Top 5 Best Jobs in the United States 2009

It's hard to say what makes a great job. Is it a high salary? Job security? Flexible working hours? A chance to make a difference? Everyone has her own idea of a dream job. Here are the top five best jobs in the United States in 2009, as chosen by CNN Money. You may or may not agree with their selection, but it's something to think about when you embark on a job search.

1. Systems Engineer – A systems engineer works in IT. They are the people with big ideas, who manage large, complex projects, figuring out the technical specifications needed for everything from transport systems to military defense programs. The median pay for a systems engineer is $87,100, with top earners reaching $130,000. The job ranks high in personal satisfaction, job security and future growth, but it can also be stressful. If you're thinking of becoming a systems engineer, you'll need at least an undergraduate degree in engineering.

2. Physician Assistant – A physician assistant works under the guidance of a doctor to provide medical care, including diagnosing illnesses. If you people more than paperwork, this is the job for. A physician assistant gets the satisfaction of making sick people better without the administrative stress and hassle of an MD. The average salary is $90,900. You'll need a master's degree to become a physician assistant.

3. College Professor – Professors divide their time between teaching and doing research. The job ranks high in personal satisfaction and job security (once you have tenure). The average salary is $70,400, with some professors earning as much as $115,000. Most good college require professors to have a PhD.

4. Nurse Practitioner – In addition to carrying out routine nursing tasks, a nurse practitioner has diagnostic training and can prescribe medication without consulting an MD. It's a job that gives great personal satisfaction and benefits society more than most. The average salary is $85,000. In addition to being trained as registered nurse, a nurse practitioner needs a master's degree.

5. Information Technology Project Manager – This is the second IT job to make it into the top five. An information technology project manager does exactly what the job title says – she manages IT projects. The average salary is $98,000, with good job security and future growth potential. You'll need at least five years of IT experience. An MBA wouldn't hurt.