Top 50 Most Common Jobs In Texas You Are Easy to Find
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| Top 50 Most Common Jobs In Texas You Can Find |
The 10 largest occupations in America employ 30.5 million workers, representing 21% of all workers. Keeping America’s economy moving would be impossible without office workers, package handlers, food prep workers, and truck drivers. And what would the sick do without the millions of hospital workers, nurses, and home health aides?
The most popular job is the fast food and counter worker profession, which employs 353,500 people (2.89 percent of the total employment in Texas). The second most common job is the general and operations manager profession which employs 336,380 people (2.75 percent of the total employment).
Here are the 50 most common jobs you can find in Texas.
Is it easy to get a job in Texas?
According to TWC, more than 13 million jobs located in Texas were posted in December 2021, surpassing the pre-pandemic numbers and setting a record for the state. The 4.8% unemployment rate in Texas has continued to drop month over month as the state recovers from COVID-19.
Nonetheless, finding employment in Texas often requires determination, training, and education. TWC projects that 40% of new jobs added between 2018 and 2028 will require some form of postsecondary training. Aspiring workers who target the fastest-growing careers in Texas can help improve their odds of securing employment.
Texas Career Outlook
The career outlook in Texas appears promising as the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas projects strong growth and economic recovery throughout 2022 and beyond. Prospective students and workers can benefit from ample job opportunities in Texas. TWC's 2020 Report on Texas Growth Occupations projects the addition of 1.7 million new jobs between 2018 and 2028.
Texas has one of the fastest-growing job markets in the U.S., according the World Population Review. Additionally, the annual mean wage in the state was $52,400 in May 2020 (slightly below the national average of $56,310). And wages in the state should continue to increase. TWC's report shows that over 40% of the top-growing and highest-paying careers in Texas will require postsecondary training.
Tips To Work In Texas
1. Talk to locals. The best way to learn about your new city is to talk to people while you’re out and about. You have to run errands anyway so rather than keeping to yourself talk to the people in line at the grocery store or pharmacy. Walk around your neighborhood and say hi to your neighbors outside. Ask them for recommendations to get to know the city.
2. Be a joiner.com and other online tools can provide you with ideas for getting together with people who have similar interests. If you like hiking, for instance, join a hiking club and make some new friends. Whatever your hobbies you can find a group online and in your area that you can join.
3. Become a regular. Local bars and restaurants are a great way to get to know a new city. Your bartender or server is usually willing to provide additional recommendations. Also, sitting at a bar in a new town is a great way to strike up conversations with others who also live there.
4. Learn about your new city. Before you arrive do some research on your city using sites like WikiTravel and Trip Advisor. While these sites are geared toward the tourist crowds they can be helpful to someone who has never been to the city before. Take a local history tour or attend an event.
5. Volunteer in the community. Another way to get to know others in your community is to volunteer on the local level. Choose a cause that is important to you and research organizations in your area. For example, you can volunteer at an animal shelter or a food bank. You’ll get to know others with similar values.
What city in Texas has the most jobs?
The cities with the most job opportunities in Texas are located in large metropolitan areas, including the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metropolitan center and the Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land metropolitan center. According to the LaborIQ Market Index, which ranks labor market strength, the Texas cities with the best labor opportunities also include Austin and Round Rock. Round Rock is one of the fastest-growing cities in the country, and Austin was one the fastest to recover jobs lost during COVID-19.
What Are The 50 Most Common Jobs In Texas You Can Find?
1. Substance Use and Behavioral Disorder Counselors
Median Annual Salary: $50,920
2020-2030 Job Outlook: 25.8%
These professionals provide counseling and support services to people with substance use and behavioral issues. They evaluate clients, develop treatment plans, and work with healthcare providers and family members. According to the BLS, most professionals in these fields earn a bachelor's degree, such as an online bachelor's in behavioral psychology or addiction counseling. However, some roles may require a master's degree.
The growth in the Texas healthcare system and the need for diverse healthcare services contribute to the demand for substance use and behavioral disorder counselors. A growing public awareness of these health issues and the use of treatment as an alternative to jail time for people convicted of crimes should also increase demand.
2. Management Analysts
Median Annual Salary: $95,730
2020-2030 Job Outlook: 26.7%
Management analysts help organizations improve their operational efficiencies. They may work with the organization's finances and personnel to find ways to reduce costs and improve performance. According to the BLS, management analysts need a bachelor's degree at minimum, though employers may require a graduate degree like a master's in management.
