15 Recession-Proof Jobs That Will Have Demand in 2024
10 min read
Start preparing for the next recession now using this list of top recession-proof jobs!
The global workforce has experienced so many highs and lows in the last few years that it’s caused many professionals to question whether or not their career route will be affected by recessions in the future. In a world of uncertainty, it’s good to think and plan ahead. We have compiled a list of the top recession-proof jobs available on the market. They are all predicted to remain in high demand, even through turbulent times.
In this article we’ll discuss:
The specific jobs and industries that have proven to be the most secure during a recession.
Professional skills to develop that will help you during a recession.
Which industries are hurt the most by recessions.
The top 15 jobs to pursue in 2024 for recession-proof employment
Check out the jobs in the country that offer the most security during financial uncertainty.
Doctors and nurses
The medical field as a whole will almost always offer job security. There is more at play currently that makes doctors and nurses some of the most recession-proof careers right now. Baby boomers are quickly approaching retirement age, and they also make up almost half of all physicians in the US. This means that the industry as a whole will be undergoing a big shift. Doctors and nurses are in an excellent position to retain their employment.
Pharmacists
With an aging population, the need for medication is increasing, and so too is the need for professionals who can dispense it. Pharmacists are responsible for giving out prescription medication while practicing ethical and accurate care. Pharmacist jobs are secure regardless of the economy and should experience minimal effects during a recession.
Cybersecurity and IT specialists
The field of technology is advancing at almost alarming speeds. As a result, many people find it crucial to maintain the development of cybersecurity at the same rate. IT specialists, software developers, data analysts, and AI specialists are all positions that will remain in high demand throughout 2024.
Teachers and education staff
Academia saw many changes in the field within the last couple of years, largely as a result of the pandemic forcing schools into the digital realm. Teachers were expected to modify the way they teach to adhere to the changes, and because of this, the field of education saw a mass exodus. The workforce has rebounded and has a newfound appreciation for the efforts of teachers and other academic personnel.
Utility workers
Utility work is generally a safe industry to enter. As long as we are living in developed environments, we will require the use of utilities like heating, HVAC, and electrical. On top of that, alternative utility methods are becoming more popular, like solar power for example. 2024 is an excellent time for people to flourish in utility industries.
Law enforcement
The role of law enforcement is dynamic in America. It’s expanding to encompass more than just police officers, though those too are a safe position to hold. Law enforcement also includes jobs like detectives, prison guards, customs and border protection workers, fish and game wardens, park rangers, and dispatch operators. It’s a diverse field with many options, all of which have the potential to be even more necessary during a recession, making law enforcement a recession-proof field.
Finance workers
During a recession, every company will be seeking financial advice on how to move through it. Accountants and financial analysts therefore should feel secure during a recession. Even personal financial advisors will likely see an uptick in clients during a recession because people might attempt to pull money from accounts or change their investments. With the economic climate of the US as dynamic as it currently is, finance workers should feel secure in 2024.
Construction and labor
Even during a recession, infrastructure will continue to be developed. There is always some kind of company or industry that will grow while others are lagging. Those businesses will need construction, labor, and trade workers to help move forward. Recessions are often difficult times for these professionals because distribution lines usually become delayed. Having reliable construction and labor workers is a top priority during such times.
E-commerce
Although it might not seem intuitive, e-commerce will typically not be negatively affected by a recession. There are many reasons why e-commerce picks up during a recession. Either way, people who work as delivery drivers or in shipping and receiving will typically continue to have stable and secure jobs throughout the economic downturn.
Another benefit of e-commerce positions is that the industry offers diverse job opportunities that often include remote options, which is increasingly appealing to many professionals.
Research and science
Recessions are usually caused by some type of external factor relating to global and national economies but can also be affected by the environment or community health. As a result, people who work in the science field are often sought out to help decide a way forward. They bring expertise on niche topics, and years of experience working with data and analytics about the topics they are experts in. Insight like that is exceptionally useful during a recession.
Mental health professionals
A national recession is bound to have a negative impact on the mental health of many people. Financial stress is a huge burden for most adults, and it only becomes compounded when it’s felt on a large scale. Most people will choose to turn to a therapist, psychiatrist, or counselor at some point during a recession due to the uncertainty. Mental health practitioners should feel secure during a recession.
Customer service
Customer service is one of the best jobs to have during a recession. Every industry and company needs someone to interact with customers. And the skills applied in one sector can be easily applied to another one. When a skillset is transferable like that, it allows for workers to be able to easily find work, even during a recession. Additionally, during a recession, it’s common for there to be distribution or shipping delays. Having customer service personnel who are eager to do a good job can be what makes or breaks a company’s ability to stay afloat during a recession.
