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gathering and evaluating information and responding to cyberattacks. Some jobs in safety and security involve a hybrid indoor/outdoor work environment. Workers in safety and security earn a median annual wage of $46,590, according to the US Department of Labor (DOL). This is slightly higher than the median annual wage ($45,760) for workers in all occupations. Workers in the following occupations earn higher median wages:

• information security analysts: $102,600 • emergency management directors: $76,730 • police and detectives: $66,020 • fire inspectors: $63,080 • forensic science technicians: $61,930 • probation officers: $60,250 • private detectives and investigators: $59,380

On the other hand, EMTs ($36,930) and security guards ($31,470) earn lower salaries. Some people work in these careers before completing additional education that prepares them for higher-paying occupations and more advancement opportunities. There will always be a strong need for safety and security professionals because they keep us safe. Without them, crime would increase, cyberattacks would disable our computer systems, fires would rage, and no one would respond when car accidents occur, people have heart attacks, and buildings collapse. Some careers provide more opportunities than others. For example, employment for information security analysts is expected to grow 35 percent from 2021 to 2031, according to the DOL. Job opportunities for forensic science technicians are expected to increase 11 percent during this time span. Both of these careers will grow much faster than the average for all careers. Other careers that will enjoy good growth include firefighters, fire inspectors, EMTS and paramedics, and private detectives and investigators.

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Is a Safety and Security Career for You?