The healthcare industry offers an abundance of positions to suit every personality type and inclination. Best of all, many of these jobs don’t require a traditional four-year diploma. In fact, several healthcare positions simply require a high school diploma or GED, along with on-the-job experience and a willingness to learn. If you’re looking for a new career in the healthcare industry, check out the following jobs that are always accepting applications.
Surgical Tech
Surgical or operating technicians assist doctors during surgery by preparing the room, sterilizing instruments, and providing ongoing support during operations. You’ll need some training and education to become a surgical tech, but many community colleges offer two-year programs for this career path. You can expect an average salary of nearly $42,000 per year.
Occupational Therapy Aide
An occupational therapist assists those suffering from limited mobility issues in regaining control of their lives. As an aide to this professional, you would be responsible for providing administrative support, as well as occasional therapy support. There are a variety of places to work as a therapy aide, including hospitals, homes for nursing care in VA, and athletic offices. Most training happens on the job, and aides earn just under $32,000 per year.
Paramedic
If you’re looking for a fast-paced, and exciting career in which you can really make a difference, then consider becoming a paramedic or EMT. Training programs can last between six months and two years depending on the certification requirements, and these highly skilled professionals earn a little more than $31,000 per year.
Medical Assistant
Medical assistants can be certified, but training happens on the job. People who pursue medical assistance as a career, enjoy organization and working with people. They streamline the hospital or office experience by providing support to both doctors and patients. The average salary is around $30,000 per year, but varies depending on location and certification.
Phlebotomist
Are you comfortable with needles, blood and small talk? Phlebotomy may be right up your alley. Phlebotomists are medical professionals who draw blood, and ensure that the correct amount is gathered into vials for testing. They earn a median salary of around $29,000 per year and attend a training program for certification.
Whether you want to work directly with patients by assisting doctors, or work behind the scenes as an assistant, you’ll find a variety of entry-level healthcare positions that can propel your career forward. Most of these jobs require little up-front investment, but yield significant returns. The healthcare industry provides a great start for those seeking a little more adventure in their career paths.
