The 8 Hottest Jobs of 2014

Aaron Gouveia, Salary.com contributing writer

We looked into our own Salary.com crystal ball and then referenced sources like the US Bureau of Labor Statistics to determine which fields are slated to enjoy the most growth over the next few years. So if you’re currently unemployed and searching for a job, or if you’re unsatisfied and hoping to change careers, the first thing you need to do is see if your job is on this list.

8. School Psychologist

Job: School Psychologist
Median annual salary: $61,141
Growth rate: 16% in the Life, Physical, and Social Science occupations

More than 56,000 jobs will be created this decade in the social science and related occupations, sparked by pronounced growth in clinical, counseling, and school psychologist openings, according to the BLS.

Most school psychologist positions require a minimum of a master’s degree, but many also hold a doctorate or specialist degree as well. School psychologists offer counseling and psychological services to students, while also providing training to teachers. Psychologists work with students in both individual and group settings.

7. Operations Research Analyst

Job: Operations Research Analyst
Median annual salary: $48,233
Growth rate: 17% in the mathematics occupation

We’ve all heard about the emergence of “big data,” but operations research analysts are the ones who will interpret it and make use of it.

This fast-growing position is an important one, especially as better technology requires competent analysts to help them squeeze the most important information out of tons of data, in order to help executives make better business decisions. The analysts are essential for collecting the best data and using it to make recommendations to identify problem areas and develop solutions.

6. Accounts & Auditors

Job: Accountants and Auditors
Median annual accountant salary: $55,608
Median annual auditor salary: $62,077
Growth rate: 17% in the business & financial occupations

The great economic collapse of 2008 hit the business and financial industries pretty hard. And it turns out if you’re someone looking for a job in this rebounding industry, there’s a silver lining of that debacle.

When it was discovered loose standards contributed to the latest recession, new restrictions went into place as a response. That’s part of the reason why accountants and auditors will be more important than ever before. Companies are finding it is essential to have these knowledgeable people in place to make sure businesses are providing the necessary level of accountability and oversight in the post-recession business world.  Continue reading . . .

Article by Aaron Gouveia and courtesy of Salary.com