100 Money-Making Opportunities To Consider When Changing Professions
If you’re thinking about a career change, your potential salary in each profession is a key factor to consider.
Changing professions can be daunting. You never know exactly what to expect in a new career path or what opportunities will be available to you. Doing your research and understanding your earning potential in a new career will make the transition much easier.
Indeed recently published research on the 100 highest-paying jobs in the United States. If you’re changing careers, these are some of the professions that will help you maximize your earning potential.
Most of these require a bachelor’s degree or higher. Additionally, here are 10 high-paying jobs that only require an associate’s degree.
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Anesthesiologist
Average annual income: $370,454
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics lists an anesthesiologist as a medical doctor who administers anesthesia to patients and oversees their pain management before, during and after surgery. To become an anesthesiologist, you must complete from 12 to 14 years of education between college, medical school and residency training.
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Surgeon
Average annual income: $297,626
A surgeon is a medical doctor who performs operations on patients, according to the American College of Surgeons. They also diagnose patients before surgery and provide post-operative care. Surgeons may work in private practice, hospitals and clinics, or academic settings like medical schools. To become a surgeon, you must complete medical school and years of residency.
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Orthodontist
Average annual income: $294,259
An orthodontist specializes in examining and treating dental abnormalities like underbites, misaligned teeth and crowded teeth, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. They straighten patients’ teeth using braces and other aligners to improve their appearance and function. Orthodontists must complete dental school and additional training for two or more years to specialize further.
Internal Medicine Physician
Average annual income: $278,226
An internal medicine physician, also known as an internist, is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and managing long-term illnesses, according to the American College of Physicians. They take a whole-picture approach to the human body to better treat each patient. You must complete medical school and postgraduate training to become an internal medicine physician.
Psychiatrist
Average annual income: $255,958
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in mental health issues. They diagnose and treat patients’ mental health concerns using prescription medication and other medical treatments. Psychiatrists typically complete 12 to 14 years of post-secondary education and many choose to become board certified by passing an exam from the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
Cardiologist
Average annual income: $243,759
A cardiologist is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating health concerns related to the cardiovascular system. They may prescribe medicine, suggest lifestyle changes, or recommend surgery depending on the severity of the patient’s heart problems. To become a cardiologist, you need to complete medical school, residency and typically a three-year fellowship program dedicated to cardiology.
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Dentist
Average annual income: $223,864
Dentists treat health concerns with patients’ teeth, mouth and gums. It’s common for dentists to have their own private practices or be partners in a larger practice. To work as a dentist, you need to complete dental school and become licensed in your state.
Periodontist
Average annual income: $209,761
A periodontist is a type of dentist who specializes in issues affecting the gums and underlying bones in the mouth, according to the American Academy of Periodontology. They may place dental implants, treat periodontal disease and offer other specialized dental services. To be a periodontist, you must graduate from dental school and complete three additional years of training.
Physician
Average annual income: $214,096
According to Indeed, a physician is a medical doctor who provides healthcare to patients. Physicians can specialize in a variety of fields, including family medicine, pathology and pediatrics, which may increase their earning potential. Generally, physicians must complete medical school, finish a residency program and receive a license to practice in their state.
Obstetrician
Average annual income: $201,487
Obstetricians are medical doctors who specialize in treating patients during and after pregnancy and delivering babies. They may also practice gynecology — healthcare related to the female reproductive system. Obstetricians must complete medical school, obtain a state license to practice and complete a residency program. Many obstetricians specialize further with a two- to three-year fellowship.
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Nurse Anesthetist
Average annual income: $199,423
A nurse anesthetist is an advanced nurse who works with anesthesiologists to administer anesthesia to patients and manage their recovery, as listed by Mayo Clinic. To become a nurse anesthetist, you must obtain a registered nurse license, complete an advanced degree and become certified.
Loan Officer
Average annual income: $178,323
A loan officer evaluates applications and walks applicants through the process of obtaining a loan. They work for financial institutions like banks and credit unions. To work as a loan officer, you need a bachelor’s degree and additional on-the-job training. You also need a state license to be a mortgage loan officer.
