Find a Job You Really Want In
In today’s rapidly changing job market, many professionals are seeking new opportunities in fields where they might have limited experience. The demand for skilled workers continues to grow across various industries, making it an excellent time to explore career paths that require less than a year of training.
Fortunately, numerous jobs offer attractive salaries, flexible schedules, and minimal barriers to entry. This article will outline 10 jobs you can train for in under a year, first focusing on those with higher earning potential and then highlighting roles that typically allow for remote work options.
Key Takeaways:
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High-paying jobs you can train for in a year or less include real estate agent, HVAC technician, and EMT.
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Remote jobs you can train for in a year or less include web design, software development, and online sales.
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From 2021 to 2031, the EMT career is expected to grow 7%, creating approximately 11,400 job opportunities across the U.S.
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During the same period, the web design career is projected to grow by 16%, generating around 16,600 job opportunities nationwide.
5 Best-Paying Jobs You Can Train For in Under a Year
The following careers involve certification processes that typically take less than a year to complete, yet offer salaries above the national average:
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Licensed Real Estate Agent
Average Annual Salary: $99,000Job Outlook: The real estate agent career is projected to grow 5% from 2021 to 2031, generating about 30,100 job openings across the U.S.
Real estate agents bridge the gap between property sellers and buyers, earning a commission on sales.
Common specializations include:
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Residential Sales: This specialization involves assisting individuals and families in finding single-family homes. It requires passing pre-license courses and state exams, with requirements varying by state.
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Commercial Sales: Commercial agents work with businesses and investors to buy and sell properties like office buildings and retail centers. While a degree in finance or business may be helpful, it is not mandatory.
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HVAC Technician
Average Annual Salary: $48,000Job Outlook: The HVAC technician career is expected to grow 5% from 2021 to 2031, leading to about 20,200 job opportunities in the U.S.
HVAC technicians install, repair, and maintain climate control systems. Many focus on specific areas, such as installation or repair, and some are also moving towards emerging technologies like solar systems.
To become an HVAC technician, the common path includes:
- Obtaining a high school diploma or GED
- Completing an accredited HVAC program (typically six months)
- Joining an apprenticeship (optional)
If working with regulated refrigerants, you may need an additional EPA 608 certification.
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Truck Driver
Average Annual Salary: $51,000Job Outlook: The truck driving career is projected to grow 4% from 2021 to 2031, with around 90,900 job opportunities available across the U.S.
Truck drivers transport goods locally and long-haul across the country. Training typically involves completing a truck-driving curriculum at a community college or private school, lasting three to six months.
After that, you’ll obtain your commercial driver’s license (CDL), with specific requirements varying by state.
Long-haul truck driving can be lucrative, especially with options for overtime, potentially increasing annual earnings significantly.
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Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
Average Annual Salary: $40,000Job Outlook: The EMT career is expected to grow 7% from 2021 to 2031, resulting in around 11,400 job openings in the U.S.
EMTs provide emergency medical care and work as first responders in various situations. Basic EMT training can be completed in just 3-6 weeks, with additional training available to become a paramedic.
In states like Florida and Georgia, corporate campus EMTs can earn over $55,000 annually.
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Margin Department Supervisor
Average Annual Salary: N/AJob Outlook:N/A
Margin department supervisors work in credit departments to assess customer credit applications and manage existing credit accounts. While a finance or accounting degree is helpful, it is not required.
Training typically involves various programs lasting up to a year and includes skills such as:
- Debt analysis and basic accounting principles
- Basic arithmetic and mathematical calculations
- Negotiation and customer service skills
- Effective communication abilities
5 Work-From-Home Jobs You Can Train For in Under a Year
Here are several in-demand jobs that involve short certification processes and typically allow for remote work:
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Web Designer
Average Annual Salary: $61,000Job Outlook: The web design career is projected to grow 16% from 2021 to 2031, creating about 16,600 job opportunities across the U.S.
Web designers are responsible for the visual design and layout of websites, often using languages like Javascript and CSS. Unlike web developers, who manage back-end functionality, web designers focus primarily on front-end aesthetics.
Many successful web designers launch careers shortly after learning to code, utilizing resources like:
- YouTube tutorials
- CodeAcademy
- Online design courses
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Information Technology/Support Technician
Average Annual Salary: $48,000Job Outlook: The IT support technician career is expected to grow 6% from 2021 to 2031, leading to approximately 56,400 job openings across the U.S.
IT support professionals troubleshoot technical issues for businesses and individuals, often providing training to others. The role offers flexibility, allowing for remote work and varied hours.
Key skills include:
- Troubleshooting technical problems
- Resolving network issues
- Installing and configuring software
- Testing new technologies
Additionally, soft skills such as effective communication and patience are essential.
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Medical Biller and Coding Specialist
Average Annual Salary: $36,000Job Outlook: The medical billing and coding career is expected to grow 7% from 2021 to 2031, leading to approximately 12,300 job openings across the U.S.
Medical billing specialists manage health insurance payments, invoices, and claims. Many positions offer remote work due to electronic record management.
To enter this field, you typically need a high school diploma and a medical coding certification from the AAPC.
Essential hard skills include:
- Tracking payments
- Accurately coding procedures
- Correcting rejected claims
- Database management
Soft skills such as organization and effective time management are also crucial.
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Software Developer
Average Annual Salary: $80,000Job Outlook: The software developer career is projected to grow 26% from 2021 to 2031, resulting in approximately 370,600 job opportunities across the U.S.
Software developers create applications and software solutions for consumers and businesses. The field allows for specialization in various areas, including:
- Application Software Developers: They create consumer-focused applications like games and productivity tools.
- System Software Developers: They build software for internal organizational processes, often without user interfaces.
With numerous online resources available, many developers find jobs without formal degrees, focusing on building strong portfolios of their work.
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Sales Representative
Average Annual Salary: $56,000Job Outlook: The wholesale and manufacturing sales career is anticipated to grow 4% from 2021 to 2031, resulting in approximately 63,300 job openings across the U.S.
Online sales representatives market products and services via the internet across various industries. Income primarily comes from commissions, with opportunities for career advancement into higher-paying roles, such as Sales Manager.
While no formal qualifications are typically needed, strong communication skills and product knowledge are essential.
Tips For Training For A Job In Under A Year
Training for a job within a year can be challenging, but it’s achievable with the right approach. Here are some tips to help you succeed:
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Time Management: Balancing training with other responsibilities is crucial. Establishing a consistent schedule can aid in maintaining focus and progress.
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Be Proactive: Taking the initiative in your training is essential. Anticipate challenges and address them before they hinder your momentum.
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Accountability: Enroll in structured training programs or find a mentor to help keep you on track. Regularly assess your progress to recognize achievements and adjust your plans as needed.
References
Bureau of Labor Statistics. “Occupational Outlook Handbook.” Accessed on September 18, 2022.
Author
Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.
