Unemployment was probably one of the biggest concerns on the minds of people all over the world during the pandemic. The US Chamber of Commerce reports that as of March 2024, the number of job openings in the US is around 9.5 million. On the other hand, it also reports that around 6.5 million workers are still unemployed.
The Problem of Talent Shortage
Do you notice the problematic anomaly in the US labor market? Even if all the unemployed people in the US get a job, there would be 2.4 million vacancies. The most alarming fact is that you can still find empty six-figure jobs.
A report by Korn Ferry shows that the US would have around 85 million vacancies by 2030. The prediction speaks a lot about the existing talent shortage in the US. You can review the state of the cybersecurity job market to understand how lucrative job roles still remain vacant. In 2023, over 750,000 job positions in cybersecurity remained empty.
Truck Driver
Truck drivers play a crucial role in America’s growth. Their job involves many challenges, such as driving heavy rigs for long distances and staying away from home for days. The average annual earnings of a truck driver can be approximately $100,000.
On top of it, certain companies also pay according to the miles driven to incentivize drivers for the time they spend on the seat.
Garbage Collector
You can find treasure in the most unlikely of places, even in garbage. A job in the garbage collection industry may not look appealing at first glance. However, garbage collectors can earn up to $100,000 per year.
The salary of garbage collectors can vary according to the location and the company they work for. The obvious downside of the job is picking up trash and disposing of it in the dump.
Gastroenterologists
Gastroenterologists are among the most in-demand professionals in the field of healthcare. The job of a gastroenterologist is a challenging one due to the complexity of schooling required to become one. Ultimately, the rewards drive people to pursue a career in gastroenterology, especially with the expected salary being $400,000.
Data Scientist
The next six-figure job role that remains unfulfilled in the US is that of a data scientist. Data scientists are professionals responsible for the compilation and interpretation of large raw datasets. The average annual salary of data scientists in the US is almost $119,000.
The demand for data scientists is growing in almost all industries, such as healthcare and finance. However, the specialized technical skills required for the job of a data scientist can serve as a prominent barrier for aspiring candidates.
Hazardous Material Remover
Hazardous material removers would have to wear hazmat suits and clean up harmful things, such as radioactive materials and lead. The job can help you earn up to $100,000. While the initial pay is not high, you can strengthen your career with more experience. Anyone who does not fear working with hazardous materials should become a hazardous material remover. However, there are not many who want to do this, thereby leading to a lot of vacancies.
Plumbers
Can you imagine a world without plumbers? They are essential professionals required to install or repair plumbing fixtures in homes. Experienced plumbers can earn six-figure salaries per year, and self-employed plumbers can make almost $200,000.
Sadly, the nature of the job and the hard work required to complete the duties of a plumber appear challenging to many people.
Veterinarian
Veterinarians are also among the most in-demand professionals in the world right now. You can find jobs that pay up to $200,000 annually as a veterinarian.
If you love animals, you must pursue a career in veterinary science. However, you might be at risk of injury from animals or emergency calls at any time of the day.
Crab Boat Captain
Crabs are a premium dish on the menu in US restaurants. Fishermen who catch the crabs from the sea can earn up to $100,000.
On top of it, the captain of the crab fishing boats can make almost $200,000 per year. At the same time, you might wonder why no one is taking up such a lucrative job. The conditions of work for crab fishing captains include stormy weather and extreme conditions on the sea. Anyone willing to brave the sea can make the most of the rewards of the job.
Elevator Repairing Personnel
Elevator repair professionals are also eligible to earn $100,000 per year. The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that the average salary of an elevator repair technician is almost $97,000. However, you should not underestimate the risks of the job, which involves working in small places or at high heights. If you are claustrophobic, you will likely face trouble working as an elevator repair professional.
Oil Rig Workers
The safety risks in oil rig operations also create higher demand for oil rig workers. The job might pay a decent amount in the initial days, and managerial roles can fetch around $100,000 per year. Furthermore, experienced engineers can earn higher salaries in a year. However, you must be prepared to endure the conditions, such as spending weeks away from family and severe weather. In addition, work-related injuries and annual deaths are more common than in other jobs.
Podiatrist
The average annual salary of a podiatrist in the US is almost $133,800. Podiatrists treat medical conditions in the patient’s feet, ankles, and lower legs. Their responsibilities also involve conducting surgeries and examining patients along with recommending the treatments or medications, such as special arch supports or special footwear.