5 Industries with The Most Job Openings, Least Competition and Six-Figure Salaries

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 6.5 million people in the U.S. are currently unemployed. But the good news is there are literally millions of competitors with openings for job seekers on the hunt for a new position. Let’s face it, job hunting is stressful. Sometimes the anxiety is so great that the stress of job seeking can lead to an array of mental health issues for applicants .

Career experts highlight the importance of preparation and strategy for prospective candidates. “Approaching the interview stage feeling confident and well-prepared is crucial for job search success,” Resume Genius career expert Eva Chan told me by email. “From conducting initial company research to successfully following up post-interview, every step of the interview process is an opportunity for job seekers to maximize their chances to land a fulfilling job."

More Job Opportunities With Less Competition

Now, there’s more opportunity for job seekers than ever. In a recent Forbes.com piece, I identified the five best low-stress, high-paying jobs with six-figure salaries . Business leaders are insisting that a four-year college degree is becoming a thing of the past for high-paying jobs, and companies are looking for more skilled job applicants. If you earned an associate degree, you can throw your shoulders back and hold your head high because it’s paying off in spades. Two-year degree candidates are sought after for top-notch jobs where they’re earning big bucks—some as much as six-figures.

Max Bramwell, founder of FounderPass , has collected and analyzed the latest data on job openings from statista , gave rankings and cites five key sectors that have a wide range of employment opportunities with job openings in the thousands where job hunters face a lot less competition and in some cases salaries as high as $150,000: Education and Health Services (1986 openings), Professional Business Services (1633 openings), Leisure and Hospitality (1100 openings), Trade, Transportation and Utilities (1051 openings), Government (900 openings).

1-Education and Health Services

According to Bramwell, this sector encompasses a wide range of job opportunities. “Job titles may include teachers, nurses, medical assistants, therapists, and healthcare administrators,” he says. “Key skills sought after in this industry include strong communication skills, empathy, medical knowledge (for healthcare roles) and organizational abilities. Average salaries vary depending on the specific role and level of experience but can range from $30,000 to $100,000 or more per year.”

2-Professional Business Services

“Professional business services is a wide sector, covering a broad spectrum of professions including consulting, legal services, accounting and marketing,” Bramwell explains. “Job titles in this industry include consultants, lawyers, accountants, marketing specialists and project managers. Required skills include analytical thinking, problem-solving, communication and project management. Average salaries can vary depending on the role and level of expertise, but often range from $50,000 to $150,000 per year.”

3-Leisure and Hospitality

With the reopening of the economy and the resumption of travel and tourism after the pandemic, Bramwell observes that the leisure and hospitality sector is experiencing a surge in job opportunities. “Job titles may include hotel staff, restaurant workers, event planners, tour guides, and customer service representatives,” he points out. “Skills required include customer service, interpersonal skills, flexibility, and adaptability to changing demands. Average salaries in this industry can vary widely depending on the specific role and location, ranging from minimum wage to over $50,000 per year.”

4-Trade, Transportation and Utilities

Bramwell reports that this sector encompasses a diverse range of industries, including retail, logistics, transportation and energy, noting that job titles include retail sales associates, truck drivers, warehouse workers, electricians and utility technicians. “Skills such as attention to detail and customer service are essential,” he states. “Physical stamina is needed for some roles, while technical knowledge is required for utility positions. Salaries vary depending on the role and industry but can range from minimum wage to over $70,000 per year.”

5-Government

Bramwell mentions that government agencies at the local, state and federal levels offer an array of job opportunities across various sectors, including administration, law enforcement, healthcare and public services. He cites job titles such as administrative assistants, police officers, firefighters, social workers and civil servants. “Skills such as administrative proficiency, problem-solving abilities, teamwork and a commitment to the public good are crucial,” he acknowledges. “But salaries in government roles vary depending on factors such as location, level of government and position, ranging from $30,000 to $100,000 or more per year.”

As job seekers navigate the ever-changing landscape of employment opportunities, Bramwell insists that staying informed about industry trends and job market dynamics is paramount.

Bryan Robinson, Ph.D.

Contributor: author of Chained to the Desk in a Hybrid World: A Guide to Balance.