Unemployment rates remain low as we enter the new year, but companies are continuing to prioritize hiring due to lower numbers of workers in the workforce. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics has released data showing the overall unemployment rate at the end of 2022 was about 3.7 percent, and even lower for individuals age 55 and older at 2.5 percent. Employers are actively seeking to hire and more desirous than usual to fill roles, particularly in the roles listed below. These jobs are also projected to increase between now and 2031.
In 2023, there will be a variety of thriving job fields suitable for applicants of different backgrounds, education, and experience. Medical professions are expected to experience the most growth, but other fields such as financial management, health care, culinary, refereeing and teaching are also expected to have increased hiring. We have compiled a list of some of the top 12 jobs expected to be in high demand in 2023.
1. Nurse Practitioner
Expected increase in number of jobs in 2023: 46%
Nurse practitioners can perform many of the tasks that doctors do, such as creating treatment plans for patients, managing medical histories, and supervising registered nurses. They cannot prescribe medications in most states, but due to their versatility, the demand for them continues to grow rapidly. To become a nurse practitioner, you will need a graduate degree in nursing and the relevant licenses for your area.
Average pay: $118,000
2. Data Scientist
Expected increase in number of jobs in 2023: 36%
Data scientists analyze and manipulate data to understand the best ways for businesses to succeed and present that information in a way that can be understood by leadership. The responsibilities involve determining the relevance and value of business and customer data, and ensuring its accuracy. Applicants usually need a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in mathematics or statistics.
Average pay: $108,000/yr
3. Information Security Analyst
Expected increase in number of jobs in 2023: 35 percent
Information security analysts are responsible for protecting valuable information from potential cyber-attacks. They work to prevent security breaches and ensure the integrity of data.
Average pay: $113,000/yr
4. Umpire or Referee
Expected increase in number of jobs in 2023: 32 percent
As sports remain a beloved pastime in the country, job opportunities in this field continue to arise. From school districts to recreational leagues, and major and minor professional leagues, there is a high demand for officials to ensure fair and smooth running of games. While some training is necessary, the role also requires the ability to handle and resolve conflicts with fans and players.
Average pay: $51,000/yr.
5. Web Developer
Expected increase in number of jobs in 2023: 30%
Web developers are responsible for ensuring that websites function properly and are easy to use. With technology and software constantly evolving, many companies have their own internal teams to handle development, while smaller companies more often will contract out the work on an a la carte basis. A solid benefit is that development work can often be done remotely.
Average pay: $79,000/yr
6. Physician Assistant
Expected increase in number of jobs in 2023: 28%
Physician Assistants (PAs) have a unique role in the healthcare field, as they have a greater level of responsibility than nurses, but not as extensive as doctors. PAs work closely with physicians, and are responsible for tasks such as diagnosing patients, ordering medical tests, and performing procedures such as setting broken bones. To work in this role, a master’s degree in physician assisting and the appropriate licenses are required.
Average pay: $119,000/yr
7. Light Truck Driver
Expected increase in number of jobs in 2023: 10 percent
The boom in online shopping created a corresponding boom in the number of jobs associated with delivering those orders, including delivery truck drivers. These roles often offer flexible hours and do not typically require loading or unloading the trucks. A class C license may be required, but often vans are used instead, which doesn’t require anything more than a typical driver’s license.
Average pay: $42,000/yr
8. Construction manager
Expected increase in number of jobs in 2023: 8 percent
With the resumption of construction projects put on hold at the start of the pandemic, there are opportunities for older workers in this field.
Average pay: $108,000/yr
9. Human resources specialist
Expected increase in number of jobs in 2023: 8 percent
Human resources specialists are in high demand as businesses look to recruit and retain employees in a competitive job market. These professionals assist with a variety of tasks related to employee management, such as recruiting, hiring, and training new employees. They also play a critical role in ensuring compliance with labor laws and regulations. Additionally, in the event of an economic downturn, they may also assist with layoffs and other downsizing decisions.
Average pay: $70,000/yr
10. Project management specialist
Expected increase in number of jobs in 2023: 7 percent
Project management specialists are responsible for turning great ideas into finished products. They work with teams to plan, execute, and deliver projects on time and within budget. Project management specialist positions are available both as full-time employment and as contract work, offering options for those who desire flexibility or prefer working part-time.
Average pay: $98,000/yr
11. Service sales representative
Expected increase in number of jobs in 2023: 7 percent
Service sales representatives are responsible for connecting businesses in ways that can be profitable for both parties. They are required to have strong communication skills, which they use to book jobs for caterers or find new clients for website designers. Most of these jobs do not require a college degree, but prefer previous experience in sales.
Average hourly wage: $71,000/yr
12. Travel Agent
Expected increase in number of jobs in 2023: 20 percent
With the travel industry expected to grow over the next decade, businesses such as hotels are hiring additional travel agents to manage reservations. With people eager to start traveling again, this profession is poised to become a popular career choice.
Average pay: $46,000/yr
Find your next job with Express Employment Professionals
As an agency, we strive to connect job seekers with the best opportunities that match their skills and experience.
The job market is constantly evolving and it is important to stay informed about the latest trends and opportunities. We are pleased to see that there are a variety of options available for applicants, whether they are looking for a career change or just entering the workforce.
Healthcare, technology, and service industries are particularly strong and offer a range of positions. It is also worth noting that many of the jobs listed offer a competitive hourly wage, which can translate to a substantial yearly income when working a full-time schedule.
