In an uncertain job market clouded by recession fears, many workers are concerned about finding stable jobs.
A new study from resume builder LiveCareer, based on data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, has identified 13 ‘recession-proof’ careers with strong salaries, opportunities for growth, and job security — no bachelor’s degree required.
Each role provides an annual median salary of at least $50,000. All are projected to grow by at least 4% through 2032, and applicants only need an associate degree or postsecondary certificate to qualify.
“These are the types of jobs that we see growing, not stalling,” says Jasmine Escalera, career expert at LiveCareer. Escalera also describes many of the jobs on the list as “AI-proof,” because the work requires “human-based skills” such as communication and problem solving.
“There’s a lot of anxiety and fear around AI taking over jobs, but there are still a lot of industries and a lot of positions where that is likely never going to be the case,” she says.
Here are 13 careers that offer job security and growth, even during uncertain economic times.
1. Occupational therapy assistants
Median salary: $50,000 to $74,999
Required education: Associate degree
2. Firefighters
Median salary: : $50,000 to $74,999
Required education: Postsecondary nondegree award
3. Diagnostic medical sonographers
Median salary: $75,000 to $99,999
Required education: Associate degree
4. Medical records specialists
Median salary: $50,000 to $74,999
Required education: Postsecondary nondegree award
5. Licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses
Median salary: $50,000 to $74,999
Required education: Postsecondary nondegree award
6. Radiologic technologists and technicians
Median salary: $75,000 to $99,999
Required education: Associate degree
7. Respiratory therapists
Median salary: $75,000 to $99,999
Required education: Associate degree
8. Dental hygienists
Median salary: $75,000 to $99,999
Required education: Associate degree
9. Massage therapists
Median salary: $50,000 to $74,999
Required education: Postsecondary nondegree award
10. Physical therapist assistants
Median salary: $50,000 to $74,999
Required education: Associate degree
11. Heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers
Median salary: $50,000 to $74,999
Required education: Postsecondary nondegree award
12. Computer network support specialists
Median salary: $50,000 to $74,999
Required education: Associate degree
13. Heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers
Median salary: $50,000 to $74,999
Required education: Postsecondary nondegree award
None of these jobs require a “traditional educational background,” Escalera says.
Hiring managers are looking for employees who are able to master “new skill sets and expand beyond the role.” These careers also allow employees the chance “to spread out and learn,” she says, and to network.
“It gives the opportunity for people who aren’t really interested in that traditional path to really have an eye-opening experience,” she says. “There are interesting, exciting positions out there.”
Are you ready to buy a house? Take Smarter by CNBC Make It’s new online course How to Buy Your First Home. Expert instructors will help you weigh the cost of renting vs. buying, financially prepare, and confidently navigate every step of the process—from mortgage basics to closing the deal. Sign up today and use coupon code EARLYBIRD for an introductory discount of 30% off $97 (+taxes and fees) through July 15, 2025.
Plus, sign up for CNBC Make It’s newsletter to get tips and tricks for success at work, with money and in life, and request to join our exclusive community on LinkedIn to connect with experts and peers.