Virtual assistant
Virtual assistants are considered recession-safe because the overhead of employing them is small, but the benefits of having one are great. Virtual assistants are just that–virtual. That means they don’t require a physical location, their hours are flexible and can be set at a certain hourly max per week, and they are often contracted. Virtual assistants also perform a wide variety of tasks, oftentimes being the person behind the scenes that paves the way for great business ventures to happen. All of these elements put virtual assistants in a comfortable place during a recession. Of course, if you are working as a virtual assistant during a recession, there is a chance of being overworked. Be sure to set your boundaries at your contract signing.
Waste management and sanitation
The needs of a city don’t stop during a recession. Waste management and sanitation personnel are going to be considered essential regardless of economic status. They are also typically paid a decent wage and require few qualifications for entry-level positions, making waste management and sanitation a great option for those whose jobs were affected by a recession.
Content creators, social media managers, and SEO specialists
In the last few years, the national workforce has experienced technological advancements that have created an entirely new sector of positions. Content creators, social media managers, and SEO specialists keep up with current trends in marketing and commerce. Social media marketing has become crucial for the success of businesses in the current workforce. During a recession, those who work in the field will likely remain relatively secure.
What are 3 recession-proof skills that are in demand?
If you don’t work in one of the above recession-proof jobs, don't worry. There are still ways you can be prepared and effective at your work during a recession. These skills can be developed in any industry and will serve you well during financial uncertainty.
Financial literacy
When money is tight, every person needs to do their part to keep the company in the black. Having a sound understanding of financial literacy basics will automatically make you an asset, regardless of your position. Recessions inspire companies to keep a closer eye on all spending, so being able to monitor yourself is a great way to stay on good terms.
Adaptability
Being able to respond to changes with grace is crucial during a recession. Whenever there is large-spread financial insecurity, things can become chaotic quickly. Recessions are usually paired with panic-stricken decision-making, which can affect employees at every level. By being adaptable, you will be more readily available to fit in wherever it’s needed most.
Networking
Networking is important during a recession because you might need to rely on your professional community more than during stable times. With your professional network, you can access valuable market information that can help you make decisions within your own profession. With recessions also comed job insecurity. Being active in your network can provide you with employment should you become separated from your current job.
What industries are recession-proof?
Recession-proof industries aren’t completely safe from the effects of a recession, they are just more resilient to economic downturns. This can be due to a variety of factors.
Healthcare
Healthcare is generally considered recession-proof because people will require medical interventions regardless of economic standing. There are hundreds of different positions held within the healthcare field, allowing a wide range of people to benefit from its economic security.
Consumer staples
Big box consumer stores like Walmart and Kroger will continue to serve the public during recessions, and may even see more customers as a result of their discounted prices. This applies to all major food, beverages, household cleaning supplies, household medical supplies, and personal care item brands.
Utilities
Similar to healthcare, the public will continue to require the use of utilities regardless of economic standing. This includes electrical, gas, waste removal, HVAC, plumbing, and more.
What jobs and industries are hurt during a recession?
When you think about a recession, it’s easy to picture the hurt industries: retail and tourism. Common social trends during a recession are to reduce non-essential spending and to stay relatively local.
Retail is negatively affected because when people face financial uncertainty, they hold on to their money. Luxury and recreation retail workers are among the first to be affected by a recession because those are non-essential for most people's daily lives. Within retail, floor workers and other customer-facing roles will be the first positions involved. Middle management can be affected next if entire departments become affected by the recession.
Tourism is one of the other most vulnerable industries during a recession. People don’t tend to travel for fun or join tours when money is tight. Tourism is slightly safer than retail because tourism also includes airline workers. Airlines are deeply affected by recessions, but because so much business also relies on air travel, it makes the entire industry more secure.
Future-proof your career with recession-proof jobs
While nothing is certain in life, it’s comforting to know that there are some things you can do to provide yourself with at least some job security. Picking one of these recession-proof jobs can be one of the best ways to ensure that your career stays on track even during the worst of economic times.
Visit our website for additional resources, plus a free resume review by one of our trusted experts in the field!
Recommended reading:
Written by
Ken Chase, Freelance Writer
During Ken's two decades as a freelance writer, he has covered everything from banking and fintech to business management and the entertainment industry. His true passion, however, has always been focused on helping others achieve their career goals with timely job search and interview advice or the occasional resume consultation. When he's not working, Ken can usually be found adventuring with family and friends or playing fetch with his demanding German Shepherd. Read more resume advice from Ken on ZipJob’s blog.
