In January, the U.S. unemployment rate remained steady at about 3.7%, offering some relief for American workers. However, layoffs have hit certain industries hard, making job hunting dicey. While some job sectors are expected to grow, others face instability.
Avoid professions with low job security if you’re after a stable career. Here are some of the toughest jobs when it comes to job security.
Actors
The entertainment industry has always been exciting to all. Even while recovering from the pandemic, it remains so. Most actors find it difficult to sustain. Struggling actors often do their side hustles to pay their bills too.
Entry-level education required: Any college, no degree
10-year projected job growth: 3%
Event planners
If you are a people person, event management is something you would like to choose as your progression. An event manager plans and organizes events professionally. They are responsible for meeting customers’ demands for the most intricate things.
Economic slumps and unexpected events may often interfere with even the best-laid plans. This hampers job security and can become an ongoing worry.
Entry-level education required: Bachelor’s degree
10-year projected job growth: 8%
Bill and Account Collectors
Collecting overdue payments is no walk in the park. Bill and account collectors often find themselves dealing with different types of customers. They navigate legal minefields while trying to recover money owed. Job opportunities in this field are becoming increasingly scarce due to advancing technology.
Entry-level education required: High school diploma or GED
10-year projected job growth: -10% (Decline)
Cashiers
The beep of the scanner and the rustle of grocery bags are the sounds of their daily grind. But behind the friendly smile and quick checkout, cashiers face long working hours. The low pay and the looming threat of automation are also a big concern.
The demand for human cashiers has declined due to the shift of modern businesses towards automation.
Entry-level education required: None
10-year projected job growth: -10% (Decline)
Child Care Workers
Working with children can be incredibly rewarding but also demanding and unpredictable. Childcare workers often work for long hours. Low pay takes an emotional toll on nurturing young minds.
Changes in family dynamics due to the rising cost of child care have made this career opportunity risky.
Entry-level education required: High school diploma or GED
10-year projected job growth: -2% (Decline)
Construction Workers
Construction workers play a crucial role in building the infrastructure. From building houses to roads, using skills like laying bricks and operating heavy machinery, they play a vital role. However, their job security depends on how well the economy is doing. It means that layoffs and uncertainty are common risks in this line of work.
Entry-level education required: Usually none, but varies depending on the position
10-year projected job growth: 4%
Chef
Behind every delicious meal is a hardworking cook toiling away in a hot, bustling kitchen. However, there is a constant threat of layoffs in this profession. It is because of economic downturns and shifts in consumer preferences.
Entry-level education required: Usually none, but varies depending on the position
10-year projected job growth: 6%
Bartenders
Crafting cocktails and offering friendly service is often seen as an appealing role. Bartenders can be found in any venue with a liquor license. Yet, they typically face extended hours and low pay. The new trend of at-home entertainment post-pandemic has reduced the demand for bartenders.
Entry-level education required: None
10-year projected job growth: 3%
Flight Attendants
Jetting off to exotic locales may sound like a dream job, but the reality for flight attendants is often less glamorous. Long hours, stressful conditions, and time away from home can take a toll. Also, economic downturns and industry changes add an extra layer of uncertainty.
Entry-level education required: High school diploma or GED
10-year projected job growth: 11%
Hand Laborers and Material Movers
These workers are key to the supply chain, moving goods by hand. Their job is physically tough, often repetitive, and usually comes with low pay. They play a heroic role in keeping goods flowing in the supply chain workflow. However, increasing automation and technology make their job security uncertain.
Entry-level education required: None
10-year projected job growth: 5%
Office Clerks
Behind every bustling office is a team of clerks keeping things running smoothly. However, job security for office clerks is becoming increasingly uncertain. This is because digitalization and automation are reshaping the workplace. Also, low wages and limited opportunities for advancement only add to the challenge.
Entry-level education required: High school diploma or GED
10-year projected job growth: -7% (Decline)
Photographers
Capturing the perfect shot takes more than a keen eye. It requires technical skill and artistic vision. With the rise of smartphone photography, professional photographers face stiff competition. It has contributed to lack of job opportunities, making photography a risky career choice.
Entry-level education required: High school diploma or GED
10-year projected job growth: 4%
Recreation Workers
Organizing recreational activities at schools and workplaces is necessary. As the name suggests, a recreation worker’s job is to ensure that people have fun while being active and fit. It may sound like a dream job, but it often comes with long hours and low pay. With more people turning to digital entertainment options, job opportunities in this field are declining.
Entry-level education required: High school diploma or GED
10-year projected job growth: 5%
Restaurant Servers
From taking orders to delivering food with a smile, restaurant servers are the backbone of the dining experience. However, the job can be demanding and stressful. It is because of the uncertain work schedules, and the low pay.
Takeaways and delivery services have also made job security uncertain.
Education required: Not required
10-year projected job growth: -3% (Decline)