As expected, the majority of the jobs on this list are in the healthcare industry. Nine of the top 10 highest paying jobs on this list, or more than one-fourth of all six-figure jobs, are in the medical field. In that industry, salaries are high in part to make up for the significant time and financial commitment required to obtain the necessary training and experience. These positions are among the 19 that the BLS predicts will experience double-digit percentage growth over the course of the decade ending in 2028.
Many times, jobs with challenging circumstances and long hours pay higher salaries. High-stress occupations that put lives in danger, like air traffic controllers, also pay well However, difficult or dangerous jobs are not always associated with high pay. As an illustration, a large number of the professions on this list of the worst jobs in America are both extremely demanding and pay relatively little.
All of the positions on this list, with the exception of those for commercial pilots, air traffic controllers, nuclear power reactor operators, and transportation managers, require at least a four-year college degree. Many also call for doctorates or other advanced degrees. A college degree is not typically required for many other high-paying jobs, though they frequently pay six figures.
Nuclear power reactor operators control nuclear reactors. Seven states—Illinois, New York, Tennessee, Louisiana, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and North Carolina—have the majority of the jobs, which call for a high school diploma, extensive on-the-job training, and a license. Contrary to the majority of the high-paying jobs on this list, the employment outlook for nuclear power reactor operators is not promising.
Planning security measures to safeguard a company’s computer networks and systems is the responsibility of information security analysts. A bachelor’s degree in a field related to computers is typically required for jobs as information security analysts. With a projected jobs increase of almost 32% over the 10-year period ending 2028, the outlook for information security analysts is the strongest of any job on this list
Accounting, finance, human resources, labor and industrial relations, and marketing are among the topics that business teachers cover in their classes on business administration and management. They require a doctorate or professional degree to teach. Like other teaching positions, business teachers will be in demand with a projected employment increase of nearly 15% for the 10-year period ending in 2028
For private science and engineering research firms, mathematicians and statisticians analyze data and attempt to solve problems by working in teams. Mathematicians usually are required to have a masters degree. The job category has a robust outlook, with a projected employment increase of 26% for the 10-year period ending in 2028, fueled by the surging volume of digital and electronic data
Licensed healthcare professionals with a focus on women’s reproductive health and childbirth are known as nurse midwives. They also perform annual exams, offer counseling, and write prescriptions. Nurse midwives work in hospitals, clinics, and physicians offices. They must possess a master’s degree in nursing, hold a valid nursing license from their state, and successfully complete a national certification exam.
Magazine, newspaper, product packaging, as well as film and television productions’ visual aesthetics are the responsibility of art directors. They typically hold a bachelor’s degree in art or design and have experience as photographers, illustrators, or graphic designers. The future for art directors is not bright due to the decline of the publishing industry.
Electronics engineers create and develop electronic equipment, such as devices for the Global Positioning System and broadcast and communications systems. Some federal government electronics engineers create equipment for use in manufacturing, computing, aviation, and other fields. These positions require a bachelor’s degree, and employers favor candidates with internship experience and other practical training.
Industrial-organizational psychologists apply psychological principles to workplace issues involving human resources, administration, management, sales, and marketing. The work may involve developing organizational strategies, enhancing worker productivity, and planning policies. People in these positions typically hold a masters degree. The 10-year window that ends in 2028 is thought to have better job prospects than the overall job outlook.
An advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has a master’s degree and additional training in a particular medical specialty is known as a nurse practitioner. Compared to registered nurses, they have more power to administer patient care. Demand for nurse practitioners will be high as the U.S. population ages and the U S. population ages.
Engineering professors instruct courses that emphasize using physical laws and engineering principles to create machines, materials, instruments, processes, and services. Chemical, civil, electrical, industrial, mechanical, and petroleum engineering are among the subjects they instruct. They must hold a doctorate or other professional degree in order to instruct at the postsecondary level. Engineering teachers have a much better job outlook than the average American.