The growing economy in Texas and an increasingly global marketplace has created more competition for organizations. Businesses and agencies want to operate efficiently to ensure they remain competitive.
3. Fast Food and Counter Workers
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| Photo: iStock |
Employment: 353,500
Average Salary: $21,970
Fast food workers take and fill customers' orders for food and drinks. They assemble some items, such as sandwiches and salads. They also collect payment. They include crew members, team members, store associates, cashiers and customer service associates.
There were more than five million fast food jobs available in the U.S. in 2016. A disproportionately large number of these workers are teenagers.
Fast food workers can be charged with a wide range of duties, including:
- Preparing and cooking food
- Taking food and drink orders
- Serving customers
- Meeting and greeting customers
- Operating cash registers and receive payment from customer in cash or by credit card
- Maintaining dining areas and kitchen areas, including clearing and cleaning tables, emptying trash cans, and washing or vacuuming floors
- Promoting positive guest relations
This job isn't just about slapping beef patties on the grill. Fast food workers are involved in all aspects of customer service, and they often perform maintenance as well.
4. General and Operations Managers
Employment: 336,380
Average Salary: $83,160
The General and Operations Manager will plan and oversee the daily operations of the organization to ensure goals and objectives are achieved.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
- Hires and trains new employees.
- Organizes and oversees the schedules and work of assigned staff.
- Conducts performance evaluations that are timely and constructive.
- Handles discipline and termination of employees as needed and in accordance with company policy.
5. Physician Assistants
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| Photo: The Balance Workers |
Median Annual Salary: $112,200
2020-2030 Job Outlook: 37.3%
Physician assistants examine, diagnose, and treat patients in many areas of medicine. The extent of their duties depends on their state, but these professionals typically work on teams under the supervision of a lead physician. According to the BLS, physician assistants need a master's degree at minimum to practice. Aspiring professionals may be interested in an online physician assistant master's program.
The aging population in Texas has created a great demand for healthcare services. As a result of quicker training (compared to physicians) and a broadening variety of services, the demand for physician assistants should continue to grow.
6. Dental Hygienists and Assistants
Median Annual Salary: $77,590
2020-2030 Job Outlook: 35.0%
Dental hygienists and dental assistants work on dental teams. Hygienists provide oral hygiene services, and assistants help dentists and provide administrative services. Hygienists typically perform cleanings, while assistants prepare dental patients and stations. According to the BLS, dental hygienists need an associate or bachelor's in dental hygiene, whereas dental assistants typically need a diploma or a certificate in dental assistance.
The growing demand for healthcare services in Texas includes the dental field. An aging population that requires more dental services, a greater awareness of the benefits of oral health, and expanding roles for dental hygienists should also contribute to growth for these positions.
7. Office clerks, general
- Employment: 70,490 (23.745 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $41,970 (#29 highest pay among all metros)
National
- Employment: 2,788,090 (20.044 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $37,770
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($49,560)
--- Napa, CA ($47,570)
--- Boulder, CO ($47,160)
- Job description: Perform duties too varied and diverse to be classified in any specific office clerical occupation, requiring knowledge of office systems and procedures. Clerical duties may be assigned in accordance with the office procedures of individual establishments and may include a combination of answering telephones, bookkeeping, typing or word processing, office machine operation, and filing.
8. Self-Enrichment Education Teachers
Median Annual Salary: $37,390
2020-2030 Job Outlook: 32.8%
Self-enrichment teachers train people in non-academic or career-based fields. They may provide teachings in recreational disciplines, helping students develop hobbies, new interests, and fitness regimes. According to O*NET OnLine, most professionals in this role need experience and an associate degree at minimum to enter the field.
In Texas, the expanding population has created a demand for teachers in all areas of education. As the population diversifies, the need for more varied recreational classes and programs should grow. Self-enrichment education teachers help residents add meaning, excitement, and recreation to their lives.
9. Nurse Practitioners
Median Annual Salary: $116,700
2020-2030 Job Outlook: 31.9%
Nurse practitioners provide primary care to patients, including examining, diagnosing, and treating patients. These professionals can specialize in various fields, such as geriatric, mental, and pediatric health services. According to the BLS, nurse practitioners need a master's degree at minimum to practice. For example, candidates could enroll in an online nurse practitioner master's program.