Pediatrician
Average annual income: $166,984
Pediatricians are medical doctors specializing in treating children, according to WebMD. They may work as primary care physicians, providing preventative care and diagnosing and treating health problems in children from birth to young adulthood. You must complete medical school and receive additional pediatric training during your residency to become a pediatrician.
Director of Information Security
Average annual income: $152,706
A director of information security is an executive professional who manages the security of their organization’s technology and related systems, according to Career Explorer. They handle risk management, compliance and incident response to any security breaches. Some employers may require the director of information security to have a master’s degree, but others will accept a bachelor’s degree.
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Software Engineering Manager
Average annual income: $149,317
A software engineering manager oversees the team developing software applications, as listed by Indeed. They must have a deep knowledge of computer science and software engineering as well as leadership skills. Obtaining a master’s degree in computer science or computer engineering will make you a more appealing candidate for software engineering manager jobs.
Vice President
Average annual income: $148,933
Vice president is a senior leadership role within organizations. Depending on the organization, the vice president’s responsibilities will vary. Typically, they will oversee operations, set strategic goals, act as a leadership figure and be a spokesperson for the organization. A bachelor’s degree in business management or administration will help you become a vice president, but a master’s degree is preferred.
Quantitative Analyst
Average annual income: $147,576
A quantitative analyst is a financial expert who uses mathematical models and statistics to help companies make informed decisions. They typically work for institutions like wealth management firms and investment banks. Quantitative analysts need a bachelor’s degree and may benefit from a master’s degree in fields like economics, finance or mathematics.
Site Reliability Engineer
Average annual income: $147,188
A site reliability engineer is an information technology professional who performs IT operations and tasks related to system administration, according to IBM. They also develop code to automate these tasks when possible. These professionals typically have a bachelor’s degree in computer science and may also earn a software developer or site reliability engineer certification.
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Optometrist
Average annual income: $145,632
An optometrist is a healthcare professional specializing in eye care, according to WebMD. They do not attend medical school but do complete a four-year professional optometry program after graduating from college. Optometrists perform eye exams on patients, prescribe eyeglasses and contacts and treat certain eye conditions.
Corporate Counsel
Average annual income: $144,764
According to ZipRecruiter, corporate counsel are attorneys who work for businesses and organizations providing legal advice. These attorneys handle issues like contract negotiation and worker complaints for their employers. To become corporate counsel, you must complete an undergraduate degree and a law degree and maintain an active license to practice law in your state of employment.
Enterprise Architect
Average annual income: $140,954
An enterprise architect designs their organization’s IT strategies and oversees their implementation. They take a broad view of the organization to align the IT landscape with the overall business strategy. Enterprise architects need a bachelor’s degree in a field like computer science or information technology and may benefit from advanced degrees.
Chief Marketing Officer
Average annual income: $139,052
A chief marketing officer is an executive-level professional who oversees the organization’s marketing efforts. They strategize, develop and execute marketing campaigns to drive business growth. Chief marketing officers must have a bachelor’s degree in fields like business administration or marketing and experience in marketing.
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Associate General Counsel
Average annual income: $138,357
Associate general counsel are attorneys who provide legal advice and support to businesses, according to Indeed. They report to their employer’s general counsel. You must have a bachelor’s degree, a law degree and an active law license to work as associate general counsel.
Senior Clinical Pharmacist
Average annual income: $137,315
A senior clinical pharmacist is an experienced professional who administers medications to patients and monitors their use to prevent medication abuse. You must complete a four-year pharmacy program, go through additional specialty training and earn a license to become a senior clinical pharmacist.
Chief Executive Officer
Average annual income: $136,754
Chief executive officers are the leaders of their organizations. They are responsible for overseeing all business operations, deciding what direction the company will take and representing the company in public. There are no specific education requirements to be a CEO, but many of these professionals have advanced degrees in business administration.