In doctors’ offices, hospitals, outpatient clinics, and other healthcare facilities, physician assistants collaborate with doctors and other healthcare professionals. They typically require a master’s degree from a recognized university and a state license. Physician assistants will be in great demand as evidenced by the BLS projected employment outlook of greater than 31% for the 10-year period ending in 2028
Managers of medical and health services coordinate the commercial activities of healthcare professionals. A bachelor’s degree is typically required for employment in this field, but master’s degree holders are also prevalent. As is the case with the majority of health care-related professions, as the population ages, there will be a high demand for medical and health services managers.
Chemical engineers search for solutions involving fuel, medications, food, and other items by using the principles of chemistry, biology, physics, and math. Chemical engineers must have a chemical engineering degree. They spend a lot of time at industrial facilities and refineries to observe how things are going there. According to BLS, demand for these positions will increase roughly as quickly as the national average for all occupations over the ten-year period ending in 2028.
Aerospace engineers design aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles. They must hold a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering or a related science or engineering field. They also need security clearance to work for national defense. Over the course of the decade ending in 2028, the BLS predicts a decline in the number of aerospace engineers employed in the manufacturing sector.
Personal financial advisors offer guidance to help clients manage their money and make financial plans. A bachelor’s degree is typically required for personal financial advisors, but a master’s degree and certification can increase advancement opportunities. As baby boomers retire and life expectancies rise, demand for financial planning services should increase.
To ensure that aircraft maintain a safe distance between one another, air traffic controllers oversee and coordinate aircraft movement. Night, weekend, and rotating shifts are the norm for this stressful job. Those who want to work as air traffic controllers must be U S. a citizen, successfully complete a medical examination and background check, hold an associate’s or bachelor’s degree from the Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative program, and enroll in classes at the Federal Aviation Administration academy. From 2018 to 2028, the BLS predicts minimal change in air traffic controller employment.
Nuclear engineers work to use the energy produced by nuclear reactions for the good of humanity. They construct radioactive waste disposal facilities, work at nuclear power plants, develop submarine propulsion systems, and develop medical diagnostic tools like MRI machines. Nuclear engineers must have a bachelors degree in nuclear engineering. Due to the fact that many utilities are choosing to generate power using less expensive natural gas, the employment outlook for the occupation is for little change.
Astronomers investigate the cosmos and the celestial objects found there, including stars, galaxies, planets, asteroids, and black holes. Astronomers typically need a Ph. D. for jobs in research and academia. According to the American Astronomical Society, there are only about 6,000 astronomers in North America, and the BLS predicts very little growth in the field.
General and operations managers oversee various departments or locations while planning and directing operations for public or private sector organizations. A bachelors degree for this occupation is required. The creation of new organizations and the growth of existing ones is anticipated to drive job growth for general and operations managers.
Computer and information scientists create new computing technologies, as well as new applications for already existing ones. Although a bachelor’s degree may be sufficient for the federal government, the majority of these positions call for a master’s degree in computer science or a closely related field. BLS forecasts more than 16% employment growth in the 10-year period ending in 2028 because many companies report difficulty in finding these workers
Applying the law in the courts and presiding over the country’s legal system are judges, magistrate judges, and magistrates. Judges usually have law degrees and have worked as lawyers. Some magistrate, hearing officer, and administrative law judge positions may call for a bachelor’s degree. The BLS predicts employment of judges and hearing officers is projected to grow 3% from 2018 to 2028, which is slower than the average for all occupations
Managers of human resources organize, coordinate, and oversee an organization’s administrative tasks. Those who hold this position typically need a master’s degree as well as a combination of education and relevant work experience. Human resources managers have a bright future because employers will need them to help ensure compliance with changing employment laws.
Postsecondary law teachers teach law classes. The majority of them work in junior or community colleges, professional schools, and public and private universities. For the ten-year period ending in 2028, employment of postsecondary teachers, including law instructors, is anticipated to increase much more quickly than the average for all occupations. The majority of those new positions are probably going to be part-time ones.
The impact of forces and phenomena on the natural world is explained by a physicist. Most physicists need a Ph. D. for jobs in research and to work in academia. The occupation is predicted by the BLS to grow more quickly than the average for all occupations. However, federal spending for research at higher education institutions determines job growth.