The great demand for nurse practitioners in Texas primarily results from a growing and aging population and a general need for healthcare services. Furthermore, as the roles and responsibilities of nurse practitioners grow and evolve, healthcare providers may come to depend on these nurses even more.
10. Dentists
Median Annual Salary: $184,410
2020-2030 Job Outlook: 31.7%
Dentists care for patients' teeth and mouths. They repair cavities and damaged teeth, treat oral concerns, and provide education on preventative and restorative dental care. According to the BLS, dentists need a doctorate to practice in this field, such as a doctorate in dental surgery or dental medicine.
The demand for dentists in Texas is largely driven by the aging population and an increased need for dental services. According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, demand for dentists should continue to outpace supply from 2018-2030.
11. Software Developers
Median Annual Salary: $109,570
2020-2030 Job Outlook: 31.4%
Software developers create computer software and applications for clients and organizations. They design and develop programs based on client needs or seek to improve upon existing operations. According to the BLS, software developers usually need a bachelor's degree in a computer science discipline. Alternatively, they can have experience in another discipline combined with software development bootcamp training.
The demand for software developers in Texas largely results from new industries and technologies integrating computer systems and applications. For example, advancements in the healthcare, consumer electronics, and appliance industries have contributed to the growth in software development.
12. Coaches and Scouts
Median Annual Salary: $53,740
2020-2030 Job Outlook: 30.8%
Coaches and scouts work with amateur, collegiate, and professional athletes. Scouts identify potential in athletes, and coaches oversee athletes' development in practices and games. According to the BLS, coaches and scouts often need a bachelor's degree, though advancement opportunities may be more accessible with a master's in coaching.
In Texas, population growth and a growing interest in collegiate and professional sports should drive demand for coaches and scouts. Expanding high school and college sports programs may also create new opportunities for these professionals.
13. Financial Managers
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| Photo: 365 SHR |
Median Annual Salary: $148,860
2020-2030 Job Outlook: 30.1%
Financial managers oversee an organization's financial operations and strategies. Financial analysts provide insight to organizations and individuals about investments and financial activities. According to the BLS, financial managers and financial analysts require a bachelor's degree at minimum for employment. For example, students could enroll in an online accounting program or pursue a bachelor's in finance.
The demand in the financial industry in Texas is caused by several factors, including growth in specialized financial services, international business transactions, and risk management services.
14. Cashiers
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| Photo: Shutterstock |
- Employment: 64,130 (21.601 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $24,160 (#188 highest pay among all metros)
National
- Employment: 3,333,100 (23.962 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $25,710
- Entry level education requirements: No formal educational credential
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($35,970)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($34,480)
--- Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA ($34,320)
- Job description: Receive and disburse money in establishments other than financial institutions. May use electronic scanners, cash registers, or related equipment. May process credit or debit card transactions and validate checks.
15. Customer service representatives
- Employment: 61,500 (20.717 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $36,420 (#165 highest pay among all metros)
National
- Employment: 2,833,250 (20.368 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $38,510
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($49,930)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($47,720)
--- Midland, MI ($47,250)
- Job description: Interact with customers to provide basic or scripted information in response to routine inquiries about products and services. May handle and resolve general complaints. Excludes individuals whose duties are primarily installation, sales, repair, and technical support.
16. Heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers
- Employment: 44,490 (14.987 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $48,280 (#164 highest pay among all metros)
National
- Employment: 1,797,710 (12.924 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $48,710
- Entry level education requirements: Postsecondary nondegree award
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Barnstable Town, MA ($65,170)
--- Danville, IL ($63,230)
--- Lewiston, ID-WA ($62,250)
- Job description: Drive a tractor-trailer combination or a truck with a capacity of at least 26,001 pounds Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW). May be required to unload truck. Requires commercial drivers' license. Includes tow truck drivers.
17. Janitors and cleaners, except maids and housekeeping cleaners
- Employment: 42,130 (14.190 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $26,030 (#296 highest pay among all metros)
National
- Employment: 1,990,510 (14.31 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $31,410
- Entry level education requirements: No formal educational credential
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA ($44,110)
--- Barnstable Town, MA ($43,860)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($42,250)
- Job description: Keep buildings in clean and orderly condition. Perform heavy cleaning duties, such as cleaning floors, shampooing rugs, washing walls and glass, and removing rubbish. Duties may include tending furnace and boiler, performing routine maintenance activities, notifying management of need for repairs, and cleaning snow or debris from sidewalk.
18. Bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks
- Employment: 33,320 (11.225 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $45,050 (#67 highest pay among all metros)
National
- Employment: 1,443,940 (10.381 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $44,100
- Entry level education requirements: Some college, no degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($56,700)
--- Santa Rosa, CA ($55,720)
--- Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, CT ($55,720)
- Job description: Compute, classify, and record numerical data to keep financial records complete. Perform any combination of routine calculating, posting, and verifying duties to obtain primary financial data for use in maintaining accounting records. May also check the accuracy of figures, calculations, and postings pertaining to business transactions recorded by other workers.
19. Secretaries and administrative assistants, except legal, medical, and executive
- Employment: 36,550 (12.311 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $39,690 (#118 highest pay among all metros)
National
- Employment: 1,850,360 (13.302 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $40,420
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, CT ($56,080)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($52,480)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($51,930)
- Job description: Perform routine administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or providing information to callers.
20. Elementary school teachers, except special education
- Employment: 32,450 (10.932 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $58,930 (#174 highest pay among all metros)
National
- Employment: 1,364,870 (9.812 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $65,420
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Merced, CA ($99,360)
--- Kingston, NY ($93,780)
--- Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA ($92,910)
- Job description: Teach academic and social skills to students at the elementary school level.
21. Security guards
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| Photo: Novagems |
- Employment: 26,760 (9.015 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $30,580 (#261 highest pay among all metros)
National
- Employment: 1,054,400 (7.58 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $34,360
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Idaho Falls, ID ($66,030)
--- San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles-Arroyo Grande, CA ($61,090)
--- Durham-Chapel Hill, NC ($51,850)
- Job description: Guard, patrol, or monitor premises to prevent theft, violence, or infractions of rules. May operate x-ray and metal detector equipment.
22. First-line supervisors of retail sales workers
- Employment: 21,900 (7.378 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $48,220 (#108 highest pay among all metros)
National
- Employment: 1,063,110 (7.643 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $47,300
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, CT ($62,180)
--- Yakima, WA ($61,710)
--- Sheboygan, WI ($61,610)
- Job description: Directly supervise and coordinate activities of retail sales workers in an establishment or department. Duties may include management functions, such as purchasing, budgeting, accounting, and personnel work, in addition to supervisory duties.
23. First-line supervisors of construction trades and extraction workers
- Employment: 21,220 (7.146 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $71,930 (#124 highest pay among all metros)
National
- Employment: 614,080 (4.415 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $72,990
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($107,870)
--- Mount Vernon-Anacortes, WA ($103,930)
--- Santa Rosa, CA ($100,620)
- Job description: Directly supervise and coordinate activities of construction or extraction workers.
24. First-line supervisors of food preparation and serving workers
- Employment: 20,020 (6.745 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $36,330 (#194 highest pay among all metros)
National
- Employment: 891,540 (6.409 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $37,880
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Kahului-Wailuku-Lahaina, HI ($59,490)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($53,350)
--- Napa, CA ($53,230)
- Job description: Directly supervise and coordinate activities of workers engaged in preparing and serving food.
25. Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers
Employment: 207,390
Average Salary: $29,930
Manually move freight, stock, luggage, or other materials, or perform other general labor. Includes all manual laborers not elsewhere classified.
Sample of reported job titles: Dock Worker, Laborer, Line Tender, Loader, Material Handler, Merchandise Pick Up Associate, Receiver, Receiving Associate, Shipping and Receiving Materials Handler, Warehouse Worker
Task
Move freight, stock, or other materials to and from storage or production areas, loading docks, delivery vehicles, ships, or containers, by hand or using trucks, tractors, or other equipment.
Related occupations
Sort cargo before loading and unloading.
Related occupations
Attach identifying tags to containers or mark them with identifying information.
Related occupations
Read work orders or receive oral instructions to determine work assignments or material or equipment needs.
Related occupations
Stack cargo in locations, such as transit sheds or in holds of ships as directed, using pallets or cargo boards.
