Now Hiring: Fifteen Jobs That Boomers Are Retiring From With Few Replacements
Four million boomers are retiring each year.
About four million boomers will retire each year over the next five years. That means four million new job openings annually.
But job openings in what?
I asked Grok to identify the top fifteen jobs 1) that boomers are retiring from and 2) that employers are having trouble finding replacements for.
Listed below are those jobs, along with pay levels, advancement opportunities, and how to get started in each.
Note that many of these are blue collar jobs for which apprenticeships and training are good ways to start. I previously posted on a free website that tracks about 8,000 open apprenticeships and on a training scholarship for blue collar jobs.
Electrician
Being an electrician involves installing, repairing, and maintaining electrical systems in homes, factories, or construction sites. The job demands physical stamina — climbing ladders, bending in tight spaces — and sharp attention to detail. Advancement opportunities include progressing to master electrician, specializing in solar or EV systems, or advancing to supervisory, project management, or business ownership roles.
Typical Starting Salary: $40,000–$50,000 annually (apprentice level).
Mid-Range Pay: $55,000–$85,000 annually (5–10 years experience).
Projected Number of Annual Job Openings Through 2031: 81,000
Best Way to Get Trained: Complete a 4–5 year apprenticeship combining paid on-the-job training (8,000–10,000 hours) with classroom instruction (500–1,000 hours) through union or non-union programs; obtain state licensing and consider certifications like OSHA safety or specialized electrical systems.
Learn more: Bureau of Labor Statistics | Electrical Training Alliance | Independent Electrical Contractors
Registered Nurse
Nursing requires strong empathy, quick thinking, and resilience amid long hours, night shifts, and high-stress situations. It’s a career of continuous learning, with tons of opportunities in specialties. Advancement opportunities abound, including specializing in telehealth or home health, pursuing MSN for leadership roles like nurse manager, or becoming APRNs with 35% projected growth.
Typical Starting Salary: $70,000–$85,000 annually.
Mid-Range Pay: $90,000–$110,000 annually (3–5 years experience).
Projected Number of Annual Job Openings Through 2031: 189,000-193,000
Best Way to Get Trained: Earn a BSN (4 years) or ADN (2 years) from an accredited program, pass the NCLEX-RN exam for licensure; consider nurse residency programs for new grads, with ongoing CEUs required.
Learn more: RegisteredNursing.org | Nurse.org | NurseJournal.org
Plumber
Being a plumber is physically demanding—crawling under sinks, lifting heavy tools, and dealing with messy situations like burst pipes or sewage backups. Pay is solid, with tons of opportunities for specialization, but irregular hours and emergencies keep life unpredictable. Advancement opportunities include specializing in areas like industrial or medical plumbing, becoming a master plumber after 7-10 years, advancing to project management, or starting a business.
Typical Starting Salary: $40,000–$50,000 annually (apprentice).
Mid-Range Pay: $60,000–$80,000 annually (5+ years).
Projected Number of Annual Job Openings Through 2031: 44,000
Best Way to Get Trained: Join a 4–5 year apprenticeship (paid on-the-job with classroom time); obtain state licensing; consider certifications in green plumbing or medical gas systems for advancement.
Learn more: Bureau of Labor Statistics | Explore The Trades | National Center for Construction Education & Research
Truck Driver
This job involves long hauls stretching 10-14 hours daily, navigating through rain-slicked highways or sun-baked deserts, and it can be a lonely job. Physical demands include pre-trip inspections, securing loads, and battling fatigue with strict logbook rules. Rewards? Competitive pay, ever-changing scenery across states, and the satisfaction of independence. Advancement opportunities include specializing in hazmat, becoming an owner-operator earning up to $160,000, or moving into management/instruction.
Typical Starting Salary: $45,000–$55,000 annually.
Mid-Range Pay: $60,000–$80,000 annually (3–5 years).
Projected Number of Annual Job Openings Through 2031: 237,600
Best Way to Get Trained: Obtain CDL through 3–6 week school; complete entry-level driver training (ELDT); gain experience via company-sponsored programs or apprenticeships.
Learn more: Smart Trucking | LearnHowToBecome.org | TheTruckersReport.com
Construction Manager
Days start early on-site, coordinating teams of architects, engineers, and workers to ensure projects stay on schedule and budget. The role demands strong communication skills to mediate disputes and motivate crews. Advancement includes senior roles, specialization in green building, or executive positions in large firms.
Typical Starting Salary: $85,000–$105,000 annually.
Mid-Range Pay: $105,000–$135,000 annually (5–10 years).
Projected Number of Annual Job Openings Through 2031: 46,800
Best Way to Get Trained: Earn a bachelor’s in construction management (4 years); gain 5+ years experience; obtain certifications like CCM or PMP; consider apprenticeships for hands-on start.
