STEM jobs

STEM Jobs & STEM Careers

You’ve likely heard that STEM jobs and STEM careers are not only crucial to society, but are also pretty lucrative. Indeed, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) fields are quickly becoming one of the most popular career paths for students worldwide. STEM jobs allow students to become a part of rapidly advancing industries, helping to solve real-world problems. 

But, what exactly are these STEM professional opportunities? This article will detail the various STEM jobs and STEM careers students can pursue after graduation.

Specifically, this article on STEM jobs will:

  • Answer the question: What does STEM stand for? 
  • Check out a list of STEM jobs 
  • Break down the STEM subjects 
  • Highlight the highest paying STEM jobs and best STEM majors
  • Look at high demand STEM careers 
  • Learn how to prepare for STEM jobs, and more!

If you’re interested in pursuing STEM jobs, but aren’t sure where to start, this guide is for you! With so many different options, it can be tough to decide which STEM career is a good fit for your skills. We’ll aim to break down everything you need to know to make an informed decision about pursuing STEM careers. 

What exactly is STEM?

So, what does STEM stand for? STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. As the CollegeBoard describes, these four disciplines are distinct, but related. STEM is used to describe a wide variety of majors, disciplines, and careers. Some STEM jobs will fall neatly into these categories, while others will be more interdisciplinary. For example, some STEM careers, like bioengineering and robotics, will often combine several disciplines. 

The acronym STEM has evolved over the years. Some schools are now considering economics a part of their STEM programs, while others have adopted the acronym STEAM, integrating the arts into STEM majors/disciplines. This reflects the ever changing nature of the field. In fact, the STEM jobs that remain flexible to change are the ones most likely to stick around. 

Given the nature of STEM jobs, it’s expected that the term will evolve alongside new innovations. So, if you find yourself asking, “What does STEM stand for?”, know that the answer may be different a couple of years from now. This is what makes STEM careers so exciting! Those working in these fields will always have the opportunity to evolve with new methods, discoveries, and breakthroughs! 

What is STEM education and why is it important?

When reading through the list of STEM jobs, you might wonder what a STEM education looks like. Beyond just STEM courses, a STEM education is focused on building a curriculum that integrates science, technology, engineering, and math. 

While students will select a specific STEM major, their overall STEM education will help them make connections across disciplines. In fact, schools have started to help students connect with other STEM majors, fostering collaboration in fields that previously felt siloed. Additionally, with an increased focus on disparities within STEM fields, many schools have started initiatives dedicated to helping women and minority students enter the field. 

Rather than keeping these disciplines separate, a diverse STEM education encourages students to explore skills such as critical thinking, collaboration, innovation, and problem solving. By understanding how different disciplines interact with one another, students are better prepared for highly evolving STEM jobs and STEM careers. 

Get on a STEM Track

Pursuing a STEM degree may not be the best fit for everyone, but if you’re interested in a STEM job, it’s a good idea to focus your undergraduate studies on a STEM track. Before committing, make sure that a STEM major is a good choice for you and your skillset. If you can, attend a STEM summer program, and get some experience before applications begin. 

As STEM jobs tend to pay well and have solid job security, STEM majors have become more and more competitive. This is why a STEM education is so important. While studying, students will be able to expand their skillsets to include fields outside of their designated major. This will allow them to develop important skills across disciplines, making them hireable in the long run.

With the rapidly changing nature of STEM, a STEM education can help build a workforce that is adaptable and ready for ultramodern and research intensive STEM jobs. By incorporating all the different disciplines within STEM, a STEM education works to ensure that students are ready to solve some of the most complex and challenging problems facing society today. 

If you’re planning to apply as a STEM major, be sure to watch our webinar on Applying to College as a STEM Major as well as our STEM Major Panel.  

What jobs are in the STEM field?

Before we break down our list of STEM jobs, we’ve broken down the kinds of STEM careers that exist within each of the four STEM subjects. Keep in mind that this list of STEM jobs is not exhaustive, and new STEM careers are created each year. 

