fun problem solving jobs

32 Jobs For Problem Solvers (Solution Seekers’ Guide)

Are you an expert at solving problems? Love puzzling out complex challenges?

Then, you’re in for a thrill!

Today, we’re exploring a list of ideal jobs for problem solvers.

From operations analysts to data scientists. Each one, is a perfect fit for those who thrive on complexity and challenges.

Imagine spending your days dissecting issues. Day in, day out.

Sounds like a dream, right?

So, get your thinking cap on.

And get ready to discover your dream problem-solving profession!

Software Developer

Average Salary: $70,000 – $120,000 per year

Software Developers design, develop, and maintain software systems and applications to solve real-world problems.

This role is ideal for problem solvers who enjoy applying their analytical and technical skills to create innovative solutions.

Job Duties:

• Writing and Testing Code : Develop and test software to meet clients’ or employers’ needs, ensuring functionality and user-friendliness.
• Problem-Solving : Analyze software issues and develop solutions to address these problems.
• Collaboration with Teams : Work closely with other developers, UX designers, business analysts, and stakeholders to create effective software solutions.
• System Maintenance : Regularly update and maintain existing software to improve efficiency, add features, and fix bugs.
• Technology Research : Stay updated with the latest programming languages, frameworks, and technologies to improve development processes.
• Documentation : Create and maintain comprehensive documentation for software design, development, and maintenance.

Requirements:

• Educational Background : A Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field is often required.
• Technical Skills : Proficiency in multiple programming languages, such as Java, Python, C++, or similar, along with experience in software development frameworks and tools.
• Problem-Solving Abilities : Strong analytical skills and the ability to solve complex technical issues.
• Teamwork : Ability to collaborate with team members and contribute to a shared goal effectively.
• Continuous Learning : Willingness to continually learn and adapt to new technologies and methodologies in software development.

Career Path and Growth :

Software Developers have a wide range of opportunities for career advancement.

With experience, they can move into senior developer roles, become software architects, or lead development teams.

They can also specialize in areas such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, or data science.

As technology evolves, there will always be new challenges and problems to solve, making software development an evergreen field for problem solvers.

Data Analyst

Average Salary: $60,000 – $85,000 per year

Data Analysts are responsible for interpreting data and turning it into information which can offer ways to improve a business, thus affecting business decisions.

This role is ideal for problem solvers who relish the challenge of deciphering complex data sets and providing actionable insights.

• Collecting Data : Gather information from various sources and systems to compile and analyze.
• Data Cleaning : Ensure the accuracy and integrity of data by cleaning and validating datasets.
• Analysis : Use statistical tools to interpret data sets, paying particular attention to trends and patterns that could be valuable for diagnostic and predictive analytics.
• Reporting : Create reports and dashboards to visualize data and effectively communicate findings to stakeholders.
• Problem Solving : Address business challenges by applying data-driven techniques to find solutions or opportunities.
• Collaboration : Work closely with teams across the organization to identify opportunities for leveraging company data to drive business solutions.
• Educational Background : A Bachelor’s degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, or a related field is preferable.
• Analytical Skills : Strong analytical abilities with an aptitude for analyzing large datasets and translating data into actionable insights.
• Technical Proficiency : Proficiency with data analysis tools (e.g., SQL, R, Python) and data visualization software (e.g., Tableau, Power BI).
• Attention to Detail : Ability to be meticulous with data and attentive to trends and patterns.
• Communication Skills : Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly present findings to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Problem-Solving : A knack for problem-solving and a methodical approach to finding solutions.

This role provides the opportunity to become a key player in an organization by offering insights that can shape strategic decisions.

With experience, Data Analysts can advance to senior analyst roles, specialize in specific industries or data types, or move into data science or data engineering positions.

There’s also the potential to lead teams or departments, guiding data strategies and policies.

Systems Engineer

Average Salary: $70,000 – $110,000 per year

Systems Engineers design, integrate, and manage complex systems over their life cycles.

They ensure that systems function efficiently, meet user needs, and can be maintained within cost and schedule constraints.

This role is ideal for problem solvers who enjoy using their technical expertise to overcome complex system challenges.

• System Design : Develop and design systems architecture to ensure functionality, reliability, and scalability.
• Problem Identification and Resolution : Analyze and solve complex issues that arise during the development, implementation, and maintenance of systems.
• Integration : Oversee the integration of hardware, software, and network technologies to create efficient systems.
• Testing and Evaluation : Conduct thorough testing and evaluation to ensure systems meet design specifications and are free of defects.
• Project Management : Collaborate with cross-functional teams to manage projects, timelines, and deliverables effectively.
• Continuous Improvement : Regularly review and update systems to improve performance and address emerging needs.
• Educational Background : A Bachelor’s degree in Systems Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field is required. Advanced degrees are preferred for some positions.
• Technical Skills : Proficient in systems thinking, technical analysis, and familiarity with engineering software and tools.
• Problem-Solving Abilities : Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to tackle complex system issues.
• Communication Skills : Excellent verbal and written communication skills to collaborate with team members and stakeholders.
• Attention to Detail : Meticulous attention to detail to ensure system integrity and reliability.
• Adaptability : Ability to adapt to evolving technological landscapes and project requirements.

Systems Engineers have opportunities to work on a variety of projects across different industries, such as aerospace, defense, healthcare, and technology.

With experience, they can advance to lead systems engineer positions, systems architecture roles, or management positions overseeing engineering teams.

Continuous learning and specialization in emerging technologies can further enhance career prospects, leading to roles in innovation, research and development, or consulting.

Business Analyst

Business Analysts are instrumental in bridging the gap between IT and business needs.

They analyze and model business processes, systems, and stakeholders, with the goal of understanding and documenting business requirements and translating them into functional specifications.

This role is perfect for problem solvers who enjoy dissecting complex business challenges and crafting strategic solutions that align with organizational goals.

• Analyzing Business Processes : Examine current business practices and processes to identify areas for improvement or re-engineering.
• Gathering Requirements : Elicit and document business requirements from stakeholders to understand the needs of the business.
• Developing Solutions : Create viable solutions and work with IT and other departments to implement these solutions effectively.
• Data Analysis : Use data analytics to support decision-making and recommend process improvements.
• Facilitating Communication : Act as a liaison between business stakeholders and technology teams to ensure clear communication and understanding of requirements and functionality.
• Project Management : Oversee projects, ensuring they are delivered on time and within budget, and that the solutions meet business needs.
• Educational Background : A Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related field is often required.
• Analytical Skills : Strong analytical and critical thinking skills to navigate complex business challenges and data.
• Communication Skills : Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate technical and business concepts to diverse audiences.
• Problem-Solving : A natural aptitude for problem-solving and the ability to think strategically about business needs and solutions.
• Technical Proficiency : Knowledge of business process modeling, data analysis tools, and understanding of IT infrastructure and software development.
• Adaptability : Ability to adapt to new business challenges, technologies, and environments quickly.

Business Analysts play a crucial role in any organization by ensuring that business objectives are met through the effective use of technology.

Career advancement opportunities include moving into senior business analyst roles, specializing in specific industries or technologies, transitioning into project management, or progressing to strategic roles such as business process manager or IT director.

Operations Research Analyst

Average Salary: $60,000 – $90,000 per year

Operations Research Analysts use advanced mathematical and analytical methods to help organizations solve problems and make better decisions.

This role is ideal for problem solvers who enjoy using their analytical skills to improve efficiency and effectiveness within an organization.

• Conducting Data Analysis : Collect and analyze data to evaluate operational issues and propose solutions to complex problems.
• Developing Predictive Models : Utilize mathematical modeling techniques to forecast outcomes and optimize decision-making.
• Simulating Processes : Create simulations to test different strategies and to anticipate the impact of changes in the system.
• Optimizing Resources : Determine the most efficient allocation of resources, such as time, money, and personnel.
• Preparing Reports : Compile findings and recommendations into clear and concise reports for stakeholders.
• Collaborating with Teams : Work with cross-functional teams to implement and monitor improvements.
• Educational Background : A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Operations Research, Mathematics, Statistics, Economics, Engineering, or a related analytical field is highly recommended.
• Mathematical Skills : Strong mathematical and statistical analysis skills are essential for modeling and problem-solving.
• Analytical Thinking : Ability to approach problems logically and to develop innovative solutions.
• Technical Proficiency : Proficiency in computer programming, databases, and statistical analysis software.
• Communication Skills : Excellent written and verbal communication skills to convey complex information to non-technical audiences.

Operations Research Analysts are in high demand across various industries, including logistics, healthcare, manufacturing, and government.

With experience, analysts can progress to senior analyst roles, management positions, or specialize in a particular industry or area of research.

There is also potential for Operations Research Analysts to become independent consultants, offering their expertise on a contract basis.

Mechanical Engineer

Average Salary: $65,000 – $90,000 per year

Mechanical Engineers are responsible for designing, analyzing, and maintaining mechanical systems that can range from small components to large machinery and vehicles.

This role is ideal for problem solvers who enjoy applying principles of engineering, physics, and materials science to create solutions that improve the functionality and efficiency of products and processes.

• Designing Mechanical Systems : Create blueprints and schematics for new mechanical devices and systems, using CAD software and engineering principles.
• Prototyping and Testing : Develop prototypes of designs and conduct tests to assess performance, safety, and reliability.
• Improving Existing Systems : Analyze and evaluate mechanical equipment to identify areas for efficiency improvements or cost reductions.
• Collaborating with Cross-Functional Teams : Work with other engineers, designers, and production staff to ensure product and system feasibility.
• Project Management : Oversee projects from conception through to completion, ensuring they meet technical specifications, budgets, and timelines.
• Staying Current with Technology : Continuously update your knowledge about the latest engineering tools, technologies, and industry trends.
• Educational Background : A Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering field is required, with a Master’s degree preferred for some positions.
• Technical Skills : Proficiency in CAD software, a solid understanding of core engineering principles, and familiarity with mechanical processes and materials.
• Problem-Solving Aptitude : Exceptional analytical and critical-thinking skills, with the ability to develop innovative solutions to complex engineering challenges.
• Team Collaboration : Ability to work effectively in a team environment, contributing to collaborative problem-solving and project success.
• Attention to Detail : A meticulous approach to design, testing, and troubleshooting to ensure the highest levels of quality and safety.

Mechanical Engineers have a broad range of opportunities for career advancement.

With experience, they can become senior engineers, project managers, or specialists in areas such as robotics, automotive engineering, or aerospace.

Additionally, they may pursue roles in research and development, management, or consultancy to further influence innovation and efficiency in the field.

IT Consultant

IT Consultants are experts in the field of information technology who work with clients to analyze their technological needs, solve complex IT problems, and improve the overall efficiency and effectiveness of their IT systems.

This role is ideal for problem solvers who enjoy delving into technical challenges and crafting innovative solutions.

• Analyzing IT Systems : Evaluate a client’s current IT infrastructure and identify areas for improvement.
• Problem-Solving : Diagnose and resolve complex IT issues that a client may be facing, ensuring minimal disruption to their operations.
• Implementing Solutions : Design and implement new systems, configurations, or software to enhance the client’s IT capabilities.
• Advising on Technology Trends : Keep clients informed about the latest technology trends and how they can be leveraged to meet business goals.
• Training and Support : Provide training and support to the client’s staff to ensure smooth adoption of new technologies.
• Project Management : Oversee IT projects from conception to completion, ensuring they are delivered on time and within budget.
• Educational Background : A Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field is highly recommended, with a Master’s degree being an advantage for some positions.
• Technical Expertise : Proficiency in various IT domains such as networking, databases, cybersecurity, and software development.
• Problem-Solving Skills : Strong analytical skills with the ability to troubleshoot and resolve complex IT issues.
• Communication Skills : Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to explain technical details to non-technical stakeholders.
• Project Management : Experience in managing IT projects, including understanding project management methodologies like Agile and Scrum.
• Adaptability : Ability to quickly adapt to new technologies and changing business environments.

As an IT Consultant, there is a clear path for career advancement.

Professionals can specialize in various areas such as cybersecurity, cloud computing, or data analytics.

With experience, IT Consultants can move into senior roles, such as IT Manager, Systems Architect, or even Chief Information Officer (CIO).

There are also opportunities for entrepreneurial IT Consultants to start their own consulting firms.

Medical Doctor

Average Salary: $200,000 – $300,000 per year

Medical Doctors diagnose, treat, and help prevent diseases and injuries that commonly occur in the general population.

They are crucial in the healthcare system and work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices.

This role is ideal for problem solvers who are passionate about human biology, medicine, and the care of others.

• Diagnosing Illnesses : Evaluate symptoms and run tests to determine the conditions affecting patients.
• Developing Treatment Plans : Create and manage treatment plans, including prescribing medications, therapy, and other interventions.
• Providing Preventative Care : Advise and educate patients on health maintenance and disease prevention strategies.
• Performing Procedures : Conduct medical procedures and surgeries appropriate to your specialty.
• Collaborating with Healthcare Professionals : Work with other healthcare providers to deliver a multidisciplinary approach to patient care.
• Staying Current : Keep abreast of the latest medical research, treatments, and procedures in the field of medicine.
• Educational Background : A Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree is required, followed by a residency program in a chosen specialty.
• Medical Licensure : A state license to practice medicine is mandatory.
• Problem-Solving Skills : Excellent diagnostic abilities and the capacity to make quick, life-saving decisions.
• Communication Skills : Strong verbal and written communication skills to effectively interact with patients and healthcare teams.
• Empathy and Compassion : A caring and empathetic approach to patient care.
• Adaptability : Ability to handle a wide array of situations and emergencies with composure.

Medical Doctors have numerous opportunities for career advancement.

With experience, they can become specialists in their field, leading researchers, or take on administrative roles in healthcare institutions.

They may also become educators, teaching the next generation of doctors, or pursue opportunities in medical policy and healthcare consulting.

Average Salary: $60,000 – $200,000 per year

Lawyers are legal professionals who represent and advise clients in both civil and criminal cases.

They may work in various legal fields, such as corporate law, family law, criminal law, or intellectual property law.

This role is ideal for problem solvers who enjoy analyzing complex legal issues and advocating on behalf of their clients.

• Client Representation : Advocate for clients in court or during negotiations, presenting evidence and arguments to support their case.
• Legal Research : Conduct thorough research on statutes, case law, and legal precedents relevant to clients’ cases.
• Document Drafting : Prepare legal documents, such as contracts, wills, appeals, and pleadings, ensuring adherence to the law.
• Legal Advice : Provide clients with informed legal counsel, helping them understand their rights and the implications of their legal decisions.
• Case Strategy Development : Develop strategies and tactics for clients’ cases based on the analysis of legal issues and potential outcomes.
• Continuing Education : Stay updated on changes in the law, new legal precedents, and industry best practices to provide the most accurate representation.
• Educational Background : A Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school is required, followed by passing the bar exam in the practicing state.
• Communication Skills : Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present arguments clearly and persuasively.
• Analytical Thinking : Strong analytical abilities to dissect complex legal problems and develop effective solutions.
• Client Service : Commitment to serving clients’ interests and maintaining confidentiality and professionalism.
• Attention to Detail : Meticulous attention to detail when reviewing legal documents and formulating legal arguments.

A career as a lawyer offers the opportunity to make significant impacts on individuals, businesses, and society through legal advocacy and reform.

With experience, lawyers can advance to senior positions within law firms, transition to in-house legal departments, or pursue roles in government, academia, or the judiciary.

Those with a strong interest in policy may also enter politics or become legal experts within non-governmental organizations.

Average Salary: $50,000 – $70,000 per year

Accountants are responsible for managing financial records, analyzing budgets, and ensuring the financial health of an organization.

This role is ideal for problem solvers who enjoy working with numbers and have a keen eye for detail.

• Financial Record Keeping : Maintain accurate and up-to-date financial records for an organization, ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations.
• Budget Analysis : Examine budget estimates for completeness, accuracy, and conformance with established procedures, regulations, and organizational objectives.
• Tax Preparation : Prepare or assist in preparing simple to complex tax returns for individuals or small businesses.
• Audit Assistance : Support auditing teams by providing necessary reports and documentation, and implementing recommendations for improving financial practices and processes.
• Financial Reporting : Develop regular financial statements, such as balance sheets, profit and loss statements, and cash flow statements.
• Advisory Services : Offer financial advice to help businesses and individuals make sound financial decisions and plan for the future.
• Educational Background : A Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field is required. CPA or other relevant certifications are highly regarded.
• Analytical Skills : Strong ability to analyze financial data and provide accurate reports.
• Attention to Detail : Exceptional attention to detail to ensure the accuracy of financial records and reports.
• Problem-Solving : Excellent problem-solving skills to manage and rectify any discrepancies in financial statements.
• Communication Skills : Good verbal and written communication skills to explain complex financial information in a clear and concise manner.
• Technological Proficiency : Proficiency with accounting software and tools, as well as a strong understanding of database management and commonly used financial software programs.

Accountants have a clear career path that can lead to roles with increasing responsibility such as Senior Accountant, Accounting Manager, Controller, or Chief Financial Officer (CFO).

With a blend of experience, additional certifications, and continuing education, accountants can specialize in areas such as forensic accounting, management accounting, or financial analysis, opening up a wide array of opportunities in both the public and private sectors.

Civil Engineer

Civil Engineers design, build, supervise, and maintain construction projects and systems in the public and private sector, including roads, buildings, airports, tunnels, dams, bridges, and systems for water supply and sewage treatment.

This role is ideal for problem solvers who enjoy applying their expertise to create and maintain the essential infrastructures of society.

• Analyzing Survey Reports : Assess land and construction sites to determine the feasibility of proposed building projects.
• Developing Detailed Design Plans : Use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create robust and efficient structures.
• Compliance with Regulations : Ensure all projects adhere to legal standards and environmental regulations.
• Project Management : Oversee and direct construction operations, ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget.
• Problem-Solving : Address any design or construction issues that arise throughout the course of the project.
• Infrastructure Improvement : Propose and implement design modifications to improve existing infrastructure.
• Educational Background : A Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or a related field is required, with a Master’s degree being advantageous for some positions.
• Engineering Skills : Strong grasp of engineering principles, mathematics, and materials science.
• Attention to Detail : Precision is crucial in designing and implementing plans that are safe, sustainable, and cost-effective.
• Project Management : Ability to lead and collaborate with diverse teams, including architects, contractors, and other engineers.
• Licensing : Professional Engineer (PE) license may be required, depending on the role and location.
• Technical Software Proficiency : Skilled in the use of CAD software and other engineering tools and technologies.

Civil Engineering offers a variety of opportunities for career advancement.

Engineers may specialize in areas such as structural, environmental, geotechnical, or transportation engineering.

With experience, Civil Engineers can become project managers, consulting engineers, or even occupy leadership positions within their organizations.

There is also the potential to work on groundbreaking projects around the world, contributing to the development of innovative infrastructures that shape the future of societies.

Cybersecurity Analyst

Average Salary: $75,000 – $120,000 per year

Cybersecurity Analysts are responsible for protecting an organization’s computer systems and networks from cyber threats, such as hackers, viruses, and other malicious attacks.

This role is ideal for individuals with a knack for problem-solving and a strong interest in technology and cybersecurity.

• Monitoring Security Systems : Constantly monitor the organization’s networks for security breaches and investigate any potential security incidents.
• Implementing Protective Measures : Install and manage software, such as firewalls and data encryption programs, to protect sensitive information.
• Conducting Risk Assessments and Audits : Regularly assess the organization’s security measures and conduct audits to identify vulnerabilities.
• Developing Security Plans : Create and maintain the company’s security standards and best practices documentation.
• Responding to Security Incidents : Take immediate action to mitigate damage during a security breach and lead the technical response to ensure recovery.
• Staying Up-to-Date : Keep abreast of the latest cybersecurity trends, threats, and countermeasures to maintain defense readiness.
• Educational Background : A Bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity, Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field is often required.
• Technical Skills : Proficiency in security across various platforms, including network security, endpoint security, and cloud security.
• Analytical Skills : Ability to analyze data and security patterns to detect anomalies and respond to incidents effectively.
• Communication Skills : Strong verbal and written communication skills for documenting incidents and explaining security measures to non-technical staff.
• Attention to Detail : Vigilance and a high level of attention to detail to spot subtle signs of a security breach.
• Problem-Solving : Excellent problem-solving skills to swiftly address and neutralize security threats.

Cybersecurity Analysts play a critical role in defending an organization’s digital assets and have numerous opportunities for career growth.

With experience and additional certifications, analysts can advance to senior roles such as Cybersecurity Manager or Chief Information Security Officer (CISO).

They can also specialize in different areas of cybersecurity, such as penetration testing, security architecture, or cybersecurity consulting.

Database Administrator

Average Salary: $70,000 – $100,000 per year

Database Administrators are responsible for the performance, integrity, and security of databases.

They ensure that data remains consistent across the database, is clearly defined, and can be accessed by users as needed.

This role is ideal for problem solvers who enjoy ensuring that data systems are running efficiently and securely.

• Maintaining Database Systems : Ensure that databases operate efficiently and without error, and manage database access permissions and privileges.
• Backup and Recovery : Implement regular backup procedures and effectively recover data in the event of data loss.
• Monitoring Performance : Monitor database performance and tweak parameters to improve user access as needed.
• Upgrading Database Infrastructure : Plan and execute database upgrades and migrations to ensure that systems stay up-to-date and secure.
• Ensuring Data Integrity : Check and enforce data integrity, and conduct regular audits to ensure data accuracy and adherence to data management standards.
• Providing User Support : Assist users in generating complex queries and reports, and address any issues related to database performance or access.
• Educational Background : A Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field is often required.
• Technical Skills : Proficiency in database languages like SQL, experience with database software, and knowledge of database design principles.
• Problem-Solving Abilities : Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to diagnose and resolve database issues.
• Attention to Detail : Ability to focus on the details and understand complex systems to ensure smooth operations.
• Communication Skills : Good verbal and written communication skills are essential for documenting the database environment and explaining complex issues to non-technical staff.

Database Administrators have a crucial role in managing an organization’s data and ensuring its availability.

With experience, they can move into more senior roles such as Database Manager, Data Architect, or Information Systems Manager.

There are also opportunities to specialize in particular database technologies or to become a consultant for businesses in need of database expertise.

As the importance of data continues to grow, the role of the Database Administrator becomes increasingly vital to business operations.

Financial Planner

Average Salary: $60,000 – $100,000 per year

Financial Planners provide expert advice to individuals and businesses to help them achieve their long-term financial objectives.

This role is ideal for problem solvers who have a knack for financial strategy and enjoy helping others navigate complex financial decisions.

• Assessing Financial Needs : Analyze clients’ financial situations to understand their needs and goals.
• Developing Financial Plans : Create tailored financial strategies that include investments, savings, budgets, insurance, and tax planning.
• Reviewing and Adjusting Plans : Regularly review financial plans to accommodate life changes or shifts in financial markets.
• Educating Clients : Educate clients on various financial topics, helping them make informed decisions about their finances.
• Monitoring Financial Markets : Keep abreast of the latest economic trends and regulatory changes that may impact clients’ financial plans.
• Building Client Relationships : Establish and maintain strong client relationships through excellent service and communication.
• Educational Background : A Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Economics, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field is highly desirable.
• Financial Knowledge : In-depth knowledge of financial products, markets, tax laws, and insurance.
• Problem-Solving Skills : Ability to analyze complex financial data and provide practical solutions to financial issues.
• Communication Skills : Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to explain financial concepts clearly to clients.
• Certification : Many employers prefer candidates who are Certified Financial Planners (CFP) or are willing to obtain certification.
• Integrity : A commitment to ethical behavior, as financial planners must act in the best interest of their clients.

Financial Planners have the opportunity to make a significant impact on their clients’ lives by helping them secure their financial future.

With experience, Financial Planners can advance to senior positions, specialize in areas such as retirement planning or estate planning, or even start their own financial planning firms.

The demand for financial advice is expected to grow, which can lead to a rewarding and prosperous career for diligent Financial Planners.

Logistics Coordinator

Average Salary: $40,000 – $60,000 per year

Logistics Coordinators are responsible for managing the flow of goods and materials from suppliers and manufacturers to the end-user.

They ensure that products are delivered in the most efficient and cost-effective manner.

This role is ideal for problem solvers who thrive in dynamic environments and enjoy developing solutions to logistical challenges.

• Coordinating Transportation : Manage the scheduling and routing of shipments to ensure timely delivery of goods.
• Tracking Shipments : Monitor the progress of shipments and update customers and stakeholders on the status, addressing any delays or issues that arise.
• Inventory Management : Keep an accurate record of inventory levels and order supplies as needed to maintain optimal stock levels.
• Negotiating Contracts : Work with transportation providers and suppliers to negotiate contracts and rates that benefit the company.
• Problem-Solving : Quickly identify and resolve problems that may arise with shipments, inventory levels, or customer concerns.
• Continuous Improvement : Analyze current logistics processes and recommend improvements to increase efficiency and reduce costs.
• Educational Background : A Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field is preferred.
• Organizational Skills : Strong organizational and planning skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines simultaneously.
• Attention to Detail : Keen attention to detail to ensure the accuracy of orders and inventory records.
• Communication Skills : Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively coordinate with team members, suppliers, and customers.
• Problem-Solving Abilities : Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to address and overcome logistical challenges.
• Technology Proficiency : Familiarity with logistics software, databases, and Microsoft Office Suite.

Logistics Coordinators play a critical role in the supply chain and have the opportunity to significantly impact a company’s operational efficiency.

With experience, Logistics Coordinators can advance to higher positions such as Logistics Manager, Supply Chain Manager, or Director of Operations, overseeing larger teams and strategic planning for logistics operations.

