In-demand jobs in South Carolina include roles in healthcare, manufacturing, and technology. Specific jobs such as registered nurses, software developers, and skilled trade workers like electricians are highly sought after. Other growing sectors include logistics, education, and hospitality.
Average wages for key jobs in healthcare and technology are impacted by job demand and employers are adjusting pay to attract and retain workers in a growing market.
SC has career opportunities across growing industries driven by economic growth and sector growth. We look at the top in demand jobs in SC, backed by data, examples, and analysis to help find the best career for you.
Overall Job Demand in SC
SC’s economy is booming with low unemployment and high demand in healthcare, technology, and manufacturing.
According to labor statistics from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment trends and projections for industries in SC show rapid growth in healthcare and technology, with wage increases and workforce demand.
The current unemployment rate is 3.3% (Oct 2024) and in 2024 employers reported 148,000 job openings, with a labor shortage in key industries.
Key Drivers of Job Demand: Labor Shortage
- Population growth and urbanization in areas such as Charleston and Greenville.
- Sector specific growth in manufacturing, technology and healthcare.
- Rise of remote work and demand for IT professionals.
Healthcare: Top of the Workforce Needs
Healthcare is the largest industry in SC, driven by an aging population and medical technology advancements. Some healthcare jobs such as health service managers require a bachelor’s degree, so education is key to meeting workforce demand.
High-Demand Jobs in Healthcare:
- Registered Nurses (RNs): Hospital and outpatient care.
- Nurse Practitioners: Master’s degree required.
- Home Health Aides: 32% growth projected in the next 10 years.
Average Salaries:
- Registered Nurses: $73,200/year
- Nurse Practitioners: $113,000/year – browse the Tallo App for Nurse Practitioner roles in SC
More Stats:
SC has the most job openings in the healthcare industry with over 10,000 annual job openings for RNs.
Nursing assistants and home health aides have significant labor shortages.
Manufacturing: The backbone of SC’s economy
Skilled trades and engineering jobs are in particular demand.
SC has a strong manufacturing sector with companies such as Boeing, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz providing employment. Many manufacturing jobs especially for machine operators require a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Machine Operators: 15% growth in the last 2 years.
- Industrial Engineers: Key to optimizing production.
Average Salaries:
- Industrial Engineers: $87,370/year
- Machine Operators: $45,000/year
Future Outlook For Manufacturing
Manufacturing jobs in SC will grow 8% by 2030 with automation and robotics.
Technology: Growing Fast
Software and IT professionals are in demand.
SC has seen a 56.7% growth in tech jobs since 2020. Cybersecurity, data analysis, and cloud computing are the hot areas in tech.
Top Tech Jobs:
- Software Developers: Design and maintain applications.
- IT Specialists: Support and manage networks.
- Data Analysts: Analyze data for business decisions.
Average Salaries:
- Software Developers: $96,763/year
- Data Analysts: $68,500/year
More Stats:
South Carolinians are encouraged to explore the emerging tech job market where employers are looking for workers with a bachelor’s degree in computer science.
Tech jobs in SC will grow 22% over the next 10 years.
Hospitality and Tourism: A foundation of employment
Jobs in SC’s tourist sector are in demand.
SC’s tourism industry, especially in Myrtle Beach and Charleston, supports thousands of jobs annually.
High-Demand Jobs
- Hotel Staff: Front desk managers, concierge services.
- Event Coordinators: Corporate and leisure events.
- Tour Guides: Heritage and eco-tourism.
Growth Projections:
- Hospitality jobs will grow 9% by 2030, with peak demand in summer.
Logistics and Supply Chain
Port and warehouse jobs are in demand in South Carolina
SC is a logistics hub with the Port of Charleston being one of the busiest in the country. This sector contributes to the state’s employment. Logistics companies need to keep their sites maintained, efficient, and functional to attract and retain clients.
Top Logistics Jobs
- Truck Drivers: Cross-state and local freight.
- Warehouse Managers: Inventory and logistics operations.
- Supply Chain Analysts: Supply chain optimization.
Salary and Outlook
- Truck Drivers: $53,000/year
- Supply Chain Analysts: $72,000/year
Job openings in logistics are increasing and SC’s location is a bonus for companies across the country.
Education and Skilled Trades
There is growing demand for teachers and skilled workers.
SC has shortages in education and vocational trades, providing many opportunities.
Top Jobs:
- K-12 Teachers: STEM and special education teachers in high demand.
- Electricians and Plumbers: Skilled trades professionals earn good salaries.
- Vocational Trainers: Train students in high-demand industries like healthcare and tech.
Average Salaries
- Teachers: $52,000/year
- Electricians: $55,000/year
SC offers incentives for students pursuing vocational certifications to fill these gaps.
Core Stats for In-Demand Jobs in South Carolina
Sector | High-Demand Roles | Job Outlook / Growth | Average Salary |
---|---|---|---|
Healthcare | Anesthesia Providers, Family Medicine Physicians, Psychiatrists | Strong demand for primary care and preventive medicine | N/A |
Technology | Software Developers, Data Analysts, IT Specialists | 56.7% increase in employment since 2020 | $96,763 |
Manufacturing | Machine Operators, Industrial Engineers | Significant job creation from companies like Boeing and Mercedes-Benz | N/A |
Hospitality and Tourism | Hotel Staff, Tour Guides, Event Coordinators | Numerous job openings in tourist areas like Myrtle Beach | N/A |
Other Fields | Accountants, Law Enforcement, Skilled Trades (Plumbers, Electricians) | Priority occupations with ongoing demand | N/A |
Total Job Openings (June 2024) | 148,000 (5.9% job openings rate) |
Final Notes
South Carolina is growing and there are jobs across many sectors. Focus on healthcare, technology, manufacturing, and education for steady and sustainable job opportunities. For long-term growth, certifications or degrees in high-demand fields are helpful to meet employer needs.
Popular Questions
Below are common questions we get asked about this topic.
What skills are in demand for healthcare jobs in South Carolina?
In South Carolina, employers are looking for telemedicine, EHR management, and patient care coordination skills. Data analytics is becoming more important as providers are making data driven decisions to improve patient outcomes. Geriatric or behavioral health certifications also help in this competitive field.
How does the shortage affect job seekers by industry?
The shortage in South Carolina affects job seekers differently by industry. For example, those looking for healthcare jobs will have more opportunities and higher pay. Those in manufacturing will have stricter requirements for technical skills and experience and may have fewer options. Overall, the mismatch between jobs and qualifications means those with specialized skills will be hired faster.
How do vocational training programs help address the skills gap?
Vocational training programs help bridge the skills gap in South Carolina by providing training that is industry specific. These programs train individuals for high demand jobs such as welding, plumbing, and healthcare support roles. Community colleges and local businesses collaborate to ensure training is relevant and graduates are employer ready which increases job placement rates.
What are the emerging industries in South Carolina that will grow in the next few years?
Several industries in South Carolina will grow in the next few years including renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, and cybersecurity. The state’s investment in green technologies is creating demand for solar energy installation and maintenance roles.
As businesses are investing more in cybersecurity, there is a growing need for IT professionals in information security. These industries will not only grow jobs but also career advancement and higher pay.