Managers of public relations oversee the production of materials that promote their employer or client to the public. Managers of fundraising campaigns coordinate collection efforts for a company or group. Managers of fundraising and public relations must possess at least a bachelor’s degree. Public relations managers have a bright future thanks to the rise of social media, and fundraising managers will also have better job prospects thanks to the need for nonprofits to raise money.
Podiatrists treat and care for patients with foot, ankle, and lower leg issues using both medical and surgical methods. Each state requires podiatrists to hold a license, which requires them to complete a three-year residency program and earn a doctor of podiatric medicine degree. The aging population’s increased need for podiatrists will continue to rise. Additionally, the need for podiatrists to treat foot and ankle issues brought on by the rise in diseases like diabetes and obesity
Lawyers provide legal advice and representation for people, businesses, and governmental organizations. Attorneys need a law degree and must pass their state’s bar exam in order to practice law. There will likely be fierce competition for jobs over the ten-year period ending in 2028 because there are more students graduating from law school than there are positions available.
Managers in the natural sciences are in charge of supervising the work of scientists like chemists, physicists, and biologists. A bachelor’s degree in a natural science or a closely related field is required for employment in this field, and the majority of natural sciences managers begin their careers as scientists. Over the ten-year period ending in 2028, employment of managers of natural sciences is anticipated to increase about as quickly as the average for all occupations.
For businesses like banks, investment firms, and insurance companies, financial managers create financial reports, oversee investment activities, and develop plans for the organization’s long-term financial goals. Typically, candidates for this position need a bachelor’s degree and work experience in a related financial field, such as accounting, securities sales, or financial analysis. According to BLS, financial managers have good employment prospects, and skills like risk management and cash management are expected to be in high demand.
Architectural and engineering managers organize and schedule tasks in their organizations. Typically, candidates for these positions must possess a bachelor’s degree and prior experience working as an architect or engineer. Employment in this field is projected to grow 3% for the 10-year period ending in 2028, slower than the average for all occupations
Managers of computer and information systems organize and control activities involving computers in an organization. A bachelor’s degree in computer science or information technology is required for this position, in addition to relevant work experience. Many computer and information systems managers also hold graduate degrees. Due to businesses’ plans to expand their digital platforms, this occupation has employment prospects that are twice as favorable as the national average.
Methods for removing oil and gas from the Earth are designed and developed by petroleum engineers. Travel is frequently necessary for petroleum engineers who work in offices or at drilling and well sites. Engineering bachelor’s degrees are required for those working in this field, preferably in petroleum engineering, though employers may also accept mechanical, civil, or chemical engineering bachelor’s degrees. Employment is projected to grow less than 3% for the 10-year period ending in 2028, as the fluctuating oil prices determine capital investment needs of oil companies
Flying airplanes, helicopters, and other aircraft is done by airline pilots, copilots, and flight engineers. Most airline pilots require a bachelor’s degree in addition to the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Airline Transport Pilot certificate. For the ten-year period ending in 2028, employment for this occupation is anticipated to grow at a slower rate than the average for all occupations.
Dentists identify and address issues with patients’ teeth, gums, and other oral structures. Dentists must have a dental degree from an accredited program and hold a license from the state in which they practice. As the population ages and more research establishes a connection between oral health and general health, demand for dental services will increase.
Internal organ diseases and injuries are diagnosed by general internists and treated without surgery. Their profession is the first on the list with a salary of more than $200,000. General internal medicine doctors must possess both a medical degree and a state license before they can start practicing. General internal medicine specialists will continue to be in demand due to an aging population and rising life expectancy. The Association of American Medical Colleges said this occupation will grow at a 15% pace through 2026
Family practitioners identify, treat, and offer families and individuals preventive care. After completing an internship, family medicine doctors need both a medical degree and a state license to practice. Family doctors and other primary care providers are in short supply. The Association of American Medical Colleges predicts the U. S. by 2032, there could be a shortage of up to 55,200 primary care doctors.
Dental specialists known as prosthodontists replace and repair teeth to enhance a patient’s mouth’s functionality. Dental school is required for prosthodontists, as is a three-year post-doctoral residency program. Additionally, they require a license to practice in a specific state. Finding employment may be facilitated by American Board of Prosthodontics certification for prosthodontists.
