Job seekers looking to enter or advance in biomedical and life sciences careers will find a wide range of opportunities across healthcare, biotechnology, research, and diagnostics. These fields are central to innovation in medicine and public health, and they can offer stable, high-growth career paths.
Whether you’re just starting out or transitioning from another industry, this overview highlights in-demand biomedical roles, required education, and what to expect from the job market.
Where the Jobs Are: Life Sciences
The biomedical field continues to grow steadily, driven by factors like an aging population, expanding medical technologies, and increased investment in healthcare research and innovation.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that employment in life, physical, and social science occupations is projected to grow nearly 7% from 2021 to 2031, resulting in approximately 148,400 new openings annually by 2031.
According to Workforce Solutions’ Where the Jobs Are report, key occupations include:
Registered Nurses – Provide and coordinate patient care, and may assist in clinical research or trials.
- Median Hourly Wage: $44.68 | Projected Openings: 5,500+ annually | Education: Bachelor’s degree
Nursing Assistants – Assist patients with daily care and monitor vital signs.
- Median Hourly Wage: $17.14 | Projected Openings: 3,000+ annually | Education: Postsecondary nondegree award
Medical Assistants – Support both clinical and administrative tasks in medical and research environments.
- Median Hourly Wage: $18.63 | Projected Openings: 2,800+ annually | Education: Postsecondary nondegree award
Medical Secretaries and Administrative Assistants – Manage scheduling, medical records, and administrative functions in biomedical settings.
- Median Hourly Wage: $18.39 | Projected Openings: 1,700+ annually | Education: High school diploma or equivalent
Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses – Provide basic nursing care under the supervision of RNs and physicians.
- Median Hourly Wage: $28.37 | Projected Openings: 1,200+ annually | Education: Postsecondary nondegree award
Medical and Health Services Managers – Oversee healthcare operations in hospitals, labs, or biomedical companies.
- Median Hourly Wage: $52.00 | Projected Openings: 1,400+ annually | Education: Bachelor’s degree
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary – Teach specialized health courses to prepare students for healthcare careers.
- Median Hourly Wage: $66.37 | Projected Openings: 1,000+ annually | Education: Doctoral or professional degree
Pharmacy Technicians – Assist pharmacists in dispensing medications and managing inventory.
- Median Hourly Wage: $20.92 | Projected Openings: 1,000 annually | Education: High school diploma or equivalent
Dental Assistants – Aid in dental procedures and maintain patient records.
- Median Hourly Wage: $18.40 | Projected Openings: 1,300+ annually | Education: Postsecondary nondegree award
Occupational Health and Safety Specialists – Ensure workplace safety and prevent job-related injuries.
- Median Hourly Wage: $38.46 | Projected Openings: 800+ annually | Education: Bachelor’s degree
Start Your Biomedical Career Path
Whether you’re interested in research, patient care, equipment, or data, the biomedical sector offers a variety of stable, purpose-driven careers. Take time to explore training options, certificate programs, and degrees that align with your goals. Local colleges, technical schools, and health organizations often offer programs geared toward high-need roles.
The future of health innovation needs people from all backgrounds, and this could be your moment to enter the field.Explore in-demand careers and connect with top employers at upcoming Workforce Solutions hiring events. Register today to secure your spot and access career-building resources.