Management Consultant

Management Consultants analyze organizational problems, develop strategies for improvement, and help to implement changes within businesses.

This role is ideal for problem solvers who enjoy helping organizations overcome challenges and improve their performance.

• Assessing Business Challenges : Work with clients to identify areas of improvement, inefficiencies, or problems within their business operations.
• Strategic Planning : Develop strategic plans to address issues, increase revenue, reduce costs, or improve overall business performance.
• Implementing Solutions : Assist in the implementation of management strategies and monitor the progress of changes made within the organization.
• Facilitating Workshops and Training : Conduct workshops and training sessions to educate staff about new processes and how to adapt to change effectively.
• Stakeholder Management : Communicate with stakeholders at all levels, including senior executives and staff, to ensure buy-in and successful adoption of new strategies.
• Staying Informed : Keep up to date with industry trends, business tools, and management techniques to provide the best advice to clients.
• Educational Background : A Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, Economics, or a related field is required; an MBA or relevant Master’s degree is often preferred.
• Analytical Skills : Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to understand complex business issues and develop effective solutions.
• Communication Skills : Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively convey strategies and foster a collaborative environment.
• Project Management : Ability to manage multiple projects with various deadlines, ensuring timely and successful delivery of consulting services.
• Adaptability : Capability to adapt to different business environments and to work with a wide range of industries.

Management Consultants have the opportunity to make a tangible impact on businesses and industries.

With experience, consultants may advance to senior roles within a consultancy firm, specialize in a particular industry or functional area, or transition into executive positions within corporate organizations.

There is also potential to establish one’s own consulting practice.

Network Architect

Average Salary: $100,000 – $150,000 per year

Network Architects design and build data communication networks, such as local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and intranets.

This role is ideal for problem solvers who enjoy creating solutions that help organizations communicate more efficiently and securely.

• Designing Network Infrastructure : Develop blueprints for complex, secure, and scalable networks tailored to the specific needs of an organization.
• Implementing Network Solutions : Oversee the deployment of networking hardware and software, ensuring proper integration with existing systems.
• Addressing Technical Challenges : Solve complex networking issues that may arise during design, implementation, or daily operations.
• Updating Network Systems : Continuously evaluate and upgrade network infrastructure to meet changing demands and incorporate new technologies.
• Security Planning : Ensure that all network designs incorporate robust security measures to protect against cyber threats.
• Research and Development : Stay abreast of the latest advancements in network technologies and best practices to recommend improvements.
• Educational Background : A Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Network Engineering, or a related field is typically required. Advanced degrees or certifications (such as CCNA, CCNP, or CCIE) can be advantageous.
• Technical Skills : Strong understanding of network infrastructure, including hardware, software, networking protocols, and security measures.
• Problem-Solving Abilities : Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills to design networks and troubleshoot issues as they arise.
• Communication Skills : Ability to clearly communicate technical information to non-technical stakeholders and work collaboratively with various teams.
• Project Management : Experience in managing projects, with the ability to oversee multiple initiatives simultaneously and meet deadlines.

The role of Network Architect offers opportunities to lead the technological direction of an organization’s communications infrastructure.

With experience, Network Architects can advance to senior IT management positions, such as Chief Technology Officer (CTO) or IT Director, or specialize further in areas like cloud computing or cybersecurity.

Continuous learning and adapting to new technologies are key for career growth in this ever-evolving field.

Average Salary: $128,000 – $148,000 per year

Pharmacists are healthcare professionals responsible for the preparation, dispensing, and management of prescription medications.

They play a critical role in patient care by ensuring the safe and effective use of pharmaceutical drugs.

This role is ideal for problem solvers who enjoy applying their knowledge of medicine to help patients manage their health.

• Dispensing Medications : Accurately prepare and provide medications to patients, ensuring proper dosage and administration.
• Consulting on Medications : Offer expert advice on prescription and over-the-counter medications, including potential side effects and interactions.
• Medication Therapy Management : Conduct reviews of patient medication regimens to optimize therapeutic outcomes and minimize adverse effects.
• Collaboration with Healthcare Providers : Work closely with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to develop the best treatment plans for patients.
• Healthcare Promotion : Conduct health and wellness screenings, provide immunizations, and offer guidance on healthy lifestyles.
• Staying Informed : Continually update knowledge on the latest pharmaceutical products, drug therapies, and regulations.
• Educational Background : A Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree from an accredited pharmacy program is required.
• Licensure : Must pass the North American Pharmacist Licensure Exam (NAPLEX) and obtain a state license to practice pharmacy.
• Attention to Detail : Precision and attention to detail are critical to ensure the safety and health of patients.
• Communication Skills : Strong verbal and written communication skills to effectively counsel patients and collaborate with other healthcare professionals.
• Problem-Solving Abilities : Proficiency in identifying medication-related problems and developing appropriate solutions.
• Empathy and Patient Care : A commitment to providing compassionate care and making a positive impact on patients’ health.

Pharmacists have the opportunity to advance in various settings, such as community pharmacies, hospitals, or the pharmaceutical industry.

With experience, they can move into more specialized roles, assume leadership positions, or engage in clinical research and development.

Pharmacists can also further their expertise through board certifications in areas like oncology, nutrition support, or geriatric pharmacy.

IT Project Manager

Average Salary: $90,000 – $140,000 per year

IT Project Managers oversee and direct technology projects, from simple software updates to complex network overhauls.

This role is perfect for problem solvers who thrive in a fast-paced environment and are passionate about leveraging technology to meet business objectives.

• Planning and Scheduling : Develop project plans, including timelines, resources, and budget allocations, ensuring that IT projects are delivered on time and within scope.
• Team Coordination : Lead multidisciplinary teams of software developers, engineers, and analysts to execute project tasks effectively.
• Risk Management : Identify potential project risks and develop mitigation strategies to prevent disruptions to the project timeline or budget.
• Stakeholder Communication : Maintain clear and consistent communication with project stakeholders, including reporting on progress and managing expectations.
• Quality Assurance : Oversee the quality of deliverables, ensuring that the end product meets both technical standards and user requirements.
• Continual Improvement : Reflect on completed projects to identify areas of improvement and integrate lessons learned into future project management practices.
• Educational Background : A Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field is often required, along with relevant project management certifications (e.g., PMP, PRINCE2).
• Leadership Skills : Strong leadership and team management abilities to guide project teams and ensure collaborative efforts.
• Technical Expertise : Solid understanding of IT principles and technologies, coupled with the ability to apply this knowledge to solve complex problems.
• Communication Skills : Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate technical issues to non-technical stakeholders.
• Adaptability : Flexibility to adjust project plans and strategies in response to changing technology landscapes or business needs.

As an IT Project Manager, you have the opportunity to directly influence the success of technology initiatives within an organization.

With experience, IT Project Managers can advance to senior management roles, such as IT Director or Chief Information Officer (CIO), or specialize in areas like agile project management, IT strategy, or consultancy.

Continuous professional development in emerging technologies and project management methodologies can also lead to broader career opportunities in the ever-evolving tech industry.

Structural Engineer

Average Salary: $65,000 – $95,000 per year

Structural Engineers are responsible for designing, planning, and overseeing the construction of buildings, bridges, and other structures to ensure safety and durability.

This role is ideal for problem solvers who enjoy applying principles of physics and mathematics to create stable and secure structures.

• Analyzing Structural Integrity : Conduct detailed calculations to predict the stresses and pressures experienced by structures and design frameworks accordingly.
• Developing Design Plans : Create complex blueprints and plans for structures, ensuring they meet codes, regulations, and environmental requirements.
• Site Assessments : Inspect construction sites to determine the suitability of the earth for the requirements of an upcoming project and to assess any potential risks.
• Material Selection : Choose appropriate construction materials that offer the best balance between cost, quality, and safety.
• Collaboration with Professionals : Work alongside architects, contractors, and other engineers to ensure the structural vision is safely and efficiently realized.
• Monitoring Construction : Oversee the construction process to ensure compliance with design specifications and safety standards.
• Educational Background : A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Civil or Structural Engineering is required.
• Technical Skills : Proficiency in using design and analysis software such as AutoCAD, Revit, or SAP2000.
• Attention to Detail : Ability to meticulously analyze and design structures to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.
• Problem-Solving : Strong analytical and critical thinking skills to solve complex engineering issues.
• Communication : Effective communication skills for collaborating with a wide range of professionals and for explaining technical concepts to non-experts.
• Project Management : Capabilities in managing projects, timelines, and resources to meet client and regulatory requirements.

Structural Engineers have the opportunity to work on a diverse range of projects that shape the infrastructure and skyline of our built environment.

With experience, they can progress to senior engineering roles, specialize in areas such as earthquake engineering or forensic engineering, or lead their engineering firms.

Continuous learning and professional certification, such as obtaining a Professional Engineer (PE) license, can further enhance career prospects and recognition in the field.

Data Scientist

Average Salary: $80,000 – $120,000 per year

Data Scientists analyze and interpret complex digital data, such as usage statistics, sales figures, or logistics, to assist in business decision-making.

This role is ideal for problem solvers who enjoy employing their analytical skills and knowledge of statistics to uncover patterns, manage data, and drive strategic planning in organizations.

• Analyzing Data : Use statistical methods to collect and analyze data and to identify trends or patterns that can inform business decisions.
• Machine Learning Models : Develop predictive models and algorithms that can help forecast outcomes and automate decision-making processes.
• Data Mining : Extract data from various sources and analyze it to gain insights into business performance and opportunities.
• Creating Data Visualizations : Design and present data in visually compelling formats to help stakeholders understand the findings.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration : Work with different departments to implement data-driven strategies and solutions that align with business objectives.
• Continued Learning : Stay updated with the latest data science techniques, tools, and best practices in the field.
• Educational Background : A Bachelor’s degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, or a related field is often required, with many roles preferring a Master’s or PhD.
• Technical Skills : Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R, and experience with database management systems, machine learning, and statistical analysis tools.
• Analytical Mindset : Strong problem-solving skills with a knack for identifying trends and insights in large datasets.
• Communication Skills : Ability to communicate complex quantitative analysis in a clear, precise, and actionable manner.
• Attention to Detail : Diligent and meticulous in data handling to ensure accuracy and integrity of analysis.

In this role, the potential for impact is significant, as data-driven insights can lead to transformative decisions and strategies within a business.

With experience, Data Scientists can advance to roles such as Senior Data Scientist, Data Science Manager, or Chief Data Officer.

Opportunities also exist to specialize in fields such as machine learning, artificial intelligence, or big data engineering.

Financial Analyst

Financial Analysts are responsible for examining financial data and trends to help businesses and individuals make informed investment decisions.

This role is well-suited for problem solvers who have a knack for numbers and a passion for analyzing financial markets and economic trends.

• Financial Data Analysis : Interpret data on the performance of investments, including stocks, bonds, and other securities.
• Creating Financial Models : Develop models to predict future economic conditions and guide investment strategies.
• Investment Recommendations : Provide informed recommendations to clients or employers based on thorough analysis and understanding of market conditions.
• Report Preparation : Compile detailed reports that highlight analysis findings and suggestions for financial planning and investment management.
• Monitoring Economic Trends : Keep a close eye on changes in the economic landscape that could affect investment portfolios and strategies.
• Client Presentations : Present analysis and recommendations clearly and confidently to clients or stakeholders.
• Educational Background : A Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Economics, Accounting, or a related field is typically required. An MBA or CFA designation may be advantageous.
• Analytical Skills : Strong ability to analyze financial data and trends to make accurate projections and recommendations.
• Mathematical Proficiency : Excellent quantitative skills to understand complex financial calculations and models.
• Communication Skills : Clear verbal and written communication abilities to convey complex financial information in an understandable manner.
• Attention to Detail : Meticulous attention to detail to ensure the accuracy of financial analysis and reports.
• Technological Proficiency : Proficiency with financial software and tools for data analysis, such as Excel, SQL, or specialized financial modeling programs.

A career as a Financial Analyst offers vast opportunities for growth.

Analysts can advance to senior analyst positions, portfolio management roles, or even become directors of financial analysis departments.

Those with a strong track record and additional certifications may move into high-level consulting positions or executive roles within finance, such as Chief Financial Officer (CFO).

The role is pivotal in shaping investment strategies and financial decisions, making it a critical and influential position in any business.

Systems Analyst

Systems Analysts play a critical role in evaluating and improving complex computer systems within an organization.

They are responsible for ensuring that IT systems meet the business needs effectively.

This role is ideal for problem solvers who enjoy analyzing data, improving processes, and implementing technological solutions.

• Assessing System Capabilities : Examine current IT systems and infrastructure to determine effectiveness and suggest improvements.
• Designing Solutions : Develop plans to enhance systems, including software and hardware updates, to address business challenges.
• Problem-Solving : Identify system issues and inefficiencies and propose strategic solutions to optimize performance.
• Gathering Requirements : Collaborate with end-users and stakeholders to understand their needs and translate them into system requirements.
• Implementing New Systems : Oversee the selection and installation of new IT systems to ensure they are on time, within budget, and meet organizational needs.
• Continuous Learning : Stay updated with the latest technological trends, systems, and best practices in the field of IT.
• Educational Background : A Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field is typically required.
• Technical Skills : Strong understanding of computer systems, databases, and other technology tools and platforms.
• Analytical Thinking : Ability to dissect complex problems and devise effective solutions.
• Communication Skills : Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the capacity to interact with technical teams and business stakeholders.
• Project Management : Experience in managing projects, including resource allocation, timelines, and budgeting.

A career as a Systems Analyst offers numerous opportunities for professional development.

With experience, Systems Analysts can progress to more senior roles such as IT Project Manager, Business Analyst, or IT Consultant.

They may also specialize in specific industries or become experts in emerging technologies, leading to increased demand and higher earning potential.

Industrial Engineer

Average Salary: $65,000 – $85,000 per year

Industrial Engineers optimize complex systems, processes, and organizations by eliminating waste of time, money, materials, man-hours, machine time, energy, and other resources.

This role is ideal for problem solvers who enjoy designing efficient systems and processes in various industries.

• Analyzing Workflows : Review and assess production workflows to identify inefficiencies and recommend improvements.
• Developing Production Systems : Design systems that integrate workers, machines, materials, information, and energy to make a product or provide a service.
• Implementing Quality Control Procedures : Establish quality control protocols to ensure the final product meets the required specifications and standards.
• Utilizing Software for Process Simulation : Apply computer simulations to test and optimize production systems and logistics.
• Project Management : Oversee project timelines, budgets, and resources to ensure objectives are met efficiently.
• Staying Updated on Technology : Keep abreast of the latest technological advancements that can be applied to improve production processes and product quality.
• Educational Background : A Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field is required.
• Problem-Solving Skills : Strong analytical and critical thinking skills to identify problems and implement effective solutions.
• Technical Expertise : Proficient in the use of engineering software and tools for designing and analyzing production systems.
• Communication Skills : Excellent verbal and written communication skills for collaborating with team members and presenting findings to stakeholders.
• Attention to Detail : Ability to focus on the minute details of complex systems to ensure nothing is overlooked.

Industrial Engineers have the opportunity to impact the efficiency and effectiveness of production and service systems.

Career growth may lead to roles such as Senior Industrial Engineer, Project Manager, Operations Manager, or Director of Engineering.

With experience, some Industrial Engineers may also move into consultancy roles or executive positions, such as Chief Operations Officer.

Network Security Analyst

Network Security Analysts are the guardians of information systems, ensuring the security and integrity of data within an organization’s network.

This role is perfect for problem solvers who appreciate the complexities of network infrastructure and the challenge of defending against cyber threats.

• Monitoring Network Security : Constantly oversee the organization’s network for security breaches, intrusions, and irregular system behavior.
• Implementing Protective Measures : Deploy firewalls, antivirus software, and intrusion detection systems to protect sensitive information.
• Responding to Security Incidents : Act swiftly to mitigate damage from security breaches and work on recovery plans to restore functionality.
• Performing Risk Assessments : Analyze the current security protocols and suggest improvements to minimize risks of cyber attacks.
• Security Audits and Reporting : Conduct regular audits of the network security systems and prepare reports on the status of the network’s security.
• Staying Updated : Keep abreast of the latest cyber threats, security trends, and technologies to continuously enhance network defenses.
• Educational Background : A Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Information Technology, or a related field is typically required.
• Technical Skills : Proficiency in security across various platforms, understanding of firewalls, VPN, data loss prevention, IDS/IPS, web-proxy, and security audits.
• Analytical Mindset : Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to analyze complex networks and identify potential vulnerabilities.
• Attention to Detail : Vigilance in monitoring network activity and spotting irregularities that could indicate a security breach.
• Communication Skills : Ability to communicate technical information effectively to non-technical staff and to document procedures and findings.

A career as a Network Security Analyst offers a dynamic environment with the potential for continuous learning and advancement.

With experience, Network Security Analysts can move into higher-level roles such as Security Manager or Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), specializing in areas like forensic analysis, or they may opt to work as independent cybersecurity consultants.

Intelligence Analyst

Intelligence Analysts are responsible for the collection, analysis, and dissemination of information to support and protect national security.

This role is ideal for problem solvers who thrive on analyzing complex data and uncovering insights that can inform strategic decisions.

• Collecting Information : Gather data from a variety of sources, including surveillance activities, intelligence databases, and open sources.
• Analyzing Intelligence : Examine and interpret intelligence data to identify patterns, assess threats, and provide actionable insights.
• Writing Reports : Prepare comprehensive reports that communicate findings to decision-makers within government or private organizations.
• Briefing Decision Makers : Present analysis and recommendations to policymakers, military leaders, or other relevant stakeholders.
• Developing Analytical Tools : Utilize and sometimes develop software tools to enhance the analysis of complex datasets.
• Collaborating with Other Agencies : Work with other intelligence professionals, both domestic and international, to share information and coordinate efforts.
• Educational Background : A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Political Science, International Relations, Security Studies, or a related field is often required.
• Analytical Skills : Strong analytical and critical thinking skills, with the ability to process and synthesize large amounts of information.
• Attention to Detail : Keen attention to detail and the capacity to recognize subtle patterns or discrepancies in data.
• Communication Skills : Excellent written and verbal communication skills for presenting complex information clearly and concisely.
• Security Clearance : Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which often involves a background check and adherence to strict security protocols.
• Technical Proficiency : Proficient with analytical software and information technology systems used in intelligence operations.

This role offers the opportunity to play a crucial part in safeguarding national interests and contributing to global security.

With experience, Intelligence Analysts can advance to senior analyst positions, specialize in a particular type of intelligence, or move into leadership roles within the intelligence community.

There are also opportunities for cross-functional career development in areas such as cyber security, counterterrorism, and strategic planning.

Logistics Manager

Logistics Managers oversee the movement, distribution, and storage of materials in an organization.

They are responsible for ensuring products are delivered efficiently and on time.

This role is ideal for problem solvers who enjoy optimizing processes and overcoming logistical challenges in a dynamic environment.

• Inventory Management : Monitor inventory levels and implement strategies to ensure the availability of products while minimizing excess stock.
• Supplier Negotiation : Negotiate with suppliers and transportation providers to secure cost-effective shipping terms and services.
• Process Optimization : Analyze logistical processes and implement improvements to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.
• Compliance Management : Ensure all logistics activities comply with legal regulations and organizational policies.
• Problem Solving : Address and resolve any issues that arise during the transportation and storage of goods.
• Educational Background : A Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Logistics, or a related field is typically required.
• Organizational Skills : Strong ability to organize and manage multiple projects and tasks effectively.
• Problem-Solving Abilities : Aptitude for identifying issues and developing practical solutions in a fast-paced environment.
• Communication Skills : Excellent verbal and written communication skills for coordinating with internal teams and external partners.
• Technological Proficiency : Familiarity with logistics software, inventory management systems, and data analysis tools.

Logistics Managers play a critical role in the efficiency and profitability of a company.

With experience and a track record of successful problem-solving, they can advance to higher managerial positions, such as Director of Operations or Vice President of Supply Chain.

Opportunities also exist to specialize in areas like global logistics, supply chain analytics, or procurement strategy, further enhancing career prospects.

Mathematician

Average Salary: $60,000 – $120,000 per year

Mathematicians use advanced mathematics to develop and understand mathematical principles, analyze data, and solve real-world problems.

This role is ideal for problem solvers who relish the challenge of complex equations and algorithms and seek to apply their knowledge to diverse areas ranging from economics to engineering.

• Conducting Research : Work on advancing mathematical knowledge, which may involve deriving new theorems, analyzing patterns, or creating mathematical models.
• Applying Mathematical Theories : Utilize mathematical theories to solve practical problems in business, engineering, the sciences, and other fields.
• Collaborating with Professionals : Work alongside engineers, scientists, and other professionals to understand problems and provide mathematical solutions.
• Developing Computational Methods : Create algorithms and simulation models to process and analyze large sets of data.
• Presenting Findings : Communicate complex mathematical ideas and solutions to stakeholders or academic peers through reports, papers, or presentations.
• Staying Informed : Keep up-to-date with the latest advancements in mathematics and related fields.
• Educational Background : A Master’s or Doctoral degree in Mathematics or a related field is typically required.
• Analytical Skills : Strong ability to think logically and critically when solving complex problems.
• Technical Proficiency : Proficiency in mathematical modeling software, statistical analysis, and computer programming.
• Attention to Detail : Meticulous attention to detail when dealing with abstract concepts and calculations.
• Collaboration : Ability to work in interdisciplinary teams and communicate mathematical concepts to non-experts.

A career as a mathematician offers the opportunity to contribute to numerous fields through data analysis, predictive modeling, and problem-solving.

With experience, mathematicians can become lead researchers, senior analysts, or consultants, and may eventually move into academic positions such as professors or department heads.

Statistician

Average Salary: $60,000 – $95,000 per year

Statisticians analyze data and apply mathematical and statistical techniques to help solve real-world problems in business, engineering, healthcare, or other fields.

This role is ideal for problem solvers who enjoy using data to find patterns, draw conclusions, and inform decision-making processes.

• Collecting Data : Design surveys, experiments, or opinion polls to gather data relevant to research questions or business needs.
• Analyzing Data : Use statistical methods to analyze and interpret data, identifying trends or relationships.
• Developing Models : Create statistical models that depict the data in a way that is easy to understand and can predict future trends.
• Reporting Results : Communicate findings to stakeholders in a clear and actionable manner, often through detailed reports or presentations.
• Advising Policy/Decision Making : Provide insights to policymakers or business leaders to inform their decisions based on statistical evidence.
• Staying Current : Keep up with the latest statistical methods, software, and advancements in the field to continuously improve analysis.
• Educational Background : A Bachelor’s degree in Statistics, Mathematics, Economics, or a related field is required; a Master’s or Ph.D. is preferred for many positions.
• Analytical Skills : Strong ability to work with numerical data and apply statistical techniques to solve complex problems.
• Technical Proficiency : Proficient in statistical software (such as R, SAS, SPSS, or Python) and databases.
• Communication Skills : Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to translate complex statistical information into understandable terms for non-experts.
• Attention to Detail : Careful attention to accuracy and detail when analyzing data and drawing conclusions.

Statisticians have the opportunity to work in a variety of industries and sectors, as data analysis is fundamental to many business strategies and policy decisions.

With experience, statisticians can progress to senior analytical roles, become consultants, or specialize in specific industries, such as biostatistics or econometrics.

There is also potential for leadership roles in managing teams of analysts and decision support.

Cybersecurity Specialist

Cybersecurity Specialists protect and defend information systems by ensuring the security of data and network infrastructure.

This role is perfect for problem solvers who enjoy staying ahead of cyber threats and ensuring the safety of digital information.

• Analyzing Security Systems : Evaluate existing security measures, such as firewalls, password policies, and intrusion detection systems, to identify vulnerabilities.
• Implementing Protection Measures : Design and implement stronger defense mechanisms to protect data and network infrastructures.
• Monitoring for Security Breaches : Constantly monitor systems for any unusual activities that might indicate a security breach.
• Investigating Security Incidents : Respond to and investigate security incidents, performing forensic analysis to understand the cause and impact.
• Developing Security Strategies : Create comprehensive strategies for preventing future threats and improving overall security posture.
• Staying Current : Keep abreast of the latest cybersecurity trends, threats, and countermeasures.
• Technical Skills : Strong understanding of network infrastructure, encryption, ethical hacking, and secure coding practices.
• Problem-Solving Abilities : Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills to address and mitigate security risks.
• Attention to Detail : Ability to pay close attention to detail to detect vulnerabilities and breaches.
• Communication Skills : Proficiency in communicating technical information to non-technical personnel and reporting on security readiness.

Cybersecurity is a field with high demand and potential for career growth.

Specialists can advance to roles such as Security Analyst, Security Engineer, or Chief Information Security Officer (CISO).

With the rise in cyber threats, the importance of cybersecurity professionals continues to grow, offering a career path with numerous opportunities for advancement and specialization.

Biomedical Engineer

Biomedical Engineers combine principles of engineering with biological and medical sciences to design and create equipment, devices, computer systems, and software used in healthcare.

This role is perfect for problem solvers who are passionate about innovating in medicine and improving patient care.

