AI-Proof Jobs in United States
58
Jobs Tracked
90%
Avg Stability
3
Top Industries
USD
Currency
Working in United States
The United States offers some of the highest wages globally for skilled trades and healthcare workers, driven by a combination of strong economic demand and persistent labor shortages. The skilled trades face a particularly acute workforce gap—millions of experienced workers are retiring while not enough young people are entering apprenticeships, creating exceptional opportunities for those willing to learn these careers.
Healthcare demand is equally robust, fueled by an aging population and expanding insurance coverage. Registered nurses, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals enjoy competitive salaries and strong job security. Emergency services maintain consistent hiring as communities prioritize public safety.
Training pathways are diverse and accessible. Apprenticeship programs provide paid learning in trades, while community colleges offer affordable technical education. Healthcare careers typically require degrees, but strong financial aid and employer-sponsored programs make education achievable. State licensing requirements vary, but once certified, professionals enjoy mobility across the country's vast job market.
The American emphasis on entrepreneurship means skilled workers can often transition from employee to business owner. Independent plumbers, electricians, and healthcare practitioners build thriving practices, with many earning well above typical employee wages through their own businesses.
Stable Careers in United States
Jobs with local salary and demand data
| Career | Score | Demand | Salary (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plumber | 94 | High | $41k - $105k |
| Electrician | 96 | High | $46k - $108k |
| Registered Nurse (RN) | 97 | High | $63k - $129k |
| Physical Therapist | 98 | High | $76k - $127k |
| HVAC Technician | 93 | High | $40k - $91k |
| Firefighter | 95 | High | $38k - $100k |
| Paramedic / EMT | 94 | High | $38k - $70k |
| Solar Panel Installer | 89 | High | $37k - $66k |
| CDL Truck Driver | 78 | High | $39k - $79k |
| Aircraft Mechanic | 91 | High | $45k - $99k |
| Bus Driver | 75 | High | $33k - $58k |
| Diesel Service Technician | 89 | High | $40k - $77k |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | 82 | High | $38k - $74k |
| Farm Manager | 84 | Medium | $52k - $116k |
| Arborist / Tree Care Specialist | 90 | Medium | $36k - $67k |
| Farm Equipment Mechanic | 88 | Medium | $36k - $64k |
| Irrigation Technician | 85 | Medium | $35k - $65k |
| Groundskeeper / Grounds Maintenance Worker | 80 | High | $29k - $52k |
| Barber | 92 | High | $27k - $58k |
| Cosmetologist / Hairstylist | 91 | High | $26k - $60k |
| Funeral Director | 95 | Medium | $44k - $95k |
| Locksmith | 87 | Medium | $32k - $61k |
| Pet Groomer | 88 | High | $25k - $53k |
| Wind Turbine Technician | 91 | High | $49k - $88k |
| Industrial Machinery Mechanic | 88 | High | $44k - $92k |
| Home Health Aide | 92 | Very High | $26k - $44k |
| Elevator Installer & Repairer | 93 | High | $55k - $149k |
| Physician Assistant (PA) | 95 | Very High | $95k - $182k |
| Surgical Technologist | 89 | High | $42k - $86k |
| Audiologist | 90 | High | $62k - $130k |
| Respiratory Therapist | 93 | High | $62k - $109k |
| Boilermaker | 87 | Medium | $48k - $108k |
| Ironworker | 89 | High | $42k - $108k |
| Glazier | 86 | Medium | $38k - $99k |
| Tile & Stone Setter | 85 | Medium | $36k - $86k |
| Insulation Worker | 84 | Medium | $36k - $77k |
| Chef / Head Cook | 85 | Medium | $36k - $96k |
| Carpenter (Finish/Custom) | 88 | High | $39k - $98k |
| Occupational Therapist | 97 | High | $62k - $130k |
| Dental Hygienist | 92 | High | $66k - $120k |
| Veterinarian | 96 | High | $78k - $158k |
| Welder | 86 | High | $38k - $78k |
| Massage Therapist | 91 | Medium | $33k - $64k |
| Police Officer | 90 | High | $42k - $97k |
| Special Education Teacher | 96 | High | $47k - $75k |
| Elementary School Teacher | 93 | High | $45k - $80k |
| Social Worker | 96 | High | $41k - $86k |
| Personal Trainer / Fitness Coach | 88 | Medium | $32k - $76k |
| Roofer | 90 | High | $35k - $71k |
| Landscaper / Groundskeeper | 84 | Medium | $31k - $52k |
| General Contractor | 91 | High | $55k - $130k |
| Pipefitter / Steamfitter | 92 | High | $45k - $105k |
| Event Planner / Coordinator | 86 | Medium | $40k - $84k |
| Restaurant Manager | 83 | Medium | $42k - $80k |
| Hotel Manager | 84 | Medium | $48k - $115k |
| Pastry Chef / Baker | 87 | Medium | $32k - $65k |
| Nurse Practitioner | 97 | High | $98k - $145k |
| Speech-Language Pathologist | 96 | High | $64k - $107k |
Training & Licensing Details
Training
4-5 year apprenticeship typical. Union and non-union pathways available. Trade schools can accelerate entry.
Licensing
License requirements vary by state. Most require journeyman certification with 4+ years experience. Master plumber license for independent contracting.
Training
4-5 year apprenticeship combining classroom and on-the-job training. IBEW union programs highly regarded. Trade schools offer accelerated starts.
Licensing
State licensing required in most states. Journeyman license after apprenticeship, Master electrician license for independent work. Continuing education often required.
Training
Associate degree (2 years) allows entry, but BSN (4 years) increasingly preferred for advancement. Accelerated BSN programs for career changers.
Licensing
Must pass NCLEX-RN exam. State-by-state licensure with Nurse Licensure Compact allowing multi-state practice in participating states.
Training
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) required—3 years post-bachelor's. Highly competitive program admission. Clinical rotations during training.
Licensing
Must pass National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE). State license required. Direct access laws vary by state.
Training
Trade school programs (6-24 months) or apprenticeship (3-5 years). Manufacturer certifications (Carrier, Trane) valued by employers.
Licensing
EPA Section 608 certification required for refrigerant handling. Many states require HVAC contractor license for independent work.
Training
Fire academy training (12-16 weeks) after hiring. EMT-Basic certification typically required before application. Paramedic certification improves prospects.
Licensing
EMT or Paramedic certification. State firefighter certification. Physical fitness standards vary by department.
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Compare JobsLast updated: December 2025
Source: BLS, ONS, Job Outlook AU, Job Bank Canada, Destatis