Page 53 - SKILLS Workforce Development Guide 2021

PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANTS
Projected Growth Through 2026: 35.1%
What do they do?
Physical therapist assistants help patients regain movement and manage pain after injuries or illnesses, under the supervision of a physical therapist.
What kind of training does it take?
Physical therapist assistants need an associate’s degree from an accredited program and to earn a license.
How much money do they earn?
Entry-level wages in the Hudson Valley average $47,490, and experienced physical therapist assistants earn $73,190.
Similar jobs to check out: Occupational therapy assistant, medical assistant, respiratory therapist, community health worker, licensed practical/vocational nurse
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND
PROTECTION TECHNICIANS
Projected Growth Through 2026: 28.6%
What do they do?
Environmental science and protection technicians monitor and investigate sources of pollution or contamination, working in laboratories, offices, or in the field.
What kind of training does it take?
While some positions ask for a bachelor’s degree, the typical requirement is an associate’s degree.
How much money do they earn?
Median pay for environmental science and protection technicians is $46,540.
Similar jobs to check out: Hazardous materials removal worker, surveying and mapping technician, civil engineering technician
PLUMBERS, PIPEFITTERS,
AND STEAMFITTERS
Projected Growth Through 2026: 28.6%
What do they do?
Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters work in factories, homes, businesses, and other places to install or repair piping fixtures and systems.
What kind of training does it take?
Most of these workers learn on the job through an apprenticeship. Some attend a vocational-technical school before their apprenticeship.
How much money do they earn?
Entry-level wages in the Hudson Valley average $45,710, and experienced workers in this sector make $85,830.
Similar jobs to check out: Heating/air conditioning/ refrigeration mechanic and installer
Opposite page: Universal Builders Supply (UBS)
crew members work at a building site in Long Island City.
MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING
(MRI) TECHNOLOGISTS
Projected Growth Through 2026: 27.3%
What do they do?
MRI technologists work scanners at hospitals and other diagnostic facilities. They also talk to patients about what to expect from a procedure and help them feel more comfortable.
What kind of training does it take?
The main requirement is an associate’s degree from a program approved by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists, followed by a certification exam.
How much money do they earn?
Entry-level wages in the Hudson Valley average $71,920, and experienced MRI technicians make $97,080.
Similar jobs to check out: Diagnostic medical sonographer, radiologic technologist, ophthalmic laboratory technician
SECURITY AND FIRE ALARM
SYSTEMS INSTALLERS
Projected Growth Through 2026: 26.9%
What do they do?
Despite the name, there’s more to this job than installing alarms — you also maintain and repair the alarms’ wiring and equipment, and check to make sure the systems comply with applicable codes.
What kind of training does it take?
Most security and fire alarm systems installers enter
the field with a high school diploma, followed by on-the-job training. In New York, workers need to show at least 81 hours
of qualifying training and pass an examination before they can earn a license.
How much money do they earn?
Entry-level wages in the Hudson Valley average $44,440, but an experienced alarm systems installer can make $76,190.
Similar jobs to check out: Electrician, mechanic for outdoor power equipment and other small engines
STRUCTURAL IRON AND STEEL
WORKERS
Projected Growth Through 2026: 23.0%
What do they do?
These kinds of workers install structural and reinforcing iron or steel to form and support buildings, bridges and roads. It’s physically demanding work, often done at great heights.
What kind of training does it take?
A high school diploma, followed by an apprenticeship or other on-the-job training.
How much money do they earn?
Entry-level wages in the Hudson Valley are around $57,710, but an experienced worker can make six figures — $113,810 on average.
Similar jobs to check out: Cement mason and concrete finisher, roofer, tile and marble setter
What’s Hot. What’s Next. What’s Needed. SKILLS 51