Obstetricians and gynecologists offer care for the female reproductive system, pregnancy, and childbirth. Before enrolling in a postgraduate obstetrics and gynecology training program, obstetricians and gynecologists must complete a one-year general medical residency and obtain a doctor of medicine or doctor of osteopathic medicine degree. The occupation has a worse job outlook than the average for all occupations in the country.
Dental specialists trained to treat diseases, injuries, and defects in the head, neck, face, jaws, and the hard and soft tissues of the oral and maxillofacial region include oral and maxillofacial surgeons. They are also trained to administer anesthesia. A doctorate or equivalent qualification, four to six years of residency training, and certification by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery are prerequisites for oral and maxillofacial surgeons. The occupation has a slightly better job outlook than the average for all occupations nationwide.
Surgeons diagnose and treat injuries or illnesses. Depending on their specialty, surgeons typically need a bachelor’s degree, a four-year medical school degree, and three to seven years of internship and residency training. Because of the aging population’s increased need for healthcare services, the employment of surgeons is anticipated to increase.
The highest-paid occupation on the list are anesthesiologists. They are doctors who give anesthesia prior to, during, or after surgery or other medical procedures. Typically, anesthesiologists need a bachelor’s degree, a four-year medical school degree, a one-year residency program, and a state license. According to Anesthesiology News, there are 37 percent of anesthesiologists who are baby boomers. 6% of active members of the American Society of Anesthesiologists, and because they are retiring, the occupation is facing a looming shortfall
What are the benefits of a six-figure job?
There are numerous advantages to earning six figures for you and your family. It can relieve any financial burdens and provide you with some mental stability. Here are the benefits of a six-figure job:
Six-figure jobs with a bachelor’s degree
With a bachelor’s degree, there are many opportunities in the business, technology, and engineering sectors if you’re looking for a six-figure job. Many jobs in these fields only need a bachelor’s degree as the entry level, so you can earn a good living without going to graduate school. Although only a bachelor’s degree is needed for these positions, some still call for a certain amount of experience. Think about these six-figure jobs you can get with a bachelor’s degree as you begin your job search:
Primary duties: Financial managers help improve a companys financial health. They review and create financial reports, keep an eye on the accounts of their businesses, and create financial projections. The goal of financial managers is to increase their company’s profitability. They also search the market for new business opportunities.
Development directors’ main responsibilities are to manage and oversee a company’s fundraising initiatives. Additionally, they develop and carry out strategies to raise money for their organization. Additionally, development directors cultivate and oversee relationships with patrons and donors while working to achieve fundraising objectives.
Aeronautical engineers’ main responsibilities are to design and manufacture aircraft and propulsion systems. They evaluate proposals, test prototypes, and establish the standards for various design methodologies.
Electronics engineers’ main responsibilities are to design and build various electronic devices and components. They identify the requirements and costs for each system plan after determining the needs of the customer.
Sales engineers’ main responsibilities are to sell technological or scientific goods and services. To provide more information on various products and services, they create presentations. Sales engineers also determine customer needs and service requirements.
Security engineers’ main responsibilities are to test security software and keep an eye out for security holes in networks and systems. They seek out solutions to security problems and offer suggestions for security enhancements to a company’s management team.
Primary duties: Compensation managers create a companys pay structure. They determine wage rates that are competitive and make sure these rates are compliant with federal laws and regulations. Compensation managers also examine how much money a company pays its employees.
Deputy directors’ main responsibilities are to assist an organization’s executive director in creating and implementing various operational policies and administrative plans. They also help with client and project management.
Primary duties: Hardware engineers design computer hardware equipment. They examine hardware components, spot flaws, monitor the manufacturing process, and work to improve procedures.
Creating electrical and semiconductor-related products like modules, interfaces, and software is one of semiconductor engineers’ main responsibilities. They recognize any software issues that occur and work to find a fix.
Software engineers’ main responsibilities are to develop software solutions using their expertise in engineering and computer science. They produce software to satisfy the requirements of various businesses and customers.
Among their main responsibilities is developing and managing construction projects from inception to design development. They create a range of structures, ensuring their security, sustainability, and adherence to local, state, and federal laws. Additionally, architects collaborate with their clients to create final building plans that contractors can use.
