Growth projected for jobs in technology, construction

The survey, released today, projects 200,000 job openings in Missouri through 2007.

Among the 20 occupations with the most growth potential, network systems and data communications analysts are expected to grow the most rapidly – by 9.5 percent from 2005 to 2007.

Other top growing industries include rock-splitting/quarries, expected to increase employment by 9.01 percent; gaming surveillance and investigation, up by 8.22 percent; tile and marble setting, up 7.39 percent; home health, up 7.33 percent; and slot key personnel, up 7.33 percent.

Computer software engineering also is expected to grow substantially at 7.54 percent, with an estimated 483 job openings statewide. Those positions will have an average annual wage of $73,690.

The list of industries includes additional occupations in computers, math, construction and education. Click here for the complete listing.

The Missouri Economic Research and Information Center is the research arm of the state’s Department of Economic Development. The listing was compiled using data from the Short-Term Occupational Projections, Occupational Employment and Wage Surveys and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.