B6 THE DAILY ASTORIAN • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2019 CHOOSING FROM MULTIPLE OFFERS GAIN EXPERIENCE FAST-GROWING OCCUPATIONS In April of 2018, the United States Bureau of Labor revealed the unemployment rate in America is at its lowest since 2000. At an impressive 3.9 per- cent, a large portion of the country is fi nding work. If you’re struggling to fi nd a rewarding career or a job that fully utilizes your talents, check out a few of the occupations that are expecting a rap- id-growth rate over the next decade. These median salaries and positions are per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. You may fi nd yourself with multiple job offers on the table. It can be an overwhelming decision, as each position comes with its own set of pros and cons. Be sure you weigh your options carefully. If you are unemployed and struggling to keep up fi nancially, the highest offer may seem like the most enticing option. However, it is import- ant to think long term. Which company best suits your future goals and gives you the best chance of moving up the ranks and establishing yourself in a career? Here are a few considerations to make before deciding between multiple offers. Consider what is most important When facing several job options, don’t forget what attracted you to the position in the fi rst place. Employers have increased company perks to attract top talent to their workforce. Many become impressed by the benefi ts rather than focus on the job description. While a solid benefi t package should be part of your considerations, make sure you will enjoy the job and it meets your standards. If you think of any questions that never came up in the interview, it’s a good idea to talk with your hiring manager to address your concerns. Where do you want to grow? If advancing in your career interests you, make sure to reach out to managers about internal oppor- tunities. When a company promotes from within, they are investing in their employees to enhance their overall success. Think about the future and consider how comfortable you feel growing with a company based on the workload and overall mis- sion. Also, consider how committed you are to the community near the offi ce. Before you begin applying for new positions, take the time to familiarize yourself with a new fi eld and show hiring managers you are serious by taking strides to learn more about the industry. Analyze general qualifi cations for the jobs you want. If you notice you lack the required degree for the position, sometimes there is no choice other than going back to school and obtaining certifi ca- tion. It can be a long process to land your dream job but if you have the time to dedicate yourself, the rewards will be well deserved. Balancing school and a job If you fi nd yourself requiring additional edu- cation before you can begin a new career, holding down your current job while studying can be chal- lenging. Follow these tips from Honor Society to avoid burning out and give your complete attention to the experience. Ask an employer to work with your schedule. Make sure to disclose your decision to pursue addi- tional education to better yourself and future. Plan ahead. Be prepared to sacrifi ce social activ- ities and remain dedicated to performing at both work and school. Don’t get in over your head. Remember to make some time for yourself. Even if that means working extra hours to give yourself a day off in the future, taking care of yourself is crucial to successfully juggling a career and continuing education. Internships Apply for internships to sharpen your skills on the fi eld you are considering. This may not always be possible for those with fi nancial commitments, but if you can comfortably take a break from work, this experience will look great on a resume . Don’t be discouraged if you feel fi nances will hold you back from this opportunity. Show your interest to companies, you may get lucky and fi nd one who does pay enough for you to live well while learn- ing more. Volunteering Look for volunteer opportunities. They pro- vide interesting experience to put on an application while serving a purpose in which you believe. Solar Photovoltaic Installers 2017 Median Salary: $39,490 According to the Solar Energy Industries Asso- ciation, it is estimated that, in late 2018, two million solar installations will have been performed in the United States. They also state by 2023, that number will be as high as four million installs. This grow- ing position requires workers to install, assemble and maintain solar panel systems on rooftops and other structures. Qualifi cations typically require a high school diploma and training. The fi eld is expected to grow 105 percent by 2026. Wind Turbine Service Technicians 2017 Median Salary: $53,880 These devices that change kinetic energy created by the wind into electricity require regular inspec- tions and maintenance. As a technician, expect to work outdoors, in confi ned spaces and sometimes great heights. Wind turbines are an alternative electricity source that is expected to see to see a growth of 96 percent by 2026. The Wind Energy Foundation states, each year in the United States, wind instal- lations will save the nation more than 20 billion gallons of water that would otherwise be used for steam or cooling in conventional plants. Workers are granted a great career path and the chance to do their part for the environment. Home Health Aides 2017 Median Salary: $23,210 Home health aides deliver benefi cial services to those with disabilities, chronic illnesses or cog- nitive impairment by evaluating them in the com- fort of their home. This career path is an excellent choice for those with an interest in health care. The fi eld is expected to grow a staggering 41 percent by 2026. As Baby Boomers age, the need for home health aides will increase. W hat do our employees like most about being a part of the Ocean Beach Hospital & Medical Clinics team? • We are all part of a great team of caregivers that want to provide the best quality healthcare possible in our community. • Our medical, dental, vision, life, and supplementary insurance benefits are hard to beat! With a very generous PTO (paid time off) program that starts at 200 hours in your first year, you’ll have time to enjoy the numerous activities here on the peninsula. • We are located on the scenic Long Beach Peninsula — home to two historic lighthouses, a new national park, great family fun, renowned restaurants, cranberry bogs, and oyster farms. Our peninsula is saturated with natural beauty and history. We are just a short drive across the bridge from Astoria, OR! CURRENT OPPORTUNITIES: • We are currently hiring for Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses (sign-on bonus), Certified Medical Assistants (sign-on bonus), Ultrasound Technologist, Physical Therapist, and more. To apply or to view detailed job descriptions, please visit oceanbeachhospital.com. CONTACT US: employment@oceanbeachhospital.com | 360-642-6315 174 FIRST AVENUE N., ILWACO, WA 98624