When reviewing CareerCast.me’s Jobs Rated Report for the best jobs of 2019, one theme rises above the rest: data. From its collection and analysis to its protection and application, data has become the backbone of many industries. Unsurprisingly, careers that center on data dominate this year’s rankings, led by Data Scientist, the No. 1 job of 2019.
Data at the Core of Opportunity
The demand for Data Scientists is skyrocketing, with a projected growth of 19%. This high-growth field comes with a premium skill set and a median salary of $114,520, making it the highest-paying job among the top 10. Employers across sectors are racing to fill roles in data interpretation, a need that academic institutions are addressing through specialized programs at renowned universities like Carnegie Mellon, NYU, and Stanford.
Other data-focused roles, including Statistician and Mathematician, also rank highly. Both fields offer excellent growth prospects (33%) and strong median salaries of $84,760. These numbers-based professions continue to thrive as industries seek professionals to interpret data and drive decision-making.
The Enduring Appeal of Risk Management
The field of Actuarial Science, centered on measuring and managing risk, is another staple on the best jobs list. Actuaries enjoy a lucrative median salary of $101,560 and a healthy 22% growth outlook. Like data science, this field benefits from a growing number of university programs designed to equip future professionals with the necessary expertise.
Data Security: A Modern Necessity
While data has transformed industries in positive ways, it has also created new vulnerabilities. This is where Information Security Analysts, ranked No. 7, play a crucial role. Whether it’s safeguarding personal information or ensuring the integrity of elections, this career is vital in today’s digital age. With a median salary of $95,510 and a staggering growth projection of 28%, it’s one of the most in-demand and impactful jobs of 2019.
The Human Element in the Workplace
Not all of 2019’s best jobs are strictly numbers-driven. Roles like Occupational Therapist emphasize personal connection, working directly with patients in clinical or home settings. This positive workplace environment, combined with a median salary of $83,200 and a 24% growth outlook, makes it a standout career.
Similarly, University Professor offers intellectual stimulation, professional freedom, and job security, particularly for those with tenure. Professors balance teaching, research, and mentoring, creating a fulfilling career path with a median salary of $76,000 and a 15% growth outlook.
Education as a Common Thread
Every one of the top jobs of 2019 shares a critical requirement: higher education. From undergraduate degrees to doctoral programs, advanced education unlocks opportunities in these high-demand fields. The Jobs Rated Report highlights the importance of investing in education not only for professional success but also for achieving a comfortable lifestyle.
The Top 10 Best Jobs of 2019
Based on CareerCast.me’s core criteria and data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, here are the year’s best jobs:
- Data Scientist
- Median Salary: $114,520
- Projected Growth: 19.00%
- Statistician
- Median Salary: $84,760
- Projected Growth: 33.00%
- University Professor
- Median Salary: $76,000
- Projected Growth: 15.00%
- Occupational Therapist
- Median Salary: $83,200
- Projected Growth: 24.00%
- Genetic Counselor
- Median Salary: $77,480
- Projected Growth: 29.00%
- Medical Services Manager
- Median Salary: $98,350
- Projected Growth: 20.00%
- Information Security Analyst
- Median Salary: $95,510
- Projected Growth: 28.00%
- Mathematician
- Median Salary: $84,760
- Projected Growth: 33.00%
- Operations Research Analyst
- Median Salary: $81,390
- Projected Growth: 27.00%
- Actuary
- Median Salary: $101,560
- Projected Growth: 22.00%
A Promising Outlook
The best jobs of 2019 reflect the critical role of data and technology in shaping the workforce. Whether you’re drawn to analyzing risk, safeguarding information, or driving innovation, these careers showcase the rewards of pursuing in-demand skills and advanced education.
