The 25 Top Jobs for 2005-2009

Medical Scientist

What they do: It's a broad category, but think lab coats and microscopes. Many work within an academic setting, while others can find employment in the government, biotech, and pharmaceutical industries.

Why the job is hot: This job rates especially high for innovation because of the creativity and problem solving needed for medical research. Future job prospects are strong because spending on research for diseases such as cancer, AIDS, and Parkinson's Disease is expected to increase. The job normally requires a doctorate. Most research is funded by grants, which means that the pay can be less than spectacular -- even if it can exceed $100,000.

Job Growth Index: 45.68
Education Index: 98.28
Salary Range Index: 60
Innovation Index: 96

Profile: George Q. Daley, stem cell researcher, Harvard University

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Computer Software Engineer

What they do: The applications you use on your computer didn't write themselves, you know. That's where these guys -- and gals -- come in. Software engineers not only write programs; they also help companies adopt and integrate new technologies smoothly.

Why the job is hot: It looks like computers are here to stay and that they might have a significant role in the future, so job growth is strong to say the least. In fact, the software industry grew 6% in 2004 alone. Normally, a bachelor's degree in computer engineering or science is sufficient to get a good position, meaning the job ranks high on the education index, but not quite at the top. The profession is well paying, but only a gold mine for those with unique, specialized skills.

Job Growth Index: 61.24
Education Index: 70.80
Salary Range Index: 69.67
Innovation Index: 38

Profile: Colonel Casey Wardynski, project originator and director, "America's Army"

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Chiropractor

What they do: With software engineering -- a largely sedentary role -- being such a hot job, it should be no surprise that the people who treat bad backs are also in demand. Chiropractors diagnose and treat problems related to a person's muscular, nervous, and skeletal systems, with special emphasis on the spine.

Why the job is hot: Despite the practice's sometimes shady reputation, it takes a lot of education to crack a back: two to four years of undergraduate coursework, completion of a four-year chiropractic college course, and national and state certification. Job growth looks solid, especially because people are becoming more interested in alternative, holistic healthcare such as acupuncture and massage therapy. Health insurance companies are also beginning to recognize the benefits, which bodes well for the practice's respect and reputation.

Job Growth Index: 39.53
Education Index: 98.48
Salary Range Index: 84.93
Innovation Index: 0

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Environmental Engineer

What they do: Environmental engineers help design, build, and operate systems for water supply and waste disposal. Additionally, they help with pollution control, recycling efforts, and other public health projects. They gather a lot of data for analysis. Employers include private consulting firms, universities, research firms, laboratories, the government, and private and public companies. According to the American Academy of Environmental Engineers, expect to spend about three-quarters of your time indoors -- and a quarter on site.

Why the job is hot: Environmental engineers get to do a lot of serious thinking and data analysis, which helped them score well in the innovation and creativity aspect of our study. Job prospects are also excellent, as increased environmental regulations are expected to create strong demand for their services. It's probably going to take at least a bachelor's degree to get the job. That said, salary potential leaves something to be desired, ranging from $38,950 to $92,940.

Job Growth Index: 64.91
Education Index: 86.39
Salary Range Index: 37.19
Innovation Index: 87

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