Since 2020, many employees have decided to quit their jobs in favor of a change. Some have referred to this phenomenon as the Great Resignation.
If you’ve quit your job, lost your job, or are thinking of quitting, what are the best new jobs to pursue in 2022? We’ve compiled a list of the 12 best jobs for career changers. Some of the jobs were selected for growing demand, others for ease of transitioning or high pay. Many offer escapes from the daily grind or a good work-life balance. Some feature a combination of all these qualities.
If you’re thinking of making a career change, check out this completely free resume builder to whip your resume into shape. You’ll also want to stay up-to-date on business trends, including the 12 growing fields listed below.
1. Healthcare Administrator
Healthcare administrators handle the day-to-day business of medical facilities, including staffing, finances, and logistics. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, careers in the “Medical and Health Services Managers” category are expected to grow 32 percent by 2030.
In addition to need, making the switch is easy if you already have a bachelor’s degree – even if it is not in medicine. You can obtain a Master of Healthcare Administration degree and pursue additional certifications.
The median salary for healthcare administrators is just over $100,000 per year.
One group essential to health care are nurses. Travel nurses are essential to the health care team because they help bridge the gap. To begin pursuing a career in travel nursing, students and experienced RNs should get a compact state nursing license to work in multiple states that are multi-state Nurse Licensure Compact members. However, they should learn more about state licensing requirements and develop the skills to excel in dynamic travel nursing work environments. In addition, these professionals can earn considerably more than full-time permanent positions.
2. Dental Hygienist
Dental hygenists clean patients’ teeth before they are seen by the dentist. This career is lauded because of its low-stress work environment and good work-life balance. Obtaining certification as a dental hygienist typically takes less than two years, and salary averages $75,000 per year.
3. Web Developer
Web developers build and maintain websites. Degrees are not usually required, as long as you have the coding skills you need. You can learn web coding and other skills through online courses, some of which are available for free. You’ll be able to work from home (or anywhere with an internet connection) and set your own schedule. Salaries average just under $70,000 per year.
4. Bookkeeper
Bookkeepers maintain businesses’ financial records and prepare their taxes. Unlike Certified Public Accountants, becoming a bookkeeper doesn’t require a degree. You can learn bookkeeping skills through self-paced online classes that usually take less than a year to complete. The average salary for a bookkeeper is $40,000 per year.
5. Patient Advocate
If you’re looking for a career that will allow you to feel fulfilled through helping others, patient advocacy might be for you. Advocates help healthcare patients understand treatment options, follow treatment plans, and deal with insurance claims. Those with a medical background will be well equipped to understand all aspects of care and communicate with doctors. Patient advocates make an average of $63,000 per year.
6. Real Estate Agent
Real estate agents show properties and guide clients through the sales process. No college degree is needed, but you’ll have to obtain a real estate license. Those with a background in sales will find this popular option an easy transition. The average salary is $68,000 per year.
7. Social Media Director
This career change is great for those already familiar with Facebook, Twitter, Tik Tok, Instagram, and YouTube. You’ll be promoting a brand on these networks. Bachelor’s degrees in journalism or communication may be required. The average salary is $86,000 per year.
8. Technical Writer
Technical writers create manuals and articles to explain complex subjects in ways that non-experts can understand. A bachelor’s or master’s degree in a related field of expertise is a plus for becoming a technical writer. The average salary is $75,000.
9. Teacher
If you have a bachelor’s degree, you can obtain an additional teaching certification to teach in public schools. Private schools may not require certification if you have subject matter expertise. You can also opt to teach online, such as teaching English abroad. Some programs require a bachelor’s degree while others do not. The average salary is $65,000 per year.
10. Landscaper
If you want to get out of the office and enjoy the great outdoors, consider becoming a landscaper. There are no education requirements, but certifications such as through the Master Gardener program can help. The average salary is $29,000 per year.
11. Flight Attendant
Want to travel the world? Become a flight attendant! No schooling is needed, but a background in customer service is a plus. Salaries range from $20,000 to over $100,000 per year.
12. Museum Educator
Do you find the quiet of museum halls a welcome escape? Museum educators are teachers that don’t sit behind a desk – the whole museum is their classroom. Many work on a freelance basis. They are able to book tours around their own schedules. Museum educators average $24,000 per year.