Learn more: Bureau of Labor Statistics | Construction Management Association of America | Associated General Contractors of America
HVAC Technician
Daily tasks involve installing, repairing, and maintaining heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in homes, offices, and commercial buildings. The job demands physical stamina—lifting heavy equipment, working in extreme temperatures outdoors or in attics—and requires certifications like EPA 608 for handling coolants. Challenges include irregular hours for emergencies, but rewards are plentiful: job security in a growing field, competitive pay (often $50K+ starting), and the satisfaction of restoring comfort to grateful clients. Advancement opportunities include specializing in renewables, becoming supervisors, or starting businesses, leading to salaries over $100,000.
Typical Starting Salary: $40,000–$50,000 annually.
Mid-Range Pay: $55,000–$70,000 annually (3–5 years).
Projected Number of Annual Job Openings Through 2031: 40,000
Best Way to Get Trained: Complete 6–24 month vocational program; obtain EPA 608 certification; pursue 2–5 year apprenticeship for licensing.
Learn more: Bureau of Labor Statistics | NATE Training Academy | HVAC Excellence
Civil Engineer
Days often start with reviewing blueprints or site plans, collaborating with architects and contractors to design infrastructure like bridges, roads, or water systems. The role demands strong math and physics skills, plus software proficiency for modeling structures. Advancement opportunities include specializing in sustainability or tech, progressing to project management, leadership roles like chief engineer, and higher salaries with experience.
Typical Starting Salary: $65,000–$75,000 annually.
Mid-Range Pay: $85,000–$110,000 annually (5–10 years).
Projected Number of Annual Job Openings Through 2031: 23,600
Best Way to Get Trained: Earn bachelor’s in civil engineering (4 years); gain 4 years experience under PE; pass FE/PE exams for licensure; pursue master’s for specialization.
Learn more: Bureau of Labor Statistics | National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying | American Society of Civil Engineers
Home Health Aide
In this job, you enter clients’ homes daily, assisting with personal care like bathing, dressing, and meal prep for elderly or disabled individuals. Tasks include monitoring vital signs, administering medications, and light housekeeping. Advancement opportunities include specializing in areas like dementia care or advancing to roles such as certified nursing assistant or licensed practical nurse through additional training and certification.
Typical Starting Salary: $28,000–$35,000 annually.
Mid-Range Pay: $35,000–$40,000 annually (3–5 years).
Projected Number of Annual Job Openings Through 2031: 739,800
Best Way to Get Trained: Complete short certification program (weeks to months); obtain state certification if required; gain experience through agencies.
Learn more: Bureau of Labor Statistics | Indeed.com Career Advice | Nurse.org
Industrial Machinery Mechanic
Being an industrial machinery mechanic involves diagnosing breakdowns in conveyor belts, robots, or presses using tools like multimeters and wrenches. You’ll crawl into tight spaces, interpret blueprints, and perform preventive maintenance to keep production lines humming. The work demands physical stamina—lifting heavy parts, standing for hours—and sharp attention to safety amid noisy, oily environments. Challenges include urgent repairs under pressure, but the thrill comes from restoring operations and innovating fixes. Advancement opportunities include supervisory or management roles via experience, apprenticeships, and specializations in electronics, hydraulics, or automation.
Typical Starting Salary: $45,000–$55,000 annually.
Mid-Range Pay: $60,000–$75,000 annually (5 years).
Projected Number of Annual Job Openings Through 2031: 45,700
Best Way to Get Trained: Complete 1–2 year vocational program; pursue 4-year apprenticeship; obtain certifications like CMRT.
Learn more: Bureau of Labor Statistics | My Next Move | National Center for Construction Education and Research
Carpenter
Carpentry is a blend of creativity and physical labor. Each day starts with blueprints and tools—saws buzzing, hammers pounding—as you shape wood into structures like cabinets, homes, or furniture. It’s demanding: sore muscles from lifting heavy beams, dust-filled workshops, and weather exposure on sites. Yet, the camaraderie with crew members, and seeing your work endure for generations make it rewarding. Advancement opportunities include progressing to foreman, project manager, general contractor, or specialized roles like estimator or inspector, often requiring experience and certifications.
Typical Starting Salary: $35,000–$45,000 annually (apprentice).
Mid-Range Pay: $50,000–$65,000 annually (5 years).
Projected Number of Annual Job Openings Through 2031: 74,100
Best Way to Get Trained: Join 3–4 year apprenticeship; obtain certifications in specialties like green building.
Learn more: Bureau of Labor Statistics | United Brotherhood of Carpenters | National Center for Construction Education and Research
Manufacturing Plant Manager
This job is a high-stakes role blending leadership, strategy, and problem-solving. You oversee daily operations, ensuring production lines run efficiently to meet quotas while maintaining quality standards. Challenges include troubleshooting equipment failures, managing supply chain disruptions, and enforcing safety protocols to prevent accidents. Advancement opportunities include roles like Operations Director or VP through experience, training, and education in leadership and tech.
