Top 10 Careers for Happy Workers

Are you tired of your career? Are you looking for something that makes more money, offers more of a challenge or is simply more fun? There are options. A new career in business, technology or health care could be just around the corner, if you have the right training and education. 


Career training makes happy jobs
If whistling while you work sounds like an impossible dream, consider looking into education and career training to find a job like the ones below. Check out the top 10 careers for anyone looking for a little job satisfaction. Unless otherwise noted, statistics come from a 2007 report published by the University of Chicago called "Job Satisfaction in the United States."

Clergy
Answering to a higher calling is one of the most satisfying career choices, according to the survey. More than 87 percent of clergy members across denominations reported they were very satisfied with their work.

Career training: A master's degree in theology, religious studies or a similar field is a common choice for those called to the ministry.
Related careers: Sunday school teachers and church office receptionist each require less training.

Physical therapists
Reduce pain and improve mobility in your patients while enjoying a healthy salary and a high level of job satisfaction. More than 78 percent of physical therapists surveyed reported being very satisfied in their positions.

Career training: A master's degree and state license are required for practice.
Related careers: Physical therapist assistants work under the supervision of physical therapists. The educational requirement is typically an associate degree.

Criminal investigators and special agents
Solve crimes, catch criminals and improve your community while working on interesting cases. Workers in this intriguing field ranked an average 77.5 on a 100-point happiness scale, according to MyPlan, a career information Web site.

Career training: Applicants with career training in police science may have the best opportunities, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Related careers: Private detectives often have formal training or experience in law enforcement.

Veterinary technologists and technicians
Restoring someone's favorite pet to health may actually improve the way you look at a typical day at work. Veterinary technologists and technicians ranked themselves at 72.9 points on the 100-point happiness scale, MyPlan reports.

Career training: An associate or bachelor's degree program in veterinary technology is a typical requirement for the job.
Related careers: With more education, you may qualify to become a veterinarian.

Teachers
You may remember a few teachers who meant something in your life, but have you ever considered becoming one? More than 69 percent of teachers reported they were very satisfied in their line of work.

Career training: A bachelor's degree plus a teaching certificate is required for all states. If you already have a bachelor's degree, alternative certification may be possible.

Related careers: Teacher's aides may be qualified with a short certificate or associate degree program.

Education administrators
Education administrators in elementary and secondary schools saw mean annual earnings of $82,200 in 2007, according to the BLS. No wonder more than 68 percent reported they were very satisfied with their work.

Career training: A master's or doctoral degree in education administration is a typical requirement.

Related careers: Education office supervisors require less training than administrators do.

Psychologists
Psychologists working in clinical, counseling and school capacities saw earnings of $68,150 in 2007, the BLS reports. Job satisfaction is high: Nearly 67 percent reported they were very satisfied in their careers.

Career training: A doctoral degree is considered typical training for licensed psychologists.

Related careers: Counselors working in mental health and rehabilitation require some specialization.

Engineers
Innovation is an important part of work for engineers, who ranked themselves at an average 66.7 on MyPlan's 100-point happiness scale. Enjoying some of the highest starting salaries among all bachelor's degree holders can't hurt, either.

Career training: A bachelor's degree is required for most entry-level jobs in the field. For more competitive or specialized careers, a master's degree may be recommended.

Related careers: Engineers specialize in civil, mechanical, computer, electrical engineering and more.

Security and financial services salespeople
This surprising entry on the list is possibly explained by high commission and sales figures. More than 65 percent of security and financial services salespersons surveyed reported they were very satisfied in their careers.

Career training: Most positions require a bachelor's degree, the BLS reports, though a few require a specific major.

Related careers: Real-estate agents and financial advisers both relate to elements of this career.

Office supervisors
Every office needs a supervisor, and a majority of those who fill the space enjoy their work. When it comes to job satisfaction, more than 60 percent of office supervisors surveyed reported being very satisfied.

Career training: An associate or even a bachelor's degree in office administration may be required, based on job competition.

Related careers: Many office supervisors start out as administrative support workers.
While no online education can guarantee one of the above careers or salaries, it can give you the educational base you need to enter the field with confidence. Hiring managers often prefer or require formal education prior to hire, though some may allow you to complete school online while you work full time.
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By  msnCareers