13. Social and human service assistants

Projected increase in 2016: 33.6 percent
Number employed in 2006: 339,000
Median pay in 2006: $27,200
Education/training: A bachelor's degree is not typically required, but work experience or some further education is usually sought.
Job outlook: Employers are increasingly relying on social and human service assistants as the elderly population grows. These assistants also work with those who are pregnant, homeless, or disabled.
• More on social and human service assistants
• Job openings in New England for social service assistants