Software Architect
Average annual income: $135,600
According to Indeed, a software architect is an IT professional who works on technology and software structures for their organization. They write and test code for software development projects. Typically, you need a bachelor’s degree in computer science or software engineering to be a software architect, but some employers may accept training and experience in lieu of formal education.
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Podiatrist
Average annual income: $133,808
A podiatrist is a doctor specializing in treating patients’ feet, ankles and lower legs. They must complete four years of podiatric medical school plus three years of residency.
General Practitioner
Average annual income: $130,919
A general practitioner is a medical doctor who does not specialize in any particular field of medicine, as listed by WebMD. They often act as primary care doctors, treating patients with a variety of physical and mental health concerns. You need a medical degree to be a general practitioner.
Enterprise Architecture Manager
Average annual income: $128,640
An enterprise architecture manager ensures an organization’s structure and operations align with its objectives. They analyze their organization’s IT infrastructure and management components. A bachelor’s degree in a field like computer science or software engineering will help you become an enterprise architecture manager.
Pharmacy Manager
Average annual income: $128,091
A pharmacy manager is in charge of the pharmacy, including training staff, supervising medication dispensing and consulting with patients. You need a bachelor’s degree, state pharmacy license, certifications and additional work experience to become a pharmacy manager.
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Data Warehouse Architect
Average annual income: $128,042
A data warehouse architect develops and oversees data management solutions at their organization, according to ZipRecruiter. To work as a data warehouse architect, you should obtain a bachelor’s degree in information technology or a related field and pursue additional certifications.
Corporate Controller
Average annual income: $125,300
A corporate controller is in charge of an organization’s finances and accounting. They manage bookkeeping, budgeting, payroll and other financial functions. A bachelor’s degree in accounting, business or a related field will help you become a corporate controller.
Cloud Engineer
Average annual income: $121,261
A cloud engineer develops and manages their organization’s cloud network infrastructure. They must understand software development, cybersecurity best practices and scripting languages. To become a cloud engineer, you need a bachelor’s degree in computer science.
Veterinarian
Average annual income: $120,679
Veterinarians are medical professionals who treat animals. They often work at clinics, zoos and racetracks to diagnose and treat the animals there. To become a veterinarian, you must earn your Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree and obtain a state license.
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Nurse Practitioner
Average annual income: $120,621
A nurse practitioner is a healthcare professional specializing in a particular practice like pediatrics. These registered nurses often practice in doctors’ offices, clinics and hospitals. You’ll need to become an RN and complete a master’s degree in nursing to be a nurse practitioner.
Actuary
Average annual income: $120,164
An actuary uses statistics and mathematics to manage financial risk. They typically work for insurance companies and banks, but investment companies also employ actuaries. Actuaries need to pass actuarial exams that correspond to the type of work they’re interested in.
Financial Planning and Analysis Manager
Average annual income: $120,148
Financial planning and analysis managers are in charge of budgeting and financial forecasting, according to Indeed. They need to understand financial planning, modeling and accounting.
Solutions Engineer
Average annual income: $119,700
Solutions engineers are part of the sales teams for software products. They develop product demos, present software to clients and work with clients to find the best products for their needs. You should have a bachelor’s degree in computer science to become a solutions engineer.
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Data Scientist
Average annual income: $119,380
Data scientists are IT professionals who analyze and interpret data to improve business decision-making. They typically have bachelor’s degrees in computer science or data science. Some data scientists may also have advanced degrees.
Chief Information Officer
Average annual income: $118,328
A chief information officer is an executive-level professional who oversees the organization’s information technology department. They develop IT strategies, manage staff and oversee compliance with data laws and regulations.
Physician Assistant
Average annual income: $117,562
Physician assistants are healthcare professionals who either take care of patients independently or work under the oversight of a licensed physician, depending on the state. To be a physician assistant, you must complete a bachelor’s degree and a PA training program before passing the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam to receive your license.
Full-Stack Developer
Average annual income: $114,395
A full-stack developer creates both the front end (user-facing) and back end (behind the scenes) of a website or software application. They must have strong knowledge of programming languages, web design and database management.
