyond

If you're job hunting, you've likely heard that some employers are having difficulty filling positions -- as incredible as that might seem in an era of 8-plus percent unemployment.

The reasons that many in-demand jobs go unfilled vary, with some businesses saying they're unable to find suitable candidates, while others report that job candidates are simply asking for more money than employers are willing to pay.

Perhaps more surprising than the shortage of workers in some professions is that many of these in-demand occupations don't require extensive education. A recent Manpower Group survey of 1,300 U.S. employers showed that six of the top 10 hardest jobs to fill didn't require a college degree.

So what are some of these in-demand jobs? Using Bureau of Labor Statistics data and updated rankings of the most commonly advertised job titles from Wanted Analytics, an employment data aggregator, AOL Jobs came up with 10 occupations that are aching to be filled.

The annual salaries of these occupations vary considerably, from about $25,000 to more than $110,000, as do educational requirements. For some, a high school diploma is all that is needed while others require a doctorate.
But all of these in-demand occupations have one or two things in common: More openings than candidates to fill them and demand that is to projected to grow by at least 12 percent through 2020 (about average, according to BLS forecasts).

This list of jobs, listed from lowest to highest paid, is by no means comprehensive; there are many more occupations that are heavily advertised, suggesting that employers, for whatever reason, are having difficulty filling those posts. Maybe one of these has something for you.

1. Pharmacist

Americans' increased use of and reliance on prescription drugs is helping to drive the demand for pharmacists, whose job it is to dispense doctor-prescribed medications and offer advice on using them properly. They typically work in pharmacies within drug and grocery stores, as well as clinics and hospitals.

• Median annual pay: $111,570.
• Typical education/qualifications: doctorate or professional degree; a license is also required.
• Anticipated job growth (through 2020): 25 percent (faster than average).

Looking for a job as a pharmacist? Click here to get started.

2. Software Engineer

A perennially in-demand profession, software engineers develop applications that allow users to perform specific tasks on computers and other devices, or create operating systems that run the devices or control networks. Wanted Analytics notes that the job title of Java developer, in particular, is among the most commonly advertised.

• Median annual pay: $90,530.
• Typical education/qualifications: bachelor's degree and strong computer programming skills.
• Anticipated job growth (through 2020): 30 percent (much faster than average).

Looking for a job as a software engineer? Click here to get started.

3. Physical Therapist

The job of physical therapist has the distinction of being among the hardest to fill, according to Wanted Analytics' survey. One reason may be the high barrier to entry into this field, which requires advanced education and state licensing. The job involves helping patients who have sustained sometimes debilitating physical injuries or illnesses by enabling them to regain mobility and manage pain. Employers include clinics, hospitals and nursing homes. Workers in this field spend a lot of time on their feet, actively working with patients.

• Median annual pay: $76,310.
• Typical education/qualifications: doctorate or professional degree.
• Anticipated job growth (through 2020): 39 percent (much faster than average).

Looking for a job as a physical therapist? Click here to get started.

4. Speech Language Pathologist

A well-paying profession, speech language pathologists treat hearing, speech and language disabilities. Workers in this field frequently work with children, though as baby boomers continue to age, plenty of older people will require such treatment, suggesting job opportunities in this field are expected to remain robust for years.

• Median annual pay: $66,920.
• Typical education/qualifications: master's degree and state certification.
• Anticipated job growth (through 2020): 23 percent (faster than average).

Looking for a job as a speech language pathologist? Click here to get started.

5. Registered Nurse

America's more-than-decade-long nursing shortage doesn't appear to be abating anytime soon. Forecasts show nursing to be one of the most in-demand professions. The need is particularly acute for registered nurses, commonly referred to as RNs, who generally have greater education and experience than practical nurses. RNs are responsible for coordinating patient care, as well as providing advice and education to patients and their families about illnesses and treatments. Hospitals and doctors offices are typical employers, but so are schools, the military and prisons.

• Median annual pay: $64,690.
• Typical education/qualifications: nursing program diploma; associate degree; or bachelor's degree
• Anticipated job growth (through 2020): 26 percent (faster than average).

Looking for a job as a registered nurse? Click here to get started.

