What jobs will be hot in 2016? While many of the hot industries stay the same (think IT and engineering), emerging industries include healthcare, finance and science. While these careers have always been hot, the demand for cleared talent within these fields only continues to grow. When it comes to healthcare, think VA and medical compliance – and the need for specialists with both healthcare industry credentials and a security clearance. Data science is also on the rise, as cloud computing makes it easier than every to gather and hold information – but no less challenging to turn that data into actionable intelligence. Learn more about other jobs with growing demand in 2016.
1. Software developers.
There are currently more than 755 openings for cleared software developers on ClearanceJobs.com. When you’re looking for industries with high salaries and staying power, there is likely no better field than software development. You’ll need a solid understanding of code writing and technical languages, and a bit of a creativity.
Check out current openings in software development, including a position as a software developer for Intelligence Community Instant Messaging, a Charleston, SC based software developer opening with Centuruum, and many more.
2. Intrusion Detection
Cyber security is a booming industry. Within cyber and IT there is one industry that is absolutely on the rise following the ‘year of the breach’ – that’s intrusion detection specialists. This is one of the career areas where the federal government struggles to attract talent. Both government and the private sector are competing for this talent. For mission-focused IT professionals, federal government work may be just the ticket. Cybersecurity specialists and intrusion detection specialists working for the federal government aren’t just keeping consumer networks safe – they’re actively engaged in national security. Intrusion detection is the perfect career for that creative, problem solving IT professional – one who can reverse engineer a problem and identify a network’s weaknesses. Like software developers, experienced intrusion detection specialists garner top salary.
3. Systems Engineer
Like software developers, systems engineers and administrators are among the IT professionals always in demand. 2016 will be no different. With no decline in the use of web services and databases, the professionals with skills in those areas are in demand. ClearanceJobs.com currently lists more than 710 openings for systems engineers. Those openings include a Systems Engineer Specialist with NJVC in Chantilly, VA and a Systems Engineer with a plethora of server experience to work for Federated IT in Arlington, VA.
4. Healthcare Specialist
Surprisingly, a degree in public health and a security clearance may be a winning combination in 2016. Health Research Analysts are needed to support a variety of government agencies, from the VA to the CDC. Think a combination of healthcare professional and data scientists, these position often require some IT skills (to navigate the databases where the growing amount of healthcare data is stored. An IT degree is often not required, but if you have medical skills from the military, considering using your GI bill benefits to add some IT skills and certifications to your resume. In 2016, it looks to be a winning combination.
5. Science technician.
Science technicians come in many varieties, but those working in the cleared space will find most of their work centered on federal laboratories. When it comes to science technicians, the key figure is growth. Bureau of Labor statistics project the number of openings in this field to increase by more than 30 percent in 2016.
6. Finance/cost analyst
In the private sector, finance and cost analysts are in demand to help baby boomers navigate their way through retirement. In the public sector and government, financial analysts are in demand due to a little industry term entitled ‘lowest-price, technically acceptable.’ It’s a scathing phrase in many defense industry offices, who pride themselves on providing the best talent and services. But to make LPTA contracting work, the defense industry is relying on great finance and budget analysts to crunch the numbers. ClearanceJobs.com currently has more than 225 openings listed for data scientists.
7. data scientist/analyst
Looking for a job with big growth for 2016? Try big data. The Bureau of Labor statistics project growth to be over 50 percent for data scientists and analysts. The growth in data scientists in the defense industry goes hand in hand with the growth in demand for cyber and cloud professionals. With more information being gathered/accessible than ever, the struggle to interpret, analyze and make that data work is only growing. Companies currently hiring Data Scientists include Booz Allen and ManTech International.
Didn’t find your ideal job on this list? Don’t worry. With more than 13,500 current openings listed on ClearanceJobs.com, you’re still likely to find a cleared career that’s right for you.