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Analytics Manager
Average annual income: $113,112
Analytics managers take raw data and derive insights that their organizations can use to aid decision-making and planning. They manage data analysts working on these projects. You typically need a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field plus additional experience to be an analytics manager.
Economist
Average annual income: $111,940
An economist is someone who analyzes data related to the allocation of resources and the production of goods and services. They typically pursue advanced degrees related to economics for career advancement.
Mathematician
Average annual income: $111,102
Mathematicians use math principles to solve problems and complete research. They work in fields like finance, engineering, education and statistics. You typically need an advanced degree to work as a mathematician.
Financial Reporting Manager
Average annual income: $109,251
Financial reporting managers are in charge of teams preparing their companies’ quarterly and annual reports to comply with financial regulations, according to ZipRecruiter. These professionals generally have bachelor’s degrees in finance or related fields.
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Software Engineer
Average annual income: $108,896
Software engineers design, maintain and update computer programs to meet user requirements. They typically have a bachelor’s degree and a strong knowledge of computer programming.
Senior Scientist
Average annual income: $108,262
Senior scientists work on research projects and oversee other scientists and support staff. They often work in laboratories in industries like pharmaceuticals and petrochemicals. You will generally need a Ph.D. to become a senior scientist.
Plant Manager
Average annual income: $107,718
Plant managers oversee day-to-day operations at manufacturing facilities. They ensure staff adhere to safety requirements and that the plant meets production goals. Study subjects like business administration and management to work as a plant manager.
Midwife
Average annual income: $107,278
Midwives are trained professionals who assist during labor and delivery, as explained by Indeed. You must complete an accredited education program and pass a certifying exam to hold this position.
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Java Developer
Average annual income: $106,611
Java developers are programmers who use the Java programming language to create and test software. They generally have bachelor’s degrees in information technology, computer science or a related field.
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System Engineer
Average annual income: $104,733
System engineers ensure their organizations’ infrastructure and performance systems are operating at the highest levels. They work in industries like civil engineering, robotics and software development. You will typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science to become a system engineer. A master’s degree in the field will help you advance.
Environmental Health And Safety Officer
Average annual income: $103,761
Environmental health and safety officers ensure organizations comply with applicable safety laws and regulations, according to Indeed. They may work as consultants or full time for a single organization. You will probably need a bachelor’s degree in occupational health, biology or a related field to be an environmental health and safety officer.
Aeronautical Engineer
Average annual income: $103,595
Aeronautical engineers design and create flying vehicles like airplanes and helicopters. They need a strong understanding of safety regulations, flight mechanics and aerodynamics. To get a job as an aeronautical engineer, pursue advanced degrees in engineering.
Psychologist
Average annual income: $101,530
Psychologists study the mind and human behavior. They are not medical doctors but can help patients with mental health concerns through psychotherapy and other practices. Psychologists generally need master’s or doctorate degrees for specialized positions.
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User Experience Designer
Average annual income: $99,082
User experience designers or UX designers, are responsible for ensuring users of digital products enjoy a seamless experience. They design the products and make them as functional as possible. A master’s degree in the field will help you land jobs as a UX designer, but it’s not required.
Attorney
Average annual income: $97,777
Attorneys are legal professionals. They may work independently, as part of a larger law firm or directly for companies needing legal advice. You will need a law degree and law license in your state to work as an attorney.
Senior MRI Technologist
Average annual income: $96,622
Senior MRI technologists are professionals who use MRI scanners to produce diagnostic images for patients, as explained by Indeed. You need a license in most states to be an MRI technologist and certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists will help you land this position.
Director of Operations
Average annual income: $96,334
The director of operations is in charge of ensuring the business’ activities are cost-effective and in line with strategic objectives. They need strong leadership abilities and a bachelor’s degree in a field like business administration.
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Research Scientist
Average annual income: $95,565
Research scientists investigate and run experiments related to their fields of study. They may work for government agencies, businesses or universities and often have advanced degrees.
