The Best Jobs of 2017
In 2014, STEM Education Coalition executive director James Brown predicted that careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) would define the job market of the future. Fast-forward to 2017, and that prediction has fully materialized. The latest Jobs Rated Report confirms that STEM careers now dominate the workforce, offering high salaries, strong hiring outlooks, and critical roles in an increasingly data-driven world.
One of the biggest standouts is Statistician, which ranks No. 1 as the best job of 2017. With a projected 34% employment growth over the next seven years, the demand for statisticians continues to rise across industries including finance, healthcare, government, sports, and retail. The ability to analyze and interpret complex data has become a fundamental skill, and statisticians are at the forefront of this movement.
Data Careers Leading the Job Market
The explosion of big data is reshaping industries, and it’s no surprise that four of the top 10 best jobs in 2017 are math-focused. These careers offer great salaries, job security, and increasing demand:
- Statistician (#1)
- Operations Research Analyst (#3)
- Data Scientist (#5)
- Mathematician (#7)
Operations Research Analysts are found in finance, government, manufacturing, and technology, using statistical modeling, data mining, and optimization to solve complex business problems. Similarly, Mathematicians apply theory, algorithms, and computational analysis to fields like economics, engineering, and scientific research.
Data Scientists, who ranked #5, are one of the fastest-growing careers in technology, using machine learning, artificial intelligence, and statistical analysis to drive decision-making in industries ranging from retail to national security.
IT Careers Continue to Thrive
In the technology sector, Information Security Analyst (#4) and Software Engineer (#8) are among the top jobs for 2017, reflecting the rapid expansion of cybersecurity threats and software development.
- Information Security Analysts are responsible for protecting digital infrastructures from cyberattacks. Given the increasing number of data breaches, hacking incidents, and online security threats, the demand for professionals in this field has skyrocketed.
- Software Engineers continue to be one of the most in-demand careers, earning an annual median salary of $100,690 with a 17% growth outlook. The need for mobile applications, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence is driving significant hiring growth in software development.
Healthcare: A Strong Pillar in the Workforce
Beyond data and technology, healthcare remains one of the strongest job sectors, with three professions ranking in the Top 10:
- Medical Services Manager (#2)
- Occupational Therapist (#9)
- Speech Pathologist (#10)
Unlike traditional medical roles, these careers focus on the operational and therapeutic side of healthcare. Medical Services Managers ensure that hospitals, clinics, and healthcare facilities operate efficiently and profitably, managing budgets, staffing, and regulations.
Meanwhile, Speech Pathologists and Occupational Therapists play a vital role in helping patients recover and improve their quality of life. These professionals work with children, stroke victims, and individuals with disabilities, offering treatment plans that allow them to regain speech, motor skills, and daily function.
Top 10 Best Jobs of 2017
1. Statistician
Overall Rating: 93
Median Salary: $80,110
Projected Growth: 34.00%
With the rise of big data and the increased demand for analytical decision-making, statisticians are more valuable than ever. They work across healthcare, finance, government, and technology, applying mathematical modeling to solve complex problems.
2. Medical Services Manager
Overall Rating: 91
Median Salary: $94,500
Projected Growth: 17.00%
Medical Services Managers ensure hospitals, clinics, and healthcare facilities run efficiently. They handle staffing, budgeting, and regulatory compliance, making them essential in a rapidly growing healthcare industry.
3. Operations Research Analyst
Overall Rating: 90
Median Salary: $79,200
Projected Growth: 30.00%
Using mathematical modeling, data mining, and statistical analysis, Operations Research Analysts help businesses optimize efficiency and performance in industries such as logistics, finance, and technology.
4. Information Security Analyst
Overall Rating: 89
Median Salary: $92,600
Projected Growth: 18.00%
With an increasing number of cybersecurity threats, Information Security Analysts are in high demand to protect networks, databases, and sensitive digital assets from cyberattacks and breaches.
5. Data Scientist
Overall Rating: 88
Median Salary: $111,000
Projected Growth: 28.00%
The explosion of big data, artificial intelligence, and machine learning has made Data Scientists one of the most sought-after professionals in technology, finance, and healthcare.
6. University Professor
Overall Rating: 86
Median Salary: $75,430
Projected Growth: 13.00%
University Professors enjoy academic freedom, research opportunities, and job stability. Certain disciplines—especially in STEM and healthcare—offer strong employment prospects.
7. Mathematician
Overall Rating: 85
Median Salary: $105,810
Projected Growth: 29.00%
Mathematicians work in academia, research, and industry to solve complex problems using algorithms, statistical modeling, and quantitative analysis in fields such as engineering, economics, and computer science.
8. Software Engineer
Overall Rating: 84
Median Salary: $100,690
Projected Growth: 17.00%
Software Engineers continue to be in high demand, designing, developing, and maintaining software for mobile apps, cloud computing, AI, and business applications.
9. Occupational Therapist
Overall Rating: 83
Median Salary: $81,910
Projected Growth: 27.00%
Occupational Therapists assist patients recovering from injuries, disabilities, or developmental disorders, helping them regain independence and improve their quality of life.
10. Speech Pathologist
Overall Rating: 82
Median Salary: $74,680
Projected Growth: 21.00%
Speech Pathologists work with patients who have speech and communication disorders, providing therapy in schools, hospitals, and private practices.
These top 10 careers for 2017 reflect the growing importance of STEM, healthcare, and technology, offering high salaries, strong job security, and long-term career growth.
