How many jobs are available in consumer services? A common question when considering a career in Consumer Service is how many jobs are available. It is essential to ask which among the Consumer Service careers are the highest paying from a career as broad as Consumer Service. The most important thing is finding fulfilment in whatever role you play, regardless of how lucrative your job is.
There are many exciting career opportunities in the consumer services field, but how many jobs are available? We discuss the consumer services industry in this article, how many jobs are available, and the outlook for consumers in the future. Additionally, if you’re curious about the job opportunities in other sectors, you can explore how many jobs are available in Capital Goods and Technology. You can learn more by reading on.
What Is the Consumer Services Field?
The provision of consumer services relies on the combined efforts of human resources, computers, and information technology. A consumer service provider relies on human resources (HR), computers, and information technology (IT) to provide services to its clients. In consumer services, companies are focused on providing transactions and customer care for their clients and how they access services.
Whether online purchases, health and social services or entertainment, people and technology power the consumer services sector. Netflix’s online streaming platform provides a monthly streaming subscription powered by technology. Jobs in consumer services are available in a wide variety of industries.
How Many Jobs are Available in Consumer Services?
The consumer services sector is a key part of the U.S. economy, covering industries like retail, transportation, healthcare, and hospitality. As of 2025, this sector continues to provide a vast number of employment opportunities, with millions of job openings across different industries.
Key Employment Data in Consumer Services
- Overall Jobs in the Sector: The consumer services industry in the U.S. is a major employer, with over 130 million people working in various roles within this field. Currently, there are approximately 9 million job openings across sectors like retail, healthcare, transportation, and professional services.
- Key Sub-Sectors and Job Openings:
- Retail Trade: The retail industry accounts for about 859,000 job openings. These roles range from sales representatives to customer service staff and cashiers.
- Transportation and Warehousing: This sector offers around 130,000 job openings every quarter, including jobs for truck drivers, bus drivers, and airline pilots.
- Leisure and Hospitality: About 1.4 million job opportunities are available, including positions in restaurants, hotels, and entertainment.
- Education and Health Services: This sector remains one of the largest employers, with approximately 1.9 million job openings in teaching, healthcare support, and medical services.
- Professional and Business Services: Offering 1.4 million opportunities, this sector includes roles in technical support, administration, and business consulting.
Recent Trends and Economic Impact
- March 2025: The U.S. economy saw a gain of 228,000 jobs, especially in the healthcare, retail, and transportation sectors, although the unemployment rate edged up slightly to 4.2%.
- January 2025: The labor market showed a slower growth rate, with 143,000 jobs added. However, the unemployment rate decreased to 4.0%, reflecting a slight improvement in the workforce participation rate.
The consumer services sector in the U.S. remains a robust and essential contributor to the economy. From retail and transportation to healthcare and hospitality, millions of Americans are employed in this sector. As job opportunities continue to grow in these areas, the consumer services industry remains a dynamic field with significant potential for job seekers.
What Companies are in the Consumer Services Field?
Consumer services companies can be organized in a variety of ways. There are companies in this sector that provide end-users with a variety of goods and services. Featured establishments can vary from hotels to retail stores to restaurants. The kinds of goods they sell and the demographics of their clients make consumer services offered by a wide range of businesses differ from one another.
Retail and Wholesale Consumer Services Companies
In industry supply chains, retailers and wholesalers play an essential role. Retail wholesalers or manufacturers sell goods directly to retailers, and then retailers resell those goods. The presence of digital shopping experiences is increasingly being added to brick-and-mortar stores.
The Leisure and Hospitality Consumer Services Companies
Consumer products and services in the leisure and hospitality industry include accommodations, food services, transportation, and tourism. By leveraging technology and human resources, networks such as AAA and Airbnb provide consumers with more options. In addition to restaurant delivery, personal shoppers, resorts, and streaming entertainment services, consumers also have access to various consumer services.
Health and Social Services Companies
Providing healthcare information, facilitating access to medical records, and providing providers are all services provided by health and social services companies. By facilitating consumer involvement in the healthcare system, these companies facilitate consumers’ active participation. Consumer services companies that provide health and social services include:
- Websites dedicated to preventive care.
- Online and in-person treatment.
- Health insurance providers.
Education Consumer Services Companies
Consumer education services may provide databases of accredited and authorized colleges and programs to assist people in finding reputable colleges and programs. In addition to protecting consumers from substandard products, these agencies prevent deceptive companies from taking advantage of them. In addition to these services, online learning programs and academic transcripts are other examples.
What Jobs are Available in Consumer Services?
Jobs in consumer services can be categorized in many different ways. In marketing, you may find representatives providing customer service, sales representatives, or marketing managers. Customers are typically provided information about products and services in these positions. Other consumer service jobs include managing a retail store, coordinating events, or working in a call centre. There are likely various types of consumer service jobs available to you.
Representative of Consumer Service
When customers have questions about a product or service, a customer service representative can help. Providing solutions to customer complaints may also be part of their responsibilities. It is not uncommon for customer service representatives to work evenings and weekends in call centres or offices.