Here are some example STEM jobs in each category: 

Science 

Biologist, Chemist, Environmental Scientist, Physicist

STEM careers

STEM jobs in the sciences typically relate to the standard STEM courses found in most college curricula. These STEM jobs focus on research and development, helping to solve real-world problems and contribute to scientific knowledge. Students interested in academia can also find a great career in the sciences. 

Technology 

Software Developer, Systems Analyst, Database Administrator, Cybersecurity Specialist

STEM jobs

Often the most popular STEM jobs, technology jobs have grown significantly over the last decade. Tech jobs are considered to be “STEM jobs in demand” across many industries. And with the increased use of technology in our daily lives, it’s expected that these jobs will continue to expand. 

Engineering 

Mechanical Engineer, Civil Engineer, Electrical Engineer, Aerospace Engineer

STEM careers

Engineering jobs are often involved with building systems, working with machinery, and improving efficiency in many different areas. STEM careers in engineering demand specialized skillsets, requiring students to study engineering in college. Be sure to check out our guide on the Best Colleges for Engineering if you’re interested! 

Mathematics 

Statistician, Actuary, Data Scientist, Mathematician

STEM jobs

STEM jobs in mathematics often require the most specialized skillsets, but can be applied in many different fields and industries. These STEM jobs usually require mathematical modeling and complex equations to help companies make data-driven decisions. Students who study mathematics can also pursue research and academia as STEM careers. 

It’s important to know that STEM careers don’t just exist in laboratories or tech firms. Indeed, STEM jobs can be found in healthcare, education, finance, government, energy, and many other fields. Therefore, graduates can find great STEM jobs in their fields of interest. In fact, some of the best STEM careers are found in unexpected places. While a certain list of STEM jobs may lead you to believe pursuing STEM careers means working in a lab, the ever-evolving nature of the field means new STEM jobs are created everyday, across all industries.  

Additionally, some jobs are closely related to STEM, but aren’t typically included on a list of STEM jobs. For example, healthcare professionals, like doctors and nurses, certainly study STEM subjects, but you won’t typically see these jobs included on a STEM careers list. If you’re interested in STEM jobs, but don’t see any that interest you, keep in mind that one list won’t capture all of the career opportunities within these fields. 

STEM Jobs Definition

So, what are STEM jobs and how are they different from other jobs? STEM jobs typically require a focus and expertise in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics. STEM jobs often use analytical and technical skills like coding, conducting scientific research, or using mathematical models. A STEM track will prepare students with specialized skills in one of the four STEM categories. 

Like we’ve mentioned, many healthcare professions aren’t typically included on a STEM careers list. However, these roles are still deeply related to STEM jobs, and often use many transferable skills. But, as healthcare is its own in-demand field, jobs in that industry are typically separated from STEM jobs, having their own career lists. 

Additionally, there are plenty of STEM-adjacent jobs that use similar skills. For instance, product and project managers at tech firms help coordinate technical resources and ensure projects are completed. Technical writers help synthesize technical information for a specific audience. With the creation of more and more STEM jobs each year, it’s good to keep in mind that not every STEM job requires highly specialized skills. 

As you research STEM jobs, be sure to inform yourself about all of the possible STEM opportunities available. For example, read Teen Life’s guide on your future in STEM for job ideas and inspiration. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also has several articles on STEM jobs and their career outlooks. And, the FBI even has a number of STEM jobs available for further research. 

List of STEM Jobs

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics has released important information on STEM careers in the form of a periodic table, helping interested students learn more about the many different sub-categories of STEM careers. If you were to take a STEM careers quiz, some of these STEM jobs may be suggested to you. However, it’s important to do additional research to learn more about all of the STEM careers that might interest you. 

