21 Top Jobs of the Future
No one can predict all the jobs young people will be able to choose from in the second half of the 21st century but here are just a few of the jobs that are likely to be in demand over the next 15 years.
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Cyber security expert
No-one wants to fall victim to cyber-based crime which is why the government is trying to tackle the issue by providing apprenticeships to encourage young people to choose this growing sector. -
Robotics engineer
All types of engineer are in demand but those who are highly skilled in coding and software are needed in areas such as biomedical engineering, warehousing and logistics, agri-tech (agricultural technology) and hi-tech manufacturing such as driverless vehicles. Engineers are well paid and their skills are sought after around the world so if you like the idea of being able to travel it could be a good career. -
Nurse
A critical shortage of nurses continues in the UK with the Covid-19 pandemic putting further strain on the situation. Bursaries for nursing degrees have been replaced with fees but there are now more routes into the career with degree apprenticeships in nursing an option. -
Software developer
Computer programming skills are the most sought after area of expertise in the UK – they’re needed everywhere! From cloud computing to artificial intelligence to business intelligence to gaming – and other possibilities yet to be imagined. -
User experience (UX) designer
User experience combines branding, design, function and usability for websites, apps and other digital platforms to help make the user’s experience pleasurable and uncomplicated. It’s a key area for online retail, education, banking and finance and many other digital services. -
Carpenters and joiners
The UK construction industry needs thousands of people every year to take up both manual and non-manual roles. Apprenticeships can help plug the gaps in skilled roles such as wood trades, bricklaying and electrics. -
Data analyst
How do we keep track of the vast amount of digital information stored about people, their behaviour and their preferences and what can it all tell us? Data analysts can help us to make sense of situations and scenarios by presenting complex data in a clear way. -
Esports coach
Competitive online gaming is getting more and more popular. With some big prizes to be won, players need to make sure they have that competitive edge. An esports coach can help with strategy, motivation and fair play. -
Care worker
By 2039 the number of people aged 75+ will have doubled (1) meaning a huge demand for people to work in care. Hugely rewarding, these can be careers with plenty of opportunities to progress. -
Diagnostics technician (light vehicle)
Cars are fitted with more electronics than you can shake a stick at these days and it’s the job of a diagnostics technician to spot the fault. With more electric and driverless vehicles hitting the road every year can we manage without them? -
Epidemiologist
There will be lots of jobs in life sciences in the future. Epidemiologists research the causes and effects of viruses and diseases in an increasingly global society - following the recent Covid-19 pandemic are needed more than ever. -
Countryside officer
Nature conservation – protecting a particular habitat such as woodland, open moor or a stretch of coastline – helps to improve the environment as well as encourage people to enjoy and respect it. Countryside or conservation officers do work that we all benefit from in one way or another. -
Smart meter fitter
The government wants all homes and small businesses to be equipped with smart meters to measure energy use. How many fitters does it take to install smart meters in 50 million homes? Quite a few. -
Agronomist
Agronomists are experts in the science of soil management and aim to improve the growing of crops. With food supply a constant concern around the world, we must look to continuously adapt farming methods; cutting edge agri-tech is playing an increasingly important role in this ‘in demand’ job. -
Artist
Do you have an artistic streak? From video gaming, animation and virtual reality to packaging design, landscape design, fashion and advertising - a talent for art can be useful in a wide range of careers. -
Accountant
Businesses and individuals need accountants to keep on top of the financial running of their business. A mistake can be costly so good accountants are always in demand. -
Teacher
The numbers of children moving into secondary schools are growing but teachers – especially of physics, maths, computer science and languages - are in short supply. Education is a vital stepping stone for accessing a wide range of career opportunities and that’s why we need teachers! -
Maintenance technician
Manufacturing companies create the products of today and the future and they are becoming increasingly hi-tech. Some jobs on the production line might be at risk of automation but humans will still be needed to make sure the machines run smoothly. -
VFX / CGI
It’s all about the special effects these days! The UK TV and film sector is extremely good at creating these and to keep it that way we need homegrown experts. -
Sales accounts managers
All sectors need people skilled at selling things. There are lots of opportunities for those who can help to develop and grow the sales of a company. -
Flood risk engineer
Climate change is creating more extreme weather. Jobs related to increased flooding, drought and wildfires in locations around the world means solutions are needed fast.
Some areas of work may be growing fast but we’ll always need people to replace those who leave. Remember though, jobs will be emerging that haven’t yet been thought up – making sure you develop a range of skills, and keep learning new ones, will help you to jump to new roles.
Sources: 1 – Office for National Statistics
© Helen Janota, updated September 2021