• Designing Medical Devices : Create and improve medical devices such as artificial organs, prostheses, instrumentation, medical imaging devices, and health management and care delivery systems.
• Developing Biomedical Software : Write and maintain software programs that are used for diagnosing and treating patients.
• Research and Development : Conduct research to develop new technologies for solving complex medical issues.
• Clinical Engineering : Work within clinical settings to install, adjust, maintain, repair, or provide technical support for biomedical equipment.
• Regulatory Oversight : Ensure that biomedical equipment and processes comply with regulatory standards.
• Training Healthcare Staff : Educate clinicians and other medical personnel on the proper use of biomedical equipment.
• Educational Background : A Bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Engineering, Bioengineering, or a related engineering field is required. A Master’s degree or Ph.D. can be beneficial for more advanced positions.
• Technical Skills : Strong understanding of engineering principles and proficiency in developing and working with complex medical systems and devices.
• Problem-Solving Abilities : Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills to address challenges in healthcare and patient treatment.
• Interdisciplinary Knowledge : An understanding of biological sciences and medical practices, as well as the ability to work with professionals from these fields.
• Communication Skills : Clear communication skills for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and explaining technical information to non-experts.

Biomedical Engineers have the opportunity to make significant contributions to patient health and well-being.

Career growth can lead to positions such as senior engineer, project manager, or director of engineering in hospitals, research institutions, or medical device companies.

Innovators in the field may also transition into entrepreneurial roles, starting their own companies to bring new medical solutions to market.

Urban Planner

Average Salary: $50,000 – $75,000 per year

Urban Planners develop and design policies and plans for the use of land and resources in towns, cities, and counties.

They focus on creating spaces that are efficient, sustainable, and conducive to community well-being.

This role is ideal for those who enjoy solving complex urban problems and are passionate about shaping the future of cities and communities.

• Developing Urban Plans : Create comprehensive plans to manage and develop infrastructure, housing, transportation, and public spaces in urban areas.
• Community Engagement : Engage with the public to gather feedback and incorporate community needs and desires into urban development plans.
• Conducting Research : Analyze demographic data, environmental studies, and market research to inform planning decisions.
• Policy Recommendation : Advise policymakers on zoning, land use, and urban design to promote sustainable and equitable development.
• Reviewing Proposals : Evaluate development proposals to ensure they align with long-term plans and regulations.
• Staying Informed : Continuously update knowledge on urban trends, best practices in urban design, and regulatory changes in the field.
• Educational Background : A Master’s degree in Urban Planning, Urban Design, or a related field is highly preferred, though a Bachelor’s degree may be sufficient for some entry-level positions.
• Communication Skills : Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively convey planning concepts to diverse audiences.
• Problem-Solving Ability : Strong analytical and critical thinking skills to address complex urban challenges.
• Collaboration : Ability to work with a wide range of stakeholders, including government officials, developers, and the public.
• Technical Proficiency : Familiarity with GIS software, urban planning tools, and data analysis methods.

Urban Planners have the opportunity to directly impact the development and improvement of urban environments.

Career advancement can lead to senior planning positions, specialized roles in areas such as transportation or environmental planning, or leadership positions in planning departments or consultancy firms.

Planners can also contribute to academic research or become policy advisors, influencing regional or national urban development strategies.

And there you have it.

A detailed summary of the most rewarding jobs for problem solvers.

With a plethora of choices at your disposal, there is assuredly a role for every problem solver out there.

So, chase your ambition of taming complex issues and finding solutions every day.

Remember: It’s NEVER too late to mould your knack for resolving problems into a thriving career.

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The Editorial Team at InterviewGuy.com is composed of certified interview coaches, seasoned HR professionals, and industry insiders. With decades of collective expertise and access to an unparalleled database of interview questions, we are dedicated to empowering job seekers. Our content meets real-time industry demands, ensuring readers receive timely, accurate, and actionable advice. We value our readers' insights and encourage feedback, corrections, and questions to maintain the highest level of accuracy and relevance.

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13 Best Jobs for Problem Solvers (High Paying)

• September 27, 2023

Searching for high-paying jobs that let you flex your problem-solving muscles?

We’ve got a collection of exciting careers that not only pay well but are all about tackling challenges head-on. If you love solving problems and want a hefty paycheck, these jobs are for you.

What Makes a Good Job for Problem Solvers?

We narrowed down jobs that:

• Involve analytical thinking and strategy
• Have a work setting where every day is different
• Require quick decision-making in high-stakes situations
• Let you work on projects from conception to completion
• Give you a say in shaping the outcome

Best Jobs for Problem Solvers

Sure, some of the jobs on this list might ask for a college degree but don’t fret if you’re missing that piece of paper. Many of these jobs offer great pay, even if you’ve gained expertise through experience or certifications.

So, enough chit-chat. Let’s dive right into our top picks for jobs perfect for problem solvers.

1. Air Traffic Controller

Average salary: $67,020

An Air Traffic Controller directs and organizes the flow of aircraft on the ground and in the sky, ensuring safe operations.

Job duties:

• Coordinate aircraft takeoffs and landings
• Monitor and direct flight paths
• Provide real-time updates to pilots
• Handle emergency situations
• Manage air traffic within control zones

Job requirements:

• FAA Air Traffic Pre-Employment Test
• At least 3 years of progressively responsible work experience
• Age under 31 when applying
• U.S. citizenship
• Ability to prioritize tasks rapidly
• Quick decision-making under pressure

2. Sales Engineer

Average salary: $77,247

A Sales Engineer, also known as a Solutions Engineer or Technical Sales Engineer, combines technical knowledge with sales skills to provide advice and support on a range of products.

• Explain complex technical concepts to customers
• Develop and deliver product demonstrations
• Collaborate with sales teams
• Create customized solutions
• Analyze market trends and customer needs
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or related field
• 2-5 years of experience in a technical role
• Familiarity with CRM software
• Strong negotiation skills
• Ability to explain complex concepts clearly
• Strong presentation skills

3. Ethical Hacker

Average salary: $106,617

An Ethical Hacker, also known as a White Hat Hacker or Penetration Tester, intentionally probes computer systems for security vulnerabilities.

• Identify security flaws in systems
• Conduct penetration tests
• Simulate cyber attacks
• Report findings
• Offer remediation strategies
• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) or Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)
• 2+ years experience in cybersecurity
• Familiarity with programming languages like Python or C++
• Strong understanding of networking
• Good report-writing skills

4. Quality Assurance Manager

Average salary: $107,316

A Quality Assurance Manager, sometimes just called a QA Manager, oversees the quality of products or services in a company.

• Inspect products for defects
• Manage QA team
• Enforce quality standards
• Audit processes
• Report to higher-ups
• 3+ years of QA experience
• Strong grasp of QA methodologies
• Ability to manage a team
• Strong attention to detail

5. Business Intelligence Analyst

Average salary: $102,648

A Business Intelligence Analyst, also known as a BI Analyst, translates data into actionable insights for a company.

• Analyze business data
• Create data visualizations
• Forecast trends
• Generate reports
• Recommend strategies
• Proficiency in SQL
• 2+ years in data analysis
• Familiarity with BI tools like Tableau
• Good communication skills

6. Product Manager

Average salary: $165,818

A Product Manager, sometimes abbreviated as PM, drives the strategy, roadmap, and execution of a product.

• Define product goals
• Develop product roadmap
• Prioritize features
• Coordinate with dev teams
• Analyze user feedback
• 2+ years in product management
• Familiarity with Agile methodology
• Strong leadership skills
• Good problem-solving abilities

7. Logistics Coordinator

Average salary: $42,690

A Logistics Coordinator manages the supply chain, from vendor relationships to product delivery.

• Track shipments
• Coordinate deliveries
• Liaise with vendors
• Monitor inventory
• Resolve shipping issues
• Familiarity with logistics software
• Time management skills

8. Acoustic Consultant

Average salary: $120,619

An Acoustic Consultant analyzes sound and vibration to optimize acoustics, often for construction or entertainment settings.

• Measure noise levels
• Analyze data
• Recommend changes
• Develop sound profiles
• Consult with clients
• Bachelor’s degree in Acoustical Engineering or Physics
• Experience with acoustic measurement tools
• Data analysis skills
• Basic understanding of construction or architectural design
• Good listening skills

9. Fraud Investigator

Average salary: $67,347

A Fraud Investigator looks into suspicious activities to identify and prevent fraud; also known as a forensic investigator.

• Collect evidence
• Interview suspects
• Write reports
• Collaborate with law enforcement
• Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice or related field
• Experience in investigative work
• Basic accounting skills
• Strong communication skills
• Solid attention to detail

10. UX Designer

Average salary: $95,572

A UX Designer focuses on user experience design to make products more user-friendly.

• Sketch wireframes
• Develop prototypes
• Conduct user tests
• Analyze feedback
• Collaborate with developers
• Portfolio showcasing UX design work
• Familiarity with design software like Sketch or Figma
• Understanding of basic HTML and CSS

11. Disaster Recovery Specialist

Average salary: $78,723

A Disaster Recovery Specialist plans and implements strategies for dealing with emergencies and natural disasters, sometimes known as crisis management professionals.

• Assess risks
• Create plans
• Train staff
• Coordinate drills
• Manage emergencies
• Update recovery strategies
• Professional certifications in disaster recovery
• Knowledge of federal and state regulations
• Strong leadership abilities
• Ability to make quick decisions
• Good at multitasking

12. Private Investigator

Average salary: $54,578

A Private Investigator, often called a PI or detective, conducts surveillance and gathers information for clients.

• Conduct surveillance
• Gather evidence
• Interview people
• Verify facts
• Handle confidential data
• State-issued license for private investigation
• Prior experience in a similar role
• Basic tech-savvy skills for data retrieval
• Strong observational abilities
• Good written and verbal communication
• Adaptability to varied work environments

13. Technical Writer

Average salary: $76,519

A Technical Writer translates complex technical language into easily digestible documents, also known as documentation specialists.

• Research topics
• Write manuals
• Edit drafts
• Collaborate with tech teams
• Update existing documents
• Review quality
• Experience with specific industry jargon
• Basic understanding of the technology being documented
• Good research skills
• Ability to work under tight deadlines
• Teamwork and collaboration skills

See, There Are Careers for Problem Solvers!

From Air Traffic Controller to Business Intelligence Analyst, this roster is packed with rewarding opportunities for those who love tackling challenges.

Got a favorite on the list? We’d love to hear your thoughts, so drop a comment.

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What Are Fun Jobs That Pay Well? 

15+ fun jobs that pay well , how to find a fun job that pays well for you, 15+ fun jobs that pay well (and how to find one that’s right for you).

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Forage puts students first. Our blog articles are written independently by our editorial team. They have not been paid for or sponsored by our partners. See our full  editorial guidelines .

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If you spend 2,080 hours working a year , you probably want to have at least some fun during work. But how do you know what an actual “fun” job looks like, especially if you’ve never had professional work experience? Even more importantly, how do you find fun jobs that pay well? 

Here’s your go-to guide to figuring out what a fun job means to you — and how to actually find and land fun jobs that pay well.  

Fun jobs that pay well have two key components: they’re enjoyable and high-paying.

What is a “Fun” Job?

It’s easy to say that a fun job is one that you enjoy, but what exactly does that mean? The fun part is it’s totally up to you.

“What do I mean by a ‘fun job’? It’s easy: it’s the kind of work that makes you so happy and excited that even Mondays feel like Fridays,” says Kraig Kleeman, founder and CEO of The New Workforce. “Imagine a job where the things you do every day feel more like fun hobbies instead of work. Maybe you are creating awesome designs for a famous brand, planning events for your community, or making new video games with coding — whatever makes you excited!”

A fun job may include:

• Tasks you enjoy doing: tasks you like, make time pass quickly, make you happy, or give you a sense of satisfaction
• Tasks you find fulfillment in: tasks that align with your sense of purpose
• Tasks you’re naturally good at: tasks that call on your innate strengths 
• A work environment you like: where you work, including aspects like whether you work at a desk, work from home, work independently, or work with clients
• Coworkers you enjoy working with: the people you work with daily 
• A purpose or mission you align with: the higher meaning or drive for the work that you do

“A fun job is one that aligns with an individual’s passions and interests, making work feel enjoyable and fulfilling. It often involves engaging tasks, a positive work environment, opportunities for growth and creativity, and a sense of purpose,” says Caitlin Wehniainen, staffing and recruitment expert at On Cue Hire. “Jobs that offer variety, flexibility, and the chance to collaborate with like-minded individuals can also be considered a whole lot of fun.”

What you consider a fun job might not be fun to someone else. That’s OK! For example, I’ve always loved writing, so finding a job where I can write every day is genuinely fun for me. However, I have many friends who always dreaded English class and would hate writing for work every day — and their jobs in other fields might not appeal to me!

What Is a Job That Pays Well?

A job that pays well is a job that pays you a good salary. Like the definition of a “fun” job, a “good salary” is relative to where you live, the cost of living, and your desired lifestyle. For example, a salary in a rural town will go farther than the same salary in a big city, where rent and food cost much more.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the mean annual wage for all professions was $61,900. For this guide, we’ve included jobs above this average to define jobs that “pay well.”

>>MORE: 20+ Jobs That Pay Well (Plus, How to Actually Land Them)

Event Planner 

Estimated total salary: $62,280 Projected job outlook: 8% (faster than average)

Are you the party planner of your friend group? The person everyone goes to when they want to organize a special dinner or celebrate the end of the semester? You might enjoy being an event planner! Event planners organize all aspects of various events — from weddings to business conventions — including coordinating venues, service providers, and budgets. 

Careers in Tourism: Event Operations

Help plan an event from start to finish, including communicating with attendees and developing a run sheet.

Avg. Time: 2-3 hours

Skills you’ll build: Organizational skills, administrative skills, attention to detail

Social Media Manager 

Estimated total salary: $70,287 Projected job outlook: 10%

Find you’re spending all your time on Instagram or TikTok ? You can get paid to do that as a social media manager. These professionals manage the social media presence of their clients, boosting brand awareness and converting followers into users or buyers of their company’s product.

Public Relations Specialist

Salary: $77,720 Job outlook: 6% (faster than average)

Want to dive into the world of celebrities and big-name brands? Public relations specialists work on building and maintaining a positive public image for their clients. These professionals craft compelling stories about their clients, manage relationships with media outlets, and handle any publicity crises.

Writer 

Estimated total salary: $87,590 Projected job outlook: 4% (as fast as average)

Do you love using words to tell stories or share information? Working as a writer may be a fun career path. There are many different opportunities for writing careers, from being a copywriter who works on marketing materials to being a journalist who reports on hard-hitting news.

Web Developer 

Estimated total salary: $95,570 Projected job outlook: 16% (much faster than average)

If you have technical and creative skills, web development might be a fun career path. Web developers help make websites come to life, using programming skills to build them and design skills to make them engaging and enjoyable to use. 

Strategic & Experience Design

Learn how designers research and understand client needs. Then, translate these insights into a user-friendly design. 

Avg. Time: 3-4 hours

Skills you’ll build: Design framework, visual design, ideation, concept development

Information Security Analyst

Estimated total salary: $96,652 Projected job outlook: 32% (much faster than average)

Information security analysts help safeguard computer systems and networks from cyberattacks. If you enjoy knowing the latest tech trends and working on high-importance projects, cybersecurity might be a fun field for you.

Cybersecurity

Craft a phishing email to test your colleagues' cybersecurity skills and prevent security risks.

Avg. Time: 1-2 hours

Skills you’ll build: Technical security awareness, problem solving, design thinking, data analysis, cybersecurity

Game Developer 

Estimated total salary: $108,471 Projected job outlook: 21% (much faster than average)

Maybe you love playing video games, but what about making an original one? Game developers use programming and other software engineering skills to bring original game ideas to life. These professionals often collaborate with artists, designers, and sound engineers to ensure the game experience is engaging, immersive, and fun to play.

Software Engineering

Write a feature proposal, then develop a new feature for the Sims 4 game.

Avg. Time: 5-6 hours

Skills you’ll build: Feature design, feature proposal, object-oriented design, code analysis, data structures, game engine technology

UX Designer 

Estimated total salary: $108,820 Job outlook: 16% (much faster than average)

UX designers work on creating designs for websites, apps, and products that make a user’s experience more engaging and efficient. This career path can be a fun fit for people who love both researching and designing; UX designers first do user research to understand user motivations, then create designs to match user needs.

Digital Design & UX

Conduct user research, then create initial designs for an app for the electric vehicle industry.

Skills you’ll build: User research, persona creation, wireframing, UI, UX, mobile design, app design, product design

Salesperson 

Estimated total salary: $113,520 Projected job outlook: 1% (little or no change)

Sales might be a fun fit if you’re a talkative person who loves negotiation . Salespeople build relationships with customers to understand their needs and then try to meet those needs by selling a product or service. Salespeople often work in fast-paced environments where they’re constantly meeting new people and persuading them to make a purchase.

On-Premise Sales

Use your persuasion skills to help sell Red Bull,  including analyzing sales data and handling customer objections.

Skills you’ll build: Communication, strategy, data analysis, overcoming objections, account management

Consultant 

Estimated total salary: $115,530 Projected job outlook: 10% (much faster than average)

Do you love sharing your advice and solving problems? Becoming a consultant might be a fun role for you. Consultants help organizations find solutions to various business challenges, from what technology to use to how to structure their leadership team. 

>>MORE: What Consulting Careers Are Right for Me? Quiz

Introduction to Strategy Consulting

Generate ideas to help a fictional luxury clothing company increase sales revenue and learn to think like a BCG consultant.

Skills you’ll build: Critical thinking, creativity, brainstorming

Product Manager 

Estimated total salary: $120,472 Projected job outlook: 10%

Do you love dreaming up new ideas and seeing them come to life? Do you love communicating with others and organizing big projects? Product managers are the visionaries behind products, responsible for both strategy and execution. They identify customer needs, define product strategies, and work closely with design and engineering teams to bring products to market.

Product Management

Lead a presentation on a future video game product that details the product's goals.

Skills you’ll build: Project planning, problem solving, performance metrics, written communication

Art Director 

Estimated total salary: $125,920 Projected job outlook: 6% (faster than average)

If you have a good eye for visual style and design, art direction is an excellent career for your artistic skills. Art directors are creative leaders who help artistic professionals create a visual experience in print, video, or film. 

Software Engineer 

Estimated entry-level total salary: $138,110 Projected job outlook: 25% (much faster than average)

Do you love problem-solving and turning big ideas into reality? Software engineering might be a fun career path for you. These professionals design, develop, and test software applications — anything from a mobile app to a top-tier website.

Use software engineering skills to build a system that helps financial advisors better manage their customers' portfolios.

Skills you’ll build: Data modeling, system design, Java, Spring

Aerospace Engineer

Estimated total salary: $134,330 Projected job outlook: 6% (faster than average) 

Ready for an out-of-this-world kind of role? Aerospace engineers design, develop, and test aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles. From supersonic jets to space stations, aerospace engineers push the boundaries of technology and innovation. If you’re passionate about physics, math, and have a love for all things flight, this career path might be fun for you.

Aerospace Engineering

Help guide the design of a next-generation propulsion system with the GE Aerospace team.

Skills you’ll build: Data analysis, engineering judgment, decision-making, written communication, visual communication

Human Resources Manager 

Estimated total salary: $154,740 Projected job outlook: 5% (faster than average)

If you’re a people person and enjoy helping others succeed, a human resources (HR) career might be fulfilling. HR representatives support employees from the second they interact with the company to their last day. They work on recruitment, onboarding new employees, managing salaries and benefits, resolving conflicts, and more.

Human Resources

Work on crucial human resources projects, including giving constructive feedback in the workplace and developing a fair compensation and benefits structure.

Skills you’ll build: Feedback giving, communication skills, process mapping, continuous improvement tools

Data Scientist 

Estimated entry-level total salary: $165,018 Projected job outlook: 35% (much faster than average)

If you’re a numbers person who likes swaying decisions and problem-solving, being a data scientist might be a fun role. Data scientists dig into company data to build predictive models that help business leaders make crucial decisions. 

Data Science

Use your data skills to help a gas and electricity utility company understand what's causing them to lose customers — and develop strategies to reduce churn risk.

Avg. Time: 6-7 hours

Skills you’ll build: Exploratory data analysis, data visualization, creativity, mathematical modeling, business understanding

While we’ve shared a variety of fun jobs that pay well across fields and salary bands, how can you determine the right fit?

Define Your Version of Fun …

“To me, a ‘fun job’ is a role that intersects with a passion someone has,” says Carolyn Illman, hiring consultant. “For example, my first job out of college was a ‘fun job’ as an associate producer for a digital agency that made games and websites for kids. My major was broadcast management because I loved television, so it was incredibly fun to work on kids’ television properties while learning project management skills .”

Yet, how do you know what your passions are? It’s not just about finding things you like to do but aspects of your life that make you happy, fulfilled, and genuinely excited. Ask yourself questions like:

• What activities make me lose track of time?
• What would I choose to do if I could spend my Saturday doing anything?
• What am I naturally curious about?
• What do I enjoy learning about?
• When do I feel most proud of myself?
• When do I feel most fulfilled?

Or, take our free, fun “What Is My Passion Quiz?” to learn what careers you’re best suited for based on what you love.

… But Don’t Be Afraid to Try New Things

While you want to be clear on what you love, don’t limit yourself to what you already know.

“My number one piece of advice for students who want to find a ‘fun job’ is to try to expand their idea of ‘fun,'” Illman says. “Spend some time thinking about the wide range of things you find fun, and don’t worry if what you find fun is different than what your friends think is fun. Lean into what makes you unique. Also, approach it with a growth mindset — learning is fun. If they don’t have a lot of professional experience, they are certainly going to learn a lot in their first job, no matter what it may be!”

There are many ways to try new things without jumping into a full-time role. You can pursue different work-based learning experiences like internships, externships, job shadowing, coops, and job simulations.

“Dive in head first and try new things,” Wehniainen says. “Don’t be afraid of making mistakes. Remember if you decide it’s not for you, at least you tried and gave it your best. You can pivot to a new direction at any time!” 

Get Clear on Your Strengths

While working on challenges can be fun, it’s also fun to approach those challenges with skills you know and love to use. Using your strengths at work is a fun way to align with your purpose and feel accomplished — while also ensuring some job security. 

How do you know what you’re good at? Assess your strengths by asking yourself questions like:

• What can I do easily that others may find challenging?
• What tasks can I complete without much effort?
• What’s something I do that people tend to compliment me on?
• What classes or projects make me feel naturally curious or energized?

>>MORE: Learn what careers match your skills, strengths, and natural abilities with our Career Aptitude Test .

“Know your strengths and pursue what you’ll be more successful at than the money,” says Gehan Haridy-Ardanowski, a 20-year former corporate HR professional. “The jobs and your income will come and go, but you, your passions, and your personal brand are for life!”

Research People Who Are Working Fun Jobs

There’s a chance there are fun jobs that pay well out there that you have yet to consider or even hear of. That’s why it’s crucial to research different roles and career paths by learning from those working in them.

“Use LinkedIn to research the ‘fun factor’ of job opportunities that they’re interested in,” says Mike Manalac, accounting manager at Google. “Explore the work history of people who started their career in a similar role. If students can envision themselves enjoying a similar career path, both on the work front and the lifestyle that those career choices would provide for, that may be an indicator that it’s a fun job opportunity.”

Once you have a better idea of different career paths you might be interested in pursuing, it’s time to get networking .

“I understand — it sounds a bit formal and scary,” Kleeman says. “But it really means making friends in different places. These friendships can create chances you did not know were there before. Join clubs in school, go to workshops, and talk with people on social media or at local events. It is important not to be shy about making new friends this way. The more people you meet, the higher your chances of finding a job that not only covers your expenses but also brings joy.”

>>MORE: Learn how to ask for an informational interview and what questions to ask when you land one.

Identify the Gap Between Where You Are and Where You Want to Be

You’ve identified your passions and strengths and started researching different career paths. Now, how do you land some of these fun jobs that pay well? 

Oindrila Mandal, senior game product manager at Electronic Arts, recommends focusing on the skills gap between what you know now and what employers who hire for these roles are looking for. 

“For example, before landing a job as a product manager in the gaming industry, I first found out what skills and qualifications I was missing,” Mandal says. “At the time, I was in graduate school getting my Master’s in Business Administration. I lacked knowledge about the field and the industry, so I joined relevant clubs to learn more about the field and make industry connections. I also volunteered at student-led game development projects to get first-hand experience in developing a game. Then, I took classes that helped me bridge the gaps in skills and knowledge. I networked heavily with professionals in the field and was eventually able to land an internship that converted into a full-time job.”

When figuring out what fun jobs that pay well are for you, worry less about where you’re starting from and instead focus on where you want to go.

“The best advice I can give is to be open and vocal about your professional goals,” Mandal says. “If people around you know about the job you want and see that you are working hard, they will remember your passion. And when the right opportunity presents itself, they will send it your way. You just have to be ready to capitalize on the opportunity and get that fun job!”

Image credit: Canva

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Job simulations help you explore careers and figure out what’s right for you.

The 20 best jobs for people who love to solve problems

Some people are natural-born problem solvers. Others develop the skill over time. Either way, there are several jobs that are perfect for this group of people, where day-to-day tasks involve tackling information and problems head-on to devise solutions.

We filtered through data from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) , a US Department of Labor database that compiles detailed information on hundreds of jobs, to find 20 that place high importance on "making decisions and solving problems ." We also checked out the average annual salary and  projected percent change in employment from 2014 to 2024  for each job on the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) website .

O*NET judges how important " a nalyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems " is in any job, assigning each a score between one and 100. Positions that involve more problem solving, like  physician assistants and chief executives,  rank higher — while jobs that don't require much problem solving, like tour guide and waiter, rank lower.

Check out the 20 best jobs for problem solvers below:

No. 20. Hospitalist

Average annual salary (2015): $197,700*

Problem-solving importance level:  93

What they do: Provide inpatient care, including medications and treatments in intensive-care units, medical wards, rehabilitation facilities, and nursing homes.

Education requirements:  Bachelor's and master's degrees, followed by a PhD or an MD

Projected growth through 2024:  14%

*BLS includes this occupation under "Physicians and Surgeons, All Other."

