The 25 Top Jobs for 2005-2009

Airline Pilot, Copilot, and Flight Engineer

What they do: Pilots and copilots, well, fly airplanes and related vehicles. On some larger aircraft, flight engineers provide additional assistance, but their job monitoring instruments and systems and such is being handled more and more by computers. That means their days are numbered.

Why the job is hot: Given the state of the airline industry, job growth is average. Travel demand should increase along with the population and economy. As seen in recent years, employment is particularly sensitive to a turbulent economy. While airline pilots traditionally have come from the military, many new pilots are receiving training in civilian flight schools and have college degrees, giving the occupation a boost in the education index. Airline jobs pay in the six figures.

Job Growth Index: 31.46
Education Index: 76.58
Salary Range Index: 78.16
Innovation Index: 0

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Geoscientist

What they do: Geoscientists study the earth. They split into many specialties, including oceanography, paleontology, seismology, and geology.

Why the job is hot: Innovation is a necessary trait of scientific discovery. Geoscience therefore earns some innovation points. Job growth, because the term "geoscientist" encompasses so many different professions, is uneven. Engineering geologists who aid with building highways and other infrastructure projects should fare well. Petroleum geologists may also see increased demand in order to locate new sources of oil. The job usually requires a master's degree. Salary prospects regardless of the specific profession are above average.

Job Growth Index: 19.48
Education Index: 92.82
Salary Range Index: 70.18
Innovation Index: 36

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Market Research Analyst

What they do: Before a product hits the streets, a lot of research goes into just which streets it should hit -- and how. Market research analysts gather data on the local, regional, and national levels to determine the potential sales of a product or service. They also structure and conduct surveys and focus groups. Do you mind if I ask you a few questions about what you think about Fast Company?

Why the job is hot: Putting together the right questions and getting people to answer them well are no small tasks, so market research analysts get some innovation points. Launching a product is a very expensive process, so information about its probable success or failure is a high priority, making this a growth field. Competition for jobs is intense ,and turnover is high because the job is normally a stepping stone into other positions. That tends to keep salaries down a bit.

Job Growth Index: 39.7
Education Index: 79.52
Salary Range Index: 51.71
Innovation Index: 48

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Securities Sales Agent

What they do: It's a stockbroker. You probably have one. Maybe you should call her up and ask what exactly she does.

Why the job is hot: Job growth is average at best, in part hindered by the growth of online trading, but mostly because of high turnover for new brokers. This is more of a early- to mid-level job. Establishing a client base is difficult and the dreaded "cold calling" process does a good job of weeding out those with weak stomach. Brokers normally have a bachelor's degree. The biggest upside is that there is no limit on salary.

Job Growth Index: 22.08
Education Index: 67.5
Salary Range Index: 89.36
Innovation Index: 0

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Medical and Health Services Manager

What they do: If the nurses are handling the patients and the doctors are off playing golf , who is minding the store? These people are. This group can range from small, private practice office managers to hospital administrators. On either level, they handle a wide range of responsibilities including budgeting, insurance claims, and medical records administration.

Why the job is hot: The health industry is going to grow, and so will the complexities of managing it, so demand for highly qualified managers will be strong. Education requirements aren't that stringent, which keeps wages down.

Job Growth Index: 49.71
Education Index: 61.4
Salary Range Index: 53.5
Innovation Index: 40

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