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ List of STEM jobs

STEM careers

Chemistry : Chemists, Teachers, Technicians

Computer Science: Software Developers, Web Developers, Computer Programmers

Engineering: Mechanical Engineers, Civil Engineers, Chemical Engineers

Environmental Science: Scientists, Protection Technicians, Teachers

Geo Sciences: Geo Scientists, Technicians, Hydrologists

Life Sciences: Soil and Plant Scientists, Microbiologists, Epidemiologists

Mathematics: Actuaries, Mathematicians, Statisticians

Physics / Astronomy: Physicists, Astronomers, Teachers

As you can see, there are plenty of different STEM careers within many different subcategories of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. As you pursue a STEM track, be sure to keep updated on recent developments in your fields of interest. Getting internships and hands-on experiences will also expose you to more STEM jobs. 

What are STEM Careers?

What’s the difference between STEM jobs and STEM careers? Well, a STEM job refers to a specific role, but a STEM career refers to a long-term, professional path that builds over multiple years and roles. A STEM career can look very different from person to person. In fact, it can comprise many different STEM jobs. 

A STEM career often has progression within STEM roles. For example, a junior civil engineer may be promoted to a project engineer, and later promoted again to a structural engineer. This person may even go on to become an engineering consultant. This is an example of an entire STEM career, with each STEM role building on each other. 

Consider taking a STEM careers quiz

A STEM careers quiz may point you to a specific STEM job. Therefore, it’s important to remember how a job can evolve throughout your career. Indeed, every STEM career will look different for each person. When studying a STEM track, it can be easy to aim for a specific role. However, getting internships, speaking with STEM career professionals, and gaining hands-on experience will help you better envision what your STEM career may look like. 

Or, for more inspiration, Indeed has collected 40 different STEM careers, along with their salaries–you can explore them here. If you’re interested in a specific STEM career, NASA has collected a great list of degree programs with more specialized STEM tracks. STEMcareers.com also has great resources to explore, from available jobs, PhD programs, and potential companies to work for. Additionally, JMU has collected a long list of STEM careers linked to their specific programs. Remember that researching which STEM career is right for you is crucial when deciding which STEM degree to pursue. 

For many people, their STEM career will require new certifications, specializations, and even graduate school. As you consider your options and research different STEM jobs, consider what other requirements you may need as you advance in your STEM career. When taking a STEM careers quiz, know that your skillset and interests may shift and change as you enter your career. As technologies change and shift, it’s important to remain adaptable. A stable STEM career requires flexibility and the willingness to learn new skills. 

Top 10 STEM Careers

As you consider various STEM careers, it can be helpful to look at a list of STEM jobs to see what sparks your interest. Therefore, we’ve compiled a list of STEM careers that represent the 10 most popular STEM jobs across all four disciplines. 

We’ve included data on the median salaries for these STEM jobs, as well as the expected growth rates by 2033. These data points were collected by U.S. News, and can be helpful to consider when researching STEM careers. If you’re interested in more information on industry growth, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics collects data on STEM job growth. 

Top 10 Best STEM Careers 

STEM jobs

1. IT Manager – Technology

With an expected job growth of 17.4% and a median salary of just over $169,000, an IT manager helps to oversee the technology operations of a company. Scheduling network updates, solving complex tech problems, and ensuring the smooth running of a company’s technical system are all common parts of being an IT manager. With such a high median salary, IT managers have some of the highest paying STEM jobs in the field. 

2. Software Developer – Technology 

Out of all the STEM jobs, a software developer may be the most well known. Average salaries are around $132,000 and the expected job growth is 17.9%, making it one of the best STEM careers. Software developers help build all kinds of software, ranging from mobile apps to the systems we use everyday. Software developers may be one of the most popular jobs on this STEM careers list. Surely, if you search “STEM jobs in demand,” this job will pop up.

3. Information Security Analyst – Technology 

Information security analysts focus on protecting computer systems from cyberattacks. They ensure security systems are in place to protect valuable information and data stored by a company. Information security analysts make around $120,000 per year, and have an expected job growth of 32.7% over the next 10 years. With such a high expected growth rate, information security analysts are some of the best STEM jobs.  

