Career motivations vary from person to person. Some individuals seek a challenge, others pursue lifelong dreams, and many prioritize high earnings. However, for some, the most fulfilling career path is one that allows them to make a meaningful impact on society.

Opportunities to make a difference exist across a wide range of industries, spanning numerous professions. CareerCast.me has highlighted 12 jobs from the 2017 Jobs Rated Report that contribute positively to society in various ways, shaping communities and improving lives.

While professions like surgeons, occupational therapists, and public interest attorneys make invaluable contributions, they require extensive education beyond a bachelor’s degree. This list focuses on career paths that provide opportunities to create meaningful change without requiring years of postgraduate study.

If you’re considering a career change that allows you to make a difference, explore the following options.

Working with Youth and Families

Few careers shape the future more directly than those involving children and families. Research from the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment highlights the long-term impact that positive interactions with adults have on a child’s development.

  • Elementary and Secondary School Teachers
    Teachers do more than educate—they serve as mentors, role models, and support systems for young minds. Their influence extends far beyond the classroom, often shaping the character and aspirations of students.
  • Social and Community Managers
    These professionals design and implement programs for families and children in local communities. Whether organizing youth sports leagues, cultural festivals, or educational events through city resources like libraries and recreation centers, they provide essential services that strengthen families.
  • Social Workers
    Social workers work directly with families to provide counseling, crisis intervention, and support services. Their hands-on approach helps individuals and communities navigate challenging situations and improve their quality of life.

Environment and Nature

Environmental careers allow professionals to make a difference by addressing ecological concerns and promoting sustainability. While global environmental challenges may seem overwhelming, meaningful change often starts at the local level.

  • Environmental Engineers
    These specialists develop solutions to critical ecological problems such as erosion, pollution, and waste management. Their work directly improves air and water quality, making communities healthier and more sustainable.
  • Meteorologists
    Meteorologists play a vital role in climate science and disaster preparedness. Their research helps predict severe weather events like hurricanes and tornadoes, allowing communities to take preventive measures and reduce harm. Additionally, they contribute to climate change research, shaping policies to address long-term environmental threats.

For those passionate about animal welfare, there are rewarding career opportunities that directly impact both animals and society.

  • Animal Care and Service Workers
    These professionals assist in veterinary hospitals, animal shelters, and wildlife rescue organizations. They help rehabilitate injured animals, rescue pets from dangerous situations, and promote responsible pet ownership. Their efforts benefit both animals and the communities that rely on them.

Community Service

Careers in public safety and emergency response are among the most impactful, providing immediate assistance in times of crisis.

  • Police Officers
    Beyond enforcing the law, police officers often serve as mentors and community leaders. Many departments emphasize community policing, fostering trust and cooperation between law enforcement and the public.
  • Firefighters
    Firefighters are first responders in emergencies, saving lives and protecting property. Their work extends beyond fire suppression, including disaster response, medical assistance, and public safety education.
  • Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs)
    EMTs provide life-saving care in high-pressure emergency situations. Their ability to react quickly and competently can mean the difference between life and death for patients in crisis.

Healthcare and Wellness

The healthcare industry offers numerous opportunities to make a lasting impact on people’s lives. Two careers in particular stand out for their accessibility and growth potential.

  • Home Health Aides
    As the fastest-growing profession in the U.S., home health aides provide essential care to aging, disabled, or terminally ill patients. Their support allows individuals to remain in their homes, maintaining dignity and quality of life.
  • Dietitians
    Growing public awareness of nutrition and preventative health has increased demand for dietitians. Their work helps combat obesity, chronic illness, and poor dietary habits, improving overall public health.

Some professionals make an impact by supporting families during difficult times.

  • Funeral Directors
    Funeral directors provide compassionate guidance to families grieving the loss of a loved one. They manage funeral arrangements, offer emotional support, and help individuals navigate the complexities of the mourning process.

Top 10 Jobs That Make a Difference in 2017

These careers provide opportunities to positively impact individuals, communities, and the environment while offering stability and job satisfaction.

1. Animal Care and Services Worker

  • Overall Rating: 490
  • Median Salary: $22,230
  • Projected Growth: 11.00%

Animal care workers assist in shelters, veterinary clinics, and wildlife rehabilitation centers, helping rescue, treat, and care for animals.

2. Social Worker

  • Overall Rating: 475
  • Median Salary: $46,220
  • Projected Growth: 16.00%

Social workers provide counseling and support to individuals and families facing challenges such as poverty, abuse, and mental health struggles.

3. Elementary and Secondary School Teacher

  • Overall Rating: 460
  • Median Salary: $51,660
  • Projected Growth: 13.00%

Teachers shape the future by educating and mentoring young minds, making a direct impact on students’ academic and personal growth.

4. Police Officer

  • Overall Rating: 450
  • Median Salary: $55,010
  • Projected Growth: 7.00%

Police officers enforce laws, promote public safety, and engage with communities to prevent crime and maintain order.

5. Environmental Engineer

  • Overall Rating: 440
  • Median Salary: $77,040
  • Projected Growth: 15.00%

Environmental engineers develop solutions to pollution, waste management, and climate-related challenges, ensuring a healthier planet for future generations.

6. Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)

  • Overall Rating: 430
  • Median Salary: $30,360
  • Projected Growth: 9.00%

EMTs provide life-saving medical care in emergency situations, responding quickly to accidents, heart attacks, and other crises.

7. Home Health Aide

  • Overall Rating: 420
  • Median Salary: $20,480
  • Projected Growth: 50.00%

Home health aides offer essential care to elderly, disabled, or chronically ill individuals, allowing them to maintain independence at home.

8. Dietitian

  • Overall Rating: 410
  • Median Salary: $53,250
  • Projected Growth: 9.00%

Dietitians help individuals and communities improve their health through nutrition education and personalized dietary plans.

9. Firefighter

  • Overall Rating: 400
  • Median Salary: $45,250
  • Projected Growth: 7.00%

Firefighters protect lives and property by responding to fires, medical emergencies, and natural disasters, often risking their own safety.

10. Funeral Director

  • Overall Rating: 390
  • Median Salary: $52,210
  • Projected Growth: 12.00%

Funeral directors provide emotional support and guidance to families during difficult times, handling funeral arrangements with care and compassion.

These careers offer both personal fulfillment and societal impact, making them ideal choices for individuals who want to contribute to their communities in meaningful ways.