Information and technology, or IT, and jobs in science-related fields are two hot commodities and according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) employment is both fields is expected to rise at an above average rate. In the world of IT, social media, smart devices and cloud computing have all been the biggest trends over the last few years.

The fields of hydrology, environmental science and even astronomy have grown recently, as researchers desperately attempt to understand the Earth’s origin, how to save its natural resources and what’s beyond our confines. Here are a few of the hottest career opportunities emerging from IT and science’s biggest trends, all of which have a huge potential for growth over the next 20 years.

Head of IT HR

Your typical head of human resources cannot often pinpoint the type of developer or engineer suited for a particular project. This is why someone with a solid IT foundation is generally placed in the role of HR manager. When fishing for a qualified applicant, it’s crucial the IT engineer, developer or project manager possess a specific skill set in order to fill the opening with the right person. Otherwise, you’ll have JAVA developers working on a project better suited for a data modeler. Ideally to become the Head of IT HR, a candidate would possess both a background in technology and human resources, while retaining the ability to effectively sell the position to the most sought-after applicant.

IT Security Manager

Every technology-based firm, no matter what its size, requires the services of a dedicated IT Security manager to protect the sanctity of its most sensitive data. The head of IT security should have a background in informational technology management as he will be performing a variety of duties, from securing the company’s Wi-Fi networks and preventing hackers from infiltrating and stealing corporate data to handling lost laptops and ensuring employees don’t walk out with company property. The company’s size will depend on the amount of qualification required to reach this supervisory-level position. For instance, a smaller firm might hire a candidate with an associate’s degree, while a Fortune 500 company often seeks the services of former FBI agents.

Java Developer

Flip open your laptop or grab your smartphone and attempt to surf the internet or perform a variety of other web-based functions and chances are that you’re using Java in some capacity. The Java program was originally designed by Sun Microsystems in 1995, and has quickly become one of the world’s hottest software technologies. Java technology is used in a variety of settings, and the sheer number of the program’s applications means that it’s constantly evolving, which translates into the need for talented Java developers. Hone your skills in a specific area of Java development and you’ll find several companies clamoring to hire you, and pay a higher premium to retain your services.

Environmental Sciences

As with many other careers in the field of research, environmental science offers a wide variety of job prospects. From determining the impact of a construction project on the environment to helping minimize the damage of pollution on a body of water; there are several duties and occupations waiting for motivated individuals in the fields of environmental science, biology, chemistry or geosciences. Entry level positions in environmental sciences require at least a bachelor’s degree in any of the aforementioned concentrations. To further your career, a Master’s degree or doctoral degree is necessary, especially if you plan to teach at a university level. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a job growth rate in this field of 19 percent, which is above average compared to several other occupations.

Hydrologists

With the world’s water supply constantly being threatened, the study of hydrology is becoming an in-demand concentration for several in the field of environmental sciences. Hydrology is basically the study of water and more specifically the water cycle and its impact on supply and quality throughout the world. The projected job growth is favorable and working in hydrology allows you to split your time between and office setting and the field, which many times lead you to breathtaking and exotic locations. The majority of hydrologists hold a Master’s degree in Natural Sciences and many states require licensure as a requisite for employment.

The fields of information technology and science are always expanding, growing and evolving. If you have a particular vocation in mind, learn about its potential for job growth and educational requirements before determining if that particular avenue is worth exploring.

This guest post article was written and provided by Megan White. Megan is a freelance writer and full time student who is currently working towards her MSN nursing degree.