No. 19. Administrative law judge, adjudicator, or hearing officer

Average annual salary (2015):  $93,140

What they do:  Conduct hearings to review claims and determine liability for government-related matters and programs. 

Education requirements:  Bachelor's and master's degrees, usually followed by a JD.

Projected growth through 2024: -1%

No. 18. Obstetrician or gynecologist

Average annual salary (2015):  $222,400

What they do:  Provide medical care to women during pregnancy and childbirth. 

Education requirements:  Bachelor's and master's degrees, followed by an MD.

Projected growth through 2024: 14%

No. 17. Education administrator, elementary and secondary school

Average annual salary (2015):  $92,940

What they do:  Typically referred to as elementary- or secondary-school principals whose job is to enforce discipline and attendance policies for students and teachers.

Education requirements:  Bachelor's and master's degrees, sometimes followed by a PhD.

Projected growth through 2024: 6%

No. 16. Midwife

Average annual salary (2015):  $93,610

What they do:  Provide prenatal care to mothers and assist with childbirth and infant care.

Education requirements:  Bachelor's degree, and master's degree as an advanced-practice registered nurse (APRN).

Projected growth through 2024: 31%

No. 15. Actuary

Average annual salary (2015):  $110,560

What they do:  Analyze statistical data regarding mortality, accident, sickness, and disability to predict the probability of future risk and liability.

Education requirements:  Bachelor's degree and must pass a series of certified exams.

Projected growth through 2024: 18%

No. 14. Respiratory therapy technician

Average annual salary (2015):  $49,720

Problem-solving importance level:  94

What they do:  Work with patients in need of respiratory care in emergency rooms, neonatal or pediatric intensive care, or surgical-intensive care.

Education requirements:  Most jobs in this area require vocational-school training.

Projected growth through 2024: 12%

No. 13. Social and community-service manager

Average annual salary (2015):  $69,430

What they do: Plan, direct, coordinate, and oversee social-service or community-outreach programs and organizations. Includes job titles like social worker and adoption-services manager.

Education requirements:  Bachelor's degree, sometimes a master's degree.

Projected growth through 2024: 10%

No. 12. Preventive-medicine physician

Average annual salary (2015):  $197,700*

What they do:  Assist and aid nurses, physicians, or statisticians in the prevention of disease, injury, or death.

Education requirements:  Bachelor's and master's degrees, followed by a PhD or an MD.

*BLS includes this occupation under Physicians and Surgeons, All Other.

No. 11. Physician assistant

Average annual salary (2015):  $99,270

What they do:  Assist physicians by conducting patient physicals, treatment, and counseling.

Education requirements: Bachelor's and master's degrees.

Projected growth through 2024: 30%

No. 10. Chief executive

Average annual salary (2015):  $185,850

Problem solving importance level:  94

What they do:  Provide overall direction and implement policies of a company. Typical job titles include chief executive officer, chief operating officer, and executive vice president.

Education requirements:  Bachelor's and master's degrees.

No. 9. Judge, magistrate judge, or magistrate

Average annual salary (2015):  $116,100

What they do:  Preside over a court of law with the ability to sentence defendants in criminal cases and determine defendant liability in civil cases. May also perform wedding ceremonies.

Education requirements:  Bachelor's and master's degrees, followed by a JD.

No. 8. Ophthalmologist

Problem-solving importance level:  95

What they do:  Conduct eye exams and vision correction, like optometrists, but are also trained to perform eye surgery, including cataracts and glaucoma.

No. 7. Anesthesiologist

Average annual salary (2015):  $250,100

What they do:  Physicians who administer a sedative drug called  anesthesia before surgery, and monitor patients during and after surgery.

Projected growth through 2024: 14%*

*BLS includes this figure under "Physicians and Surgeons, All Other."

No. 6. Air-traffic controller

Average annual salary (2015):  $118,740

Problem-solving importance level:  96

What they do:  Control, authorize, and regulate airplane traffic at and in between airports.

Education requirements:  Bachelor's degree or work experience totaling three years, in addition to exams and a Federal Aviation Administration academy course.

Projected growth through 2024: -9%

No. 5. Nurse anesthetist

Average annual salary (2015):  $160,250

Problem-solving importance level:  97

What they do:  A dminister  anesthesia, monitor patient vital signs, and oversee patient recovery after surgery.

No. 4. Radiologist

Average annual salary (2015):  $197,700*

Problem-solving importance level:  98

What they do:  Examine and interpret the results of a patient x-ray and communicate diagnostic information regarding diseases or disorders to patients and physicians.

*BLS includes this occupation under "Physicians and Surgeons, All Other.

No. 3. Neurologist

Average annual salary (2015):  $197,700*

What they do:  Physicians who diagnose, treat, and help prevent diseases and disorders of the brain and central-nervous system.

No. 2. Sports-medicine physician

Average annual salary (2015): $197,700*

What they do: Diagnose, treat, and help prevent sport-related injuries in athletes.

Education requirements: Bachelor's and master's degrees, follow by PhD or an MD.

Projected growth through 2024:  14%*

No. 1. Government-property inspector or investigator

Average annual salary (2015): $55,100*

Problem-solving importance level: 100

What they do:  Inspect government property to ensure that things are in order with contract agreements and government regulations.

Projected growth through 2024:  8%

*BLS includes this occupation under "Construction and Building Inspectors (state government)."

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Software Developers, Lawyers, and 11 Other Occupations That Demand Frequent Problem-Solving

May 4, 2023

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Only about 14% of civilian workers have to solve problems on a daily basis, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics . But some jobs are all about problem-solving.

Looking at the BLS 2022 data, ClickUp found that software developers, executives, and lawyers are among the top 13 jobs that demand the most frequent problem-solving. Occupations on the list are ranked by the estimated percentage of workers in each job who had to solve problems more than once per day.

Over 100 jobs were reviewed in the analysis, and only those where more than half of the workers problem-solved multiple times daily made the rankings. Nearly half of the jobs on the list involve management responsibilities. 

Management positions come with many problem-solving requirements because of the need to oversee people and processes; define goals and break them down into smaller, assignable tasks; and make resource management decisions based on theory and data.

Employers value problem-solving in the workplace because workers with these skills are better able to overcome challenges independently, suggest new ideas and improve processes , and save the company and its customers time and money.

Focusing on and developing advanced, nuanced, and quick-reaction problem-solving skills might even help insulate, to a degree, some knowledge-based professionals from the most disruptive effects of artificial intelligence and automation technologies.

The MIT Sloan Management Review found the most likely skills to be automated are those that can be “standardized and codified.” The research noted that tasks requiring physical or real-time resolution typically had lower automation rates. That was due to the fact that creating tools that can handle the unpredictability of those tasks is either too expensive, involves too much work, or may not yet be technologically achievable.

Problem-solving is a skill that can be practiced and honed. There is a wide array of literature and coursework available for learning established methods of problem-solving, with specialties in topics like parallel thinking, decomposition, research, and analysis. Even practicing word and logic puzzles as a leisure activity can help hone problem-solving skills.

A COMPLETE GUIDE TO RESOURCE ALLOCATION Understand the ins and outs of resource allocation to maximize productivity and efficiency with this handy guide.

13. Electrical engineers

12. transportation, storage, and distribution managers, 11. computer and information systems managers, 10. architectural and engineering managers, 9. k-12 education administrators, 8. natural sciences managers, 7. software developers, 6. physicists, 5. chief executives, 4. nurse practitioners, 3. personal financial advisors, 1. podiatrists, enhance your problem-solving skills and boost your management efficiency with clickup.

• Share of workers who problem-solve more than once per day : 51.7%
• Nationwide employment : 186,020 (1.32 per 1,000 jobs)

Electrical engineers design, develop, test, and maintain electrical systems and components. They may identify problems, design circuitry and other parts, and create prototypes to test their solutions. And they can encounter surprises.

For instance, in 1945, Percy Lebaron Spencer, an electrical engineer for Raytheon, was working on radar equipment and noticed a candy bar in his pocket melted. Applying critical thinking and problem-solving skills, he devised a series of tests, observations, and experiments, ultimately inventing the microwave oven.

Hands-on experience and professional development help electrical engineers develop their analytical and critical thinking skills. Participating in professional associations can also assist in the development of their communication and teamwork abilities, allowing them to collaborate effectively with their colleagues and clients .

• Share of workers who problem-solve more than once per day : 52.6%
• Nationwide employment : 144,640 (1.027 per 1,000 jobs)

Transportation, storage, and distribution managers are involved in the planning, directing, and coordinating of transportation, storage, and distribution activities.

These logistics professionals must organize and manage the work of subordinates, effectively use analytical and inventory software, evaluate and act on data and reports, and communicate and collaborate with other departments.

The COVID-19 pandemic has been a nonstop series of problems to solve for transportation, storage, and distribution managers, who have had to deal with demand spikes, driver shortages, and soaring warehouse costs. Now rising inflation and cooling demand are going to send their own series of problems through the pipeline in the reverse direction.

Staying on top of important data, such as changing regulations, weather, software innovations, and tariffs are some of the steps transportation, storage, and distribution managers take to be better prepared to problem-solve. Obtaining certificates and pursuing coursework in supply chain management and other related fields of study are also beneficial for practicing and developing key problem-solving skills.

• Share of workers who problem-solve more than once per day : 54.0%
• Nationwide employment : 485,190 (3.444 per 1,000 jobs)

Computer and information systems managers are responsible for the planning and coordinating of computer-related activities within their organization. High levels of technical expertise, as well as people management skills, are required to be effective.

Duties for computer and information systems managers can include managing all of the organization’s personnel who are relevant to its computer systems, as well as consulting with end users and stakeholders to ensure computing plans align with organizational goals.

Staying current with the latest research and technology is an important step in preparation for becoming a better problem-solver as a computer and information system manager so that you are up to speed on current best practices when it is time to make or advise a decision. 

Another way to improve problem-solving skills is to hold routine meetings and solicit team feedback as a way to work on communication skills and ensure expectations and issues are being clearly understood and acted on.

• Share of workers who problem-solve more than once per day : 54.6%
• Nationwide employment : 187,100 (1.328 per 1,000 jobs)

Architectural and engineering managers plan, direct, and coordinate activities in the fields of architecture and engineering, according to the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook . For instance, they might oversee a construction and renovation project, develop and present project proposals and bids, and oversee the recruiting of staff for design and engineering teams.

Architectural and engineering managers need to be able to effectively lead and inspire their teams. They must also strictly adhere to project deadlines and exhibit superior written and oral communication skills, all of which require advanced problem-solving abilities.

To be better prepared as a problem-solver, architectural and engineering managers attend design showcases to examine the work of other professionals, take advantage of continuing education opportunities, and seize opportunities to gain further field experience.

Bonus: Project Management Software for Engineering

SOFTWARE FOR MANAGING YOUR ARCHITECTURAL PROJECTS Discover the right project management software for architects to ensure smooth operation of your projects.

• Share of workers who problem-solve more than once per day : 54.8%
• Nationwide employment : 274,710 (1.95 per 1,000 jobs)

K-12 education administrators plan, direct, and coordinate the academic, administrative, or auxiliary activities of kindergarten, elementary, and secondary schools, according to the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.

Whether managing teachers, helping students navigate curriculum challenges, or overseeing facility improvements, elementary administrators are constantly solving problems. And they’re expected to create “accurate, rapid, effective and accepted solutions,” depending on their visions “and school development programs,” according to a 2010 study .

Being an effective school administrator requires practice in building positive relationships, putting colleagues and families first, and using strategies to diffuse conflict and stressful situations. 

Participating in research opportunities, attending seminars and classes, and joining professional educational groups are all ways to stay current with the latest problem-solving tools and trends in the field.

• Share of workers who problem-solve more than once per day : 56.4%
• Nationwide employment : 74,760 (0.531 per 1,000 jobs)

Natural sciences managers are involved in supervising the work of scientists, including chemists, physicists, and biologists, according to the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook. These workers are in charge of activities that relate to research and development and coordinate testing, quality control, and production.

Natural sciences managers must use their highly developed research and scientific observation skills, and harness those of their direct reports, to uncover answers to complex technical issues.

Workers in this role are expected to perform functions like developing strategies and research projects; interviewing, hiring, and directing scientists, technicians, and support personnel; and administrative duties.

Because science moves so rapidly, natural science managers must constantly read and stay current with the latest developments so they have the knowledge and latest best practices to apply to their work. Attending health fairs, publishing papers, and working with a scientific mentor are some ways natural sciences managers build the skills and knowledge needed to be successful problem-solvers.

• Share of workers who problem-solve more than once per day : 58.4%
• Nationwide employment : 1,364,180 (9.683 per 1,000 jobs)

Software developers are in charge of analyzing users’ needs and designing and developing software to meet those needs, according to the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook. They design every part of an application or system and coordinate how each will work together.

Computer science itself is the study of problem-solving, so problem-solving skills are baked into all aspects of being a software developer. When designing and implementing code, troubleshooting and bug squashing, and communicating accurately and effectively within and between teams, software developers are problem-solving mavens.

Software developers hone their problem-solving skills through on-the-job experience, obtaining additional certifications and credentials, and staying current with rapid industry developments. Outside of their core job functions, they might contribute code to open source projects, participate in coding challenges and hackathons, or volunteer their time with nonprofit groups focused on building software solutions to civic challenges, such as Code for America.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT AGILE Explore this hub of articles, guides and blueprints to understand Agile methodologies for software teams .

• Share of workers who problem-solve more than once per day : 60.3%
• Nationwide employment : 20,020 (0.142 per 1,000 jobs)

Physicists are scientists who study the interactions of matter and energy. Whether tackling climate change, hunting for new subatomic particles, or figuring out how to make a chocolate cake mix rise faster, physicists are solving problems all around us. 

From the epic to the everyday, physicists use step-by-step approaches, apply past solutions to new problems, diagram procedures, and verify results.

Physicists prepare themselves to be problem-solvers by drilling into the fundamentals of their field, learning and practicing problem-solving strategies, and participating in professional organizations. They may also tackle physics word problems and brain teasers in their free time and then share solutions and strategies with colleagues.

• Share of workers who problem-solve more than once per day : 61.8%
• Nationwide employment : 200,480 (1.423 per 1,000 jobs)

Top executives plan strategies and policies to ensure an organization meets its goals, according to the BLS, which includes coordinating and directing the company and organization activities.

Recognizing gaps between where an organization is and its goals—and devising and implementing solutions, often in real time—is core to the role of an executive. 

Putting structures in place to develop new products, overcoming budget shortfalls, keeping pace with the competition, navigating regulations, and managing the personalities and career growth of staff are all types of problems executives need to solve.

Executives take training and development programs to improve their problem-solving and management skills. They may volunteer their management expertise to a nonprofit or become a mentor to a more junior manager. Executives attend conferences and workshops and stay current on their industry news to expand their skills, including problem-solving.

• Share of workers who problem-solve more than once per day : 62.4%
• Nationwide employment : 234,690 (1.666 per 1,000 jobs)

Nurse practitioners diagnose and treat acute, episodic, or chronic illness, independently or as part of a health care team, according to the BLS, and may focus on health promotion and disease prevention. They may be involved with ordering, performing, or interpreting lab work and X-rays, and can prescribe medication.

Nurses are called upon to apply their diverse knowledge to handle various situations during their shifts in a constantly changing environment. They might apply a solution from one set of patients to another. 

For example, one nurse described how a pain medication that worked for diabetic patients with neuropathy helped an amputation patient suffering from deep nerve pain who wasn’t responding well to traditional opioids.

Health care providers who stay on top of the most recent research report better patient outcomes. Nurse practitioners can use an evidence-based approach to apply a systematic process to review, analyze, and translate to the real world the latest health care and scientific evidence. Training, conferences, and social media also provide other sources of information to sharpen skills and knowledge.

• Share of workers who problem-solve more than once per day : 67.1%
• Nationwide employment : 263,030 (1.867 per 1,000 jobs)

Personal financial advisors assess their clients’ financial needs and advise them on investment decisions and navigating tax laws and insurance, according to the BLS. They help their clients with short- and long-term goals, like saving for college and retirement.

Saving for retirement in an environment with rising interest rates, coping with soaring college costs, and deciding what to do with the proceeds of a house sale are some of the issues that might come up for the clients of a personal financial advisor, which require tailored solutions.

In each case, personal financial advisors define their client’s problems, identify the causes, explore and decide on solutions , and implement them, according to Vesticor Advisors Managing Director Michael Sciortino.

Certifications—like certified financial planner, chartered financial analyst, or chartered financial consultant—or professional development courses can improve personal financial advisors’ hard skills and provide structured opportunities to learn and apply proven problem-solving strategies.

Participating in a pro bono program through a professional organization allows an advisor to apply their knowledge to help individuals, families, and communities in need while getting additional opportunities to practice tackling new and pressing problems.

• Share of workers who problem-solve more than once per day : 68.1%
• Nationwide employment : 681,010 (4.834 per 1,000 jobs)

Advising and representing individuals, businesses, and government agencies on legal issues and disputes are some of the main obligations of lawyers.

Lawyers must research and analyze legal problems and provide advice to their clients. They evaluate all manner of legal decisions—such as weighing the pros and cons of filing for a judgment versus offering a settlement in a case—negotiate contracts, and respond to cease and desist letters. Problem-solving is so key to the legal profession that it was placed at the top of an American Bar Association’s report on fundamental skills for lawyers, even before legal analysis.

Lawyers prepare to be problem-solvers by being active listeners, zeroing in on the details of a case, and reading up on the latest cases and legal strategies. Specialized problem-solving workshops, exercises, role-plays, and simulations— sometimes organized through professional societies —are other ways lawyers can develop their skills.

• Share of workers who problem-solve more than once per day : 85.5%
• Nationwide employment : 8,840 (0.063 per 1,000 jobs)

Podiatrists provide medical and surgical care for people with foot, ankle, and lower leg problems, according to the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.

Patients come to their podiatrists presenting problems such as heel pain, bunions, ingrown toenails, and issues with gait and walking. Podiatrists listen to and diagnose the issue and prescribe solutions depending on what’s needed, such as orthotics, medical creams, or physical therapy.

Podiatrists sharpen their problem-solving skills by practicing and learning new and established methodologies for diagnosis and attending training sessions and conferences. They also practice regularly and seek feedback from patients and colleagues to improve their techniques and patient outcomes.

In today’s fast-paced business world, being an effective problem-solver is crucial for any role, especially management or leadership. Fortunately, there are various tools available to help you streamline your work and manage your tasks efficiently.

ClickUp, in particular, is an exceptional project management tool that can help you stay organized and achieve your goals. With ClickUp, you can easily track your progress, collaborate with your team members, and take corrective action whenever necessary.

Give ClickUp a try for free and take your management efficiency to the next level!

Guest Writer: Ben Popken

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15 Best Problem Solving Jobs (Highest Paying)

by Erin Schollaert

Updated September 22, 2022

Although some would rather have an easy job, many would rather have a job that always keeps them on their toes.

After all, a job that allows you to solve new problems and be creative every day will stay interesting for far longer. Moreover, if you’re clever and interested in problem solving jobs , you’ll be surprised at how well they pay.

These are some of the top problem solving careers , what they offer, and how you can get into them!

15. Social and Community-Service Manager

Average yearly income: $69,600 (U.S. News)

This may be the lowest paying of these jobs for problem solvers , but it will keep anyone busy and taking on challenge after challenge.

Social and community service managers meet with funding providers and community members to discuss programs and organizations that support public well-being.

This could mean targeting your attention towards helping homeless people or by doing general community health and wellness activities that keep people in shape. You may even help people who can not find a job .

14. Accountant

Average yearly income: $73,560 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Accountants are professionals who take care of bookkeeping, prepare financial documents like balance sheets profit and loss statements, and even perform audits.

Although their main job is to keep and interpret records, they analyze profits and losses and have to be able to problem-solve to help figure out financial plans that can benefit whomever they work for.

This is a highly detail-oriented position and requires skills in law, math, finance, and problem-solving to make this job thrilling.

Make sure you stand out when applying for this role by following these tips for finding a great job .

Tactics for Success Having strong ethics is a must for this role because of the amount of money you’ll be handling: if you’re worried you might be tempted by it, this isn’t a job you should take. People skills are more likely to keep you hired in this role than anything else, be aware of how your interactions with others may affect them.

13. Geologist

Average yearly income: $78,805 (Indeed)

Many may be confused why a geologist would have to be good at problem-solving, but the main part of this job is problem-solving!

Geologists conduct studies that locate rocks containing important metals and plan the mines and methods to remove them from the Earth.

Therefore, they have to be intelligent and clever enough to know where to test, mine, and what minerals and metals they’re working with.

12. Detective

Average yearly income: $83,170 (Career Explorer)

Detectives are uniformed or plainclothes police officers who collect evidence and gather information related to criminal cases. This is the most obvious choice for someone who wants to solve problems.

Beyond getting to help investigate and solve crimes, they conduct interviews, monitor suspects, examine records, and participate in raids and arrests. This requires a sharp eye and ear for detail and an incredible memory.

Trends on the Rise Role availability for detectives has risen at a rate of 21% in recent years and is expected to keep growing. However, all detectives have to go through several years as police officers before getting this role, so it’s not something you can apply to.

11. Chemist

Average yearly income: $83,850 (Forbes)

If you love detailed work, this one’s for you.

As a chemist, you’ll investigate the matter at the level of atoms and molecules and then measure reaction rates and proportions to understand how foreign substances behave or even create new compounds that can improve people’s daily lives.

In this role, you’ll have to problem solve why and how substances act, what you can do to duplicate that reaction, and how it can be put to use.

A degree in science opens many doors. Here are some ways to make money with a physics degree .

10. Computer Programmer

Average yearly income: $85,236 (Career Explorer)

Computer programmers test and write code that ensures that software and applications run properly.

In addition, they’re involved in maintaining them: which requires computer programmers to be awesome at debugging and troubleshooting these systems.

Half of the job can feel like solving problems and answering riddles to get the system to work as required. This job takes a lot of patience, but it’s worth it for the high pay and constantly changing job needs.

Working for a startup is a great way to begin your career as a Computer Programmer.

Tactics for Success You don’t need a degree for this job if you’re proficient, but having a degree can increase your pay by twenty to thirty thousand a year. Having an understanding of multiple programming languages can make you far more hirable and will give you a better chance at scoring a job.

9. Psychologist

Average yearly income: $85,340 (Forbes)

If you’re a people person and a problem solver: this is the job for you. Psychologists study emotion, social, and cognitive processes, and behavior by analyzing how people interact with one another and their environments.

They can then use their findings to help improve the processes in place for individuals.

This job requires you to deep dive into thoughts, emotions, feelings, and behavior in ways that require a lot of problem-solving to understand.

There are plenty of different jobs that use a psychology degree .

8. Statistician

Average yearly income: $92,270 (U.S. News)

Statisticians apply statistical methods and models to real-world problems. This can help companies make huge decisions or could help explain how much someone is entitled to in court.

Statisticians have to be able to handle a huge amount of information, understand the right way to read that information, and know the best way it can then be applied to the matters at hand.

This is a great job for any problem solver.

7. UX Designer

Average yearly income: $102,000 (Coursera)

Every UX designer must stay focused on all parts of a product’s development, from design, function, and usability to branding and marketing.

This role works from end to end, ensuring that a user’s interaction with the product is what the company wants it to be.

In this position, you’ll need to be able to problem-solve to fix anything that doesn’t serve the company’s needs or is confusing for users.

Trends on the Rise Only 55% of companies conduct any UX testing : but that number is quickly rising since 70% of customer complaints are currently about their user experience. Positions in this role are growing by 3% every year, with predictions saying they’ll continue to grow.

6. Aerospace Engineers

Average yearly income: $118,610 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)

This job requires a strict understanding of math, science and an ability to keep secrets.

As an aerospace engineer, you’ll work to design spacecraft, satellites, missiles, and aircraft, as well as test prototypes to ensure they function according to their designs.

Unfortunately, not everything works perfectly on the first go, and in these instances, you must be a great problem solver so that you can correct the issue.

5. Air Traffic Controller

Average yearly income: $120,830 (Forbes)

Air traffic controllers live in the most stressful job on this list. Every day they make decisions and solve issues that hold hundreds of lives in the air.

Using radar, computers, and visual references, they monitor and direct aircraft movement on the ground and in the sky at airports.

They often manage multiple aircraft at once and have to be able to make quick decisions to ensure everyone’s safety. This isn’t a job for anyone who can’t handle stress.

4. Preventive Medicine Physicians

Average yearly income: $166,074 (ZipRecruiter)

This is one of the most important jobs on this list since it helps prevent illnesses from worsening and seriously harming patients.

Preventative medicine doctors focus on people’s health and define populations to protect their future health. This means setting up plans to help avoid future illness, disability, and premature death.

This can be a heavy job, with a lot of pressure resting on you making the right choices, but it’s a fantastic role that’s always different and continuously surprises.

3. Hospitalist

Average yearly income: $219,989 (Talent.com)

Hospitalist doctors specialize in treating and diagnosing various illnesses and diseases. They can order testing or medications and work to ensure treatments go according to expectation.

In this role, they provide general medical care to hospitalized patients, lead medical teams, and then coordinate care.

You have to have an incredible eye for detail and great problem-solving skills to work in this role.

2. Allergists and Immunologists

Average yearly income: $258,532 (Physicians Thrive)

A medical doctor who works as an allergist or immunologist is specially trained to treat and manage asthma and allergies.

This requires at least nine years of training and needs you to be able to diagnose and know how to treat and solve issues brought to you by patients.

