Top 10 In-Demand Jobs in the US: A Comprehensive Guide
Discover the top 10 sectors where you can find the employment opportunities to work in the US
The US job market is dynamic and offers numerous employment opportunities. However, for students planning to stay post-graduation, the job search can be daunting. That said, possessing the right qualifications for high-demand roles can significantly enhance your prospects.
This blog post explores the top 10 in-demand jobs in the US. It also evaluates popular part-time jobs for students, roles listed in the US shortage list, and job prospects for international students upon completion of their Master's.
Further, this blog explores the highest-paying jobs, provides information on US work visas for international graduates, and suggests job options for international students.
Job structure in the US
The US has a diverse job structure, reflecting its robust economy and varied industries. Minimum wages vary by state and ensure workers are fairly compensated. Weekly working hours typically range from 35 to 40 hours, barring some jobs. On average, full-time work entails 37.5 hours a week, usually comprising 7-hour shifts across 5 days. The work culture in the US emphasises professionalism, productivity, and collaboration.
The federally mandated minimum wage is $7.25, which adds up to some $271 a week. However, states can set their respective minimum wage floors. For instance, Washington, California, New York, Massachusetts, and New Jersey offer nearly double the federal minimum wage. Hence, an average worker in Washington on minimum wage can make over $562 a week.
Minimum wage: Ranges from $7.25 to $15 per hour, depending on the state.
Working hours: Typically 35 to 40 hours per week.
Work culture: Emphasises professionalism, productivity, and collaboration.
Salary standards vs. cost of living in the US
Evaluating salary standards alongside the cost of living is crucial when considering job opportunities in the US. Pay scales for popular jobs depend on factors such as education, experience, and industry.
As of 2025, the median usual weekly earnings for full-time wage and salary workers were approximately $1,194, translating to an annual income of about $62,088. Entry-level salaries vary:
Bachelor’s degree holders: Average starting salary around $59,000.
Master’s degree holders: Average starting salary around $69,700.
Computer Science graduates: Often command higher starting salaries due to demand.
Living expenses can vary significantly by location. On average, an individual may spend between $30,000 and $45,000 annually on living costs.
Most in-demand and fastest-growing jobs in the US
The US job market is continually evolving. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, currently, the top 10 in-demand workers in the US include software developers, data scientists, healthcare professionals, financial analysts, marketing managers, human resource specialists, cybersecurity experts, project managers, sales representatives, and environmental engineers. These professions offer promising career prospects and competitive salaries.
What jobs are needed in the US right now? The US at present is in the middle of a labour shortage, especially unskilled labour. In terms of projected growth from 2023 to 2033, the fastest-growing occupations include:
Nurse Practitioners: 46% growth
Data Scientists: 36% growth
Information Security Analysts: 33% growth
Medical and Health Services Managers: 29% growth
Physician Assistants: 28% growth
Computer and Information Research Scientists: 26% growth
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Popular part-time jobs for students
Many students in the US seek part-time employment to support their studies and to gain valuable work experience.
Popular part-time jobs include:
Retail Associate
Food Service Worker
Tutor
Administrative Assistant
Barista
Delivery Driver
Lifeguard
Library Assistant
Fitness Instructor
Event Staff
Campus Tour Guide
Freelance Writer/Content Creator
Babysitter/Nanny
Customer Service Representative
These positions provide flexible schedules and often offer skill development and networking opportunities. The part-time jobs listed below offer flexibility in terms of working hours and can provide students with valuable skills, experience, and income while they pursue their studies. Do keep in mind that part time job salary in the US can vary between states.
Jobs on the US shortage list
The US maintains a shortage list identifying occupations with significant deficits of skilled workers. These roles offer potential employment opportunities for qualified individuals. The shortage list includes:
Registered Nurses
Software Engineers
Electrical Engineers
Physical Therapists
Occupational Therapists
Biomedical Scientists
Pursuing a career in these fields can enhance job prospects and provide stability.
Job opportunities in the US after a Master’s
International students completing their MS degrees in the US often access various job opportunities. The US job market values advanced degrees and international perspectives, making MS degree holders desirable candidates. Industries such as technology, engineering, healthcare, finance, and research actively seek individuals with specialised knowledge and skills gained through MS programmes.
Potential roles for MS graduates include:
Software Engineer/Developer
Data Scientist/Analyst
Financial Analyst
Project Manager
Marketing Manager
Research Scientist
Civil Engineer
Mechanical Engineer
Electrical Engineer
Nurse Practitioner
Highest-paying jobs in the US
Certain professions in the US offer lucrative salary packages for qualified individuals. The highest-paying jobs often require extensive education, experience, and expertise. Examples of such job positions include physicians and surgeons, chief executives, pharmacists, petroleum engineers, IT managers, lawyers, and aerospace engineers. These professions offer excellent earning potential and career growth opportunities.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the highest-paying occupations include:
Ophthalmologists (excluding paediatric): Median annual pay ≥ $239,200
Physicians (all other): Median annual pay ≥ $239,200
Radiologists
Psychiatrists
Pathologists
Obstetricians and Gynaecologists
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Other high-paying roles encompass:
Chief Executives
Pharmacists
Petroleum Engineers
IT Managers
Lawyers
Aerospace Engineers
These professions typically require extensive education, experience, and expertise.
US work visa options for international graduates
International students graduating from US universities and wishing to work in the country must navigate the visa application process. Key visa options include:
Optional Practical Training (OPT): Allows international graduates to work in the US for up to 12 months after completing their degree. STEM graduates may be eligible for a 24-month extension.
H-1B Visa: An employer-sponsored visa for highly skilled workers, allowing them to work in the US for up to six years.
Understanding visa requirements and application processes is essential for international graduates seeking employment in the US.
FAQ
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