Finding the perfect job can be a challenge. Factors ranging from salary considerations to flexibility and growth opportunities all have a part to play when it comes to determining the ideal position for each and every one of us. But if you're planning on seeking employment in 2020, the best thing you can do is figure out ahead of time where the biggest opportunities are. With that in mind, let's take a closer look at some of the trending positions for the new year and what you can do to qualify for each of them:

1.  Artificial intelligence specialist

For quite a while now, artificial intelligence has been making inroads in all kinds of industries, with the hiring growth for this position averaging out at 74% over the last four years. 2020 looks set to follow down the same path as current AI technology continues to branch out into other sectors, including consumer electronics and higher education. Most of the people who end up working in this sector have engineering and data science backgrounds, but statisticians and mathematicians are also in high-demand to fill out this ever-developing niche.

2. Data scientist

Data scientist jobs have been growing at an average of 37% over the last few years, as companies strive to gain a strategic advantage in the marketplace through the collection of data. Within the field of data mining and analysis, many specialists ranging from marketers to statisticians have found a home, but anyone with a penchant for crunching numbers and interpreting data can be an asset. Data entry positions are even accessible to beginners, who can then improve their skills and move up within the industry.

3. Full stack engineer

If there was ever a job that defined the early part of the 20^th century, it was that of the software developer. But if in past years engineers could get by despite only possessing a limited number of skills, more and more companies these days are seeking 'full stack developers', whose skill set includes several programming languages and experience with multiple platforms. Fortunately, even aspiring programmers can quickly get up to speed with all the latest developments in the industry by completing courses online on platforms such as Training Australia, courses which can then be used to boost up your CV and maximize your chances at finding a great job.

4. Counseling and therapy professional

While all the previous entries on our list were dedicated to so-called STEM positions, the truth is that you can find gainful employment even if you don't have much of an inclination towards the sciences. Perhaps owing to the stressful times we live in, therapists are in short supply these days, with demand for family and couples therapists especially being estimated to grow by 40% in 2020. Getting a job as a therapist isn't easy - you'll need copious amounts of training and probably a master's degree, depending on where you live. But helping people improve their mental health is a rewarding endeavor, and one that's also set to be quite profitable in the years to come.

5. Home health aides

Speaking of health, the physical side of it is just as important. Faced with an ever-growing boomer population, the need for home health aides is bound to skyrocket over the coming decade. Becoming a registered nurse is relatively straightforward, as getting the right diploma will only take you around 1-2 years. That said, it's not an easy job to master, and requires significant interpersonal skills as well as the ability to tolerate some of life's less pleasant aspects.

That concludes our quick overview of the top jobs to watch for in 2020. Even if you're not qualified to take on these positions just yet, keep in mind that some can be fairly accessible as long as you take the required courses and apply yourself diligently. Others require a bit more time, but you can rest assured knowing that the skills you gain in any of these areas will be highly sought-after in the years to come as well.