Problem-solving is important since the wrong treatment could be seriously harmful to patients.

1. Radiologist

Average yearly income: $485,460 (Health Imaging)

As the highest paying role on this list, it’s no surprise that this is an extremely complicated job.

Radiologists are medical doctors who diagnose and treat diseases and injuries using medical imaging like X-rays, computed tomography, nuclear medicine, and several other types.

You have to be able to problem-solve what each diagnosis may be and work equipment that’s worth millions every single day. This job is a lot of stress and a lot of problem-solving.

Wrapping Up

Smart people tend to get bored more easily, so it makes sense that many intelligent people feel drawn to jobs that keep their minds going.

So whether you’ve always loved problem-solving or you’re aching for a career you’ll never get bored in, any of these fifteen jobs can offer you a chance at something incredible!

Erin Schollaert

Erin is a business teacher and mother of three. When she’s not in the classroom or fulfilling her obligations as an A+ hockey and lacrosse mom, she’s working on her latest article.

• Erin Schollaert https://www.trendsandtactics.com/author/erinschollaert8799gmail-com/ 16 Funny Ways to Make Money that Pay Shockingly Well
• Erin Schollaert https://www.trendsandtactics.com/author/erinschollaert8799gmail-com/ Turn Trash to Treasure: Guide to Recycling Old Computers for a Hefty Payday!
• Erin Schollaert https://www.trendsandtactics.com/author/erinschollaert8799gmail-com/ Stay Average or Soar High: 15 Lucrative Side Gigs for Men to Boost Their Earnings
• Erin Schollaert https://www.trendsandtactics.com/author/erinschollaert8799gmail-com/ Are You Leaving Money on the Table? Discover the 11 Best Food Delivery Apps to Boost Your Income

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4 Jobs for People Who Like Problem-Solving

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Picture these scenarios: An attorney strives to represent their client in court but must prepare a thorough and persuasive brief to do so. A data analyst seeks to improve a business’s customer base but first needs to use data collection software to measure audience engagement. A middle school principal sets goals to improve next year’s standardized test scores but has to assess teacher performance and curriculums beforehand.

What do these jobs have in common? Even though the settings and duties differ for each, all three roles involve critical thinking and problem-solving abilities to achieve a positive outcome.

If you consider yourself a goal-oriented, problem-solving enthusiast, you might feel overwhelmed at the sheer number of careers that provide opportunities for overcoming complex challenges. This blog discusses four jobs that are ideal for people who like problem-solving and seeking concrete results. Read on to learn about these jobs and how you can find a career that rewards your problem-solving skills.

Top Problem-Solving Jobs in Today’s Market

While many—if not all—careers demand some form of problem-solving, some industries may call for more extensive and straightforward attention to detail than others. The jobs listed below belong to the fields of business, information technology (IT), and healthcare. Each job includes a description of day-to-day responsibilities and common examples of problem-solving abilities where critical thinking and analytical skills are key to success.

Software Engineer

Software engineers —sometimes called software developers—have become invaluable as digital technology has advanced over the last several decades. These professionals create and optimize software programs, applications, and operating systems for consumers, businesses, and other organizations.

Software engineers usually concept and ideate on a vision before collaborating with other developers and programmers to build it out for a specific purpose. For example, a software engineer may design an account management program for an insurance company or develop a word processing program for individual use. Common tasks for software engineers include the following:

• Assessing software needs for users
• Creating and maintaining software and underlying operating systems
• Writing, testing, and debugging program code
• Communicating with IT teams, organization leaders, and stakeholders
• Implementing security features into software

Questions such as “What do users need in a program?” and “How can I make software accessible for users?” are important for software engineers to ponder. Since so many people rely on computers for business, communication, banking, and more, software engineers need to be agile, logical, and collaborative, keeping speed and scalability in mind as they develop software solutions tailored to user needs.

Financial Planner

Managing finances includes more than just being thrifty or saving money. Entire careers—like those of financial advisors and financial planners—are dedicated to helping individuals and organizations achieve their financial goals. Financial planners provide expert advice on various financial matters like spending, saving, investing, paying taxes, and more.

Daily job duties of financial planners include:

• Consulting with clients to establish expectations and answer questions
• Discussing financial goals with clients
• Forecasting financial trends for clients
• Reviewing and optimizing client budgets
• Making recommendations based on client income and spending habits

If clients have questions about retirement funds, mortgages, insurance premiums, or any number of similar financial subjects, a financial planner can clarify and help them navigate their concerns. This means that financial planners need to communicate effectively and actively listen. They consider all available solutions, then choose the one that best meets a client’s needs based on their unique circumstances.

Data Analyst

According to the data aggregator site Statista.com, the total amount of data created and consumed in the world reached about 64.2 zettabytes in 2020. That figure is forecasted to increase to 180 zettabytes by 2025. For reference, one zettabyte is equal to one trillion gigabytes.

How is it Possible to Manage This Much Data and Harness it For Use?

Data analysts are trained to collect, analyze, and parse all kinds of data to glean actionable information. These specialists use computer programs and machine learning technologies to spot patterns in raw data that could—after proper interpretation—benefit individual or organizational decision-making. Data analysis requires logical reasoning, critical thinking, and inference skills—all of which are common traits of problem-solvers.

Many data analysts work to research market trends, enhance business goals, assess demographic behaviors, and more. Others work as actuaries with an emphasis on risk analysis. The empirical evidence produced through iterative data analysis can then be used to support myriad organizational initiatives, programs, or campaigns.

Registered Nurse

Registered nurses compose the backbone of functional healthcare systems. A registered nurse (RN) is a licensed healthcare professional that cares for and educates patients of all ages. Whether it involves measuring patient vitals, administering treatment, or consulting with physicians and therapists, nurses help patients on their path to healthy, happy lifestyles.

Regarding their day-to-day job responsibilities, nurses maintain a balanced skill set in interpersonal communication, medical knowledge, and technical problem-solving. Common tasks include the following:

• Working in tandem with doctors to treat patients
• Collecting and recording patient medical histories
• Conducting diagnostic tests on patients
• Using and maintaining medical equipment
• Establishing treatment plans based on patient diagnoses

It’s important for nurses to practice empathy toward their patients, including helping them understand the nature of their illness or injury. Many patients may not know how to manage their condition upon being diagnosed. To overcome this challenge, RNs should answer a patient’s questions as accurately as possible and provide encouragement as needed.

Building a Career in Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving

To determine whether you’d thrive in a role oriented to problem-solving, consider reflecting on your professional skills and workplace attitude. Do you enjoy the challenges inherent in business , IT , healthcare, or other dynamic, growing fields? Do you like being the go-to person that people come to when they have an issue? Could you see yourself finding fulfillment in solving work-related problems five or 10 years from now? Are you willing to gain the education or credentials you need for the job?

Answering questions like these can help you feel more confident as you search for jobs that align with your interests.

As you prepare for the problem-solving career of your dreams, look to WGU. We offer more than 75 online, accredited bachelor’s and master’s programs in IT, business, education, and healthcare. Each program is designed with input from industry experts, granting you the skills that employers love to see. Additionally, WGU’s competency-based education model means that you advance through coursework as quickly as you show mastery of the material, so you can potentially graduate faster and save money. Get started today.

Ready to Start Your Journey?

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58 Fun Jobs That Pay Well: Better Work-Life Balance in 2024

• Updated: 08/07/24
• Comments: 1

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Are you looking for a career that is both fun and pays well? Do you want to make good money without sacrificing your work-life balance?

We’ve put together a comprehensive list of some of the best fun jobs that pay well.

From engineering roles to creative endeavors, these high-paying fun jobs offer incredible opportunities to build a fulfilling career while still having plenty of time for family and leisure activities.

So, if you’re ready to say goodbye to 9-5 monotony and start exploring some truly unique ways to make money, check out our list of fun careers.

58 High-Paying Fun Jobs to Explore

1. graphic designer.

Graphic designers are responsible for developing creative artwork and visual content for websites, marketing materials, bloggers, and other mediums.

It is a great creative outlet that pays well and can be done very flexibly from home. It’s also one of the best high-paying jobs that doesn’t require any experience.

You can find graphic design jobs as a freelancer or a full-time position.

• Education Requirements:  None, especially if you are a freelancer
• Certification or Training Required:  Generally some training in graphic design software such as  Canva ,  Adobe Photoshop , or  Illustrator .
• Average Annual Salary:  $55,468 (Source:  Indeed )

2. Makeup Artist

As a makeup artist, your clients are your canvas. With the right technique, you can bring out people’s natural beauty and enhance it in creative ways.

From wedding makeup to special effects to body painting, this is an exciting job where no two days are ever the same.

It can be fun to experiment with different products and play around with colors!

Not only will you get to make your clients feel beautiful every day, but also have a lot of creative freedom while doing so.

So whether you want to become a celebrity makeup artist or work at a local salon, there are plenty of opportunities for you in this profession.

• Education Requirements:  None
• Certification or Training Required:  You might need to take up courses in cosmetology and makeup artistry
• Average Annual Salary:  $59,098 (Source: Indeed )

3. Drone Pilot

Drones are often used for aerial photography, surveillance, mapping, filming etc., so being a drone pilot can give you plenty of opportunities to explore the skies.

You’ll need a strong understanding of aviation regulations and safety procedures, but if you love flying and have an eye for detail, this can be a really fun job!

There is also always room for growth—especially in industries like filmmaking where drone footage is becoming increasingly popular.

• Education Requirements:  None
• Certification or Training Required:  Remote Pilot Certificate from Federal Aviation Administration
• Average Annual Salary: $99,206 (Source: ZipRecruiter )

4. Video Game Designer

Do you love gaming? Put your passion to use with this fun job.

As a game designer, you’ll create the stories, characters, and mechanics of video games.

It’s a great job for people who have an eye for detail and creativity—you’ll get to bring a virtual world to life!

The gaming industry is also huge: there are so many opportunities in both indie and mainstream markets.

Whether you want to design mobile games or build AAA titles, developing unique experiences can be incredibly rewarding.

• Education Requirements:  Sometimes a college degree in Computer Science or Game Design
• Certification or Training Required:  You may need additional certifications depending on the type of games you want to make
• Average Salary: $67,838 (Source:  Payscale )

5. Personal Trainer

If you are looking for a fun job that involves both physical activity and making a difference in people’s lives, then being a personal trainer could be the perfect career choice for you.

As a personal trainer, your job is to help people reach their physical goals while teaching them healthy lifestyle habits.

Whether it’s helping someone run faster or motivating someone to finally hit the gym, this is a great job that can be incredibly rewarding.

• Certification or Training Required:  Personal Trainer Certification
• Average Annual Salary: $41,976 (Source:  Indeed )

6. Sommelier

Do you like wine? (Who doesn’t, right?) If you’re a wine enthusiast, you could think about doing it for a living.

As a sommelier, you’ll be responsible for selecting the perfect wines to complement any meal.

You’ll need an expert-level knowledge of grapes, regions, and winemaking processes—but it can also be a lot fun!

Plus, sommeliers get to travel around the world and learn new things every day. Who doesn’t love that?

• Education Requirements:  An advanced certificate in Wine & Spirits
• Certification or Training Required:  Advanced certificate from the Court of Master Sommeliers
• Average Annual Salary: $53,515 (Source: Indeed )

7. Photographer

Do you have an eye for capturing beautiful moments? Then photography may be the perfect fun job for you.

You can work as a freelancer, offering your services to clients, or even starting your own business. You could also specialize in a particular type of photography—like weddings, fashion, wildlife, or nature.

No matter what kind of photographer you want to be, there’s plenty of money to be made in this profession!

• Certification or Training Required:  Photography courses or workshops
• Average Annual Salary: $41,090 (Source: ZipRecruiter )

8. Storyboard Artist

Are you a creative person with an interest in storytelling? Then becoming a storyboard artist might be the an ideal career for you.

Storyboard artists create visual sequences that depict the action of films, television shows, and video games. This is a great fun job for creative people with an interest in storytelling.

They combine their creativity and technical know-how to bring stories to life on screen.

It’s a great way to make use of your artistic skills while having fun creating something unique – definitely one of the most fun jobs that pay well out there!

• Education Requirements:  Bachelor’s degree
• Certification Required:  None
• Average Annual Salary: $90,053 (Source: Zippia )

9. Voice Actor

Are you someone with a great voice and charisma? Becoming a voice actor is a great way to make money and have fun while doing it.

Voice actors are responsible for providing voices to characters in films, TV shows, video games, audiobooks—the list goes on!

You can even specialize in different types of voice acting such as acting as an audio narrator or dubbing foreign language films.

This can be one of the better lower-stress jobs depending on what clients you take on.

• Certification or Training Required:  Training in voice-over technique and microphone techniques
• Average Annual Salary: $45,505 (Source: Salary.com )

10. Aquarium Curator

The job of an aquarium curator is perfect for anyone who loves marine life and enjoys the quiet, peaceful environment that aquariums have to offer.

You’ll get to care for and maintain a variety of aquatic creatures in an array of tanks and enclosures.

Your job would include feeding the animals, monitoring their health, cleaning the tanks, and even doing some research on different species.

You will also need to keep up with any new developments or changes within the field—but it can be really fun!

• Education Requirements:  Associate’s degree in Zoology or Marine Biology
• Certification or Training Required:  None
• Average Annual Salary: $73,726 (Source: ZipRecruiter )

11. Video Game Tester

Do you love playing video games? If so, becoming a video game tester might just be your dream job that you can do while working from home.

Video game testers play games to find bugs and other issues before they are released.

It’s a great way to make use of your problem-solving skills while having fun playing games – definitely worth considering if you’re looking for a unique, high-paying career!

• Education Requirements:  High school diploma
• Certification Required:  None
• Average Annual Salary: $34,382 (Source: ZipRecruiter )

12. Robotics Engineer

What about robotics and engineering as a fun job?

Robotics engineers design, build, and test robots that are used to perform a variety of functions from manufacturing to medical procedures.

It’s a challenging but rewarding job with lots of opportunities to make an impact.

• Education Requirements:  Bachelor’s degree
• Average Annual Salary:  $105,956 (Source: Salary.com )

13. YouTuber

If you’re looking for a fun job with a lot of creativity and flexibility, starting a YouTube channel might be your next big thing.

You can monetize your YouTube channel in a variety of ways, including sponsorships, affiliate marketing, memberships, products, and more. You can also start your own blog alongside your channel.

The good news is — you don’t even need that many subscribers to make real money on YouTube.

All you really need is high-quality engaging content that helps you connect with your audience.

• Average Annual Salary: Varies based on video views and clicks. You can earn up to several hundred or several thousand a month with Youtube, depending on how you monetize.

14. Foley Artist

This is a cool job that I bet you have never heard of before. Ever wonder how sound effects are made?

Many of them are actually made by people using everyday objects and materials.

Foley artists create sound effects to enhance movies, television shows, and video games. They use their technical know-how and creativity to create realistic soundscapes that bring stories to life.

This is definitely a creative job that is worth considering if you’re looking for a unique, high-paying career!

• Average Annual Salary: $64,093 (Source: Salary.com )

15. Course Creator

Do you have an interest in teaching and creating content? This is one of the most fun jobs that pay well that also give you some of the most flexibility.

Course creators create online courses related to their area of expertise, such as business or coding. They work with students to help them understand and master the material.

It’s a great way to become your own boss while having fun helping others learn.

• Education Requirements:  None, depending on the subject you’re teaching
• Certification Required:  Generally none, depending on what you teach
• Average Annual Salary: Varies based on course and platform but it can be anywhere from $20-$2,000 or more per month
• Learn how to sell digital products online

16. Etsy Seller

If you have a knack for crafting and an entrepreneurial spirit, then becoming an Etsy seller might be the dream job for you.

Etsy sellers create handmade products such as jewelry, clothing, art, and home decor that they can sell through the online marketplace.

It’s a great way to make use of your creative problem-solving skills while having fun working on DIY projects – definitely worth considering if you’re looking for a unique, high-paying career!

• Average Annual Salary: Varies greatly depending on what you sell and the demand for the product(s); some Etsy sellers make over $10,000 per month.

17. Beekeeper

As a beekeeper, you can literally make honey out of thin air! That’s because you’re responsible for managing colonies of bees and harvesting their golden bounty.

Beekeepers have to be knowledgeable about the behavior of different species of bees, as well as the necessary equipment to keep them healthy and productive.

In addition, beekeeping requires you to work outdoors in all types of weather—but that means you get to enjoy the beauty of nature on a daily basis.

• Education Requirements:  High school diploma
• Certification Required:  None (though optional certifications available)
• Average Annual Salary: $74,780 (Source: ZipRecruiter )

18. Film Critic

Being a film critic is like going out on a date with your favorite actor, director, or writer and getting paid for it!

But there is more to it than just watching films.

As a film critic, you get to analyze the craftsmanship of a movie from various angles: plotlines, acting performances, cinematography, special effects—you name it!

You also have to be able to express your opinion in a clear and persuasive way while considering different perspectives. In addition, film critics often conduct interviews with important industry figures such as directors and actors, which can lead to some exciting opportunities.

• Average Annual Salary: $80,326 (Source: Zippia )

19. Hairdresser

If you have a talent for hairstyling, then becoming a hairdresser could be the perfect fit for you.

You can help people look their best by creating stunning cuts and colors that reflect their personal style.

It’s one of those fun jobs where you can get creative with your work and also meet a lot of new people along the way.

• Education Requirements:  No formal education, but you will need a cosmetology or barbering license from an accredited program.
• Certification or Training Required:  Cosmetology license or certification
• Average Salary: $39,962 (Source:  Glassdoor )

20. Tour Guide

Do you love exploring new places? Then why not become a tour guide?

You’ll get to show tourists around different locations while sharing interesting facts and stories about the area.

It’s a great way to make some extra money while having the chance to explore new places and meet interesting people.

Many tour guides get paid tips, which can make this one of the best high-paying fun jobs on this list.

• Certification or Training Required:  Depends on the state
• Average Annual Salary: $34,325 (Source: Salary.com )

21. Social Media Manager

Social media management is one of those cool jobs where you get to work with people all over the world while managing different kinds of accounts.

You’ll get creative freedom while helping businesses reach their target audiences and drive awareness about their brand.

As a social media manager, you can learn a lot about different industries and businesses and how they operate.

It’s also a great stay-at-home mom job that provides a lot of flexibility!

• Certification or Training Required:  None
• Average Annual Salary: $57,167 (Source:  Indeed )

22. Travel Agent

Ever dreamed of planning worldwide adventures? Travel agents help their customers make their travel dreams come true.

Every day, they’re using their knowledge and expertise to help people plan amazing trips to exotic locations around the globe.

Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a round-the-world trip, travel agents can help with booking flights, finding accommodations, and helping out with any other details along the way.

• Average Annual Salary: $53,639 (Source: Indeed )

23. Chocolatier

Making chocolate is a craft that combines artistry with flavor, turning cocoa into something magical.

As a chocolatier, you get to create beautiful, delicious treats for people to enjoy — and you get to do it all in style.

From truffles to bonbons and other creations, chocolatiers use their artistry to delight their customers – and earn money.

Food trends are constantly changing, which means there are always new recipes and techniques to try out.

• Average Annual Salary: $37,691 (Source: ZipRecruiter )

24. Toy Designer

Everyone loves playing with toys, but did you ever consider how they are made?

Toy designers are responsible for coming up with ideas and designs for all the awesome playthings kids (and adults) enjoy.

They come up with the concept, design it, create prototypes, and then test them out to make sure they’re safe and fun.

It’s a job that requires creativity and technical knowledge, making it a great choice for those looking for an exciting career.

• Education Requirements:  None, depending on the company you work for
• Average Annual Salary: $77,420 (Source: Salary.com )

For foodies, a career as a chef can be a great way to express their creativity.

Chefs are responsible for coming up with innovative dishes and preparing meals in a variety of different styles.

They must stay on top of trends, seasonality of ingredients, and the latest recipes — all while ensuring quality and safety standards are met.

• Certification or Training Required:  Depends on the restaurant you work for
• Average Annual Salary: $53,599 (Source: Indeed )

Have you ever thought of a job creating music in the entertainment industry?

DJs are responsible for playing songs during events, parties, clubs, and festivals.

They need to stay up-to-date with the latest music trends and create exciting mixes that will get people dancing.

It’s a fun job for those who love music and have an ear for creating unique sounds.

• Average Annual Salary: $79,218 (Source: ZipRecruiter )

27. Blogger

Blogging is one of those fun jobs that is great if you’re a creative writer and have a passion for something.

Bloggers write content about topics they are passionate about and share it with the world. They have the freedom to choose what to write about, how often to post, and what platform or audience to target.

It can be a very rewarding career as it gives you the chance to express yourself while also connecting with like-minded people, all from the comfort of your own home.

You can start your own blog on anything you want!

• Average Annual Salary: Varies depending on your audience and  how you make money blogging ; many bloggers make hundreds to thousands a month.
• 30 Best Blogging Job Sites to Work Online

28. Fashion Designer

Fashion designers get to create clothes and accessories that not only look great but also make people feel confident when they wear them.

They use their creativity to design stylish pieces that reflect the latest trends and stay ahead of the competition.

It’s a fun job for those who have an eye for detail, love fashion and want to make a difference in the industry.

• Education Requirements:  None, unless the company requires it
• Average Annual Salary: $70,137 (Source: Payscale )

29. Tattoo Artist

If you’re an artist with a creative eye and a steady hand, then being a tattoo artist could be a great job for you.

Tattoo artists are responsible for creating unique designs that reflect their client’s personalities and desires.

It’s one of those fun jobs where you get to express your creativity while also helping people show off their style in a meaningful way.

• Certification or Training Required:  Set at the state level and varies by state
• Average Annual Salary: $59,020 (Source: Indeed )

30. Cruise Director

If you have the talent, energy, and enthusiasm to entertain large crowds, a cruise director could be a really cool job for you.

Cruise directors create fun activities such as karaoke, bingo, sports tournaments, and other interactive events during their cruises.

They also provide guests with entertainment options such as movies, comedy shows, music performances, and more.

It’s a great way to travel while making sure that passengers have an enjoyable time onboard.

• Education Requirements:  College degree in hospitality or a related field
• Average Annual Salary: $88,119 (Source: ZipRecruiter )

31. Ski Instructor

Ever dreamed of having a career that involves skiing all day?

A ski instructor is responsible for teaching people the fundamentals of skiing such as technique, safety tips, and how to navigate the slopes.

It’s flexible and fun work that you can do while enjoying some of the best views nature has to offer!

If you don’t mind the cold and feel like you have the communication skills to teach, this is probably one of the most fun careers on this list.

It’s also usually seasonal, which frees up a lot of your time for other jobs or activities.

• Average Annual Salary: $41,710 (Source: ZipRecruiter )

32. Sports Agent

Do you have an interest in sports and enjoy networking? If so, then becoming a sports agent could be a great career for you!

Sports agents work to help their client athletes negotiate contracts with teams, sponsorships, and other deals.

They also provide advice on career development, marketing strategies, and financial management.

It’s exciting work that involves lots of contact with people in the industry and staying up-to-date on trends.

• Average Annual Salary: $53,304 (Source: ZipRecruiter )

33. Park Ranger

If you love nature and have a passion for conservation, then park rangers might be the perfect gig for you.

Park ranger jobs involve protecting natural resources, maintaining trails, educating visitors on safety tips, and providing emergency services.

It’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors while also helping preserve our environment.

• Average Salary: $41,682 (Source: ZipRecruiter )

34. Food Stylist

If you have a knack for styling and a passion for food, then being a food stylist might be the career for you!

Food stylists create visually appealing dishes for ad campaigns, cookbooks, television shows, and more.

They work closely with chefs to come up with creative recipes that are both delicious and beautiful.

It’s a unique job that gives you the opportunity to express your creativity while working in the culinary arts.

• Average Annual Salary: $64,768 (Source: Payscale )

35. Brewmaster

If you’re passionate about beer and have an eye for detail, then a career as a brewmaster might be the fun career you’re looking for.

Brewmasters are responsible for brewing, packaging, and tasting beers to ensure their quality meets industry standards.

They use their creativity to develop new recipes and collaborate with other experts in the field.

It’s a fun job that combines science and artistry and also pays well.

• Education Requirements:  None, but a background in chemistry or microbiology could be helpful
• Average Annual Salary: $45,628 (Source: Payscale )

36. Nutritionist

Do you have a passion for healthy eating? Becoming a nutritionist is one of the most rewarding and fun jobs out there.

Nutritionists provide advice on healthy eating habits, assist with meal planning, and help to create individualized diet plans.

They also educate clients on the importance of proper nutrition and how it affects overall health.

• Education Requirements:  None but it can be helpful depending on your employer
• Certification Required:  Registered Dietitian Certification
• Average Annual Salary: $54,790 (Source: ZipRecruiter )

37. Golf Course Designer

A golf course designer is one of the most fun, high-paying jobs out there.

From the moment you start your career, you will be immersed in a world filled with creativity and outdoor beauty.

You will get to work in beautiful surroundings, making sure every fairway, bunker, lake, and green is perfect for players of all skill levels.

In addition, you’ll also have to consider playability factors such as wind direction and sun angle while designing courses.

It’s definitely a job that requires attention to detail—but it can also be incredibly rewarding and full of opportunities for personal growth!

• Education Requirements:  Associate’s degree
• Average Annual Salary: $49,023 (Source: ZipRecruiter )

38. Art Therapist

If you’re passionate about art and helping others, art therapy be a fun career for you.

An art therapist works with people to help them express their emotions through creative activities such as painting, drawing, sculpting, and more.