6. Accountant

Often deridingly referred to as bean counters, accountants nevertheless play an important role in keeping a company's finances shipshape. Beyond ensuring the accuracy of financial records and ensuring taxes have been paid, accountants assess financial operations and help to ensure smooth business operations. Accountants are typically employed full time and it's not unusual for them to pull long hours during tax season.

• Median annual pay: $61,690.
• Typical education/qualifications: bachelor's degree.
• Anticipated job growth (through 2020): 16 percent (about as fast as average).

Looking for a job as an accountant? Click here to get started.

7. Sales Representative

The title of sales representative may bring up visions of used-car salesmen, but here we're talking about those who generally work behind the scenes, selling goods on behalf of wholesalers and manufacturers to big customers, such as government agencies, businesses and other organizations. The job can be stressful, in part because most salespeople work on commission, meaning their earnings are tied directly to how well they perform. The job may also involve frequent travel, which, depending on your point of view, can be a plus or a minus.

• Median annual pay: $56,620.
• Typical education/qualifications: high school diploma, though positions involving more technical products may require a bachelor's degree.
• Anticipated job growth (through 2020): 16 percent (about as fast as average).

Looking for a job as a sales representative? Click here to get started.

8. Administrative Assistant

More commonly referred to as secretaries in years past, administrative assistants perform routine clerical and organizational tasks. Duties include drafting messages, organizing files and scheduling appointments. Jobs in this field typically are found in schools, governmental agencies, hospitals, and legal and medical offices. The number of virtual assistants, who work from home rather than an office, has risen in recent years along with advances in technology.

• Median annual pay: $34,660.
• Typical education/qualifications: high school diploma or equivalent.
• Anticipated job growth (through 2020): 12 percent (about as fast as average).

Looking for a job as an administrative assistant? Click here to get started.

9. Customer Service Representative

People employed in this job are routinely viewed as the face (or voice) of a company or organization. The job involves frequent interaction with customers, which can challenge anyone's good graces, particularly if a customer is angry (for legitimate reasons or not). In addition to handling complaints, customer service representatives answer questions and may act as liaisons to help solve problems beyond their responsibilities. It's not unusual for workers in the job to work in a large call center, depending on the size of the employer. They include insurance companies, banks, retailers and others.

• Median annual pay: $30,460.
• Typical education/qualifications: high school diploma or equivalent.
• Anticipated job growth (through 2020): 15 percent (about as fast as average).

Looking for a job as a customer service representative? Click here to get started.

10. Receptionist

It may seem a lowly profession, but a job as a receptionist can be a stepping stone to a more substantial position within any organization. The job involves administrative tasks, including answering telephones, and providing clients and the general public with information. Receptionists are employed in nearly every industry, though health care and social service providers, including doctors offices, hospitals and nursing homes, dominate the profession. About 30 percent of receptionists are employed part time.

• Median annual pay: $25,240.
• Typical education/qualifications: high school diploma or equivalent.
• Anticipated job growth (through 2020): 24 percent (faster than average).

Looking for a job as a receptionist? Click here to get started.




Source: AOL 

The 15 Industries With The Fastest-Growing Wages

While the latest jobs news was disappointing, there's some good news about wages.
Data company PayScale found that in the past year, wages have grown at their fastest rate since 2007.
Below are the top 15 industries with the fastest-growing wages, based on the PayScale Index, which "follows changes in total cash compensation for full-time, private industry employees in the U.S. and Canada":

Rank                                   Industry                                   Q2 2012 Year-Over-Year
                                                                                              Percentage Change In Pay

1                Mining, Oil & Gas Exploration                                  5.6%
2                Utilities                                                                     4.2%
3                Professional, Scientific & Tech Services                    3.0%
4                Retail                                                                        2.7%
5 - Tie        Information, Media & Companies                             2.6%
5 - Tie        Wholesale Trade                                                       2.6%
7                Manufacturing                                                            2.5%
8 - Tie        Construction                                                              2.4%
8 - Tie        Transportation & Warehouse/Storage                         2.4%
10 - Tie      Arts, Entertainment & Recreation                               2.0%
10 - Tie      Finance & Insurance                                                  2.0%
12              Healthcare & Social Assistance                                  1.9%
13              Food Services & Accommodation                              1.5%
14              Real Estate & Rental Services                                     1.2%
15              Business Operation Support Services                          1.1%  

Source: businessinsider