Implementation Science by the Numbers: 9 In-Demand Jobs and Their Wages
Implementation science isn’t limited to just one job or even one field. It brings together professionals from many backgrounds, all working toward the same goal: turning research into real-world results.
Job opportunities in implementation science are increasing daily. ZipRecruiter, Indeed and LinkedIn list many open positions — and there are plenty more to come. While salaries can vary, some positions top six figures.
We’ll show you the numbers! But first, let’s take a step back to define implementation science.
What Is Implementation Science?
Implementation science connects research and the real world. Experts in this field make sure new medicines and treatments move from the labs that produce them to the people who need them. They also spread awareness about vaccines and proven healthcare solutions to improve patient outcomes.
Implementation Science Careers: Diverse Roles and Opportunities
Although exciting, medical breakthroughs often take months or even years to put into practice. It takes significant resources, including a multidisciplinary team of experts. The upside for implementation science graduates? A wide range of career opportunities. People in these roles come from all kinds of backgrounds, including:
- Healthcare
- Research
- Government
- Education
- Community engagement
- Finance
Let’s dig deeper into related roles, current demand and salary potential.
9 In-Demand Implementation Science Jobs: Growth, Openings and Pay
Implementation science jobs are in high demand nationwide. What does that mean for job growth, new openings and pay? Let’s break it down.
- Health services manager
What they do: Health services managers lead healthcare providers’ and institutions’ business operations to ensure they run smoothly.- Growth rate through 2033: 29% (much faster than average)
- New job openings each year: 61,400
- Median pay: $117,960
- Epidemiologist
What they do: These public health professionals dig into the “why” behind diseases and injuries — spotting trends, uncovering causes and figuring out how to prevent future problems.- Growth rate through 2033: 19% (much faster than average)
- New job openings each year: 800
- Median pay: $83,980
- Training or development specialist
What they do: Training and development specialists help employees grow by designing engaging and practical programs that boost their skills and knowledge.- Growth rate through 2033: 12% (much faster than average)
- New job openings each year: 42,200
- Median pay: $65,850
- Medical scientist
What they do: Medical scientists explore ways to enhance human health by researching diseases, treatments and prevention strategies. Through clinical trials and studies, they uncover insights that drive medical advancements.- Growth rate through 2033: 11% (much faster than average)
- New job openings each year: 8,900
- Median pay: $100,590
- College teacher
What they do: College and university teachers educate students and may also do research and publish scholarly work.- Growth rate through 2033: 8% (faster than average)
- New job openings each year: 118,900
- Median pay: $83,980
- Health education specialist
What they do: Health education specialists help people adopt healthier habits by creating strategies that improve individual and community well-being.- Growth rate through 2033: 7% (faster than average)
- New job openings each year: 6,700
- Median pay: $63,000
- Social worker
What they do: Social workers support people through life’s challenges, while clinical social workers diagnose and treat mental, emotional and behavioral health issues.- Growth rate through 2033: 7% (faster than average)
- New job openings each year: 67,300
- Median pay: $61,330
- Registered nurse
What they do: Registered nurses care for patients, manage treatment and educate people about health conditions.- Growth rate through 2033: 6% (faster than average)
- New job openings each year: 194,500
- Median pay: $93,600
- Physician or surgeon
What they do: Physicians and surgeons diagnose, treat and help prevent health issues, often specializing in specific conditions or areas of the body.- Growth rate through 2033: 4% (steady growth)
- New job openings each year: 23,600
- Median pay: $239,200
Most of these jobs require a related degree and professional credentials. But you can gain key skills in implementation science in as little as two semesters. Completing an 11-credit graduate certificate is a simple, streamlined way to expand your knowledge in implementation science and prepare for meaningful work in your field.
Grow Your Career and Make a Difference With Implementation Science
Make a positive impact on public health in healthcare professions and beyond. Start with an online Graduate Certificate in Implementation Science from UF.
- No GRE
- Affordable tuition
- 24/7 learning flexibility