They also provide guidance on how to use these techniques to improve mental health and promote self-awareness.

It’s a rewarding way to make a difference in someone’s life while doing something you love – definitely one of the most fun jobs for art lovers out there.

• Education Requirements:  Master’s degree in art therapy or counseling
• Certification Required:  Licensed Professional Counselor Certification
• Average Annual Salary: $61,181 (Source: ZipRecruiter )

39. Urban Farmer

If you’re passionate about sustainability and have a green thumb, then urban farming might be the job for you.

Urban farmers work to grow fruits, vegetables, and other produce in small spaces such as rooftops and backyards.

They are also responsible for educating others on sustainable methods of growing food locally.

It’s a great way to provide healthy food for your community while having fun outdoors!

• Education Requirements:  sometimes a Bachelor’s degree
• Average Annual Salary: $69,562 (Source: ZipRecruiter )

40. Interpreter/Translator

Do you speak multiple languages and have excellent communication skills? If so, then being an interpreter or translator could be a fun occupation for you.

Interpreters and translators use their language skills to bridge the gap between two different cultures.

They help people communicate with each other by conveying messages accurately in their native language.

It’s a great way to make a difference while having fun working with different languages and cultures.

• Certification Required:  Depends on who you work for or what type of work you’re doing
• Average Salary: $38K-$62K (Source: ZipRecruiter)

41. Exotic Animal Trainer

Do you love animals and have a knack for working with them? Then you might want to consider becoming an exotic animal trainer!

Exotic animal trainers work with a variety of animals, from tigers and dolphins to elephants and parrots.

They provide care, training, and enrichment activities so that the animals can live happy and healthy lives.

It’s a challenging but rewarding job that requires patience and understanding.

• Certification Required: None
• Average Annual Salary: $47,840 (Source: ZipRecruiter )

42. Costume Designer

Do you love fashion and have an eye for detail? Then becoming a costume designer might just be the perfect career choice for you!

Costume designers work with directors and actors to create costumes for both live performances and films.

They use their creativity to come up with original ideas that bring characters to life.

It’s a fun job with lots of variety and the potential to make an impact on viewers – worth considering if you’re looking for a unique, high-paying career!

• Average Annual Salary: $42,500 (Source: Salary.com )

43. Used Goods Flipper

If you’re a creative problem-solver with an eye for trends, then becoming a used goods flipper might be the perfect job for you.

Used goods flippers buy items from thrift stores and secondhand shops and resell them online at a profit.

They have to be able to identify valuable items as well as know which ones are more likely to sell quickly.

It’s a great way to make money while having fun shopping – definitely worth considering if you’re looking for a unique high-paying job!

• Average Annual Salary: This depends largely on what you’re selling, but many can earn a few hundred bucks or more a month flipping goods online.

44. Automotive Engineer

Are you passionate about cars and interested in engineering? Then becoming an automotive engineer could be the perfect job for you!

Automotive engineers design, build, and test vehicles such as cars, trucks, and motorcycles.

They work to continuously improve existing designs and create new ones using cutting-edge technology.

• Average Salary: $83,271 (Source: Payscale )

45. Web Developer

Are you tech-savvy and interested in coding? How about exploring job opportunities in web development?

Web developers are responsible for creating websites, from the front-end design to the back-end coding.

They work with clients to create sites that are both visually appealing and functional.

This work requires technical skills but also often provides on-the-job training, depending on the position.

• Education Requirements:  None, depending on the employer or client
• Certification Required:  Generally some training in web development and certain types of coding language, but many web developers are also self-taught
• Average Annual Salary: $82,516 (Source:  Indeed )

46. Ethical Hacker

Do you have an interest in cyber security? Then becoming an ethical hacker might be the perfect job for you!

Ethical hackers use their skills to protect companies from data breaches and other cyber attacks.

They are responsible for testing systems to identify weaknesses and vulnerabilities, as well as coming up with solutions to keep networks secure.

It’s a fun and exciting job that requires both technical know-how and creative problem-solving skills.

• Average Annual Salary: $105,973 (Source: Salary.com )

47. Real Estate Agent

If you’re a people person with an interest in business, then becoming a real estate agent might be the perfect job for you.

Real estate agents help clients buy and sell properties by offering them advice on market trends and negotiating deals.

It’s a great way to make use of your interpersonal skills while having fun helping others achieve their goals – definitely one of the most fun high-paying jobs out there!

• Education Requirements:  Generally none other than passing a real estate exam
• Certification Required:  You generally must obtain a state-specific license
• Average Annual Salary: $86,356 (Source:  ZipRecruiter )

48. Art Director

Do you have an eye for aesthetics and a knack for creativity? Then becoming an art director might be one of the best fun jobs that pay well for you.

Art directors manage projects related to visual arts, from films and television shows to video games and advertisements.

They are responsible for creating cohesive images that draw in viewers and evoke emotion.

It’s a great way to make use of your creative problem-solving skills while having fun working with different mediums – definitely worth considering if you’re looking for a unique, high-paying career!

• Average Annual Salary: $118,686 (Source: ZipRecruiter )

49. Bartender/Mixologist

Perhaps this fun job isn’t super unique or uncommon, but it can pay quite well depending on where you work.

Not only will you get to interact with customers and hone your skills in the art of mixology, but also make some extra money on the side.

• Certification or Training Required:  Factory training from an alcohol supplier or bartending courses
• Average Annual Salary: $47,869 (Source: Indeed )

50. Private Investigator

Private investigators use their detective skills to uncover secrets and resolve cases.

They conduct research, observe suspects in public places, take photographs and videos, and analyze evidence to help their clients.

It’s a job that requires attention to detail and creative problem-solving—but it can also be incredibly rewarding!

• Certification Required:  State license
• Average Salary: $49,742 (Source: Indeed )

You can work in traditional bars or fancy cocktail lounges—it’s all up to you!

51. Event Planner

Are you an organizer at heart? Then event planning is the perfect job for you!

Event planners get to coordinate and execute events of all sizes—from small birthday parties to large corporate conferences.

You’ll need strong organizational and communication skills, but it can be a lot of fun. Plus, you get to meet lots of different people and help them create amazing memories.

• Education Requirements:  None, depending on the job
• Average Annual Salary: $51,910 (Source: Indeed )

52. Stunt Performer

One of the most interesting jobs that pay well on this list is that of a stunt person. Do we have any adrenaline junkies in the house?

Stunt performers are responsible for performing dangerous and thrilling stunts in movies or television shows.

It’s certainly not a 9-5 job, but it can be very exciting—and sometimes even quite lucrative!

From jumping out of airplanes to performing fight scenes, you’ll get the chance to do all kinds of cool jobs that pay well.

• Certification or Training Required:  Stunt safety courses and certification from a stunt organization
• Average Annual Salary: $69,442 (Source: ZipRecruiter )

53. Yoga Instructor

As a yoga instructor, you can share your passion with others by helping them find the joy of yoga.

Not only is this job great for your own health and well-being, but it can also be financially rewarding.

You can teach at a local studio or even create your own classes—it all depends on what type of environment you prefer.

• Certification or Training Required:  Yoga teacher training (YTT) and certification from a recognized yoga organization (such as Yoga Alliance)
• Average Annual Salary: $63,629 (Source:  ZipRecruiter )

54. Software Developer

If you’re tech-savvy and have a knack for problem-solving, then software development could be the perfect job for you.

Software developers create programs and applications that help make our lives easier—from social media platforms to productivity tools.

You can specialize in different coding languages, like JavaScript or Python, and work on interesting projects that are always evolving.

• Education Requirements:  Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or related field
• Certification or Training Required:  None, depending on the project or employer
• Average Annual Salary: $109,020 (Source:  US Bureau of Labor Statistics )

55. Interior Designer

Are you creative and have an eye for design? Then consider a fun career as an interior designer.

You can help people transform their homes into beautiful spaces that reflect their personalities.

You’ll get to work with different materials, colors, and furniture to create one-of-a-kind designs.

Whether it’s designing the perfect bedroom or helping a couple decide on the right color palette for their living room, this is one of those high-paying fun jobs that will give you plenty of creative freedom!

• Education Requirements:  An associate’s degree is necessary to be certified, but many interior designers these days are self-taught
• Average Annual Salary: $66,607 (Source:  ZipRecruiter )

56. Freelance Writer

Do you have a knack for storytelling and writing and want to be your own boss? Then consider becoming a freelance writer.

You can write for magazines, websites, blogs, books—the list goes on!

You could also become a copywriter , ghostwriter , or try your hands at writing your own book.

You’ll get to work at your own pace and make your own hours while having the freedom to choose the topics that interest you most.

Plus, it’s one of those cool jobs that pays well too.

• Average Annual Salary: $51,128 (Source:  Indeed )

57. Flight Attendant

If you love traveling and meeting new people, then being a flight attendant could be the perfect job for you.

Flight attendants are responsible for providing in-flight services to passengers such as serving food and drinks, helping with safety procedures, and answering any questions they may have about the airline.

It’s a great way to travel around the world while getting paid—talk about one of those fun careers!

• Education Requirements:  High school diploma or GED
• Certification or Training Required:  Certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
• Average Annual Salary: $39,547 (Source:  Indeed )

58. Personal Shopper

Do you have a knack for shopping and finding the perfect styles for people? A job as a personal shopper could be pretty exciting.

Personal shoppers help clients find clothes that suit their style and budget, as well as provide advice on what to buy. You could even go shopping with them if needed!

It’s one of those fun jobs that are great if you love fashion and enjoy helping others look their best.

• Average Annual Salary: $32,281 (Source: ZipRecruiter )

FAQs About Fun Jobs That Pay Well

Some of the most fun jobs that pay well include web developer, ethical hacker, real estate agent, video game tester, storyboard artist, and robotics engineer. Each of these jobs offer the potential to make a good living while also offering the opportunity for creative and interesting work.

The easiest job that pays well might depend on what you find easy. However, some jobs that tend to be relatively low in stress and complexity and pay decent wages include web developer, software engineer, accountant, customer service representative, teacher, pharmacist, or nurse. It all depends on your skill set and interests.

If you’re looking for a job that’s both fun and rewarding, there are plenty of awesome options out there! From working as a travel writer to becoming an ice cream taster, there is no shortage of unique and exciting jobs to explore. For the more daring among us, why not consider being a stunt person? But if you don’t want to risk your life, there are plenty of other options. Other options include event planner, cupcake artist, and yoga instructor!

If you want to make $100K a year with minimal effort, then suddenly winning the lottery might be your best option! But if you want to do something a little more tangible, then we’d suggest becoming a professional gambler. The most successful gamblers are able to take calculated risks and have the discipline to set limits for themselves. While it’s not easy, with the right skill set, it’s possible to make six figures in no time!

Conclusion on Fun, High-Paying Jobs

The world of work is constantly evolving and presenting new job openings in a variety of fields, especially for those looking for something different.

There are a variety of fun, high-paying jobs out there, such as park rangers, voice actors, personal shoppers, ethical hackers, real estate agents, video game testers, storyboard artists, and robotics engineers.

Each job offers the opportunity to make a good living while also offering unique challenges that can be both rewarding and enjoyable.

So if you’re looking for a fun and exciting career that is also financially viable, consider taking a deeper dive into some of these exciting possibilities.

You never know what potential job opportunities await with these jobs that pay well.

• 17 Low-Stress Jobs That Pay Insanely Well

Featured in:

What if we told you that there are a host of jobs around the world that have a stress-free environment and you get to cash out a big fat check at the end of the month?

Sounds too good to be true, right?

It just so happens that working hard and the amount of stress you take home doesn’t magically multiply your earnings. Certain jobs allow you to enjoy a colorful lifestyle without having to bear the brunt of an empty wallet at the end of the month .

The reason for low-stress high paying jobs to exist mostly comes down to a few factors such as high qualification requirement, demand for talent, and the employer.

Let’s face it, if your job weren’t in demand, it would just be a low-stress low paying job.

EXPLORE THE MEANING BEHIND LOW-STRESS HIGH-PAYING JOBS

What exactly are “low-stress high-paying” jobs.

Low-stress and high-paying jobs rank high in job satisfaction and have a higher median salary compared to other jobs in the market. In short, a professional gets to enjoy the perfect work-life balance without having any regrets. In a low-stress high-paying job you get to spend plenty of time for leisure activities while also earning a high income at the end of the month.

Your first question on hearing this would be — So why isn’t everyone working in these jobs? Well, the answer would come down to employers requiring a valid degree or certification from an authorized institute. The effort requires you to spend a few years of your life studying at a premier institute to even have a chance at landing these jobs.

For your efforts, you are given a well-settled career with a great income. Not many are willing to put the extra effort to acquire these dream jobs and hence, the demand for them has gotten higher. If you have the time to acquire the knowledge, then consider following the path of these high-profile jobs.

Why are jobs listed as “Low-Stress High-Paying” category? Don’t all jobs come with the same amount of career pressure?

The reason certain jobs are listed in this category is due to the supply and demand factor. There are many jobs that aren’t sought after due to various reasons — high qualifications requirement, exceptional talent as a vital prerequisite, and mandatory level of experience. Career pressure builds when a job contains many responsibilities and you are in no position to handle them.

Low-stress high paying jobs usually have limited responsibilities and require a high-skilled individual to concentrate on just one thing at a time.

For example, a photographer has no real stress while taking photos in the wildlands, on the contrary, it’s something relaxing to do and he gets paid for it. However, in a corporate environment, you have incoming deadlines and a presentation to showcase to your board of directors before a proposed date, you are constantly under a taxing pressure to impress them.

For reducing stress and other annoyances at work. Here is a detailed video walkthrough by Noah Elkrief that explains how you can cope with a stressful environment.

KEY REQUIREMENTS FOR “LOW-STRESS HIGH-PAYING JOBS”

Here is a list of factors that are responsible for the rising demand for low-stress high-paying jobs and why they are sought after when compared to other stressful options.

• Qualification. It goes without saying — an educational qualification is almost a necessity to get a job in the “low-stress high-paying” bracket. There are only a handful of jobs in this category that might forgo this requirement and hence, it’s necessary to pursue certifications frequently to grow in your field.
• Talent. Based on your talent and grasping power to learn new trends, you can expect to move through the ranks and eventually hit the top positions in no time. The best part of a high-demand job is that you will be duly rewarded for your time with numerous benefits such as investments and a possible share of the company.
• Expertise. The amount of experience is directly proportionate to your salary at the end of the month. Say you are a senior software developer with over 10-years of experience, the company will be willing to hire you for a higher pay over someone with a 2 to 3-year experience. Expertise is a key requirement for most high-profile jobs.
• Job Descriptions. An important aspect of landing your dream job is to consider the type of job description you receive in your joining letter. For example, as a medical practitioner, you will be paid more and have lesser responsibilities when compared to a nurse who must put in more hours and naturally has a higher stress factor to deal with and a far lesser pay.

17 JOBS THAT OFFER YOU A STRESS-FREE ENVIRONMENT AND PAY HANDSOMELY WELL

The following list compiles a set of 17 high profile jobs with their job satisfaction meter and median salaries to help you determine the perfect career path for you.

1. Computer Hardware Engineer

Job Overview:

Due to the progress of technological innovation, the demand for computer hardware engineers grows at an astounding rate every year. Every software industry offers employment in the hardware field and even electronic and manufacturing industries require computer hardware engineers to help in research and development of new products.

The primary duties of a computer hardware engineer are to come up with new schematics for computer equipment while analyzing the test results of existing equipment and making the necessary changes. They are also tasked with the responsibilities of supervising various manufacturing processes within the hardware industry.

This job pays high due to the skill requirement of every candidate and due to the technological expansion in the digital age. Every computer hardware engineer needs to be trained to understand the hardware components that go with the latest software. Hence, this job requires a minimum qualifying degree in one of the below-mentioned qualifications if you are looking to pursue this career path.

Job Satisfaction Rating : 7/10

Median Salary : $113,441

Minimum Educational Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering or similar field.

The job of a curator is not an easy one but can be extremely rewarding and stress-free if you have the talent for it. Curators mostly work with cataloging, managing, and organizing exhibits within an art gallery or a museum. Curators must also maintain and restore artifacts and collectibles to their former glory.

The work of a curator is an interesting activity as it’s filled with constantly compiling and researching information on historic prominence. If you are infatuated with the past and have a talent for identifying value in old and worn out paintings, then a curator’s life could be your calling. As a curator, you may also be called upon for interviewing and hiring other staff members within the gallery. You are also in charge of raising funds and collaborating with other renowned institutions to host events.

It’s no surprise as to why a curator gets paid a 6-digit yearly income due to the sheer number of responsibilities handed over to him. The job itself has minimum stress as it deals with a quiet life of overseeing collections and preserved items.

Job Satisfaction Rating : 8/10

Median Salary : $126,506

Minimum Educational Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree (preferably in Art, Museum Studies, or History)

3. Freelance Photographer

What’s not to love about taking pictures of your surroundings and getting paid for it? Freelance photography is one of the most adventurous and exciting career paths available. However, it’s not as easy as earning dollars for every time someone says “cheese”. Freelance photographers are required to utilize their creative side and have an artistic touch with reality.

You are tasked with finding unique landscapes and people from various tribes to convert into artistic photos and sell as a digital asset. Be prepared to invest a lot in acquiring high-tech cameras, photo editing equipment, and free photo editing software . This isn’t a job that allows you to start with nothing in your wallet, but it can surely guarantee a lucrative career for the rest of your life if you decide to invest.

Freelance photographers are in great demand by startups, businesses, and corporate giants as visually appealing photographs are highly sought after. As a freelance photographer, it would do you good to brush up on your people skills as you are required to negotiate pricing and other interpersonal relationships .

Job Satisfaction Rating : 10/10

Median Salary : $180,000

Minimum Educational Qualifications: Not Needed but a Bachelor’s Degree in Photography is available to pursue.

If you’re looking to become a freelance photographer, here are a few beginner tips by Roberto Blake. Ensure you utilize them while taking your new snaps.

4. Food Technologist

Every time you try a new food product and relish the flavor, you have a food technologist to thank for. This job consists of researching and analyzing food to improve taste and to enhance preservation for better storage and distribution. A food technologist is hired based on providing input on how to sell an edible product and how to enhance its taste.

Food technologists work with other research and development professionals within the food industry to ensure food products are passing the bar as far as the government standards of quality are concerned. They are also required to maintain sanitary regulations while balancing the nutrient content of foods that are developed.

If you are someone that loves food or understands how a food industry works, this may very well be your ideal dream job as research in food engineering is a growing industry. Food scientists are always needed, and the stress of this job is eliminated due to the pleasant working conditions.

Job Satisfaction Rating : 6/10

Median Salary :  $75,750

Minimum Educational Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree (in Product Development or Applied Research)

5. Robotics Engineer

If you have been fascinated by the Transformers series or any robotic science fiction show, then perhaps you will fall in love with being a Robotics Engineer. At the core of duties, a robotic engineer spends most of his time designing and building machines used in various production and technical industries. Robotic engineers perform operations related to the performance of robotic mechanisms and other core components.

The future is heavily set to target the Artificial Intelligence, with many countries openly showing their support. Robotic engineers will soon face heavy demand in industries looking to automate their production via precision systems utilizing robotics as their prime manufacturing tactics.

As someone who loves automation, if you enjoy fiddling with hi-tech gadgets and operating machinery, then robotics engineering is the path for you. However, if you have no interest in electronics or artificial intelligence, then the job can get stressful and will eventually bore you out.

Median Salary : 88,856

Minimum Educational Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree in Science (for entry-level positions) master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (advanced robotics placements and managerial positions)

6. Massage Therapist

A massage therapist enjoys the serene environment of working within the relaxing walls of a spa or a beauty center. As a massage therapist, you can enjoy a flexible work schedule by either working for a business or by freelancing and heading over to your client’s home. Many massage therapists have licensed clinics setup and have a loyal following of customers that allow them to earn a lot.

The job description of a massage therapist consists of understanding the physical properties of the human body to provide the necessary healing touch. A massage therapist needs to understand medical procedures in relieving inflamed joints and treating patients suffering from postural ailments. It’s highly crucial for a massage therapist to know emergency treatments such as CPR to administer to a patient during a fatal attack.

Hence, a massage therapist requires certifications regulated at local or state level before starting their profession. There are plenty of programs available to become a licensed masseuse and you are required to renew your certifications after a set period.

Job Satisfaction Rating : 9/10

Median Salary : 85,366

Minimum Educational Qualifications: Certifications regulated by a local or state entity such as Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards

7. Economist

Economists try and understand the social issues relating to the production and distribution of resources using analysis and data collection.

They also prepare charts and reports to interpret market trends that could happen in the future while conducting a host of surveys within an area. As an economist, you get to design and make recommendations to your company to help them solve outstanding issues such as — employment cycles, business data, and exchange rates.

An economist has the golden opportunity of working within the confines of a federal government or a corporate sector, depending on his choice. Economists are highly sought after for their work in organizing data that are critical for companies to increase productivity and ensure profits in the long run.

Economists of all types — labor economists, international economists, financial economists, and econometricians, etc. — earn a pretty penny while enduring low levels of stress as their work revolves around research and development. If you are looking to join the ranks of economist jobs, then a master’s degree is highly recommended if you are to be taken seriously.

Median Salary : 150,348

Minimum Educational Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree in Economics (for entry-level jobs) master’s Degree and Ph.D. (prime placements in business sectors)

8. Technical Writer

The work of a technical writer differs vastly from that of other writers such as a ghostwriter, content writer, or a copywriter. A technical writer doesn’t necessarily have to be creative to come up with content, unlike other listed writers. The technical writer’s job is to decide the clearest and the most logical way to compile information and write them down. Since there is very little left to the imagination, the technical writer doesn’t have the stress of being creative to come up with new presentations.

A technical writer must possess knowledge in understanding subject matter related to a specialized product and proper research must be conducted to understand how it functions. If research and development in products and applications fascinate you, then the work of a technical writer is suited for your purpose.

It’s important to always stay up-to-date with the latest trends, the more informed you are of technology, the more in demand your services are.

Median Salary : 75,682

Minimum Educational Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology or Communications

9. Biostatistician

We’ve all come across statistics and claims made in newspapers and articles such as “81% of children in Africa suffer from malnutrition”. The ones responsible for compiling and dissecting the data are known as biostatisticians. Their sole job is to determine the various factors responsible for the impact on the well-being of life — plants, animals, and human life.

Biostatisticians conduct studies and experiments to collect findings related to agriculture and biology. They are highly sought after by the pharmaceutical industries for their clinical studies and biological experiments. The data they provide can help in shaping the way medicines are produced and can also highlight medical issues and other risks that may remain undiagnosed without the help of a biostatistician.

If you are interested in understanding human life and evaluating information related to medicine, then a life of a biostatistician is for you. Biostatisticians are well respected in the medical world as well as the agricultural sector. They are usually found comfortably nested in their office spaces with the necessary means of travel provided to them at a second’s notice.

Median Salary : 90,656

Minimum Educational Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Biology or Psychology or Geoscience.

10. Marketing Manager

A marketing manager is a vital individual to any company that sells services and products. The role of a marketing manager is to attract customers and clients to the company through spontaneous advertisements. He provides a detailed breakdown of the product while explaining the advantages and converts a query into a sale.

As a marketing manager, you are required to have a sharp mind to quickly conjure up advertising campaigns and other public engaging endorsements. If you have the knack to be creative in your venture, the marketing manager can quickly climb through the ranks and become a force to be reckoned with in the company.

This isn’t a path for everyone, to be a marketing manager, you first need to buckle up your communication skills to impress your clients. To negotiate and seal the contract, you need to come up with witty ideas on the go. If your marketability can be banked upon by your seniors, you can soon find yourself a comfortable corner desk offering you the best view of the city.

Median Salary : 125,559

Minimum Educational Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration or Marketing

11. Audiologist

Audiologists around the world have one thing in common — they all enjoy an extremely low level of work stress thanks to the nature of their work. A typical work day in the life of an audiologist consists of greeting their patients and discussing their symptoms related to hearing disorders. Anything ear-related and an audiologist is the person to seek help from.

As complicated as the medical field is, the audiologist enjoys a relatively easier form of diagnosis, thanks to a set of sophisticated technology and equipment that is available in their vicinity. Much of their work revolves around determining the cause and communicating to the patient in a well-mannered way.

The audiologist is a great career path for medical enthusiasts looking for a less stressful job without having to deal with the other parts of the human body.

Median Salary : 80.365

Minimum Educational Qualifications: Doctoral degree in Audiology

12. Dietitian

A dietitian’s world revolves around healthy eating and an overall positive feel-good environment. Every patient that visits a dietitian usually ends up leaving the room with a smile on their face. Since the dietitian’s responsibility lies in explaining the nutrition to their patients to help them lose weight.

The dietitian’s job is a great career move to consider if you enjoy helping people get fit and remove them from a world of negative influence. A dietitian helps in facilitating the necessary dietary changes required by an individual to help reduce the ailment they are currently suffering from — high level of cholesterol, diabetes, blood thinning, etc.

If you possess the caring nature required to help your patient heal through the magic of food, then acquiring an honors degree in either dietetics or a science degree can qualify you as a licensed dietitian. You are required to have great communication skills if you want to maintain interpersonal relationships with your patients.

Median Salary : 60,115

Minimum Educational Qualifications: Honor’s Degree in Dietetics or Bachelor’s Degree in Science

13. Astronomer

Does the subject of the universe fascinate you? Do you like star gazing at an open night sky just trying to unlock the mysteries of the galaxy? A job as an Astronomer might just be the right fit for you.

Astronomers work as part of the research team to identify various celestial bodies and develop data based on the characteristics of stars, planets, and artificial satellites.