The Call Center Representative
Call centre representatives handle customer inquiries and complaints. Providing information about the products and services of a company may also be part of their duties. The job of a call centre representative typically involves working in a call centre environment, which may include weekend or evening hours.
Manager of Retail Stores
A retail store manager’s responsibility is to oversee the store’s daily operations. They might be responsible for hiring and training employees, stocking shelves, and assisting customers. Managing employees effectively and overseeing the smooth running of a store are essential skills for retail store managers.
A Sales Representative
A salesperson’s responsibility is to promote and sell the products and services of a company. A retail salesperson may travel to potential customers’ homes or work in a retail setting. Communication with customers and closing sales are two essential skills for salespeople. Maintaining relationships with existing customers may also be a requirement.
Organizer of Events
Organizing weddings, parties, corporate functions, and other events is an event coordinator’s responsibility. They can coordinate transportation, book venues, and arrange catering. Communicating effectively with customers and vendors is crucial for event coordinators. It may also be necessary to work weekends and evenings.
The Marketing Professional
Marketing professionals create and implement marketing campaigns that promote products and services for companies. A potential customer may meet with them in person or an office setting. Communicating effectively with customers and creating persuasive marketing materials are essential skills for marketing professionals.
Best Paying Jobs in Consumer Services
The consumer services sector is diverse and provides a wide range of job opportunities across various industries, from healthcare to retail and hospitality. While many of the jobs in this sector are entry-level or mid-range positions, there are also several high-paying roles that require specialized skills, experience, and sometimes advanced education. These jobs typically offer competitive salaries, benefits, and long-term career growth potential. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best-paying jobs in consumer services.
1. Healthcare Manager
Average Salary: $80,000 – $150,000 per year (depending on experience and location)
Healthcare management is one of the highest-paying fields in consumer services. These professionals oversee the operations of hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities. They ensure that the facility runs smoothly, coordinate with staff, manage budgets, and improve patient care quality. A Healthcare Manager may also be responsible for compliance with health regulations and managing patient services.
Required Skills/Qualifications:
- A degree in healthcare management, business administration, or a related field.
- Several years of experience in healthcare settings.
- Leadership and organizational skills.
2. Marketing Manager (Retail/Consumer Services)
Average Salary: $70,000 – $130,000 per year
Marketing Managers play a crucial role in promoting brands, services, and products to consumers. In the retail and consumer services sectors, they are responsible for developing marketing strategies, overseeing advertising campaigns, analyzing market trends, and improving customer engagement. Their goal is to drive sales and increase customer loyalty.
Required Skills/Qualifications:
- A degree in marketing, business, or communications.
- Strong understanding of digital marketing, branding, and consumer behavior.
- Experience in managing marketing teams and budgets.
3. Information Technology (IT) Manager in Retail or Consumer Services
Average Salary: $80,000 – $140,000 per year
As consumer services industries become increasingly reliant on technology, IT managers are in high demand to ensure that organizations’ technology infrastructures are secure, efficient, and up-to-date. IT managers in retail or consumer service companies often oversee systems related to e-commerce platforms, customer service tools, data management, and security. They also lead IT teams and work closely with other departments to support business operations.
Required Skills/Qualifications:
- A degree in computer science, information systems, or a related field.
- Experience in IT management, system administration, and cybersecurity.
- Knowledge of software development, cloud computing, and data security.
4. Financial Services Professional (e.g., Financial Advisor, Financial Planner)
Average Salary: $70,000 – $150,000+ per year (depending on client base and commissions)
Financial services professionals who work in consumer-facing roles can earn significant salaries, particularly those in financial planning, advising, or wealth management. These professionals assist individuals or families with managing their finances, investments, taxes, and retirement planning. They may work for financial institutions or as independent consultants.
Required Skills/Qualifications:
- A degree in finance, accounting, or economics.
- Certifications like CFP (Certified Financial Planner) or CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst).
- Strong communication skills and a client-centered approach.
5. Customer Experience (CX) Director
Average Salary: $90,000 – $150,000 per year
Customer experience directors are responsible for overseeing the entire customer journey, from initial contact to post-purchase follow-up. In industries like retail and hospitality, a CX Director ensures that customers have positive experiences at every touchpoint with the brand. They analyze customer feedback, design service strategies, and lead teams that aim to enhance customer satisfaction.
Required Skills/Qualifications:
- A degree in business, marketing, or a related field.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Experience managing customer service teams and developing service strategies.
6. Corporate Trainer (Consumer Services Industry)
Average Salary: $70,000 – $120,000 per year
Corporate trainers in the consumer services sector are responsible for training employees in customer service skills, sales techniques, and product knowledge. They develop training programs, create educational content, and ensure that employees are equipped with the skills they need to provide exceptional service. Corporate trainers can work in retail, hospitality, or even in call centers.
Required Skills/Qualifications:
- A degree in education, business, or human resources.
- Experience in training or instructional design.
- Strong presentation and communication skills.
