by Mary P Ivy

Created on: May 21, 2010   Last Updated: June 13, 2010

Surprisingly, there are many fast growing occupations in 2010 and these offer long-term promise. Some of these occupations result from an ever-changing economy while others result from the baby boomers' retirement.

Whether you are just starting out or just starting over, do some strategic thinking when considering your career path. Training costs money and takes time. Spend both wisely. 

The good news is that many of these jobs do not require a college degree. In fact, most of the best job growth in the next few years goes to those with a two-year degree. Jacques Steinberg writing in the New York Times, explains, of the “30 jobs projected to grow at the fastest rate over the next decade….only seven typically require a bachelor’s degree” (May 14 2010).

Further, Steinberg explains that of the hottest job categories, 8 out of 10 do not require a bachelor’s degree. Steinberg points to jobs in nursing, home health, customer service and retail as some examples.

Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) offers a comprehensive, unbiased view of projected job growth, the training required and the expected income each will provide. Many of the top-growth jobs listed there are for those holding 2-year degrees, with some requiring only a high school diploma and on the job training.

Here are some top job picks for 2010 and the years ahead.

1. Dental Assistants.

BLS reports that job prospects should be excellent as dentists hire more assistants to perform routine duties. Many of these will learn their skills on the job, though 1-year training programs are popular. Earnings range from a low of $22,270 to a high of $46,150. 

2. Physical therapist assistants and aides.

With projected job growth above average, the prospects are good but there is a large pool of applicants so competition is keen. Aides are trained on the job while assistants hold an associate degree. Earnings range from a low of $28,580 to a high of $54,900.

3. Rail transportation.

Rail transportation occupations show a respectable growth rate of 9% for the coming years as many workers retire. These jobs do not necessarily require any post-secondary training yet they pay well. Pay ranges from $21.12 to $25.59 per hour.

4. Cargo and freight agents.

A much faster than average employment growth rate is expected for workers in this field. These workers manage incoming and outgoing shipments and generally keep cargo moving efficiently. Most cargo and freight agents hold no more than a high school diploma and learn on the job. Earnings range from a low of $13.67 an hour to a high of $27.70 an hour.

5. Bill and account collectors.

Jobs in this field are predicted to grow faster than all occupations, at 19%. These jobs normally require only a high school diploma though some customer service experience is helpful. Earnings range from a low of $12.14 an hour to a high of $22.07 an hour.

It seems there are promising careers in a good cross-section of occupations, and many require little education beyond high school. That should be good news for many of today’s job seekers.

Note: Salary figures are from BLS 2008. 

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