26. Shipping, receiving, and inventory clerks
- Employment: 19,690 (6.632 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $37,880 (#134 highest pay among all metros)
National
- Employment: 727,640 (5.231 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $37,210
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Fairbanks, AK ($52,310)
--- California-Lexington Park, MD ($50,180)
--- Bremerton-Silverdale, WA ($49,530)
- Job description: Verify and maintain records on incoming and outgoing shipments involving inventory. Duties include verifying and recording incoming merchandise or material and arranging for the transportation of products. May prepare items for shipment.
27. Medical assistants
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| Photo: American Career College |
- Employment: 17,070 (5.749 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $36,250 (#128 highest pay among all metros)
National
- Employment: 710,200 (5.106 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $36,930
- Entry level education requirements: Postsecondary nondegree award
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($53,960)
--- Vallejo-Fairfield, CA ($53,660)
--- Santa Rosa, CA ($52,520)
- Job description: Perform administrative and certain clinical duties under the direction of a physician. Administrative duties may include scheduling appointments, maintaining medical records, billing, and coding information for insurance purposes. Clinical duties may include taking and recording vital signs and medical histories, preparing patients for examination, drawing blood, and administering medications as directed by physician.
28. Receptionists and information clerks
- Employment: 16,940 (5.705 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $29,920 (#205 highest pay among all metros)
National
- Employment: 968,420 (6.962 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $32,410
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Napa, CA ($43,270)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($42,160)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($41,840)
- Job description: Answer inquiries and provide information to the general public, customers, visitors, and other interested parties regarding activities conducted at establishment and location of departments, offices, and employees within the organization.
29. Teaching assistants, except postsecondary
- Employment: 19,930 (6.714 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $22,710 (#332 highest pay among all metros)
National
- Employment: 1,272,840 (9.151 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $30,630
- Entry level education requirements: Some college, no degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Santa Cruz-Watsonville, CA ($42,110)
--- New Bedford, MA ($41,780)
--- Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA ($41,160)
- Job description: Assist a preschool, elementary, middle, or secondary school teacher with instructional duties. Serve in a position for which a teacher has primary responsibility for the design and implementation of educational programs and services.
30. Electricians
- Employment: 15,700 (5.290 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $53,180 (#222 highest pay among all metros)
National
- Employment: 656,510 (4.72 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $61,550
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($106,680)
--- Trenton, NJ ($90,210)
--- Kankakee, IL ($88,530)
- Job description: Install, maintain, and repair electrical wiring, equipment, and fixtures. Ensure that work is in accordance with relevant codes. May install or service street lights, intercom systems, or electrical control systems.
31. Inspectors, testers, sorters, samplers, and weighers
- Employment: 15,640 (5.269 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $45,530 (#132 highest pay among all metros)
National
- Employment: 549,200 (3.948 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $44,580
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Odessa, TX ($85,040)
--- Fairbanks, AK ($80,520)
--- Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA ($67,990)
- Job description: Inspect, test, sort, sample, or weigh nonagricultural raw materials or processed, machined, fabricated, or assembled parts or products for defects, wear, and deviations from specifications. May use precision measuring instruments and complex test equipment.
32. Police and sheriff's patrol officers
- Employment: 15,220 (5.127 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $67,700 (#117 highest pay among all metros)
National
- Employment: 654,900 (4.708 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $70,000
- Entry level education requirements: nan
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($131,090)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($122,570)
--- Santa Rosa, CA ($115,690)
- Job description: Maintain order and protect life and property by enforcing local, tribal, state, or federal laws and ordinances. Perform a combination of the following duties: patrol a specific area; direct traffic; issue traffic summonses; investigate accidents; apprehend and arrest suspects, or serve legal processes of courts. Includes police officers working at educational institutions.
33. Landscaping and groundskeeping workers
- Employment: 14,520 (4.892 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $30,560 (#232 highest pay among all metros)
National
- Employment: 872,370 (6.272 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $33,800
- Entry level education requirements: No formal educational credential
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($46,990)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($45,160)
--- New Haven, CT ($43,820)
- Job description: Landscape or maintain grounds of property using hand or power tools or equipment. Workers typically perform a variety of tasks, which may include any combination of the following: sod laying, mowing, trimming, planting, watering, fertilizing, digging, raking, sprinkler installation, and installation of mortarless segmental concrete masonry wall units.
