4 Career Options To Give Something Back

According to a Forbes study, ‘more than half of U.S workers are unhappy in their jobs.’ If you can relate, perhaps it’s time to consider a career change? Many people feel dissatisfied if they aren’t doing meaningful work. The quickest way to stop that feeling is to pursue a career that gives something back. For a little bit of inspiration, consider these four ideas.

1. Environmental Engineer 

An environmental engineer uses engineering principles, soil science, and chemistry to improve various environmental issues. In such a role, you’d be working to improve public health, waste, air pollution, and recycling. Environmental engineers research solutions to prevent global warming and the depletion of the ozone. An environmental engineer’s typical duties might include analyzing data, prepping reports, or supporting government agencies to handle contaminated sites. To pursue a role as an environmental engineer, you would first need to obtain an environmental science or engineering-based degree.

2. Marine Biologist

Marine biologists study marine life and their ecosystems. Typical responsibilities might involve studying marine organisms and their behavior or collecting samples for study. Marine biologists look at the health of the entire ocean and seek to repair ecosystems that are damaged. To work as a marine biologist, you would first need to obtain a marine biology degree.

Either of these altruistic career options would be ideal for someone with an interest to help the planet. If you’re more keen on helping people directly, consider the following ideas.

3. Psychiatrist

Psychiatrists treat patients with various mental health disorders. These would commonly include treatment of bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or depression. In many cases, psychiatric issues are closely linked to physical illnesses. Due to this, a psychiatrist needs to pay attention to both body and mind symptoms. Psychiatrists provide a range of treatment, including therapy and medication. The first step to becoming a psychiatrist is obtaining a degree in medicine. On completion of the right degree you’ll be eligible to apply for a variety of roles.

4. Occupational Therapist 

Occupational therapists provide support for the elderly or people with illnesses or disabilities. They help these people to improve their wellbeing and to live an independent life. An occupational therapist supports people with everyday tasks, which may include work, leisure, or self-care. They might also work with children or those with learning disabilities or mental health problems. As an occupational therapist, you’ll need to create treatment plans to cater to different individuals. Typical duties might involve establishing goals with each individual, liaising with doctors, writing care plans, creating reports, and reviewing treatment. For further information, take a look at an online occupational therapy program. There are plenty of flexible study options to pursue this rewarding career.

Pursuing a new career is a big decision, so it can help seek out some career guidance first. Before you make any final decision, you should weigh up the financial implications and assess how you will fit this goal around your current lifestyle.