4. Data Scientist – Technology 

Certainly one of the most versatile STEM careers on this list of STEM jobs, data scientists help analyze large sets of data to help drive company decisions. With the recent focus on bigger sets of data and emphasis on data driven decision making, data science is one of the fastest-growing STEM jobs in demand today. The industry has an average salary of $108,020 and expected job growth of 36%, making it one of the fastest growing STEM careers on our list of STEM jobs. Data science is also one of the best STEM majors for students. 

5. Actuary – Mathematics 

Considered one of the more obscure STEM jobs on this STEM careers list, an actuary uses statistical models and mathematical equations to help companies minimize loss and overall risk. Actuaries typically work in the insurance industry. This is considered one of the best STEM careers for math majors. On average, actuaries make around $120,000 and have a 21.8% job growth rate. As actuaries have such a specialized skillset, they are some of the most common STEM jobs in demand. 

6. Industrial Engineer – Engineering

In case you are wondering, industrial engineers typically work in factories or production sites, helping to improve efficiency and logistics within supply chains. Industrial engineering is one of the best STEM careers for students who enjoy working on the ground, rather than in an office. With an average salary of $99,380 and an expected job growth of 12.2%, industrial engineering is a great option for students interested in STEM careers. 

7. Computer Network Architect – Technology 

With a median salary of just over $129,000, computer network architects have some of the highest paying STEM jobs. Computer network architects help to build and maintain various data communication networks– either via the cloud or physical networks. Computer network architects have some of the most stable STEM careers. And while their careers are stable, computer network architects get to consistently explore cutting-edge technology. The expected job growth is 13.6%, making it one of the best STEM jobs for students interested in technology on our STEM careers list. 

8. Mechanical Engineer – Engineering

For students interested in robotics or machinery, STEM jobs in mechanical engineering may be the best fit. Mechanical engineers ensure machinery runs smoothly and research and develop new machinery or systems. Mechanical engineering is also one of the best STEM majors with massive potential. With an average salary of just over $99,000 and an expected job growth of 11%, mechanical engineering is one of the best STEM jobs for students who work best with their hands. 

9. Operations Research Analyst – Mathematics 

Operations research analysts help companies use mathematical models to streamline processes, improve efficiency, and save on expenses. They examine a company’s day-to-day operations, and use various research methods to make suggestions for improvements. This is one of the best STEM jobs for students interested in the intersection of mathematics and technology. Operations research analysts make around $83,000 per year and have an expected growth rate of 23%. 

10. Architectural and Engineering Manager – Engineering 

As one of the highest paying STEM jobs on our STEM careers list, architectural and engineering managers make around $165,000 per year. Architectural and engineering managers oversee construction projects–from staffing and budgets to technical specifications. The expected growth rate is the lowest on this list at 5.5%. Indeed, with such a specialized skillset, this field can be more challenging to break into. Still, for students interested in construction, architectural and engineering management is one of the best STEM careers.  

STEM Careers List for Students

STEM careers

This graphic helps capture the wide range of STEM careers that students can pursue after graduation. Note that many STEM courses won’t prepare you completely for these careers– gaining hands-on experience is crucial for many STEM jobs. 

As you explore this STEM careers list, keep in mind that STEM jobs shift and change all the time. Who knows what this list will look like in 10 years! 

Exploring the Best STEM Careers

What makes a STEM career one of the “best” depends on several key factors: strong job growth, high salary potential, workplace flexibility, overall job satisfaction, and global relevance. Many of the best STEM jobs not only pay well, but also offer stability and opportunities for advancement. In fact, roles featured on any reputable list of STEM jobs, such as software developers, engineers, and healthcare technologists, are often the highest paying STEM jobs. And, possibly more importantly, they are in high demand due to their essential role in a rapidly evolving world.