7. Airline Pilot (Consumer Services – Transportation)
Average Salary: $100,000 – $200,000+ per year
While airline pilots are not the first jobs that come to mind when thinking of consumer services, they play an integral role in the transportation sector, which is a part of the broader consumer services industry. Pilots earn high salaries due to the specialized training, certifications, and experience required. They also receive substantial benefits, including health insurance and retirement plans.
Required Skills/Qualifications:
- A commercial pilot’s license (CPL) or airline transport pilot (ATP) certification.
- Thousands of flight hours and experience in aviation.
- Ability to handle stressful situations and ensure passenger safety.
8. Hotel or Resort General Manager
Average Salary: $80,000 – $160,000 per year
General managers in the hospitality sector, including hotels, resorts, and vacation properties, are responsible for overseeing all operations. This includes managing staff, ensuring customer satisfaction, maintaining facilities, and increasing profitability. High-end hotels and luxury resorts often offer the highest salaries for these positions.
Required Skills/Qualifications:
- A degree in hospitality management or business administration.
- Extensive experience in hospitality and management roles.
- Strong leadership and communication skills.
9. E-Commerce Director
Average Salary: $90,000 – $180,000 per year
With the rise of online shopping, the role of an e-commerce director has become increasingly important. E-commerce directors manage the online sales strategy for a company, ensuring that the website is optimized for customer experience, sales, and profitability. They often work with marketing, IT, and product teams to drive online revenue.
Required Skills/Qualifications:
- A degree in business, marketing, or e-commerce.
- Strong understanding of online sales platforms, digital marketing, and web analytics.
- Experience in managing teams and large-scale projects.
10. Personal Concierge or Luxury Services Manager
Average Salary: $60,000 – $120,000 per year
Personal concierges or luxury services managers work with high-net-worth individuals or organizations to provide tailored services. These can range from arranging travel and events to managing personal requests. Those working in luxury services often earn high salaries, especially if they work with wealthy clients in hospitality or real estate.
Required Skills/Qualifications:
- Experience in customer service or hospitality.
- A strong network and knowledge of high-end services.
- Discretion, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills.
Is Consumer Non-Durables a Good Career Path?
It is one of the fastest-growing career fields with various roles to choose from depending on your experience level and qualifications. With technology advancements around the world it has taken a giant leap. Therefore, different industries are creating more jobs, which require more professionals.
What Is A Consumer Nondurable Career?
It is considered a nondurable consumer product with a short useful life. Contrary to consumer durables, consumer nondurables are typically replaced after a short time. Consumer nondurables include food, beverages, tobacco, clothing, and paper. You can choose between working in food and beverage, tobacco, clothes and apparel, and paper products if you want to work in consumer nondurables.
What Do Consumer Non-Durables Jobs Pay?
The average annual salary in the consumer nondurables sector is $41,500. Those who work in consumer nondurables are well paid. Consumer nondurables offer a wide range of employment opportunities. The average salary for a food technologist in consumer nondurables can be as high as $101,000 per year with years of expertise. It costs around $29,000 per year to be an entry-level grocery employee.
FAQs
How Many Jobs are Available in the Consumer Services Sector in the U.S.?
The consumer services sector in the U.S. employs over 130 million people across industries like retail, healthcare, transportation, and hospitality. Currently, there are approximately 9 million job openings in this sector.
Which Industries Contribute the Most Jobs in the Consumer Services Sector?
Some of the largest contributors include retail trade, transportation and warehousing, healthcare services, and leisure and hospitality. These sectors collectively create millions of job opportunities annually.
What Kinds of Jobs are Available in the Retail Sector?
In the retail industry, jobs such as cashiers, sales associates, customer service representatives, and inventory managers are common. The retail sector offers about 859,000 job openings in the U.S.
How is the Consumer Services Sector Expected to Grow in the Future?
The consumer services sector is expected to continue growing, especially in industries like healthcare, e-commerce, and transportation, driven by technological advancements and increasing consumer demand. Job openings in these industries are expected to keep rising.
What Impact does Technology have on Jobs in the Consumer Services Sector?
Technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), is changing the consumer services landscape. While AI may automate some roles, especially in customer support and retail, it will also create new jobs in areas like data analysis, digital marketing, and customer experience management.
What are Some of the Fastest-Growing Jobs in the Consumer Services Industry?
Some of the fastest-growing roles are in healthcare, such as nurse practitioners, medical assistants, and healthcare support staff. Additionally, logistics coordinators and e-commerce professionals are in high demand as online shopping and delivery services continue to rise.
Are There Any Specific Trends Influencing Job Growth in Consumer Services?
Pandemic recovery, digital transformation, and a growing demand for remote services are key trends that continue to drive job growth in consumer services. The increasing need for online shopping, remote customer service, and healthcare services are creating numerous job opportunities.
Conclusion
The consumer services sector remains a dynamic and essential part of the U.S. economy. With millions of job opportunities available across various industries, it continues to provide a broad range of career options. From retail and hospitality to healthcare and transportation, the sector’s diverse fields offer both stable employment and exciting career growth. While technology, particularly AI, may transform certain roles, it also brings new job opportunities, ensuring that the consumer services industry will remain a major source of employment for years to come.