America is desperate for these professionals - Meanwhile, Ukraine has too many
Which professions are in high demand in the US (photo: Freepik.com)
The US labor market is experiencing a shortage of specialists. American companies offer high salaries, bonuses, and additional benefits, but still struggle to fill tens of thousands of vacancies. Ironically, these professions are often undervalued in Ukraine, with many professionals either working outside their field or seeking better opportunities abroad. Here is a list of the most in-demand careers in the US where Ukrainian specialists could meet the need and dramatically change their lives.
Nurses and caregivers
There is a chronic shortage of mid-level healthcare workers in the US. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), by 2030, nurses and elderly caregivers will be among the most in-demand occupations. The main reasons are an aging population and burnout among healthcare workers after COVID-19. On average, a nurse in the U.S. earns about $75,000–$80,000 per year.
Meanwhile, thousands of certified nurses in Ukraine either work for minimal salaries in hospitals or go to Poland, Germany, and the Czech Republic as caregivers. The paradox is that many have a much higher qualification than what's required in the US.
Primary and secondary school teachers
The US teacher shortage is nearly a national crisis, particularly in STEM subjects like physics, biology, chemistry, and mathematics. Some districts are forced to reduce the number of subjects or introduce simplified courses.
In Ukraine, teachers with degrees often have to work for very low wages or leave the profession entirely. Young teachers rarely stay long in public schools, and those who do usually take a second job (such as tutoring). Yet their knowledge and methods are often as good as—or even better than their Western peers.
HVAC engineers (heating, ventilation, air conditioning)
The US construction sector needs over 200,000 HVAC specialists for new installations and older housing stock maintenance. The average pay ranges from $25 to $40 per hour.
Ukrainian technical schools graduate hundreds of such specialists annually, many struggle to find stable, well-paid work at home or are forced into informal labor.
Ventilation and air conditioning experts have consistent demand in the US (photo: Freepik.com)
Welders, electricians, and construction workers
As mentioned earlier, the US construction industry is critically short of workers. The lack of qualified welders, masons, concrete workers, and electricians threatens to derail infrastructure projects. The federal government is investing billions into roads and bridges, but there are not enough workers.
At the same time, these specialties are pretty common in Ukraine. The problem is they’re often undervalued or seasonal. Many skilled workers are already in Europe and have experience that would rival many of their American counterparts.
Technical support specialists and IT administrators
Small and medium-sized businesses across the US are actively seeking professionals to set up and maintain internal computer networks. The starting salary is around $55,000 per year. Requirements include basic IT administration skills and good English.
In recent years, Ukraine has seen a boom in IT education, with many people gaining basic qualifications. However, not everyone can land a job without experience, so many could find success in this niche in the international job market.
Paralegals
US law firms seek legal assistants to prepare documents, review contracts, and compile legal memos. This role does not require a full legal license but pays around $50,000–$60,000 annually. Still, such employees are surprisingly hard to find.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian universities graduate thousands of lawyers yearly, many of whom struggle to find employment. With English proficiency and adaptation to American legal standards, the career opportunities are significant.
Engineers (mechanical, electrical, civil)
The US consistently has a high demand for engineers, which is further fueled by the transition to green energy and investments in new manufacturing facilities.
Ukrainian engineers often possess a strong technical education, many from the Soviet-era system. However, due to low pay, many either leave the profession or work in absolutely different fields.
Previously, we wrote about how Ukrainian actors are conquering Hollywood – stories of success and failure.
Sources: data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment analytics from Ukraine’s Ministry of Economy, and job search platforms.
