Searching for a new job in Alabama? Consider seeking employment in one of the state’s rapidly growing fields, including healthcare, teaching, and machinery. Read on to learn more about the fastest-growing careers in Alabama.
Alabama has seen a surge in the number of jobs in the healthcare field in recent years as the state continues to experience an aging population. As a result, the healthcare field is one of the fastest-growing careers in Alabama, and there are many opportunities available for those who want to join the growing industry.
Healthcare providers can find positions in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities across the state. In addition, many opportunities are available for those who want to work in the insurance industry or become medical professionals.
The U.S. Department of Labor the National Occupation Employment and Wage Survey collects data on the most sought-after occupations in each area. Its tables are based on current annual job openings and projected growth over the next few years. For example, the most in-demand careers in Alabama for that decade are as follows.
Alabama’s Fastest Growing Careers
| Profession | Projected Employment 2024* | Percentage Growth |
|---|---|---|
| Occupational Therapy Assistants | 590 | 57% |
| Commercial Divers | 20 | 50% |
| Computer Controlled Machine Tool Operators | 3,360 | 47% |
| Physical Therapist Assistants | 2,880 | 47% |
| Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary | 2,570 | 41% |
| Ambulance Drivers and Attendants (except EMTs) | 500 | 37% |
| Nurse Practitioners | 2,400 | 37% |
| Physical Therapist Aides | 770 | 37% |
| Physical Therapists | 3,280 | 37% |
| Health Technologists and Technicians, All Other | 830 | 35% |
Source: *CareerOneStop from the DOL
In the United States, much of the increase in employment has transpired in various food items, healthcare, educational support, information and technology, and construction industries.
Jobs with the Most Openings in Alabama
The fastest-growing jobs are not necessarily the ones with the most promising job openings since openings can also be created by turnover, retirement, and other factors in addition to growth. The table below identifies those jobs in Alabama expected to have the highest number of job openings through 2024.
| Profession | Employment | Projected Annual Openings |
|---|---|---|
| Cashiers | 69,260 | 3,270 |
| Retail Salespeople | 59,810 | 2,620 |
| Food Preparation & Service Workers | 43,480 | 1,900 |
| Registered Nurses (RNs) | 46,460 | 1,870 |
| Team Assemblers | 33,550 | 1,560 |
| Waiters and Waitresses | 29,240 | 1,480 |
| Hand Laborers and Freight, Stock and Material Movers | 36,190 | 1,380 |
| Customer Service Reps | 31,430 | 1,190 |
| Office Clerks | 45,750 | 1,090 |
| First-Line Supervisors of Retail Workers | 35,290 | 1,030 |
Source: **CareerOneStop from the DOL
