Recession Proof High Paying Careers

Recession-proof careers are those offering services that people need rather than want. Industries offering consumer or business products are constantly changing and may be more susceptible to layoffs or failure during a recession. Recession-proof careers are able to survive technological and economic changes without negative impact.

Nursing

While almost any career in the health care industry is recession-proof (people will always get sick), nursing is projected to grow 23 percent by 2016, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The two primary options available in the nursing field are LPNs (Licensed Practical Nurse) and RNs (Registered Nurse). LPNs start with a one-year certification program and can expect earnings between $31,080 and $43,640 annually (BLS, 2006). RN education is completed in two years, although a four-year degree will bring higher earnings. The middle 50 percent of RNs will earn between $47,710 and $69,850 (BLS, 2006). Nursing is a highly rewarding career for those who enjoy helping others.

Engineering

Engineers work in public and private industries to apply mathematical and scientific solutions to problems. Two of the most rapidly growing engineering fields are civil engineering and environmental engineering, although dozens of other fields exist. Engineers need licenses in all 50 states, which require at minimum a bachelor's degree within their field of specialty. Civil Engineers can expect annual earnings of around $68,600, while Environmental Engineers can expect around $69,940 (BLS).

Funeral Services

Much like the health care industry is recession proof; the "death care" industry will remain as well. Although not for everyone, careers in funeral services continue to grow at a steady pace. Morticians (also known as funeral directors or undertakers) work to prepare the recently deceased for burial, including overseeing funeral arrangements with their families. The middle 50 percent of Morticians earn between $37,200 and $65,260 (BLS). Education starts at two years, and usually requires one year of apprenticeship to become licensed.

Linguistics

Linguistics is the study of language. With the United States embracing an acceptance of foreign language, most careers in linguistics will experience growth. Linguistic professionals may be educators teaching English as a second language or a foreign language to English speakers. The federal government also employs linguisists, working in translation and interpretation, where they earn an average annual salary of $76,287 (BLS). A linguisist must be fluent in written and verbal applications of at least one other language besides his native language. A college degree will help secure employment in government and educational jobs, but is generally not required in other settings.

Careers to Stay Away From

Just as some career fields are expected to grow in the future, regardless of economic climate, many careers are rapidly declining and offer a bleak job outlook. Careers in manufacturing, agriculture and petroleum refining are expected to lose jobs or grow at a slow pace.

References

• RN
• LPN
• Funeral