Top 5 Fastest-Growing Jobs Globally in 2025

Global labor markets are being reshaped by rapid technological advances, a green economic transition, and demographic shifts. By 2030 the World Economic Forum projects 170 million new jobs will be created even as 92 million are displaced. In percentage terms, the fastest-growing roles are overwhelmingly tech- and sustainability-driven. The WEF identifies the top in-demand jobs as Big Data Specialists, FinTech Engineers, AI & Machine Learning Specialists, Software/Application Developers, and green-energy engineers (such as Renewable Energy and Environmental Engineers). Each of these fields is expanding swiftly (often 2–3× faster than average) as companies invest in digitalization, data-driven insights, and climate solutions.

1. Big Data & Data Science Specialists

Role: Big Data Specialists (often called Data Scientists/Analysts) collect and analyze massive datasets to help organizations make decisions. They build algorithms and statistical models to turn raw data into insights – for example, optimizing supply chains, forecasting sales, or personalizing services. As firms everywhere adopt analytics and AI, demand for these experts is surging. In fact, WEF reports Big Data Specialists as the fastest-growing role by percentage. In the US, data scientists are projected to see a 36% employment growth from 2023–33 (vs. 4% for all jobs). Similarly strong growth is expected globally as businesses double-down on data-driven strategies.

Why in demand: Digital transformation and AI/IoT are generating more data than ever. Companies in finance, retail, healthcare, and government all need data professionals to interpret big data for competitive edge. For instance, e-commerce giants use data scientists to analyze user behavior, while smart-farming startups use them to process sensor data from fields.

• Key skills: Strong statistics and math; proficiency in data tools (Python/R, SQL, Hadoop/Spark, machine learning libraries, data visualization). Domain knowledge (e.g. finance, biology, marketing) can be a plus.
• Typical salary: Data science roles are well-paid. In the US, the median data scientist earned about $113,000 in 2024. Senior big-data engineers or ML specialists can earn well into the $150–200K range (total comp) in high-cost markets. (Salaries vary widely by region, but even in developing economies data specialists earn above-average wages.)

2. Financial Technology (FinTech) Engineers

Role: FinTech Engineers design and build software for the financial sector – from mobile banking apps and blockchain platforms to payment systems and robo-advisors. These developers blend programming skills with finance domain knowledge (cryptography, banking regulations, payments networks). The World Economic Forum names FinTech Engineers as the second-fastest growing job globally. Financial services are undergoing rapid digital transformation, driving huge demand for engineers in this niche.

Why in demand: Consumers and businesses are increasingly shifting to digital payments, online banking, cryptocurrencies and other fintech solutions. Global fintech investment is booming (the market is on pace to more than triple by 2029), and regulators in many countries are encouraging fintech innovation. This creates strong demand for developers who can build secure, scalable financial software. For example, the rise of blockchain and digital wallets means more FinTech engineers to implement secure transactions and fraud prevention.

• Key skills: Software development (Java, Python, C++, mobile/web frameworks), plus finance-specific technologies (blockchain, smart contracts, cybersecurity, APIs for banking). Understanding of financial regulations (e.g. KYC/AML) helps. Strong security and cryptography skills are often required.
• Typical salary: FinTech roles tend to pay similarly to top software engineers. (In the US, top fintech software engineers often command $120K–$180K+ total compensation.) For context, the median wage for software developers is about $133,000 in the US; FinTech specialists with specialized skills often earn at the high end of that range.

3. Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning Specialists

Role: AI/ML Specialists research and build intelligent systems: machine learning engineers, AI researchers, deep learning experts, etc. They develop algorithms that enable computers to “learn” from data – powering features like voice assistants, recommendation engines, autonomous vehicles, and predictive analytics. According to WEF, AI and Machine Learning Specialists rank among the top three fastest-growing jobs through 2030. About 86% of executives say AI will transform their business by 2030, fueling enormous job demand.

Why in demand: As AI goes mainstream (from chatbots to medical diagnostics), companies need skilled AI professionals to develop and integrate these technologies. Key drivers include growth in computing power, availability of big data, and strategic initiatives in areas like autonomous vehicles or personalized medicine. The surge in AI adoption across industries means AI/ML roles are being created faster than almost any other occupation.

