Are you looking for a career transition or a job after graduation? Nicole Rodgers has been in the finance industry for 3 years and blogs about a variety of topics ranging from tips on GMAT preparation to where to find a free credit score online. Today she is going to tell us what the top career fields are in 2011.Knowing the best career fields for 2011 could help you find a job even in tough economic times. The need for experienced and educated employees in different industries will rise and fall. Staying ahead of the tide changes will give you the edge when it comes to finding employment. It seems that the New Year puts the brains over the brawn. Math focused and technological fields offer the best opportunities for those looking for employment. The best thing about these different fields is that education can cross boundaries and fit several different job descriptions.
- Actuary - An actuary is a person that takes data and uses it to determine the possibility that future events will occur. The information can be used to help reduce some of the undesirable events or take advantage of the positive ones. A person that wants to move into this field needs strong analytical skills for interpreting the data. There should also be an understanding of business and also human behavior to aid in the determination of risks and rewards. Experience in calculus, statistics, economics, finance and business will move you towards a career as an actuary. Compensation will vary according to the particular industry and even the location of the job, but actuaries can expect to earn a starting rate of as much as $50,000 and could work up to six figures with experience. The education and experience of an actuary could be translated into a financial focus.
- Financial Analyst - is a person that studies financial performances and advises on the risk and return characteristics of investments. It may be a requirement to have a bachelor or master degree in finance in order to secure a position in this field. Some companies may provide training to skilled or experienced applicants that are not degreed in fields specific to finance. The median income for a financial analyst (including bonuses) was over $70,000 in 2009 (according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics). The interest in interpretation of data could be translated into a historical slant.
- Historian - this field focuses on search for clues that reveal the past and using the information to make sense of events and situations. A person that moves towards this career direction needs to enjoy spending time hunting down information, should have some understanding of grants writing and applications and experience interpreting large amounts of data. Compensation for those working in this industry reaches a medium level of around $60,000. The skills to detect information can be translated into the medical fields.
- Radiology Technician - this field combines photography with detective work. The X-ray pictures taken by the radiology technician helps supply doctors with the information that allows for proper diagnosis. It requires the ability to work one on one with patients to get the cleanest image for the doctor. A person that considers working as a radiology technician should have a desire to work closely with patients, an understanding of numbers in order to calibrate the equipment and a beginning interest in radiology (or X-ray). Special training is required and usually involves at least an associate degree. The average salary for an employ in radiology is just over $50,000.
(Photo by Kiplinger)
