Top 10 Science Jobs in the United States

Tahlea Jankoski | Published  May 31, 2018

 

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Astronaut. Marine Biologist. Archaeologist. Every child dreams of what they want to be when they grow up. Often those dreams are in the field of science, and today's landscape of science professions is filled with a variety of job opportunities. What are the most current trends in science jobs?

Data Scientist

Also known as computer and information research scientists, data scientists write algorithms that help detect patterns and analyze performance within a large amount of data. It could be creating algorithms for monitoring traffic flow or analyzing how consumers are receiving a new product, this profession area continues to be a trending profession as it's job outlook is expected to grow to 19% by 2026. The annual median salary for the job is a whopping $114,520. 

Epidemiologist/Medical Scientist

Medical scientists often work in a hospital setting researching the causes of diseases to help prevent them from spreading. They may also work for state or local governments or pharmaceutical companies. Job growth is expected to rise nine percent by 2026 and the annual median salary is $70,820. 

Psychologist

I know what you may be thinking: is psychology really a science? The short answer is that it is complicated but it is regarded mostly as a social science and a psychologist title is one of the leading top jobs to have in the United States. Psychologists study processes and observe human behavior to understand how individuals relate to each other. They may work independently, work with a healthcare team, or with a private practice. By 2026, it is expected that psychology professions will grow by 14% and the annual median salary is expected to be about $77,030. 

Software Developer

Software developers in general work on the backend of computer systems to create applications and specific tasks for devices. They are often in charge of developing a software program and work closely with the computer programmers. The projected growth by 2026 is 24% and currently has a median salary of $103,560. 

Statistician/Mathematician

Statisticians and mathematicians often work for the federal government, healthcare, or private research companies to collect and analyze data. Their work may include setting up surveys, experiments, and polls to analyze information. Professionals in the field can make an annual median salary of $84,760 per year and by 2026 are expected to grow by 33%. 

Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical engineers design, build, and test devices and machines. They are involved in the entire manufacturing process and make updates to the production as needed. It is the broadest field of engineering, taking into account a variety of other professions. The job growth for a mechanical engineer is expected to be nine percent by 2026 and the current median annual salary is $85,880. 

Information Security Analyst

Cybersecurity is a trending area as information security analysts work hard to prevent hackers from stealing sensitive information. These analysts prepare reports and develop security standards for companies and also recommend security enhancements. The annual median salary is $95,510 per year with a prospected job growth of 28% by 2026. 

Science Teacher

That's right! Science teachers are one of the leading jobs on the list, and are crucial to preparing young minds for tomorrow's future. Science teachers not only prepare students for the real-world, but also engage them in activities that connect them to other elements, such as what makes up STEM, so that they have a better well-rounded idea of what to expect outside of the classroom. Overall, the Bureau of Labor Statistics expect that high school teacher positions will grow to eight percent by 2026. The annual median salary is $59,170 with approximately one million jobs for high school teachers existing in 2016 and increasing year over year. 

Biochemist

Biochemists study biological and chemical processes of living things. They use their expertise to conduct experiments and find solutions to biological issues. Biochemists use a variety of advanced technologies and often need a Ph.D. to work in this field. The annual median salary is $91,190 with job growth expected to rise by 11% in 2026.

Anthropologist

People who love studying the origins and behaviors of humans find a passion for anthropology. This profession includes fieldwork along with working to analyze samples in a lab. Anthropologists research cultures and collect data. They can advise organizations on how a culture is affected by policies or programs. The annual median salary for their profession is $62,280 with job growth by 2026 expected to rise by four percent. 

 

 

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