Managers of learning and development provide training to employees of a company to ensure their professional development. They assist staff members in identifying their strengths and developing growth strategies and training programs for them.
Research scientists’ main responsibilities include carrying out lab experiments to examine scientific phenomena in a range of fields. Additionally, they write research papers, produce reports, and generally contribute to the expansion of scientific knowledge.
Actuaries’ main responsibilities include calculating the cost of risks and uncertainty using their mathematical expertise. They aid businesses and their customers in reducing the price of these risks.
Primary duties: CEOs make corporate decisions for a company. The top executive of a company is in charge of all operations and resources. Additionally, CEOs communicate with the public, the government, and the company’s shareholders.
Principal responsibilities include designing and building a variety of mechanical and electrical systems and equipment. Together with clients and managers, they establish project requirements, approve budgets, and guarantee the safety of various pieces of equipment.
Chief operating officers are primarily responsible for supervising a company’s administrative and operational activities. They carry out business operations, develop policies, and supervise executive function and company operations.
Primary duties: Sales directors manage a companys sales operations. They plan new products and services to boost sales, create sales reports, meet sales targets, calculate each product’s profit, and more.
Network architects’ main responsibilities are to determine a company’s network requirements and design data network systems. They fix networks, fix network problems, and install various hardware like hubs and routers.
Product designers’ main responsibilities include creating consumer product specifications, drawings, and a range of useful products. They negotiate contracts and consult with managers and customers about a product’s requirements.
Principal responsibilities: A director of financial planning and analysis oversees the financial team of a company. They carry out financial analysis and forecasting to make sure the business has effective financial operations. They essentially support a companys financial health and related strategies.
Senior research scientists are in charge of overseeing a lab or a research project’s development. They oversee the creation of new ideas, experiments, and prototypes, review emerging technologies, and conduct data analysis.
Primary duties: Software architects create software applications and systems. They decide on their specifications, communicate with customers and other stakeholders, develop product details, and support the development team as necessary.
Principal responsibilities: A manufacturing director oversees a company’s manufacturing operations. They seek to enhance workflow and assembly procedures, hire new personnel, and make sure that productions are completed by the deadline and to the highest standards.
A vice president of communications’ main responsibilities include developing public relations plans for a business. They oversee advertising campaigns, raise brand recognition, and make sure the business communicates its brand message to the public consistently.
Regional sales directors are primarily responsible for managing a company’s revenue generation plans. They oversee a sales period in a specific region, assist in growing the clientele, and develop regional sales strategies.
Primary duties: CTOs manage a companys research and development. They determine the most effective uses of technological resources and make sure that these resources support the needs of the business.
Primary duties: Advertising directors oversee a companys advertising strategy. They manage budgets, track advertising campaigns, and carry out administrative duties like contract negotiations and sales promotion.
A director of strategy’s main responsibilities include developing the organization’s future objectives and goals. Through techniques like planning and research, they assist the company’s managers in achieving these objectives.
The Highest Paying Jobs Right Out Of College ($100K+)
FAQ
Can you make 6 figures with a bachelor’s degree?
However, in some professions, a bachelor’s degree is enough to put workers on the path to six-figure salaries. Given that many times, workers must gain experience before moving up to higher-paying positions, such a high level of compensation may not be available right away.
What are 6 figure jobs with a bachelor’s degree?
- Financial manager. National average salary: $100,178 per year. …
- 2. Development director. National average salary: $101,180 per year. …
- Aeronautical engineer. …
- Electronics engineer. …
- Sales engineer. …
- Security engineer. …
- Compensation manager. …
- Deputy director.
What is the highest paying Bachelor Degree job?
- Business Teachers (postsecondary) …
- Physician Assistants. …
- Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers. …
- Dentists. …
- Electronics Engineers (except computer hardware) …
- Human Resources Managers. …
- Education Administrators (postsecondary) …
- Computer Network Architects.
What jobs make 6 figure salaries?
- Business Teachers (postsecondary) …
- Physician Assistants. …
- Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers. …
- Dentists. …
- Electronics Engineers (except computer hardware) …
- Human Resources Managers. …
- Education Administrators (postsecondary) …
- Computer Network Architects.