• Key skills: Advanced proficiency in programming (Python, C++), expertise with ML frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch), strong math/statistics background (linear algebra, probability), data modeling, and experience with large-scale computing (cloud, GPUs). Creativity and research skills are valuable for novel AI solutions.
• Typical salary: AI specialists earn top-tier wages. In 2024 the US median for computer & information research scientists – many of whom specialize in AI – was about $141,000. Entry-level AI engineers often start around $100K–$130K (US), while senior researchers at big tech firms can exceed $200K+.

4. Software and Applications Developers

Role: Software Developers (including mobile and web developers) design, build and maintain applications and systems. While software development is a well-known field, demand remains extremely high as new platforms and apps emerge. WEF ranks “Software and Applications Developers” as the fourth-fastest-growing job globally. This category covers everything from enterprise systems to smartphone apps and Internet of Things (IoT) devices.

Why in demand: Virtually every company in 2025 needs software – to digitize services, automate processes, reach customers online, etc. Cloud computing, remote work tools, e-commerce, and new technologies (VR/AR, edge computing, Web3) are all driving fresh demand. For example, as more businesses move operations to the cloud or adopt mobile strategies, additional developers are needed to build and update those applications.

• Key skills: Strong coding ability in one or more languages (e.g. Java, C#, JavaScript, Python). Familiarity with software frameworks (Angular, React, .NET, Node.js, etc.), databases and version control (Git). Problem-solving and teamwork are important, since developers often work in agile teams. Domain knowledge (e.g. finance, gaming, healthcare) can be a plus.
• Typical salary: This remains a lucrative field. In the US, the median wage for software developers was about $133,000 per year as of 2024 (much higher than the national average wage). Entry-level positions may start around $70–90K, while experienced developers or managers can earn $150K+ (and more with bonuses or equity). (Note: salaries in Europe or Asia are generally lower, but these roles still rank among the top-paid in those markets.)

5. Renewable Energy and Environmental Engineers

Role: These “green” engineering roles include Renewable Energy Engineers, Environmental Engineers, and specialists in electric/autonomous vehicles. They design, build and maintain technologies for a low-carbon economy – for example, wind farm systems, solar power plants, battery storage, or EV charging infrastructure. WEF highlights roles like Renewable Energy Engineer and Environmental Engineer among the top 15 fastest-growing jobs. In fact, climate-change mitigation is cited as a major driver behind demand for these jobs.

Why in demand: Worldwide climate and energy policies are accelerating the shift to clean energy. Governments and companies are investing heavily in solar, wind, EVs and energy efficiency to meet carbon-reduction targets. For instance, the global market for renewables and energy storage is projected to expand dramatically (the International Renewable Energy Agency and others forecast millions of green jobs by 2030). In agriculture-based economies, even “farmworker” roles are seen growing as new eco-agriculture projects roll out. But engineering roles stand out because they require technical skills that are in short supply.

• Key skills: A bachelor’s or master’s in engineering (mechanical, electrical, environmental, civil) is usually required. Skills in systems design, energy modeling, CAD software, and knowledge of renewable tech (solar PV, wind turbines, battery storage) are important. Project management and familiarity with environmental regulations are also valuable.
• Typical salary: These are well-compensated engineering roles. In the US, environmental engineers have a median wage around $100,000 per year. Renewable energy engineers (solar/wind design, etc.) tend to earn similar or higher pay, especially in the private sector or government. For example, median total compensation for renewable energy engineers is roughly in the $90K–110K range (depending on experience and location). In Europe and elsewhere, salaries vary, but green engineering remains a solid career choice relative to local norms.

Conclusion

In summary, the jobs growing fastest worldwide in 2025 are those tied to digital innovation and sustainability. Tech-driven roles like Data Science, AI/ML, FinTech and Software Development are exploding as businesses harness big data, cloud computing and AI for competitive advantage. Simultaneously, green energy and climate-related fields are expanding due to decarbonization efforts. For job seekers, these trends mean that gaining skills in programming, data analysis, machine learning, and clean energy technologies will position you for many of the fastest-growing careers. While salaries vary by region, all five roles above typically offer well-above-average pay. Ultimately, technological change and global policy shifts (in digitalization and climate action) are propelling demand for these occupations – making them smart fields to consider for a future-proof career.

Sources: Current global forecasts from the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025 and U.S. labor statistics (BLS) for job growth and median wages. These highlight both the explosive growth rates and the strong compensation in these fast-evolving sectors.