Astronomers require a high level of education usually a Ph.D. in Astronomy to conduct experiments within the subject. If you have a keen sense of solving problems related to mathematics and physics, you could apply for astrophysics and planetary physics to guide you on the ropes of Astronomy.

If you are selected by the federal government to conduct research, you may require the necessary security clearance to go on about with your activities.

Astronomers earn a large 6-figure income for their hard work and research. The amount of funding can raise this income up by several notches depending on the research matter.

Median Salary : 121,514

Minimum Educational Qualifications: Ph.D. in Astronomy

14. IT Manager

The responsibilities within the IT Manager job description includes the management of computer systems and information technology. As a managerial post, you are required to hire and train personnel with an IT background for various electronic data operations . You also get to design, develop, coordinate and implement various policies related to security and other system functionality.

A job in the IT industry is considered the industry’s gold standard and is highly sought after. A career in IT management can set you up for big promotions in the future if you can oversee your responsibilities. The IT dream is your calling If you like coordinating with a team and setting up projects to make a difference for other businesses, then.

Although the job is stress-free, the timings can be quite erratic due to extended deadlines and clients requiring you to work extra hours. The fat paycheck is the cherry on top of a stress-free environment.

Median Salary : 140,191

Minimum Educational Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology or Computer Science

15. Software Developer

A software developer or better known as a computer programmer plays a prominent role in maintaining and testing software systems. A well-established software developer can produce programs required by the company to address a situation and can also test products before launching them.

The knowledge of programming is required by any company and you need to have an expertise in many different computer languages such as — C++, Ruby, Java, Visual Basic, HTML5, PHP, etc.

If you love creating something new every day, the life of a programmer is just what you need. It’s an exciting job filled with real challenges that you need to solve daily. Software developers are highly respected in businesses, hence, there isn’t peer pressure on you to perform.

This is a low-stress job that requires you to tackle problems and have an eye for detail. You may find yourself working in a team if required.

Software developers have various career paths to progress — senior developer, systems designer, business system analyst, and project manager.

Median Salary : 110,348

Minimum Educational Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree in Software Development or Information Technology or Computer Science or Software Engineering

16. Art Director

An art director’s main objective is to activate his creativity and have a complete understanding of typography, photography, and advertising. Many businesses hire art directors to collaborate and work on designs related to advertising campaigns.

Art directors are tasked with the responsibility of coming up with advertising ideas based on cultural and social trends. If a budget is given by the company, an art director must do his best to stay within the boundaries of the budget.

An art director has the freedom of pursuing a freelance career or work for an advertising agency to generate leads. The life of an art director is remotely flexible and works on a typical 9-5 routine. Much of the work comes from working indoors and without the necessary need to constantly travel and keep in touch with the clients.

This job offers full freedom to design what your mind can muster up and there is not much stress involved in pursuing this career.

Median Salary : 95,830

Minimum Educational Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts or Photography or Digital Media

17. Mathematician

Mathematicians utilize theories and concepts to solve real-world problems related to business activities and other scientific research. Mathematicians are highly skilled thinkers and hence, use mathematical formulas and various models to prove a specific theory to fully explain it. Numbers are their favorite brain food and to become a mathematician, you need to fall in love with numbers or have an acquired taste for them.

As a mathematician, you can follow various career paths such as “Applied mathematician” — known for their problem-solving qualities in a practical world and “Theoretical mathematicians” — known to solve problems of unexplained issues.

A job as a mathematician will leave you with the hunger for knowledge and scientific achievements. In such an event, there is no room for stress to form and by joining the club of renowned mathematicians, you also ensure you have a high-quality of life due to the 6-figure salary.

Median Salary : 115,640

Minimum Educational Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics or Applied Mathematics (entry-level jobs) master’s degree or Ph.D. (Higher placements)

While it’s great to acquire any one of the following jobs, it’s also an important decision to consider what you really have a passion for. Without passion, any of these jobs can soon turn to boredom and the paycheck won’t be enough to keep you excited.

Take time to decide on any of these paths, there isn’t a bad choice only a hasty one. Once you’ve decided on the skillset, acquire the necessary qualifications and apply to the corresponding companies to ensure you send your resume and get accepted . Remember to always have patience in learning your skills, there’s no need to rush through it.

Alternatively, if you want to go the extra mile and start an online business that earns you 20,000 USD per month, then check out this article .

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23 Problem-solving games for busy work teams

Problem solving is a skill that can serve almost anyone, in any role, in any industry. The ability to think critically, and resolve issues is a welcome talent that is helpful for every organization. How can you encourage such thinking in your team? In this article, we are talking about our favorite problem-solving games, activities, and exercises for work. Use these activities to sharpen the reasoning and decision-making skills of your department or your entire company. Without further ado, let’s dive into the best problem solving games for getting the most of your next work event. 

In-person problem solving games

If you have the opportunity to get your team together in person, that’s a gift! Perhaps you are planning a company retreat or a department-wide in-person meeting. Whatever the circumstances, in today’s more digital workspace, it’s not always easy to have everyone in the same room. When you actually do, make the most of it! These activities are set up for in-person groups. They are part team-building activity, part icebreaker, and all fun! All of these activities are guaranteed to get people thinking, communicating, and having fun. If you have a particularly big group, you may want to browse our article on large group games too. 

1. Treasure hunt

Similar to a scavenger hunt, a treasure hunt is a lot of fun but with a bit more intention. Rather than collecting a random list of items, participants use clues to find more prompts and hints, until the group solves a mystery (or finds a treasure). You can also create a treasure map if you want to play into the “pirate” fantasy a little more. The important thing is that only clues point toward the next stop - areas of the map should not be spelled out, but involve some problem solving and critical thinking to figure out what the clue means. 

2. Story challenge

For the language lovers on your team, try this version of an ongoing story icebreaker. To play, each person receives a number of words (a word bank) that they can use to create a story. Then, everyone reads their piece out loud or presents it to the group. To come up with the words available for each person, you can use a random word generator online, or get creative. For example, consider instructing participants that they can only use words from the company website, or from the emails they received in their inbox yesterday. 

3. Moral dilemma

Similar to a “ would you rather ” game, this activity centers on ethical dilemmas. Players should try to flex their moral problem-solving muscles by tackling a social issue. For example, Scruples is a popular board game that can be played. Or, you can look online for versions of games like Dilemma or Quandary. This is a great way to learn more about your colleagues while getting a peek at the way they think. 

4. Build a shelter

How would you survive if you were stranded in an isolated place with a blizzard coming? Use this activity to find out! As an added complication, you can pretend that everyone is blinded by frostbite (by using blindfolds). The team leader must give the group instructions for building a shelter that can withstand the arctic winds. To play, you need a large space and some supplies. Then, select a leader (who can see) and blindfold everyone else. You’ll also need a large fan. The leader guides everyone in putting together their shelter (remember, while blindfolded). When everyone feels confident that their shelter is up to the test, turn on the fan and see if the structure can withstand the wind! This game is sure to lead to a lot of laughs and you’ll be surprised at some of the clever ideas that people come up with. This is also a powerful exercise for effective leadership - it’s not easy to reach a goal with a group that is blindfolded! Check out our article on team activities especially for leadership as well.

5. Improv games

You may think of improv games as more of an icebreaker activity, but the truth is there is a lot of brain power that goes into well-done improv. Look for ways to add both logic and entertainment to your next improv effort. Consider scenarios like banned words, where people cannot use a certain list of words, or “miracle cure”, where one person shares a problem they’re having and the other person must come up with the solution on the spot. Both are fun and easy ideas that don’t require anything but willing participants! If you need some other quick and easy team building activities , make sure to follow our blog. 

6. Spaghetti tower

In this classic team building game, users try to build a tower using uncooked pasta noodles and marshmallows. The instructions are simple: use the tools at your disposal to design and build the tallest tower in order to win the challenge. You can judge on height alone, or weigh other factors like innovation, number of towers, or stability. For more simple team building activities , make sure to follow our blog. 

7. What would you do?

Another classic icebreaker, this game involves coming up with some scenarios that require brain power to address. Here are some prompts you can use with your group: 

• What would you do if you were at the zoo and all the animals escaped? 
• What would you do if you were the first person to find out about an upcoming zombie apocalypse? 
• What would you do if you were in line for a really important item, and a person cut in front of you, getting the last item? 
• What would you do if you were invited for dinner at the home of someone you really needed to impress, and the food was terrible? 
• What would you do if an imposter that looks and acts just like you infiltrated your organization? How can you convince everyone that you’re the “real” you?

8. “MacGyver” challenge

MacGyver is an older television program where the hero escaped sticky situations by improvising tools made of unlikely materials. You can recreate this set-up in your event space or office. To play, challenge participants to use 3-5 items to reach a desired end result. For example, something like “a way to pick the door lock” or “escape vehicle” are fun options. You can either set out some various equipment, or have people collect their own based on what they can find around the office. Note: if you are doing this in a conference room or other rented space, it makes sense to have a table set up with random odds and ends for people to pick from. 

9. Egg drop challenge

This one will take you back to high school physics class! Break a larger group into smaller teams and challenge them to come up with a container that will protect an egg even when it’s dropped from up high. You can either let people know far enough in advance that they can discuss, design, and collect materials; or you can have supplies ready and have everyone build their creation on the spot. If you go that route, you’ll want to provide a variety of boxes, packing supplies, rubber bands, fabric, etc. Then set up a ladder and have each team drop their container and see if their egg remained intact. 

10. Shrinking circle

Adaptability and flexibility are huge in the business world. One way to focus on both of those items is by playing this simple and silly game. Start out by using a rope to create a large circle that everyone can fit in. Then, every few minutes, make the circle a bit smaller. Depending on how large the circle is in the first place, you can take away an inch or a foot each round. The challenge is for everyone present to stay inside the circle. This will require some serious innovation once the circle gets small, and lots of laughs almost always ensue. Note: People are likely to end up touching each other in this exercise. It’s difficult not to once the space gets small, like a game of Twister. You know your colleagues best - if that level of closeness would make anyone uncomfortable, it’s probably best to try a different exercise. 

Out-of-the-office problem-solving activities

Everyone once in a while, it can be really valuable to get out of your usual work environment and into a new mental space. If your team is planning a multi-day retreat, don’t be afraid to include an organized activity that will help everyone to think more critically. Most towns have at least one option for getting your group together and learning some new ways to problem solve. Do some research on what you have available locally, or work with an organization like Surf Office who can plan your next retreat - including the fun elements that your employees will be talking about for months to come! If you know that you can’t get out of the office right now, stick to this list of indoor team building activities . 

11. Escape room

The goal of an escape room is to follow a series of clues and take on some challenges in order to unlock the space that everyone is locked in. There are usually 5 - 10 puzzles that teams will work together to figure out. Typically finishing one leads to another clue, so that participants can move onto the next phase. Only when they’ve successfully completed all of the tasks can they find the key and escape. While you can definitely set up an escape room on your own, we think it’s worth finding a local version in your town (or wherever your retreat is taking place). These are professionally set up and usually in really cool spaces like an underground bunker or a historic building. An escape room is a good excuse to get out of the office and spend time with coworkers in a new environment. 

12. Murder mystery

These story-based games have people take on a role in a pretend scenario. They may take on a role like detective, dinner guest, or even killer in their dinner. Most of the time the games involve reading lines from a script, searching for clues, or even solving some simple challenges to move onto the next phase. Participants have to pay attention to conversations and context clues in order to get an understanding of who the killer might be. Observation and logic are key to catching the killer. Some murder mysteries involve getting dressed up and having a nice dinner, so if you’re looking for an idea for a big night out capping off your next retreat, this is perfect. 

13. Ax throwing

What do axes have to do with problem solving? You might be surprised. This is definitely an activity you’ll want to go to a professional venue for. Ax throwing outfits have everything you need, plus the right safety precautions. They have everything set up with the proper distances, buffers between throwing stations, safe ax materials, etc. Plus, many of them offer food and drinks! Ax throwing can help with problem solving because most people don’t excel at it their first time. It takes some practice and careful consideration to figure out where to stand, the best stance, the force of the throw, etc. As you take turns, you’ll make adjustments and also consider new methods based on observing your teammates. The more you watch and the more you try, the better you’ll get. In fact, instead of having people compete against each other, we suggest having the team compete against themselves, aiming for a higher total score in their second or third consecutive game. This activity allows you to observe others and then optimize - essentially learning from each other. 

14. Paper boat race

If you are able to visit a location by water, you can try this really fun activity. In this fun and creative exercise, participants build a small boat with paper (and other supplies) and then race them in a small body of water like a pond or stream. The boats are usually made by folding paper into a boat shape, but you can also try offering cardboard, balloons, popsicle sticks, or other crafty materials. You’ll also want to supply materials for decorating so that everyone can really have their creation stand out. Obviously the person who reaches the finish line first is the winner, but you can offer a few other prizes just for fun, like most beautiful boat or best effort. Make sure to check out our article on other creativity and innovation games , too. 

Problem-solving puzzles

When it’s just not possible to get everyone together, you can still encourage your team to put on their thinking caps and hone their skills. There are tons of critical thinking games, puzzles , and even apps that people can use to practice problem solving. You can encourage your team members to play these games in their spare time, or even set up a competition where people log minutes playing such games or using the apps. If you’re feeling really generous, give everyone a small stiped to be used on a problem solving app of their choice. This special touch makes a nice addition to a holiday gift, too!

Sudoku has become one of the most popular problem solving games for adults. There are dozens of free app options, as well as paperback books that you can pick up. The goal of this game is to fill each box on a 9×9 grid so that every row, column, and letter contains each number from one to nine. It sounds tricky - and it is - but players tend to find it addicting and the game has grown a huge following in recent years. Encourage people to play on their own by downloading an app or purchasing a puzzle book, or as a team by having the puzzles available in your office or at your next event. 

16. Crossword puzzles

These classic word games have players fill out words based on clues. Words interconnect, and people must think critically about the context clues of what they’ve filled out so far. These puzzles are super versatile and one of the best things about them is that you can make them yourself so they are themed. You can use an online crossword puzzle maker to create a custom puzzle with clues about your business or other relevant subjects. For your next event, it might be fun to have a custom crossword puzzle about your company history or trivia! 

17. Tic-tac-toe tournament

It sounds a little silly, but tic-tac-toe requires more brain power than one might think. Set up an ongoing tic-tac-toe board in your office and encourage people to use it on their breaks or when they have a few minutes to kill. You can set up a scoreboard and keep track of the leader; it’s a lot of fun to see the rankings change and to challenge the top performers. If you need an even simpler version of the same concept, simply set up the Connect Four game board in your break room and let people have at it! 

Problem-solving for virtual teams 

If your team is a bit scattered, it doesn’t mean that you can’t practice solving challenges together. In our digital world, there are plenty of options for online activities that teams can work on either independently or as a group. In the section above, we shared some ideas for independent work. These ideas are designed to bring your team together, no matter where they are. Set a time and have everyone hop onto your preferred communication tool, and then work together tackling these challenges. 

18. Virtual hackathon

A hackathon normally refers to an event where participants have a set amount of time to design and pitch a new product or solution. It’s normally used in the tech space for pitching things like new apps, but you can apply the concept in lots of other ways too. In this online version, teams work with each other using virtual meeting software and pitch ideas to a panel of judges. This type of event requires some advance notice for the participants, as they’ll want to collect a team and come up with some designs. If you want to raise the stakes, offer a prize for first place.

19. Online escape room

Just like an in-person escape room, in an online version people must solve a variety of puzzles in order to make it “out”. Digital escape rooms normally come in one of two ways: in a Zoom “room” led by a host, or in a choose-your-own-adventure style via Google Forms or other websites. To play virtually, staff will enter the meeting and follow the prompts they get, and it might involve screen sharing some Google tools to work on puzzles together. Because of the platforms and tools that may be involved, this activity is better for teams who are a bit more tech-savvy and comfortable with online meetings, apps, etc. 

20. Survival plans

Prioritizing is an important mental exercise. You can work on this with a game about survival. Have everyone imagine they are stranded on a desert island, and they must decide the correct order to perform life-saving steps in. Have this list handy, and ask everyone to pair off or get in small groups and number the list according to the best likelihood of survival: 

• Set up shelter
• Look around the island
• Signal for help
• Create weapons for self-defense
• Build a raft for water
• Start a fire
• Select a group leader
• Find other survivors
• Anything else you think of! 

The catch is that everyone must agree on the order of events!  That will typically involve discussion and coming to some sort of consensus. Once everyone is done with the exercise, have them present to the larger group and explain their reasoning. This exercise is good for team-building, communication, and problem resolution. Plus, you will be better prepared if you ever get stuck on a deserted island! 

21. Online role-playing games (like Dungeons and Dragons)

Seeing how people react in real-world situations is a really interesting way to get to know them better. Find an online game that has real-world actions and consequences, like Dungeons and Dragons. Or, you can make things even simpler by hopping on a Zoom together and reading a Choose Your Own Adventure book aloud, with the reader getting group consensus before making a decision. The important part is the discussion that will occur before choosing the next action. This is helpful for bonding and also helps you to see how your colleagues tick. These activities can be difficult to organize for big groups, so if you have a substantial team, try some of these team building activities for large groups instead. 

22. Google Docs story

Similar to an ongoing story icebreaker, this game is easy to do online as people have time. You start by creating a Google Doc that everyone on the team has access to. Then, have people go into the Doc and add to the story that’s developing. If you want, you can pick a prompt to kick things off - or you can just let the first person get creative and go for it! The more specific or bizarre the scenario, the more creative and clever people will have to get to add their portion. 

23. Model UN

Chances are you might be familiar with this concept from high school. Fortunately, adults can have a lot of fun with it too. You can play this virtually as long as everyone is a strong communicator. Each participant should take on the role of an international diplomat, and work together to form alliances and solve crises. Come up with a potential scenario that the UN must work through. Consider things like a global food shortage, natural disaster, or cyber-security threats. If your group is particularly large, you can have multiple people assigned to a country and they will have separate roles. If politics is a sensitive topic on your team, you might want to tweak this exercise to be focused on a business and treat participants like board members - or even a musical group! 

Set the tone of your next company retreat

These problem solving games and activities are great virtually any time - there is something for everyone, whether you’re remote or in person, on a large team or a small one. One of the best ways to implement a problem solving exercise is at the beginning of a team retreat. If you have organized a large meeting or team building event, consider getting things started with such an activity. Many of these problem solving games will get everyone thinking and make people more comfortable, plus a lot of them also serve as a form of icebreaker.

The next time you plan a work retreat , consider including a few of these on the agenda to set the tone for a fun, energizing event. Need help ensuring that your retreat is, in fact, fun and energizing?

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Part-Time Problem-Solving Court Career Resource Specialist

Class Code: 007409 --> Grade: 20 (Exempt) --> Salary: $33,280.00 Closing Date: August 23, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. Grant Funded Position – Potential for Yearly Renewal Part-Time

Montgomery County Circuit Court Employment Application

A Writing Prompt is required. Write about a time that you had an innovative solution to a workplace problem.

CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONTGOMERY COUNTY, MARYLAND

Personnel Class Specification

DEFINITION OF CLASS

The Problem-Solving Court Career Resource Specialist assists Problem-Solving Court participants in attaining sustainable employment.

It is crucial for the employee in this position to exercise discretion and respect when dealing with Problem Solving Court participants, who may be under significant stress. This is essential as they obtain court-ordered services.

The incumbent reports to the Problem-Solving Court Coordinator and is responsible to the acting Problem-Solving Court Judges and/or Judicial Officers.

Circuit Court employees are at-will employees and serve at the discretion of the Administrative Judge. This means that the employee or the Court may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause. The at-will relationship remains in full force and effect, notwithstanding any statements to the contrary made by court personnel or set forth in any documents, including Montgomery County Personnel Regulations.

EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to satisfactorily perform each essential duty. Not all tasks will be required for each Problem-Solving Court participant; the employee will need to assess each person’s life, educational, and professional experiences and structure an individual career development plan accordingly. The same assistance being provided to current program participants will be offered to individuals who have graduated from the program.

Reasonable accommodations will be made in accordance with the applicable law to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

This job description describes the general nature, level of work, and essential functions being performed by a person in this position. The job description shall not be construed to describe an exhaustive list of all duties that may be performed by such a person. It does not proscribe or restrict additional tasks and assignments that may be required by the Problem Solving Court Coordinator, Judicial Officers, and/or the Court Administrator.

• Work with each participant to develop a realistic plan for the achievement of long-term employment and career goals.
• Monitor and formally track client progress on employment plans and provide updates to the Problem-Solving Court team.
• Assist participants with career aptitude testing and discussion of how the results fit into their career development plans.
• Assist participants with resume writing, job searching, and interview skills as appropriate.
• Connect participants with educational opportunities that will assist with long-term employment goals.
• Work with employers (placement agencies, Montgomery County employment resources, community businesses, apprenticeship programs, and corporate partners) willing to hire Problem-Solving Court participants, meeting with them regularly to market the program and submit referrals.
• Document activities in a computer spreadsheet and/or database by the name of the individual being assisted.
• Prepare a monthly progress report for the Problem-Solving Court Coordinator, documenting successes and challenges with all the above tasks.
• Provide clerical support to the Coordinator and Case Managers as needed.
• Maintain a regular, punctual, and reliable level of attendance.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Experience administering career aptitude tests and assisting clients on building their resumes and preparing themselves for employment.
• Knowledge of placement agencies, Montgomery County employment resources, community businesses, apprenticeship programs, and corporate partners willing to work with or hire ex-offenders.
• Ability to work independently and have a high level of interpersonal skills to assist and motivate participants from all walks of life.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential situations.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule – some days in order to meet with employers as well as evenings at least two nights per week to meet with participants who work during the day.
• Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing.
• Ability to exercise a high degree of judgment, tact, diplomacy, discretion, and competence in dealing with judges, attorneys, court personnel, service providers, and Problem-Solving Court participants.
• Ability to maintain good long-term working relationships within and outside the Judiciary.
• Knowledge of and ability to apply fundamentals of business English, spelling, grammar, punctuation, and standard office practices and procedures.
• Excellent telephone manner and experience dealing with the public.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• B.A. degree in psychology, mental health, human services, social work, business, or related field with a minimum of two years of experience working as an employment specialist, human resources agent, job coach, or case manager.
• Experience providing employment services to diverse populations of patrons ranging in age, educational level, and employment background preferred.
• Clear and concise written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to effectively communicate with high-risk populations.
• Ability to work evening hours.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications.
• An equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted for these minimum requirements.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by a person in this position. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all duties that may be performed by such a person.

• Open the Montgomery County Circuit Court Employment Application .
• The fields marked with an asterisk * must be completed to submit the Employment Application.

• In the Upload Attachments dialog, you must upload PDF versions of your Cover Letter, Resume, and Writing Prompt for your Employment Application to be fully accepted.

• In the Create Signature dialog, enter your Full Legal Name and Email.
• The Initials field will be automatically populated based on what is entered into the Full Legal Name field.
• For Signature Type, you may choose Type, Draw, or Upload Custom

• You will be redirected back to the Circuit Court’s Website to the Employment Application Submission Confirmation page.
• You will receive two emails that include a PDF copy of the completed Employment Application along with links to your Cover Letter, Resume, and Writing Prompt.
• Both messages will say they are from the Montgomery County Circuit Court
• One message will have a subject of ‘Signature Confirmation: Employment Application’
• The 2nd message will have a subject of ‘Montgomery County Circuit Court – Employment Application Submission Confirmation’

• You will receive an email that includes a link that will take you back to your Employment Application.
• Be sure to save the password that you created during the registration process. It will be needed to access your previous incomplete Employment Application.

Additional Notes

• It is a good idea to have your Cover Letter, Resume, and Writing Prompt prepared before you complete the Employment Application.
• Your Employment Application will not be accepted until it has been fully completed and submitted with all three attachments.
• If the Employment Application is not complete or the Court has not received all supporting documents, your submission will be returned to you. An email notification will be sent to you requesting further information.
• You will be required to create an account if you need to save your Employment Application and complete it later.

For assistance or additional information about the Employment Application Process, please contact Court Administration at 240-777-9102 or by email at [email protected] .

Employee Success Consultant

• Human Resources
• Professional Staff
• Opening at: Aug 7 2024 at 10:00 CDT

Job Summary:

The Employee Success Consultant supports managers and individual contributors through objective coaching, problem-solving and decision-making assistance, guidance and skill-building to ensure employee success with people-related situations. The Consultant is responsible for maintaining up-to-date knowledge of university policies and procedures, and applicable employment and labor laws. Serves as primary point person for assigned departments.

Duties & Essential Job Functions:

1. Facilitates communication and promotes effective working relationships with employees/managers at all levels and functions, balances employee advocacy with stewardship of University's needs, goals and values; provides direction and support to TCU staff, faculty and administration regarding personal and institutional complaints and issues; collaborates with managers and employees to improve work relationships, build morale, and increase productivity and retention. 2. Serves individuals seeking advice on employee matters by providing coaching and counseling to employees and managers; serves as an objective problem solver. 3. Assists with providing direction on and reinforces consistent and equitable application of employment regulations, laws and TCU policies/procedures; conducts audits; identifies and reports compliance issues; coordinates issues with appropriate resources to help identify a successful conclusion. 4. Consults with managers to develop workplace and job expectations and to address performance issues of employees; assists with clarifying goals and objectives; provides counsel related to documenting, coaching and training; assists with preparing and reviewing formal corrective actions documents, including performance improvement plans; provides strategies for resolving complex and critical employment matters. 5. Formulates partnerships across the HR function to deliver value-added service to management and employees that reflect the business objectives of the university and assigned business units. 6. Serves as liaison between assigned units’ management, employees, and HR functional teams, while handling sensitive and confidential matters with discretion and tact. 7. Assists with and delivers training for departments and individual coaching needs. 8. Assists with the coordination of exit interviews for assigned departments; meets with employees, compiles feedback and maintains program metrics reports. 9. Analyzes current processes and procedures and recommends updates to achieve a more effective workflow; regularly maintains process and procedural documentation. 10. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Required Education & Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in business, Human Resources, Organizational Psychology, Labor Relations or related. • 2 plus years’ experience in human resources, counseling, social work, student conduct, mediation or related.