Still, the idea of the “best” career is personal. One individual may thrive in a STEM track that involves building and experimentation, while another may prefer a path focused on abstract concepts and data analysis. That’s why personal fit is crucial. A STEM careers quiz or exploration of STEM subjects and STEM courses can help identify the direction that best suits your natural interests and strengths. While the STEM careers list offers a wide range of opportunities, from environmental science to cybersecurity, the most rewarding path will always be the one that aligns with your own skills and passions. 

With some self-reflection and investigation of a list of STEM jobs, you can guide yourself toward choosing the best STEM majors. Selecting your major is the first step to ultimately finding a role that’s both fulfilling and future-proof.

STEM Jobs of the Future

As technology evolves rapidly, the list of STEM jobs is expanding to include innovative roles that didn’t exist a decade ago. Driven by global challenges and technological breakthroughs, emerging STEM careers are shaping the way we live, work, and solve critical problems. These roles are not only considered in demand, but many are also projected to become some of the best STEM careers for the next generation.

Future-focused STEM Careers

STEM jobs

AI Engineers

These engineers design intelligent systems that can learn and make decisions, powering everything from smart assistants to autonomous vehicles. 

Robotics Technicians

These specialized technicians help build and maintain robots used in industries like manufacturing, medicine, and disaster response. 

Climate Data Analysts

As the climate crisis intensifies, climate data analysts use big data to model environmental trends and inform sustainability strategies. 

Renewable Energy Engineers

Working to develop and optimize clean energy systems like wind, solar, and hydrogen power, renewable energy engineers address both energy demands and environmental concerns.

Space Systems Engineers

Looking beyond Earth, space systems engineers are innovating the future of space travel, satellite communication, and planetary exploration. 

These roles require expertise across multiple STEM subjects, often combining physics, engineering, and computer science.

The technologies fueling these future-focused STEM careers include artificial intelligence, machine learning, robotics, synthetic biology, nanotechnology, quantum computing, and renewable energy systems. These tools are transforming traditional industries and creating entirely new ones—making it an exciting time to pursue a path on the STEM track. 

As students explore STEM courses and consider the best STEM majors, a closer look at the STEM careers list reveals that the future is full of opportunity. 

STEM Jobs in Demand

For anyone asking, “What does STEM stand for?”, the answer may seem simple. It’s just an acronym, after all: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. However, the impact of STEM professionals is much more complex. STEM education leads to real-world innovation, making STEM careers among those that will shape the future.

The next decade is poised for explosive growth in a wide range of STEM jobs, with many roles experiencing far above-average expansion. Indeed, there are many STEM careers that are not only shaping the future, but are also among the most stable and promising paths available. These are often considered the best STEM jobs based on their outlook and impact.

Here are some of the fastest growing STEM careers and their projected growth rates:

List of STEM Jobs in Demand

STEM careers

Wind Turbine Service Technicians: 60%

As the world pivots toward renewable energy, technicians who install and maintain wind turbines are in exceptionally high demand.

Solar Photovoltaic Installers: 48%

The surge in solar panel adoption fuels the need for skilled workers to handle installation and upkeep.

Data Scientists: 36%

In every sector, organizations rely on data experts to interpret complex datasets and guide decisions, making this one of the best STEM careers today.

Information Security Analysts: 33%

With growing cyber threats, professionals who secure systems and networks are essential, especially in finance, healthcare, and government.

Computer and Information Research Scientists: 26%

These experts develop new computing technologies, including AI and quantum computing advancements.

Operations Research Analysts: 23%

Businesses use these analysts to optimize processes using data modeling, often in logistics and supply chain management.

Actuaries: 22%

Blending mathematics, finance, and data science, actuaries assess risk in insurance, investment, and pension systems.

Epidemiologists: 19%

Public health continues to be a priority, with data-driven research into disease patterns more critical than ever.

Software Developers: 17%

As automation and digital services expand, software engineers remain the backbone of technological innovation.