34. Computer systems analysts
- Employment: 14,420 (4.858 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $124,070 (#3 highest pay among all metros)
National
- Employment: 574,450 (4.13 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $99,020
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($133,970)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($125,350)
--- Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, TX ($124,070)
- Job description: Analyze science, engineering, business, and other data processing problems to develop and implement solutions to complex applications problems, system administration issues, or network concerns. Perform systems management and integration functions, improve existing computer systems, and review computer system capabilities, workflow, and schedule limitations. May analyze or recommend commercially available software.
35. First-line supervisors of production and operating workers
- Employment: 14,690 (4.947 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $78,300 (#25 highest pay among all metros)
National
- Employment: 599,900 (4.313 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $66,800
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Baton Rouge, LA ($101,930)
--- Beaumont-Port Arthur, TX ($100,590)
--- Longview, WA ($99,590)
- Job description: Directly supervise and coordinate the activities of production and operating workers, such as inspectors, precision workers, machine setters and operators, assemblers, fabricators, and plant and system operators. Excludes team or work leaders.
36. Industrial machinery mechanics
- Employment: 14,170 (4.774 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $66,950 (#28 highest pay among all metros)
National
- Employment: 385,980 (2.775 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $57,350
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Norwich-New London-Westerly, CT-RI ($84,180)
--- San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles-Arroyo Grande, CA ($84,150)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($77,580)
- Job description: Repair, install, adjust, or maintain industrial production and processing machinery or refinery and pipeline distribution systems. May also install, dismantle, or move machinery and heavy equipment according to plans.
37. Lawyers
- Employment: 13,320 (4.488 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $145,600 (#32 highest pay among all metros)
National
- Employment: 658,120 (4.731 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $148,910
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($231,610)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($201,920)
--- Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV ($186,070)
- Job description: Represent clients in criminal and civil litigation and other legal proceedings, draw up legal documents, or manage or advise clients on legal transactions. May specialize in a single area or may practice broadly in many areas of law.
38. Bartenders
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| Photo: The World's 50 Best Bars |
Employment: 38,600
Average Salary: $22,190
Bartenders are friendly, highly organized and proactive professionals. They are efficient and have exceptional customer service skills. Bartenders are also very creative. They are drink innovators. They can accept feedback from a customer and modify ingredients to fit taste preferences.
Bartenders work directly with customers by mixing and serving drink orders. Their responsibilities include verifying age requirements, knowing alcohol pairing and tastes, knowing how to make traditional and classy drinks, processing payments, managing inventory and cleaning bar supplies. They also handle food orders directly from customers or the wait staff and inform customers of any specials. They ensure food and beverage compliance, restock bar inventory, decide menu items and manage the overall bar operations.
39. Operating engineers and other construction equipment operators
- Employment: 13,060 (4.399 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $48,450 (#208 highest pay among all metros)
National
- Employment: 402,870 (2.896 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $55,280
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($96,440)
--- Barnstable Town, MA ($93,620)
--- Santa Cruz-Watsonville, CA ($93,320)
- Job description: Operate one or several types of power construction equipment, such as motor graders, bulldozers, scrapers, compressors, pumps, derricks, shovels, tractors, or front-end loaders to excavate, move, and grade earth, erect structures, or pour concrete or other hard surface pavement. May repair and maintain equipment in addition to other duties.
40. Computer user support specialists
- Employment: 13,050 (4.397 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $51,790 (#179 highest pay among all metros)
National
- Employment: 634,820 (4.564 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $57,000
- Entry level education requirements: Some college, no degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Sacramento--Roseville--Arden-Arcade, CA ($86,350)
--- Napa, CA ($78,740)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($78,670)
- Job description: Provide technical assistance to computer users. Answer questions or resolve computer problems for clients in person, via telephone, or electronically. May provide assistance concerning the use of computer hardware and software, including printing, installation, word processing, electronic mail, and operating systems.
41. Human resources specialists
- Employment: 12,560 (4.232 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $71,520 (#44 highest pay among all metros)
National
- Employment: 647,810 (4.657 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $69,430
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($96,090)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($93,680)
--- Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV ($90,130)
- Job description: Recruit, screen, interview, or place individuals within an organization. May perform other activities in multiple human resources areas.
