Secure Jobs during the Recession

With many forced lay-offs each month, many people may be wondering if there still are secure jobs out there. Despite the grim economic reality, the answer is “yes”. Here are some of the most secure jobs available:

1. Registered Nurses – Healthcare job openings and medical job openings will always remain in demand, since people will always need medical care. Registered nursing jobs are expected to rise by 23% through 2016. A bachelor’s degree program in nursing can help you enter this profession. Further studies will ensure career growth. Registered nurses earned a median annual salary of $62,450 in 2008.
2. Physician Assistants – Much like registered nurses, medical job openings for physician assistants are expected to grow by 27% from 2006 through 2016. A two-year degree program and certification through a physician assistant national certifying examination will qualify you for this profession. Physician assistants earned a median annual salary $81,230 in 2008.
3. Environmental Engineers – Green job openings are increasing now that more businesses and organizations are moving towards sustainable environment-friendly operations. They’ll need experts in the environmental sciences who can guide them in such matters. Engineers can take advantage of this growing demand by taking a master’s degree in environmental science. As of 2008, the median annual salary of alternative energy engineers was estimated at $74,020.
4. College Professors – The current crop of educators are reaching retirement age. This means that a large void in the field of education must be filled within the next 10 years. Education job openings for post-secondary teachers are expected to increase by 23% from 2006 through 2016. Requirements vary, depending on the subject being taught. However, universities usually require Ph.D.’s from their professors. At community colleges, teachers may qualify with a master’s degree. Annual wages range between $58,662 and $98,974.
5. Accountants – Businesses and individuals always look for people who can audit, organize balance sheets and prepare the necessary documents for tax season. A bachelor’s degree in accounting is sufficient to qualify for entry-level positions in this field. Accountants earned a median annual wage of $59,430 in 2008.
6. Paralegals – Job openings in this profession are expected to grow by 22% from 2006 to 2016. Online associate’s and bachelor’s programs are available for those interested in this field. Paralegals earn a median annual salary of $46,120.

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