How We Determined When You're Over The Hill For Your Job
We used Census' PUMs data to find the average worker age in over 500 jobs.
The older the average age, the “higher the hill" and the longer workers have in the field before they're one the oldest workers on the job. Similarly, the younger the average age, the sooner workers may “age out" of their job.
Below we broke-down the jobs with the oldest workers and the youngest workers. Keep reading to see the jobs with the steepest (and most shallow) hills.
Jobs With The Oldest Workers
Average Age: 49.7
Average Age: 49.5
Average Age: 48.9
Average Age: 48.8
Average Age: 48.7
Average Age: 48.3
Average Age: 48.1
Average Age: 47.9
Average Age: 47.9
Average Age: 47.7
Some of these jobs, such as CEO, are unsurprisingly made up of older workers. After all, you typically have to work up to the top of the food chain.
As these workers near retirement age, it may create opportunities for younger workers looking to enter the field to fill the gap.
Jobs With The Youngest Workers
Average Age: 31.2
Average Age: 32.2
3. Military, Rank Not Specified
Average Age: 34.4
4. Military Officer Special And Tactical Operations Leaders
Average Age: 35.1
Average Age: 36.0
Average Age: 36.0
Average Age: 36.4
Average Age: 36.8
Average Age: 37.2
Average Age: 37.6
Four of the youngest positions are military jobs. Considering the military caps enlistment at 35 and many military enlisted soldiers are far younger, that isn't too surprising. Additionally, military retirement benefits start after 20 years of active duty service.
Bartenders and waiters are two other “young" jobs. Both positions often serve as entry-level positions and accept inexperienced workers. Of course, as anyone who has worked in the field can tell you, both jobs will also have you on your feet all day.
While older workers can (and are!) in these fields, workers in these fields veer to the young side.
Age Is Just A Number
In today's market, many older employees feel their age is a weakness and worry they are “over the hill." However, while some companies can be short-sighted, others appreciate the expertise and qualities older workers bring to the table.
However, a job's average age can be a useful tool for workers. It can tell them about the work environment, career longevity, and other relevant information to help workers find the right career for them.