Computer Network Architects: 13%

These professionals design and build data communication networks, supporting everything from businesses to cloud computing.

Industrial Engineers: 12%

Known for improving systems and reducing waste, industrial engineers are in demand across manufacturing and service sectors.

Mechanical Engineers: 11%

Mechanical engineering is a versatile field. From robotics to energy systems to transportation, mechanical engineers play a vital role in society. 

Several transformative forces fuel these STEM jobs in demand. The green energy transition is boosting roles in wind and solar energy. The explosion of data science, cybersecurity, and machine learning is creating more opportunities for analysts and engineers. Meanwhile, the development of AI, automation, and advanced computing technologies is reshaping how businesses operate and what skills are essential to their success.

Whether you’re choosing your STEM courses, looking through a STEM careers list, or taking a STEM careers quiz, keep these fast growing STEM jobs in mind. 

STEM Jobs Salary

STEM jobs are widely recognized for offering competitive pay, with many roles ranging from mid-level to high-earning salaries. For example, soil and plant scientists earn an average of around $68,000 per year, while computer network architects average approximately $126,000 annually. These figures reflect just a snapshot of the broad income potential found across the STEM careers list.

Several factors influence how much professionals in STEM careers can earn. Geographic location plays a major role—STEM professionals in tech hubs or urban areas often command higher salaries due to the cost of living and demand. Experience level is another major variable; early-career engineers or analysts typically earn less than their seasoned counterparts, but pay scales often grow rapidly with time. The industry also matters—data scientists in finance or tech may earn more than those in nonprofit or education sectors, even with similar job titles.

Importantly, many of the best STEM jobs come with strong salary growth potential. As professionals gain experience, pursue advanced degrees, earn certifications, or move into leadership roles, their compensation can rise significantly. For instance, STEM courses that lead to specialization in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, or biotechnology often result in some of the highest paying STEM jobs over time.

Whether you’re just exploring your options with a STEM careers quiz, looking at a list of STEM jobs, or pursuing a specific STEM track, it’s encouraging to know that STEM roles typically offer both financial stability and upward mobility. 

For students asking, “What does STEM stand for?”, it’s more than just science, technology, engineering, and math—it stands for a future full of opportunity and growth.

High-paying STEM Careers

If you’re aiming for the top tier of STEM jobs, many careers offer impressive salaries that reflect the expertise and impact these roles demand. Let’s take a look at some of the highest paying STEM careers, according to 2024 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):

STEM Careers with High Salaries

STEM jobs

Physicists and Astronomers$166,290

Physicists explore the laws of nature and develop theories and models to explain physical phenomena, while astronomers study celestial bodies and the universe.

Computer Hardware Engineers$155,020

These engineers design, test, and build the physical components of computers and electronic systems. They play a key role in creating faster, more efficient hardware.

Petroleum Engineers$141,280

Tasked with designing and developing methods for extracting oil and gas from deposits below the Earth’s surface, petroleum engineers combine knowledge of geology, engineering, and environmental science in their everyday work.

Computer and Information Research Scientists$140,910

These scientists invent and improve computing technologies, solving complex computing problems in business, medicine, and science. Their work is vital in advancing fields like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and robotics.

Aerospace Engineers$134,830

Aerospace engineers design, develop, and test aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles. They often specialize in propulsion, aerodynamics, or structural design.

Software Developers$131,450

Software developers create applications and systems software for a wide range of industries and are one of the many in demand STEM jobs. They write code, manage development teams, and work closely with stakeholders to deliver functional and scalable solutions.

Computer Network Architects$130,390

These professionals design and build data communication networks, including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and cloud infrastructures. 

Nuclear Engineers$127,520

Nuclear engineers develop processes and systems that use nuclear energy and radiation. They work in power generation, medical diagnostics and treatment, and nuclear weapons defense, ensuring safety and regulatory compliance at all times.

Actuaries$125,770

Actuaries use math, statistics, and financial theory to assess risk and uncertainty in industries like insurance, finance, and pensions. 

