It’s a new year, and with the many social and economic changes from the last two years, many veterans are looking for a fresh start in 2022. While veterans are equipped to work in just about any job position, there are a few job fields that could change your 2022 for the better. Here are some of this year’s most popular hot jobs:
Healthcare
If you already have medical experience from your time in the field, healthcare may be the perfect option. Veterans with medical training are properly equipped to work in a variety of different positions in the medical field. They are even at an advantage for opportunities to sharpen their skills for a higher-paying position through veteran-supported programs and the perks of the GI Bill. Some of the most popular jobs in the medical field amongst veterans are:
- Physicians Assistants: $96,000 per year
- Registered Nurses: $73,000 per year
- Chiropractic Care: $71,454 per year
- Radiologic or Cardiovascular Technologist: $50,000-$61,000 per year
- Medical Lab Technician: $45,000 per year
Federal Jobs
Federal organizations not only want to hire veterans but actively seek them out. They are already aware of the skillsets, mindsets, and needs of veterans transitioning into work and are willing to provide any additional, necessary training that veterans may need. Government jobs also tend to come with great benefits, solid routines and sturdy pay. There are many kinds of government jobs across organizations such as the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Federal Bureau of Investigations, Parks and Recreation, the Department of Transportation and more.
- Transportation Specialist: $83,748 per year
- Police Officer: $61,936 per year
- Social Worker: $54,923 per year
- Firefighter: $51,368 per year
- Substance Abuse Counselor: $41,610 per year
Outdoors Work
Veterans have a long track record of working outdoor jobs, from park security and landscaping to working with animals. While many like the idea of working indoors or in an office, many veterans prefer to be in an open, outdoor space. This environment can be especially helpful for veterans with PTSD, depression or other mental conditions.
- Landscape Designer: $64,307 per year
- Land Surveyor: $63,094 per year
- Park Ranger: $51,481 per year
- Veterinary Technician: $43,964 per year
- Farm Hand: $35,296 per year
Skilled Trades
Learning a trade is one of the most popular options for veterans transitioning into civilian life. It provides them an opportunity to work with their hands, expand on their skill set, and utilize tactics they already know from the field. There is also an abundance of programs and organizations specializing in trade training specifically catered to veterans.
- Electrician: $60,906 per year
- Plumber: $60,848 per year
- Auto Mechanic: $46,309 per year
- Carpenter: $45,068 per year
- Commercial Driver: $40,877 per year
Education
Veterans are used to environments where they must lead, learn fast, adapt quickly, and teach others how to do the same. As the educational system continues to change, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, veterans are excellent candidates as teachers on every level. Educational occupations usually require additional certifications but are generally gained in shorter periods and with assistance from military benefits.
- Special Education Teacher: $56,914 per year
- Elementary School Teacher: $54,102 per year
- Middle School Teacher: $53,825 per year
- High School Teacher: $52,481 per year
- Vocational School Teacher: $50,881 per year
No matter what field you’re pursuing this year, remember that your military experience has equipped you for an array of jobs, and the right fit for you is just around the corner.
Sources: Glassdoor, Trade-schools.net, Healthcare Daily Online
Written By: Natalie Rodgers at usveteransmagazine.com
