There are many entry-level jobs in demand now that put Minnesotans on a career path to family-sustaining employment.

This week in our Jobs in Demand series, the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) is focusing on entry-level health care and social assistance jobs that, with additional training and certification, can help people move down a career path toward greater responsibilities with higher wages. In many cases, employers provide or pay for training leading to career advancement for dedicated employees.

Getting an in-demand job and growing in that career may require training to develop new skills before you land the job. There are opportunities for training for in-demand jobs through DEED and its partners, including through Dislocated Worker services, Pathways to Prosperity and other training grant programs. If you need help preparing to get an in-demand job, contact a CareerForce location near you today.

CareerForceMN.com lists thousands of open health care positions – and many of them, including Personal Care Aides, Nursing Assistants and Registered Nurses, are in the top 30 most posted, high-demand jobs in Minnesota right now. Many open positions are entry level, requiring only a high school education or equivalent, a background check and on-the-job training to start.

CareerForceMN.com lists wage ranges for jobs in demand. While wages vary by location and employer, Personal Care Aides in Minnesota tend to earn between $25,500 and $31,600 a year, Nursing Assistants between $31,000 and $40,100, and Registered Nurses between $68,000 and $94,900 a year. So you can see how advancing in the health care field can pay off financially.

Another way to find open positions in senior care is on caringcareersstarthere.com. Visitors to that site will also see additional resources for career seekers, as well as information for students and educators.

Starting a new career in health care and social assistance offers workers an opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of some of the most vulnerable Minnesotans during this time of pandemic – while beginning down a path to a family-sustaining career.