42. Pharmacy Technicians
Employment: 35,290
Average Salary: $36,900
A Pharmacy Technician is a professional who helps pharmacists dispense prescription medication to customers or health professionals and ensure that everyone has what they need. They mainly work in retail pharmacies, but some are employed in hospital pharmacies.
Responsibilities
- Sterilize surfaces and equipment and prepare the pharmacy for opening
- Greet customers and answer questions
- Receive prescriptions and check their validity
- Process prescriptions electronically and ensure all information is complete and accurate
- Resolve issues when they arise (e.g. rejected insurance claims)
- Select the appropriate medicine and measure dosages to fill prescriptions
- Sort, stock, label medication and monitor inventory
- Undertake administrative tasks (e.g.record-keeping) as assigned
- Comply with all security measures and quality standards
43. Childcare workers
- Employment: 12,150 (4.092 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $23,370 (#228 highest pay among all metros)
National
- Employment: 494,360 (3.554 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $26,790
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Fairbanks, AK ($38,590)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($38,090)
--- Santa Rosa, CA ($36,220)
- Job description: Attend to children at schools, businesses, private households, and childcare
44. Automotive service technicians and mechanics
- Employment: 11,350 (3.822 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $47,800 (#109 highest pay among all metros)
National
- Employment: 620,110 (4.458 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $46,760
- Entry level education requirements: Postsecondary nondegree award
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Fairbanks, AK ($66,060)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($64,630)
--- California-Lexington Park, MD ($64,420)
- Job description: Diagnose, adjust, repair, or overhaul automotive vehicles.
45. Driver/sales workers
- Employment: 11,090 (3.734 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $29,990 (#221 highest pay among all metros)
National
- Employment: 420,890 (3.026 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $31,870
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Gadsden, AL ($46,460)
--- Cumberland, MD-WV ($45,780)
--- Medford, OR ($45,310)
- Job description: Drive truck or other vehicle over established routes or within an established territory and sell or deliver goods, such as food products, including restaurant take-out items, or pick up or deliver items such as commercial laundry. May also take orders, collect payment, or stock merchandise at point of delivery.
46. Packers and Packagers
Employment: 34,470
Average Salary: $25,630
A Packer, or Picker Packer, is a warehouse employee responsible for fulfilling orders by arranging inventory in shipping containers and preparing them for shipment. Their duties include interpreting order invoices to determine which items need to be sent out, performing quality control assessments and stacking items safely and securely in the right packaging.
47. First-line supervisors of mechanics, installers, and repairers
- Employment: 11,260 (3.794 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $75,070 (#101 highest pay among all metros)
National
- Employment: 475,000 (3.415 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $73,100
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($95,680)
--- Bremerton-Silverdale, WA ($93,140)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($92,810)
- Job description: Directly supervise and coordinate the activities of mechanics, installers, and repairers. May also advise customers on recommended services. Excludes team or work leaders.
48. Driver/sales workers
- Employment: 11,090 (3.734 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $29,990 (#221 highest pay among all metros)
National
- Employment: 420,890 (3.026 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $31,870
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Gadsden, AL ($46,460)
--- Cumberland, MD-WV ($45,780)
--- Medford, OR ($45,310)
- Job description: Drive truck or other vehicle over established routes or within an established territory and sell or deliver goods, such as food products, including restaurant take-out items, or pick up or deliver items such as commercial laundry. May also take orders, collect payment, or stock merchandise at point of delivery.
49. Dining room and cafeteria attendants and bartender helpers
- Employment: 11,060 (3.726 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $21,530 (#240 highest pay among all metros)
National
- Employment: 374,940 (2.695 per 1,000 jobs)
- Annual mean salary: $26,300
- Entry level education requirements: No formal educational credential
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Urban Honolulu, HI ($42,670)
--- Kahului-Wailuku-Lahaina, HI ($40,390)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($37,720)
- Job description: Facilitate food service. Clean tables; remove dirty dishes; replace soiled table linens; set tables; replenish supply of clean linens, silverware, glassware, and dishes; supply service bar with food; and serve items such as water, condiments, and coffee to patrons.
50. Bakers
Employment: 17,600
Average Salary: $27,220
A Baker, or Pastry Chef, is in charge of preparing baked goods for sale to customers. Their duties include creating recipes, ordering ingredients and coordinating baking schedules to produce breads, cakes, pastries, pies, cookies and other goods.
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