Preferred Education & Experience:

• Master’s degree. • 3 years’ experience as HRBP or HR generalist.

Required Licensure/Certification/Specialized Training:

• Bilingual (written and verbal) in both English and Spanish.

Preferred Licensure, Certification, and/or Specialized Training:

• Training and/or certification in subject object interviews, Outward Mindset, mediation or restorative justice. • EEOC and Title IX related training or certification through a nationally recognized organization. • Experience with case management software and documentation.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Knowledge of and ability to comply with and keep apprised of applicable legislation, standards, policies and procedures pertaining to Human Resources. • Knowledge of dispute resolution techniques and crisis intervention techniques and ability to react calmly and effectively in emergency situations. • Knowledge of problem solving, interviewing, investigating, and research techniques. • Knowledge of and demonstrated proficiency using an integrated administrative system and current computer software programs. Ability to retrieve and analyze data to create reports. • Skill in facilitating and delivering engaging presentations. • Ability to listen objectively to employee concerns and complaints to recommend appropriate course of action. • Ability to manage multiple, on-going and complex caseloads incidents and complaints that ensures the prompt, effective, and equitable conclusion of matters. • Ability to be discreet and vigilant in maintaining confidentiality of sensitive and privileged information. • Ability to evaluate, recommend, and implement operational improvements. • Ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community. • Ability to work independently and as a member of a team serving a common goal.

TCU Core Competencies:

University Core Competencies definitions may be found on the Human Resources website and in the staff performance management system.

Physical Requirements (With or Without Accommodations):

• Visual acuity to read information from computer screens, forms and other printed materials and information. • Able to speak (enunciate) clearly in conversation and general communication. • Hearing ability for verbal communication/conversation/responses via telephone, telephone systems, and face-to-face interactions. • Manual dexterity for typing, writing, standing and reaching, flexibility, body movement for bending, crouching, walking, kneeling and prolonged sitting. • Lifting and moving objects and equipment up to 20 lbs.

Work Environment:

• Work is indoors and sedentary and is subject to schedule changes and/or variable work hours. • Travel to various buildings and work locations on campus with occasional off-site travel. • This role is an on campus, in-person position. • There are no harmful environmental conditions present for this job. • The noise level in this work environment is usually moderate.

AA/EEO Statement:

As an AA/EEO employer, TCU recruits, hires, and promotes qualified persons in all job classifications without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ethnic origin, disability, genetic information, covered veteran status, or any other basis protected by law. 

TCU Annual Security Report & Fire Safety Report Notice of Availability

Texas Christian University is committed to assisting all members of the campus community in providing for their own safety and security. TCU’s Annual Security Report and Fire Safety Report is published in compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy & Campus Crime Statistics Act (Clery Act) and the Higher Education Opportunity Act. This report includes statistics for the previous three calendar years concerning reported crimes that occurred on campus, in certain off-campus buildings owned or controlled by the University, and on public property within, or immediately adjacent to and accessible from the campus. The statements of policy contained within this report address institutional policies, procedures, and programs concerning campus security, alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, emergency notifications and timely warning of crimes, sexual and interpersonal violence, and personal safety at TCU. Additionally, this report outlines fire safety systems, policies and procedures for on-campus housing facilities, as well as residence hall fire statistics. 

The Annual Security Report and Fire Safety Report can be found on the TCU Police Department website at https://police.tcu.edu/annual-security-report , or a paper copy of the report may be obtained by contacting the TCU Police Department at 817-257-7930, or via email at [email protected] .

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• NEWS AND VIEWS
• 07 August 2024

Physics solves a training problem for artificial neural networks

• Damien Querlioz 0

Damien Querlioz is at Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, Centre de Nanosciences et de Nanotechnologies, 91120 Palaiseau, France.

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Huge changes are already under way in health care, industry and education as a result of advances in artificial intelligence (AI), but the costs could outweigh the benefits if AI’s enormous energy consumption is not reined in. The problem is that AI relies heavily on deep neural networks, which are layered algorithms that involve millions or even billions of computations, requiring massive, energy-hungry access to the memories in conventional computers. One possible solution is to replace the computers with systems that more closely reflect the physical structure of biological neural networks, but such systems are typically incapable of performing one of the main steps in training the network. In a paper in Nature , Xue et al . 1 report an ingenious workaround that uses physics to overcome the problem.

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Xue, Z. et al. Nature 632 , 280–286 (2024).

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McMahon, P. L. Nature Rev. Phys. 5 , 717–734 (2023).

Ross, A. et al. Nature Nanotechnol. 18 , 1273–1280 (2023).

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Ambrogio, S. et al. Nature 620 , 768–775 (2023).

Lee, R. H., Mulder, E. A. B. & Hopkins, J. B. Sci. Robot. 7 , eabq7278 (2022).

Marković, D., Mizrahi, A., Querlioz, D. & Grollier, J. Nature Rev. Phys. 2 , 499–510 (2020).

Wright, L. G. et al. Nature 601 , 549–555 (2022).

Scellier, B., Ernoult, M., Kendall, J. & Kumar, S. Adv. Neural Inf. Proc. Syst . 36 , 52705–52731 (2023); available at https://go.nature.com/4fmijnb .

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What Kamala Harris has said so far on key issues in her campaign

As she ramps up her nascent presidential campaign, Vice President Kamala Harris is revealing how she will address the key issues facing the nation.

In speeches and rallies, she has voiced support for continuing many of President Joe Biden’s measures, such as lowering drug costs , forgiving student loan debt and eliminating so-called junk fees. But Harris has made it clear that she has her own views on some key matters, particularly Israel’s treatment of Gazans in its war with Hamas.

In a departure from her presidential run in 2020, the Harris campaign has confirmed that she’s moved away from many of her more progressive stances, such as her interest in a single-payer health insurance system and a ban on fracking.

Harris is also expected to put her own stamp and style on matters ranging from abortion to the economy to immigration, as she aims to walk a fine line of taking credit for the administration’s accomplishments while not being jointly blamed by voters for its shortcomings.

Her early presidential campaign speeches have offered insights into her priorities, though she’s mainly voiced general talking points and has yet to release more nuanced plans. Like Biden, she intends to contrast her vision for America with that of former President Donald Trump. ( See Trump’s campaign promises here .)

“In this moment, I believe we face a choice between two different visions for our nation: one focused on the future, the other focused on the past,” she told members of the historically Black sorority Zeta Phi Beta at an event in Indianapolis in late July. “And with your support, I am fighting for our nation’s future.”

Here’s what we know about Harris’ views:

Harris took on the lead role of championing abortion rights for the administration after Roe v. Wade was overturned in June 2022. This past January, she started a “ reproductive freedoms tour ” to multiple states, including a stop in Minnesota thought to be the first by a sitting US president or vice president at an abortion clinic .

On abortion access, Harris embraced more progressive policies than Biden in the 2020 campaign, as a candidate criticizing his previous support for the Hyde Amendment , a measure that blocks federal funds from being used for most abortions.

Policy experts suggested that although Harris’ current policies on abortion and reproductive rights may not differ significantly from Biden’s, as a result of her national tour and her own focus on maternal health , she may be a stronger messenger.

High prices are a top concern for many Americans who are struggling to afford the cost of living after a spell of steep inflation. Many voters give Biden poor marks for his handling of the economy, and Harris may also face their wrath.

In her early campaign speeches, Harris has echoed many of the same themes as Biden, saying she wants to give Americans more opportunities to get ahead. She’s particularly concerned about making care – health care, child care, elder care and family leave – more affordable and available.

Harris promised at a late July rally to continue the Biden administration’s drive to eliminate so-called “junk fees” and to fully disclose all charges, such as for events, lodging and car rentals. In early August, the administration proposed a rule that would ban airlines from charging parents extra fees to have their kids sit next to them.

On day one, I will take on price gouging and bring down costs. We will ban more of those hidden fees and surprise late charges that banks and other companies use to pad their profits.”

Since becoming vice president, Harris has taken more moderate positions, but a look at her 2020 campaign promises reveals a more progressive bent than Biden.

As a senator and 2020 presidential candidate, Harris proposed providing middle-class and working families with a refundable tax credit of up to $6,000 a year (per couple) to help keep up with living expenses. Titled the LIFT the Middle Class Act, or Livable Incomes for Families Today, the measure would have cost at the time an estimated $3 trillion over 10 years.

Unlike a typical tax credit, the bill would allow taxpayers to receive the benefit – up to $500 – on a monthly basis so families don’t have to turn to payday loans with very high interest rates.

As a presidential candidate, Harris also advocated for raising the corporate income tax rate to 35%, where it was before the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act that Trump and congressional Republicans pushed through Congress reduced the rate to 21%. That’s higher than the 28% Biden has proposed.

Affordable housing was also on Harris’ radar. As a senator, she introduced the Rent Relief Act, which would establish a refundable tax credit for renters who annually spend more than 30% of their gross income on rent and utilities. The amount of the credit would range from 25% to 100% of the excess rent, depending on the renter’s income.

Harris called housing a human right and said in a 2019 news release on the bill that every American deserves to have basic security and dignity in their own home.

Consumer debt

Hefty debt loads, which weigh on people’s finances and hurt their ability to buy homes, get car loans or start small businesses, are also an area of interest to Harris.

As vice president, she has promoted the Biden administration’s initiatives on student debt, which have so far forgiven more than $168 billion for nearly 4.8 million borrowers . In mid-July, Harris said in a post on X that “nearly 950,000 public servants have benefitted” from student debt forgiveness, compared with only 7,000 when Biden was inaugurated.

A potential Harris administration could keep that momentum going – though some of Biden’s efforts have gotten tangled up in litigation, such as a program aimed at cutting monthly student loan payments for roughly 3 million borrowers enrolled in a repayment plan the administration implemented last year.

The vice president has also been a leader in the White House efforts to ban medical debt from credit reports, noting that those with medical debt are no less likely to repay a loan than those who don’t have unpaid medical bills.

In a late July statement praising North Carolina’s move to relieve the medical debt of about 2 million residents, Harris said that she is “committed to continuing to relieve the burden of medical debt and creating a future where every person has the opportunity to build wealth and thrive.”

Health care

Harris, who has had shifting stances on health care in the past, confirmed in late July through her campaign that she no longer supports a single-payer health care system .

During her 2020 campaign, Harris advocated for shifting the US to a government-backed health insurance system but stopped short of wanting to completely eliminate private insurance.

The measure called for transitioning to a Medicare-for-All-type system over 10 years but continuing to allow private insurance companies to offer Medicare plans.

The proposal would not have raised taxes on the middle class to pay for the coverage expansion. Instead, it would raise the needed funds by taxing Wall Street trades and transactions and changing the taxation of offshore corporate income.

When it comes to reducing drug costs, Harris previously proposed allowing the federal government to set “a fair price” for any drug sold at a cheaper price in any economically comparable country, including Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Japan or Australia. If manufacturers were found to be price gouging, the government could import their drugs from abroad or, in egregious cases, use its existing but never-used “march-in” authority to license a drug company’s patent to a rival that would produce the medication at a lower cost.

Harris has been a champion on climate and environmental justice for decades. As California’s attorney general, Harris sued big oil companies like BP and ConocoPhillips, and investigated Exxon Mobil for its role in climate change disinformation. While in the Senate, she sponsored the Green New Deal resolution.

During her 2020 campaign, she enthusiastically supported a ban on fracking — but a Harris campaign official said in late July that she no longer supports such a ban.

Fracking is the process of using liquid to free natural gas from rock formations – and the primary mode for extracting gas for energy in battleground Pennsylvania. During a September 2019 climate crisis town hall hosted by CNN, she said she would start “with what we can do on Day 1 around public lands.” She walked that back later when she became Biden’s running mate.

Biden has been the most pro-climate president in history, and climate advocates find Harris to be an exciting candidate in her own right. Democrats and climate activists are planning to campaign on the stark contrasts between Harris and Trump , who vowed to push America decisively back to fossil fuels, promising to unwind Biden’s climate and clean energy legacy and pull America out of its global climate commitments.

If elected, one of the biggest climate goals Harris would have to craft early in her administration is how much the US would reduce its climate pollution by 2035 – a requirement of the Paris climate agreement .

Immigration

Harris has quickly started trying to counter Trump’s attacks on her immigration record.

Her campaign released a video in late July citing Harris’ support for increasing the number of Border Patrol agents and Trump’s successful push to scuttle a bipartisan immigration deal that included some of the toughest border security measures in recent memory.

The vice president has changed her position on border control since her 2020 campaign, when she suggested that Democrats needed to “critically examine” the role of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, after being asked whether she sided with those in the party arguing to abolish the department.

In June of this year, the White House announced a crackdown on asylum claims meant to continue reducing crossings at the US-Mexico border – a policy that Harris’ campaign manager, Julie Chavez Rodriguez, indicated in late July to CBS News would continue under a Harris administration.

Trump’s attacks stem from Biden having tasked Harris with overseeing diplomatic efforts in Central America in March 2021. While Harris focused on long-term fixes, the Department of Homeland Security remained responsible for overseeing border security.

She has only occasionally talked about her efforts as the situation along the US-Mexico border became a political vulnerability for Biden. But she put her own stamp on the administration’s efforts, engaging the private sector.

Harris pulled together the Partnership for Central America, which has acted as a liaison between companies and the US government. Her team and the partnership are closely coordinating on initiatives that have led to job creation in the region. Harris has also engaged directly with foreign leaders in the region.

Experts credit Harris’ ability to secure private-sector investments as her most visible action in the region to date but have cautioned about the long-term durability of those investments.

Israel-Hamas

The Israel-Hamas war is the most fraught foreign policy issue facing the country and has spurred a multitude of protests around the US since it began in October.

After meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in late July, Harris gave a forceful and notable speech about the situation in Gaza.

We cannot look away in the face of these tragedies. We cannot allow ourselves to become numb to the suffering. And I will not be silent.”

Harris echoed Biden’s repeated comments about the “ironclad support” and “unwavering commitment” to Israel. The country has a right to defend itself, she said, while noting, “how it does so, matters.”

However, the empathy she expressed regarding the Palestinian plight and suffering was far more forceful than what Biden has said on the matter in recent months. Harris mentioned twice the “serious concern” she expressed to Netanyahu about the civilian deaths in Gaza, the humanitarian situation and destruction she called “catastrophic” and “devastating.”

She went on to describe “the images of dead children and desperate hungry people fleeing for safety, sometimes displaced for the second, third or fourth time.”

Harris emphasized the need to get the Israeli hostages back from Hamas captivity, naming the eight Israeli-American hostages – three of whom have been killed.

But when describing the ceasefire deal in the works, she didn’t highlight the hostage for prisoner exchange or aid to be let into Gaza. Instead, she singled out the fact that the deal stipulates the withdrawal by the Israeli military from populated areas in the first phase before withdrawing “entirely” from Gaza before “a permanent end to the hostilities.”

Harris didn’t preside over Netanyahu’s speech to Congress in late July, instead choosing to stick with a prescheduled trip to a sorority event in Indiana.

Harris is committed to supporting Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression, having met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at least six times and announcing last month $1.5 billion for energy assistance, humanitarian needs and other aid for the war-torn country.

At the Munich Security Conference earlier this year, Harris said: “I will make clear President Joe Biden and I stand with Ukraine. In partnership with supportive, bipartisan majorities in both houses of the United States Congress, we will work to secure critical weapons and resources that Ukraine so badly needs. And let me be clear: The failure to do so would be a gift to Vladimir Putin.”

More broadly, NATO is central to our approach to global security. For President Biden and me, our sacred commitment to NATO remains ironclad. And I do believe, as I have said before, NATO is the greatest military alliance the world has ever known.”

Police funding

The Harris campaign has also walked back the “defund the police” sentiment that Harris voiced in 2020. What she meant is she supports being “tough and smart on crime,” Mitch Landrieu, national co-chair for the Harris campaign and former mayor of New Orleans, told CNN’s Pamela Brown in late July.

In the midst of nationwide 2020 protests sparked by George Floyd’s murder by a Minneapolis police officer, Harris voiced support for the “defund the police” movement, which argues for redirecting funds from law enforcement to social services. Throughout that summer, Harris supported the movement and called for demilitarizing police departments.

Democrats largely backed away from calls to defund the police after Republicans attempted to tie the movement to increases in crime during the 2022 midterm elections.

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10 Classic Photographs — Reinterpreted Entirely in Play-Doh

By Hattie Crisell

• May 1, 2017

The artist Eleanor Macnair is an expert on the subject of Play-Doh. Different colors have different textures, she explains: “The whites are usually very soft; the black’s quite oily.” The children who play with the modeling clay probably haven’t noticed, but Play-Doh is Macnair’s palette: She uses it to recreate her favorite images from the world of documentary photography, then captures her versions on camera.

She’s been working in the medium for four years, and published a book — “Photographs Rendered In Play-Doh” — in 2014. Now, she’s produced a new series for the agency Magnum Photos, in honor of its 70th anniversary. Her limited-edition prints, which go on sale today , are her interpretations of images from the agency’s enormous archive, including Elliott Erwitt’s 1955 shot of a solitary figure gazing at the Empire State Building, and Newsha Tavakolian’s 2011 photograph of an Iranian woman emerging from the sea.

Macnair’s colorful, three-dimensional homages are a labor of love: building one takes up to seven hours. The human figures are modeled as nudes first, then covered with clothes to give them a lifelike shape. “It’s a bit like when you’re a child and you have the cutout dressing-up dolls,” Macnair says. She creates the Play-Doh image late at night, then leaves it under a cloth while she sleeps. With the morning light, she begins to photograph. “I’m totally working against the clock. The edges start to crack and dry, even within three or four hours, and the colors start to fade.” Once she has what she needs, she immediately dismantles it, saving as much clay as possible to be used again.

The project, she says, is partly about making art feel less rarefied and more democratic. “I didn’t go to an art gallery until I was 21 or 22 — and so that whole world just wasn’t accessible to me,” she says. “Even though I’ve worked in galleries and museums, sometimes I still feel like I can’t have an opinion because I didn’t go to art school. And so this is a way of bringing photography to a wide audience and saying, ‘Yeah, you can be interested in this too.’” The fact that Play-Doh is cheap, she says, that its colors are bold and naïve and that her images sometimes include visible imperfections, is all part of the appeal.

Macnair has an encyclopedic knowledge of the history of photography, but has found that working in this way has given her an unintended new perspective. “I end up looking at photos in a completely different way,” she says. “‘Could I do that in Play-Doh? Would it work?’”

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Kamala Harris Picks Tim Walz As Running Mate: Here’s What To Know About Him

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Vice President Kamala Harris has chosen Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz to serve as her running mate in the 2024 presidential race—as Harris tries to gain ground on former President Donald Trump with just over three months until the November election.

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz is reportedly a frontrunner to be Vice President Kamala Harris' running ... [+] mate.

Harris announced she asked Walz to be her running mate in an Instagram post Tuesday, shortly after multiple news outlets reported on the decision, praising Walz’ “convictions on fighting for middle class families” and saying what impressed her most was his “deep commitment to his family.”

Walz accepted the offer Tuesday morning, calling it the “honor of a lifetime,” and adding: “Vice President Harris is showing us the politics of what’s possible. It reminds me a bit of the first day of school.”

Walz, the 60-year-old father of two and Nebraska-born governor of Minnesota had emerged as a vice presidential frontrunner, along with Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro and several others in the weeks leading up to the decision.

Harris’ campaign reportedly vetted about a dozen contenders, and her rumored list was whittled to Walz and Shapiro in the hours leading up to the announcement, which was widely expected to happen Tuesday after Democratic delegates concluded voting for the party’s nominee Monday, with 99% selecting Harris.

While not at the forefront of national politics, Walz established himself as a moderate Democrat in Congress—where he served as a representative for Minnesota from 2007 to 2019—and as the governor of Minnesota, a role he’s held since 2019, where he also serves as chair of the national Democratic Governors Association.

Walz is seen as an appealing option for independents and moderate Democrats as a working-class politician with a rural background, who exudes the appearance of “someone with a lived experience that is so comparable to so many of the people in rural America,” former Sen. Heidi Heitkamp, D-N.D., told The New York Times last week.

Before running for office, Walz, a graduate of Chadron State College in Nebraska, served in the Army National Guard, and then worked as a teacher, first on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota, where he met his wife Gwen, a fellow teacher, and then in China and later as a high school teacher in Mankato, Minnesota, south of Minneapolis.

Walz initially entered politics as a member of former Massachusetts Sen. John Kerry’s 2004 presidential campaign, a spot he took after he said some of his high school students were questioned for having a Kerry sticker when he took them to a campaign rally for then-president George W. Bush, MinnPost reported.

As governor, some of Walz’ political accomplishments include ensuring tuition-free meals at participating state universities, enshrining abortion rights into state law, banning conversion therapy and providing protections for gender-affirming healthcare—Walz recently defended those measures against right-wing criticism in a CNN interview earlier this month, joking: “What a monster! Kids are eating and having full bellies so they can go learn and women are making their own healthcare decisions.”

Walz also signed a bill last May expanding voting rights in Minnesota for an estimated 55,000 formerly incarcerated residents, and in 2020, oversaw the state’s response to both the COVID-19 pandemic and police brutality protests in the wake of George Floyd’s death at the hands of police, though he faced criticism from state Republicans over his delayed response to protests following Floyd’s killing.

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What To Watch For

Walz and Harris will make their first joint appearance at 5:30 p.m. EDT on Tuesday in Philadelphia.

Chief Critics

Walz has faced backlash from Minnesota Republicans largely over his actions to protect gender-affirming care—a topic that has become central on GOP tickets. John Helmberger, the CEO of Christian conservative group Minnesota Family Council, argued Walz’s executive order to protect gender-affirming care “victimizes vulnerable young people.” In the weeks leading up to the nomination announcement, Walz also sparked Republican outrage after he referred to “weird people on the other side,” and criticized Trump’s laugh and apparent obsession of Hannibal Lecter as “weird.” In response, former GOP presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy called the “weird” argument “dumb & juvenile,” while Donald Trump. Jr. responded to claims that Trump running mate JD Vance is “weird” with a video posted of Harris with a drag queen.

What Has Trump Said About Walz?

The Trump campaign attacked Walz in a video after Harris announced him as her running mate, labeling him as a “left-wing extremist.” Trump’s campaign spokesperson Karoline Leavitt also slammed Walz, saying it’s “no surprise that San Francisco Liberal Kamala Harris wants West Coast wannabe Tim Walz as her running mate,” claiming Walz has tried to “reshape Minnesota in the image of the Golden State.”

Who Has Supported Walz As Harris’ Running Mate?

A group of Democratic lawmakers praised Harris’ choice of Walz on Tuesday, including contenders Shapiro and Sen. Mark Kelly , D-Ariz., as well as President Joe Biden , former President Barack Obama , Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer , D-N.Y., and the Congressional Black Caucus PAC .

Will Walz’ Minnesota Connection Help Harris In November?

Presidential candidates have a long history of strategically choosing running mates in swing states or candidates who appeal to certain voters in hopes of gaining ground in the presidential election. This November, Minnesota will be a critical swing state for Harris, one of seven key states Biden won in 2020 that polls have shown to be close matches in 2024, along with Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. A Fox News poll conducted late last month found Harris leading Trump in Minnesota by six points (52%-46%) in a head-to-head match—Harris leads Trump 47%-41% in the poll when including third-party candidates such as independent Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (7%). That lead marks a turnaround for the Democratic ticket in Minnesota: An Emerson College poll released one week before Biden’s disastrous debate performance found the incumbent tied 45%-45% with Trump (10% undecided). Harris trails behind Trump in the four other swing states (Arizona, Georgia, Nevada and Wisconsin), according to recent polls , and the two are tied in Michigan and Pennsylvania, according to Fox News’ poll.

Since launching her campaign, Harris has landed major endorsements from Democrats, including former President Bill Clinton, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., and Rep. Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif. One of her biggest endorsements came last week from former President Barack Obama. Sources close to Obama had said the former president wanted to wait until after Biden’s Oval Office address last week to make the announcement, and wanted his public endorsement to stand on its own, NBC News reported. Another source told The New York Times Obama wanted to wait until Harris was officially named the party nominee, a process that could unfold as early as Aug. 1, following a rules change approved by the Democratic National Convention’s rules panel last week (party nominees are typically chosen by delegates at the Democratic National Convention after the conclusion of the primary cycle).

Key Background

Even before his disastrous performance in a June 27 debate against former President Donald Trump, Biden—the oldest president in U.S. history—had faced questions over his age, perhaps most prominently after the release of a Department of Justice special counsel report in February that found multiple cases of Biden’s memory failing. Those concerns ramped up substantially after CNN’s presidential debate, a 90-minute affair that resparked mounting concerns over Biden’s advanced age and potential cognitive decline. Facing calls from donors, lawmakers and pundits to step down, Biden ultimately announced on Sunday he would end his reelection bid, and quickly endorsed Harris for president. Harris became the presumptive nominee the next day after swiftly amassing the support of enough delegates to clinch the nomination.

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