Some jobs suck; some rock. In terms of satisfaction a gratification though, a recent list compiled by the General Science Survey is very interesting.
Below are the top jobs in terms of satisfaction and the percentage of participants who indicated being happy about their job:
* Clergy—87 percent percent
* Firefighters—80 percent percent
* Physical therapists—78 percent percent
* Authors—74 percent
* Special education teachers—70 percent
* Teachers—69 percent
* Education administrators—68 percent
* Painters and sculptors—67 percent
* Psychologists—67 percent
* Security and financial services salespersons—65 percent
* Operating engineers—64 percent
* Office supervisors—61 percent
Two creative disciplines–writing and the arts–not only appear, they rank high on the list. Which is a surprise, because the entries mostly consist of vocations that place individuals in direct contact with the person they assist or manage. Jobs where there’s not only a built in feedback loop, but opportunities for connections with the larger community.
And yet, only firefighters, clergy and physical therapists indicate a higher satisfaction level than authors.
In my next life I aspire to the Priesthood – Episcopalian of course! Right now, that satisfaction rate looks really good – although the pay is not that great. But you can’t have everything.
Pay for Episocopalian priests maps back to the wealth of the parish, no? And they usually get a house during their tenure.
Yes, the wealth of the parish is the major factor in the rector’s pay. And yes, most of these posts do include housing or a housing allowance of some sort.
Just have to find one that meets the requirements:
decent pay
decent retirement package
decent house
and while we’re doing our wish list
a better climate!
That’s pretty thorough requirements. Is there an opening in a parish in Key West, Florida?
There is a beautiful church right on Duval street in Key West – really quite lovely, amazing music director and when there is an opening – they have their pick from all the best rectors. I’d be happy to have the parish in St. Michael’s MD. (smiling thinking about it . . . ah well, I can dream can’t I?)