Are you feeling ready to start fresh in 2009? If you’re setting goals for what you want to accomplish in the new year, you’re not alone. However, if you’re thinking about trying out a new career this year, it’s probably a good idea to do some research before forging ahead too quickly.  

Luckily for you, this “research” doesn’t have to involve hours spent poring over massive career lists or databases. A website called JobsRated.com has done almost all of the work for you! Using a scoring system based on factors such as work environment, average income, job outlook, physical demands and stress factors, this site created a ranked list of 200 different jobs.  Want to know the big winners and losers? Let’s start with the careers that might be a good choice in 2009. If you’re good at crunching numbers or thinking analytically, you are in luck! Here are the top three winners according to JobsRated.com’s rating system: 

1. Mathematician – uses mathematical theories and formulas to teach or to create solutions to business, educational or industrial challenges
2. Actuary – interprets statistics to determine an individual’s likelihood of suffering accidents, sicknesses, death or loss of property
3. Statistician – interprets and analyzes the results of experiments and surveys

 What careers might be less of a good choice? JobsRated.com determined that these jobs might be some of the worst professions out there: 

1. Lumberjack – fells, cuts and transports the timber that is used to make lumber, paper and other wood products
2. Dairy Farmer – raises cattle for milk production
3. Taxi Driver – drives and operates a vehicle to transport passengers within a municipality

While the jobs ranked on this list may not be right or wrong for every individual, it’s important to consider factors such as these when choosing a new profession. Check out some of the other jobs that made the list and you might find an unexpected career that offers everything you’ve been looking for.