Carlsbad, Calif. — April 23
Newspaper reporter, a job that traditionally has attracted many aspiring writers, has been named the worst job in the United States, according to the new 2013 CareerCast.com Jobs Rated Report.
Ranked at No. 126 when CareerCast.com first published the report in 1988, newspaper reporters have fared poorly for years due to the job's high stress and tight deadlines, low pay and requirement to work in all conditions to get the story.
Moreover, ever-shrinking newsrooms, dwindling budgets and Internet competition has created a very difficult environment, driving the position to dead last on this year's report.
Overall, technological advancements hurt other professions ranked among the worst jobs of 2013, including meter reader -- also often done digitally -- and mail carrier.
High pay, low stress, a robust hiring outlook, a healthy work environment and minimal physical exertion combine to make actuary the top job for 2013. Biomedical engineer, software engineer, audiologist and financial planner round out the top five of the best jobs.
Best Jobs in 2013
1. Actuary
2. Biomedical Engineer
3. Software Engineer
4. Audiologist
5. Financial Planner
6. Dental Hygienist
7. Occupational Therapist
8. Optometrist
9. Physical Therapist
10. Computer Systems Analyst
Worst Jobs in 2013
200. Newspaper Reporter
199. Lumberjack
198. Enlisted Military Personnel
197. Actor
196. Oil Rig Worker
195. Dairy Farmer
194. Meter Reader
193. Mail Carrier
192. Roofer
191. Flight Attendant
Source: CareerCast.com