12 Occupations Where Complex Problem Solving Plays A Major Role

by Noah Smith

Monday, December 28, 2015

Complex problem solving, which involves identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions, is a skill that belongs to a group known as complex problem solving skills. Complex problem solving skills is a set of skills that describes developed capacities used to solve novel, ill-defined problems in complex, real-world settings. Other skills that belong in this group are

The occupations where complex problem solving play a major role are listed below.

Chief executives
Chief executives determine and formulate policies and provide overall direction of companies or private and public sector organizations within guidelines set up by a board of directors or similar governing body. Plan, direct, or coordinate operational activities at the highest level of management with the help of subordinate executives and staff managers. Other skills that are considered important for this occupation include active learning, active listening, coordination, critical thinking, judgment and decision making, management of financial resources, management of material resources, management of personnel resources, monitoring, negotiation, persuasion, reading comprehension, speaking, systems analysis, systems evaluation, time management and writing.
Median Annual Salary: $165,080

Judges, magistrate judges, and magistrates
Judges, magistrate judges, and magistrates arbitrate, advise, adjudicate, or administer justice in a court of law. They may also sentence defendant in criminal cases according to government statutes or sentencing guidelines. They may also determine liability of defendant in civil cases. They may also perform wedding ceremonies. Other skills that are considered important for this occupation include active learning, active listening, critical thinking, judgment and decision making, reading comprehension, speaking and writing.
Median Annual Salary: $119,270

Physicists
Physicists conduct research into physical phenomena, develop theories on the basis of observation and experiments, and devise methods to apply physical laws and theories. Other skills that are considered important for this occupation include active learning, active listening, critical thinking, instructing, judgment and decision making, learning strategies, mathematics, reading comprehension, science, speaking and writing.
Median Annual Salary: $106,370 Projected 10-Year Employment Growth: 15.89%

Medical scientists
Medical scientists conduct research dealing with the understanding of human diseases and the improvement of human health. Engage in clinical investigation, research and development, or other related activities. Includes physicians, dentists, public health specialists, pharmacologists, and medical pathologists who primarily conduct research. Other skills that are considered important for this occupation include active learning, critical thinking, instructing, reading comprehension, science and writing.
Median Annual Salary: $76,700 Projected 10-Year Employment Growth: 40.36%

Biomedical engineers
Biomedical engineers apply knowledge of engineering, biology, and biomechanical principles to the design, development, and evaluation of biological and health systems and products, such as artificial organs, prostheses, instrumentation, medical information systems, and heath management and care delivery systems. Other skills that are considered important for this occupation include active learning, critical thinking, judgment and decision making, mathematics, operations analysis, reading comprehension, science and speaking.
Median Annual Salary: $81,540 Projected 10-Year Employment Growth: 72.02%

Mathematicians
Mathematicians conduct research in fundamental mathematics or in application of mathematical techniques to science, management, and other fields. Solve problems in various fields using mathematical methods. Other skills that are considered important for this occupation include active learning, critical thinking, mathematics, reading comprehension and science.
Median Annual Salary: $99,380 Projected 10-Year Employment Growth: 22.48%

Actuaries
Actuaries analyze statistical data, such as mortality, accident, sickness, disability, and retirement rates and construct probability tables to forecast risk and liability for payment of future benefits. They may also ascertain insurance rates required and cash reserves necessary to ensure payment of future benefits. Other skills that are considered important for this occupation include critical thinking, judgment and decision making, mathematics, reading comprehension, systems analysis and systems evaluation.
Median Annual Salary: $87,650 Projected 10-Year Employment Growth: 21.37%

Environmental scientists and specialists
Environmental scientists and specialists conduct research or perform investigation for the purpose of identifying, abating, or eliminating sources of pollutants or hazards that affect either the environment or the health of the population. Using knowledge of various scientific disciplines, may collect, synthesize, study, report, and recommend action based on data derived from measurements or observations of air, food, soil, water, and other sources. Other skills that are considered important for this occupation include active learning, active listening, reading comprehension, science, speaking and writing.
Median Annual Salary: $61,700 Projected 10-Year Employment Growth: 27.86%

Air traffic controllers
Air traffic controllers control air traffic on and within vicinity of airport and movement of air traffic between altitude sectors and control centers according to established procedures and policies. Authorize, regulate, and control commercial airline flights according to government or company regulations to expedite and ensure flight safety.
Median Annual Salary: $108,040 Projected 10-Year Employment Growth: 13.05%

Mechanical engineers
Mechanical engineers perform engineering duties in planning and designing tools, engines, machines, and other mechanically functioning equipment. Oversee installation, operation, maintenance, and repair of equipment such as centralized heat, gas, water, and steam systems. Other skills that are considered important for this occupation include active learning, judgment and decision making, mathematics, monitoring, operations analysis, reading comprehension and science.
Median Annual Salary: $78,160 Projected 10-Year Employment Growth: 6.03%

Mining and geological engineers
Mining and geological engineers conduct sub-surface surveys to identify the characteristics of potential land or mining development sites. They may also specify the ground support systems, processes and equipment for safe, economical, and environmentally sound extraction or underground construction activities. They may also inspect areas for unsafe geological conditions, equipment, and working conditions. They may also design, implement, and coordinate mine safety programs. Other skills that are considered important for this occupation include critical thinking, judgment and decision making, mathematics, monitoring and reading comprehension.
Median Annual Salary: $82,870 Projected 10-Year Employment Growth: 15.3%

Environmental engineers
Environmental engineers research, design, plan, or perform engineering duties in the prevention, control, and remediation of environmental hazards using various engineering disciplines. Work may include waste treatment, site remediation, or pollution control technology. Other skills that are considered important for this occupation include judgment and decision making, mathematics, monitoring and reading comprehension.
Median Annual Salary: $78,740 Projected 10-Year Employment Growth: 30.62%