The job market in America is under immense pressure, and many are struggling to land a decent job. However, this problem can be addressed by understanding which jobs attract the most applicants. QR Code Generator (QRFY), a QR code generation service provider, analyzed the 2023 report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ National Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates to identify the most common jobs.
From a total of 831 roles, QRFY highlighted those with the largest and smallest number of workers. Interestingly, America has the least number of wood patternmakers.
Now, let’s discover which roles had the most workers according to their report.
Home and Personal Care Aide
- Number of workers employed- 3,689,350
- Average annual wage- $33,380.00
Home and Personal Care Aides assist individuals with disabilities or chronic illnesses in performing daily living activities. They help with tasks such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and housekeeping. While formal training is not always required, many states mandate some level of certification. The rising demand for caregivers in the US can be because of the aging population, a growing number of people with disabilities and longer life expectancy.
Retail Salesperson
- Number of workers employed- 3,684,740
- Average annual wage- $36,690.00
Retail salespersons are the frontline of the consumer industry, interacting with customers, demonstrating products, and processing sales. The role typically requires strong interpersonal skills and product knowledge. Given the vast retail sector, encompassing everything from clothing stores to electronics and grocery, there is a constant need for sales associates. Additionally, the rise of e-commerce has not entirely replaced in-store shopping, ensuring a steady demand for this occupation.
Fast Food Workers
- Number of workers employed- 3,676,580
- Average annual wage- $30,110.00
Fast food workers are essential to the quick service restaurant industry, handling tasks such as taking orders, preparing food, and maintaining store cleanliness. The job often requires minimal formal education and offers flexible hours, making it accessible to many people, including students, young adults, and those seeking part-time employment. The fast-food industry’s widespread presence across the country contributes to the high number of workers in this role.
General and Operations Managers
- Number of workers employed- 3,507,810
- Average annual wage- $129,330.00
General and Operations Managers look after the management of the daily activities of an organization. They are tasked with creating policies, overseeing staff, and ensuring smooth operations. Typically, this role requires a bachelor’s degree in business administration or a related field, along with managerial experience. The intricacy of today’s businesses, with their multiple departments and processes, demands strong leadership and organizational abilities. Additionally, the need for someone to manage operations spans across all types of organizations, from small enterprises to large companies, making this a widely held position.
Cashiers
- Number of workers employed- 3,298,660
- Average annual wage- $30,710.00
Cashiers process customer payments at checkout counters in various retail establishments. The job typically requires basic math skills and the ability to handle money accurately. While formal education is often not required, customer service skills are essential. The omni-prevent nature of retail stores, from grocery stores to clothing boutiques, creates a consistent demand for cashiers, making it one of the most common occupations. A recent coverage by ABC News highlighted why people prefer human cashiers over self-checkout machines. This could also be a big reason behind the vastness of this job role.
Registered Nurses
- Number of workers employed- 3,175,390
- Average annual wage- $94,480.00
Registered nurses (RNs) are responsible for delivering and managing patient care, educating patients and the public on various health conditions, and administering medications. To become an RN, one must obtain a nursing degree and pass a licensure exam. The growing elderly population and progress in medical science have led to an increased demand for skilled nursing professionals, making it one of the largest roles in the healthcare sector. Despite the large workforce, nurse burnout remains a critical issue due to the exceptionally long working hours RNs often endure. This aspect of work culture needs urgent attention.
Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers, Hand
- Number of workers employed- 3,008,300
- Average annual wage- $39,760.00
This category encompasses a wide range of workers involved in physical labor, such as loading and unloading materials, moving freight, and performing general labor tasks in warehouses and manufacturing facilities. Usually, there are no requirements in terms of formal education, but physical strength and stamina are essential. The need for efficient and cost-effective material handling, especially in the manufacturing and distribution sectors, contributes to the large number of workers in this occupation.
Stockers and Order Fillers
- Number of workers employed- 2,872,680
- Average annual wage- $37,990.00
Stockers and Order Fillers are responsible for organizing and replenishing inventory on shelves or preparing orders for shipment. Physical stamina and attention to detail are key qualifications. The growth of e-commerce and the complexity of supply chain management have led to a higher demand for workers in this role, particularly in warehouse and distribution centers.
Customer Service Representatives
- Number of workers employed- 2,858,710
- Average annual wage- $43,520.00
Customer Service Representatives (CSRs) engage with customers to address inquiries, complaints, and requests. They offer information about products or services, handle order processing, and resolve issues. While a high school diploma is typically sufficient for this role, problem-solving skills and trong communication are essential. The growing focus on customer satisfaction across various industries has heightened the demand for CSRs.
Office Clerks, General
- Number of workers employed- 2,496,370
- Average annual wage- $43,560.00
.Office clerks handle a range of administrative duties, such as answering phones, filing documents, and entering data. Although the specific requirements can differ, most positions generally require a high school diploma and basic computer proficiency. The need for support functions in offices of all sizes, from small businesses to large corporations, ensures a consistent demand for office clerks.
Waiters and Waitresses
- Number of workers employed- 2,237,850
- Average annual wage- $36,530.00
Waiters and Waitresses provide food and beverage service to restaurant patrons. The job demands strong interpersonal skills and the ability to multitask. While formal education is not necessary, food service experience can be beneficial. The popularity of dining out and the vast number of restaurants across the country contribute to the high number of workers in this field.
Janitors and Cleaners (Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners)
- Number of workers employed- 2,172,500
- Average annual wage- $36,250.00
Janitors and Cleaners maintain the cleanliness of buildings and equipment by performing tasks such as sweeping, mopping, and emptying trash. Formal education is not typically required; physical stamina is necessary for this role. The need for clean and sanitary environments (especially after COVID-19) in residential and commercial spaces ensures a consistent demand for janitorial services. However, despite being one of the most common jobs in America, a big part of this community is now protesting against the work exploitation they go through.
Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers
- Number of workers employed- 2,044,400
- Average annual wage- $55,990.00
Heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers transport goods across long distances. They require a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and must stick to the regulations regarding hours of service and cargo safety. The robust economy, coupled with the reliance on goods transportation for businesses and consumers, has created a consistent demand for truck drivers. The industry’s challenges in recruiting and retaining drivers due to factors like long hours and time away from home have also contributed to the occupation’s prominence.
Secretaries and Administrative Assistants (Except Legal, Medical, and Executive)
- Number of workers employed- 1,785,430
- Average annual wage- $45,490.00
Secretaries and Administrative Assistants support professionals by managing schedules, handling correspondence, and organizing office procedures. While specific requirements vary, a high school diploma and strong computer skills are usually necessary. This is why, in a recent BBC coverage, it was mentioned that, while the role seems vulnerable to AI replacement, the technology still can’t replace it. The administrative backbone of businesses, organizations, and government agencies requires a significant number of support staff, making this a common occupation.
Software Developers
- Number of workers employed- 1,656,880
- Average annual wage- $138,110.00
Software developers develop and maintain computer applications. They usually hold a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related discipline and have robust programming skills. With technology being integral of modern life, from business operations to entertainment, the demand for software developers has surged, making this one of the fastest-growing career fields.
