10 Best Jobs For College Grads

By: Alan Okpechi

Break Studios Contributing Writer

Graduation from college is a great accomplishment but knowing what to do next can be another hurdle which is why knowing what the 10 best jobs for college grads is important. Many graduates switched majors during their studies and may consider fields that may not involve their major. Choosing a career can be difficult especially during a time of economic uncertainty and staying away from job scams can be difficult. Finding a great job with long term security is possible for those who research and remain vigilant.

Environmental Science Technician. A job of course related to the environment, ESTs spent most of their time outside testing for pollution levels and recording resources. Usually employed by local or state governments this position is expected to grow by 10,900 jobs or 29% through 2018.
Hydrologist . When a oil ship leaks or a river becomes contaminated it is the job or a hydrologist to check the quality of water and make determinations as to how to correct a problem. With the government stepping up environmental regulation job security is assured as well as holding a growth rate of 29% through 2018.
Civil Engineer. Civil engineers design and build the parks, roads, bridges and other structures that society takes for granted. Usually employed by the government, your job can vary depending on what kind of project you are working on. The Labor Department predicts a growth of 68,000 jobs for civil engineers through 2020 making this an in demand job.
School Psychologist. With the government focusing more on education the need for skilled teachers and support staff has increased. School psychologists ensure that a student's emotional, psychological, physical, and social issues are in check for a healthy experience both in and outside of school. The Labor Department predicts growth of 11% in schools as well as hospitals and mental health centers making this a perfect choice for a stable job for a college graduate.
Dental Hygienist. Making about $30 an hour and with an expected growth rate of 36% according to the Labor Department, dental hygienists may be an excellent option for a college grad. Responsible for tasks like cleaning teeth, checking for abnormalities, and taking x-rays, a dental hygienist is very much in demand.
Optometrist. With a population of baby boomers coming closer to the age of retirement the need for doctors is great. Few consider the path of optomotry but this position pays among the highest in the field of doctors and is rather noninvasive. Checking for eye problems and prescribing vision correction treatments are some examples of tasks an optometrist would perform. The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects a 24 percent growth rate through 2018 making this job exciting for new college grads.
Firefighter. While this position may seem self explanatory the role of a firefighter has changed over time. Instead of rescuing cats from trees firefighters are for example more often called out to handle chemical exposures, floods or ice storms where citizens require assistance. College diplomas earn more than those applying with no such achievement, though this job is more for those who are physically inclined. Such an undertaking has rewards such as job security, pension, and state provided healthcare.
Market Research Analyst. With a degree in business or marketing you will be well equip to handle the responsibilities of a market research analyst. Understanding how the public reacts to products, advertising, and placement of products is an in demand skill that pays over $30 an hour. Growing by nearly 80,000 jobs through 2018 according to the Labor Department, this job is very much in demand and great for a college grad.
Accountant. Being a more traditional job this job is more for those who are logical and enjoy manipulating numbers. Keeping precise financial records and evaluating those records are prime job functions. Usually employed by large financial firms the Labor Department expects job growth of 22% for accountants.
Financial Analyst. Looking over financial statements and evaluating the bottom line of companies are the main job functions of a financial analyst. Potential employers vary from universities with large endowments to insurance companies. The Labor Department expects growth of 20% which is much faster than most professions.