Median pay: $52,400
Top pay: $73,200
10-year job growth: 13%
Total jobs: 10,000
The job:
R&D technicians are the workhorses of the research facility. Your job is to set up, operate and maintain equipment, test product samples, record data and compile results for researchers. Jobs aren’t always tied to a lab, however. Fieldwork can mean gathering air, soil or water samples or simply counting turtles in a pond. The work can be tedious, but the rewards are immeasurable: Imagine you're part of a team that discovers a cure for cancer, creates a new energy source or simply finds a new way to grow hair.
How to switch:
You’ll need an analytical mind with a disciplined attention to detail. A strong background in science, math or mechanics is a must. The ability to work with a team is essential. Supplemental courses in the field of your choice will help your job prospects, and you may even want to do an unpaid internship to get more experience.
Quality of life ratings:
| Personal satisfaction |
Benefit to society |
Low stress |
Flexibility |
| B |
C |
C |
A |
By Donna Rosato and Tom Ziegler
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