Typical Starting Salary: $85,000–$100,000 annually.
Mid-Range Pay: $100,000–$120,000 annually (5–10 years).
Projected Number of Annual Job Openings Through 2031: 17,100
Best Way to Get Trained: Bachelor’s in engineering/business; gain 5+ years supervisory experience; pursue MBA or certifications like CPM.
Learn more: Top Quality Recruitment | OnePointe Solutions | ZipRecruiter
Auto Mechanic/Repair Shop Owner
Auto mechanic mornings start early, diagnosing engine woes or brake failures under the hood, grease-streaked hands wielding tools like extensions of your body. Afternoons shift to business mode: managing inventory, scheduling appointments, and juggling staff amid rising parts costs and regulatory hurdles. The rewards? Repeat business from grateful clients, and the independence of running your own garage. Advancement opportunities include gaining ASE certifications, specializing in EVs or heavy vehicles, progressing to foreman/manager roles, or starting your own shop with experience.
Typical Starting Salary: $35,000–$45,000 annually.
Mid-Range Pay: $50,000–$70,000 annually (5 years; higher for owners).
Projected Number of Annual Job Openings Through 2031: 70,000
Best Way to Get Trained: Complete 1–2 year vocational program; earn ASE certifications; gain 2–5 years experience before owning.
Learn more: LearnHowToBecome.org | Automotive Training Institute | Automotive Service Association
Heavy Equipment Operator
Being a heavy equipment operator is a hands-on, demanding job that shapes landscapes in construction, mining, or infrastructure projects. Days start early with machine inspections, then involve maneuvering bulldozers, excavators, or loaders to dig, lift, and transport materials—requiring precision to avoid hazards. Travel is common. Advancement opportunities include apprenticeships leading to journey worker status, specialized licenses, and progression to leadership roles like foreman or superintendent.
Typical Starting Salary: $40,000–$50,000 annually.
Mid-Range Pay: $55,000–$70,000 annually (3–5 years).
Projected Number of Annual Job Openings Through 2031: 46,200
Best Way to Get Trained: Complete 3–6 week CDL/operator school; pursue apprenticeship; obtain certifications for multiple machines.
Learn more: International Union of Operating Engineers | National Center for Construction Education & Research | Heavy Construction Academy
Welder/Welding Inspector
Welders spend days in workshops or on-site, donning protective gear against sparks and fumes, fusing materials with torches or electrodes. It’s physically demanding—crouched in tight spaces, lifting heavy pieces—but rewarding when structures rise from your skilled arcs. Safety is paramount; one slip can mean injury. As a welding inspector, the role shifts to scrutiny. You examine welds using tools like ultrasonic testers or X-rays, ensuring they meet codes for strength and integrity in pipelines, bridges, or aerospace parts. Both demand certification, problem-solving, and a passion for craftsmanship in a high-stakes trade. Advancement opportunities abound through certifications like CWI, leading to supervisory, inspection, or specialized positions in high-demand sectors.
Typical Starting Salary: $40,000–$50,000 annually (welder).
Mid-Range Pay: $50,000–$70,000 annually (welder; inspectors $60,000–$85,000).
Projected Number of Annual Job Openings Through 2031: 82,500
Best Way to Get Trained: Complete 6–24 month vocational program; earn AWS certifications; for inspector, gain 3–5 years experience and pass CWI exam.
Learn more: American Welding Society | Hobart Institute of Welding Technology | National Welding Inspection School
Insurance Agent/Financial Advisor
This job is a blend of sales, consulting, and relationship-building. You spend days meeting clients, assessing their needs for life insurance, retirement plans, or investment strategies, and tailoring solutions to protect their futures. Success hinges on continuous learning, networking at events, and staying tech-savvy with tools like CRM software. However, the failure rate for new agents in this field is relatively high, largely because it’s a job that pays well and that sometimes attracts people who don’t have the key skills — being extraverted enough to excel at relationship-building, and having the smarts for personal finance. So before launching into this career, be sure you have those skills. Advancement opportunities include certifications, management roles, and specializations in digital or cyber insurance amid industry transformations.
Typical Starting Salary: $45,000–$60,000 annually (base + commission).
Mid-Range Pay: $70,000–$100,000 annually (3–5 years).
Projected Number of Annual Job Openings Through 2031: 71,000
Best Way to Get Trained: Earn bachelor’s in finance; obtain licenses (Series 6/7, life/health); join firm for mentorship; pursue CFP certification.
Learn more: Kaplan Financial Education | ExamFX | WebCE