Information Security Analysts$124,910

These cybersecurity experts protect an organization’s computer systems and networks from data breaches, cyberattacks, and other security threats. 

Chemical Engineers$121,860

Chemical engineers apply chemistry, biology, physics, and math to solve problems involving the production or use of chemicals. They work in various industries, including pharmaceuticals, energy, and food processing.

These figures from the list of STEM jobs illustrate the lucrative nature of many STEM careers and highlight why they remain attractive to students and professionals alike. 

That said, when looking at the above list of STEM jobs with high wages, remember that salaries can increase significantly with experience, advanced degrees, and by moving into leadership or specialized roles. For example, managerial positions or niche expertise within fast-growing industries like cybersecurity or AI can command even higher pay.

Whether your goal is to pursue one of the best STEM majors leading to these high-paying roles or to carve out a specialized niche, the potential financial rewards of a STEM career are clear and compelling.

What is the highest paying STEM job?

Many STEM jobs offer strong salaries, but the highest-paying positions typically require advanced education, specialized expertise, and leadership experience. On the list of STEM jobs with top earnings, roles such as physicists, computer hardware engineers, and petroleum engineers consistently stand out, with average salaries well above $140,000. These STEM careers demand deep technical knowledge and often involve cutting-edge research, design, or resource management.

When reviewing a comprehensive STEM careers list, you’ll notice that some of the highest paying STEM jobs include computer and information research scientists, aerospace engineers, and software developers. All of these roles are integral to today’s technology-driven economy. These positions require strong foundations in STEM subjects and ongoing learning to keep pace with innovation.

It’s also worth noting that certain STEM-related careers—like physicians, surgeons, and IT or engineering managers—can earn well over $200,000 annually. Although these roles sometimes fall outside the standard STEM jobs categories, they rely heavily on science, technology, engineering, or math skills. They are often listed on extended STEM careers lists that highlight interdisciplinary professions.

In summary, while many of the best STEM careers offer competitive salaries, reaching the highest-paying roles often means combining technical expertise with leadership skills and advanced degrees. Exploring the complete list of STEM jobs and understanding the education and experience needed for these roles can help you map a path to these rewarding careers.

Choosing the right STEM Career for You!

With such a wide and exciting range of STEM jobs available, choosing the path that fits you best can feel overwhelming—but, it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re browsing a STEM careers list, taking a STEM careers quiz, or exploring different STEM tracks, the key is to align your career choice with who you are and what you want from your future.

4 Tips to Help You Choose the Right STEM Career

STEM careers

1. Assess your interests.

Reflect on the STEM subjects you enjoy most. Do you love solving puzzles, working with data, or experimenting in labs? If you’re fascinated by nature, environmental science or renewable energy might suit you. If you’re into technology, fields like artificial intelligence or cybersecurity may be a great fit. Passion is a strong predictor of long-term satisfaction in any job.

2. Match your skills.

Identify your strengths. Are you great with numbers, a strong communicator, or mechanically inclined? Different STEM careers require different skill sets. For example, programming and logical thinking are crucial for software developers, while strong observational and analytical skills are key for biological scientists.

3. Identify your values.

Think about what matters most to you. Do you want a job that contributes to global challenges like climate change or public health? Would you prefer a flexible work schedule or a high-paying position? Understanding your values helps you find a career that not only suits your abilities, but also fulfills your purpose.

4. Explore job outlook and opportunities.

Review a list of STEM jobs to give you an idea of which jobs you want to learn more about. Use reliable sources, like the Bureau of Labor Statistics, to look at the growth rate and salary of various STEM careers. Some of the best STEM careers offer excellent job security, high salaries, and advancement opportunities. For example, data science, renewable energy, and information security are booming fields with strong long-term prospects.

Choosing among the best STEM majors and STEM courses is easier when you know yourself. Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Some roles may be better for people who enjoy hands-on work, while others suit those who prefer abstract thinking or coding. Whether you’re just beginning your journey or considering a career change, finding the right STEM job can lead to a fulfilling, impactful, and well-paid future.

More Resources on STEM Education!

Exploring STEM careers is an exciting step toward a dynamic and satisfying future, but having the right resources can make all the difference in shaping your path. Whether you’re just starting to explore the list of STEM jobs or narrowing down the best STEM majors, these tools and opportunities can help guide your decision-making.

STEM Education Resources

STEM jobs

College Admissions Resources

If you’re considering applying to college on a STEM track, check out Applying to College as a STEM Major. This guide offers practical advice on how to showcase your passion for STEM subjects, which STEM courses to highlight, and how to demonstrate readiness for some of the best STEM jobs of the future.

Panels and Events

Check out the STEM Majors Panel, where current college students and professionals in high-growth fields like engineering, computer science, and biology share their personal journeys. Their insights into navigating college, internships, and entry into the workforce can help you make informed choices and identify STEM jobs in demand.

Inspiration for Young Women in STEM

Women in STEM: Inspiring College and Career Paths is a must-read for anyone interested in addressing gender gaps in science and technology. Learn about trailblazing women in fields ranging from aerospace engineering to data science who prove that the highest paying STEM jobs are accessible to all with determination and the right support.

Major Exploration Tools

Not sure what to major in? Best College Majors highlights degrees that lead to the best STEM careers—those with strong job outlooks, salary potential, and long-term satisfaction. It’s a great starting point for matching your interests with the most rewarding career paths.

Teen Life’s Your Future in STEM 2025 Guide

This comprehensive digital guide is packed with valuable content for students and families exploring STEM jobs. Inside, you’ll find articles like:

  • “Finding the Right STEM Career Path for You” — a deep dive into self-assessment tools and STEM careers quizzes
  • “Top Emerging STEM Majors” — including data on synthetic biology, climate tech, and AI
  • “Stem Summer Programs” — practical tips for gaining experience before college

Whether you’re driven by pursuing innovation, solving global challenges, or securing a role in one of the highest paying STEM jobs, these resources offer valuable direction. And for those still wondering, “What does STEM stand for?, remember that it’s more than just an acronym—it’s a gateway to creating your future.

STEM Jobs & STEM Careers- Final Takeaways

From defining what STEM stands for to exploring the highest paying STEM jobs, this guide has walked you through everything you need to know about STEM careers. We’ve covered the foundation of a STEM education, the importance of STEM subjects, and why these fields matter not only for individual success, but also for solving global challenges, from climate change to cybersecurity.

We examined STEM jobs in-depth, including what qualifies as a STEM job, current in-demand STEM jobs, and a detailed STEM careers list featuring both established and emerging roles. Whether you’re interested in becoming a data scientist, AI engineer, wind turbine technician, or epidemiologist, the outlook for STEM jobs is strong. Many fields are growing rapidly due to advances in technology, the green energy transition, and an increasing reliance on data and automation.

If you’re exploring high-paying STEM careers, this guide provides insight into salary ranges—from soil scientists making around $68K to computer network architects earning over $120K—and how factors like experience, location, and education can impact your earning potential. We also highlighted the best STEM careers for job growth, flexibility, and impact.

Self-reflection is key

Choosing the right STEM path starts with self-reflection. Take a STEM careers quiz, consider your interests, strengths, and values, and look at the long-term STEM track that fits your goals. There’s no single “best” path—just the best one for you.

If you’re planning your next steps, CollegeAdvisor is here to help. Whether you’re applying to college as a STEM major, exploring the best STEM majors, or just starting to build your academic and career goals, our expert advisors can help. 

The future belongs to problem solvers, innovators, and thinkers, and STEM careers offer the path to that goal. Start exploring your place in the world of STEM today.

STEM careers

This article was written by Jessica Klein and Ashley Hollins. Looking for more admissions support? Click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.