Database Administrator
Average annual income: $94,537
Database administrators are IT professionals who are responsible for their organizations’ data and related applications. You should obtain a bachelor’s degree in computer or information science to become a database administrator.
Nuclear Engineer
Average annual income: $93,838
A nuclear engineer is a professional who studies nuclear power and designs systems that produce nuclear energy, according to Career Explorer. You will need a bachelor’s degree in nuclear engineering or a related field and optional graduate studies for this role.
Senior Radiation Therapist
Average annual income: $91,755
Senior radiation therapists are medical professionals who treat patients with cancer or other diseases using radiation. Depending on your state, you may need a license to be a radiation therapist, in addition to a bachelor’s or associate degree.
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IT Manager
Average annual income: $91,636
IT managers oversee an organization’s information technology team and associated systems. This is a great position for someone with IT experience and a bachelor’s degree in information technology or computer science.
Director of Marketing
Average annual income: $91,394
The director of marketing manages a company’s marketing efforts, from planning campaigns to analyzing results. This is an advanced role, so employers often prefer candidates with master’s degrees.
Construction Superintendent
Average annual income: $90,463
Construction superintendents oversee each stage of construction, from planning to execution. They are the liaison between construction workers and the administration.
Information Security Analyst
Average annual income: $90,425
Information security analysts work to protect companies from cyberattacks, according to Indeed. They may design security features and maintain systems to protect digital assets. A bachelor’s degree in computer science will help you land a role as an information security analyst.
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Marine Engineer
Average annual income: $89,478
Marine engineers design and maintain watercraft like boats and submarines. They generally need a bachelor’s degree in marine engineering or a related field.
Mechanical Engineer
Average annual income: $89,424
Mechanical engineers design, create and test devices like engines and robotics. They need a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and a license to sell services to the public.
Clinical Director
Average annual income: $88,721
Clinical directors are in charge of the day-to-day operations at a healthcare facility. They manage the budget, make certain that the facility complies with applicable regulations and ensure patients receive quality care.
Civil Engineer
Average annual income: $88,264
Civil engineers design critical infrastructures in society like bridges, airports and roads. To become a civil engineer, you need a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or a related field.
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Certified Public Accountant
Average annual income: $87,190
Certified public accountants provide professional accounting services to individuals and businesses. You’ll need a bachelor’s degree and to pass the CPA exam before becoming a CPA.
Application Developer
Average annual income: $86,803
Application developers create software applications using programming languages. If you have a passion for computer systems and an information technology degree, this could be the right career for you.
Biomedical Engineer
Average annual income: $86,755
Biomedical engineers develop technologies and devices to use in the healthcare industry, such as artificial organs and limbs. You will generally need a bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering to become a biomedical engineer.
Environmental Manager
Average annual income: $86,722
Environmental managers help their organizations deal with environmental concerns and improve their sustainability efforts. They conduct research and develop policies that address environmental issues.
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Statistician
Average annual income: $86,547
Statisticians analyze data with mathematical models and software to derive insights. They have strong mathematical skills and often have a master’s degree in math or economics.
Associate Professor
Average annual income: $86,324
Associate professors teach students at colleges or universities, according to Indeed. They generally also conduct research and publish their findings in peer-reviewed journals. Associate professors typically need a Ph.D. in their field of study and years of experience as assistant professors.
Engineer
Average annual income: $85,621
Engineers design, build and evaluate final products using scientific principles. Most engineers specialize in a specific branch like chemical, electrical or civil engineering.
Construction Manager
Average annual income: $84,874
Construction managers are in charge of planning and supervising construction projects. They may choose the team of construction workers, oversee the project and keep everything on budget and on schedule.
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Project Manager
Average annual income: $84,531
According to Indeed, project managers are professionals who oversee business projects from start to finish. They work with the team on the project, keep team members on schedule and make certain upper management is up-to-date on any developments.
Speech Pathologist
Average annual income: $82,922
Speech pathologists work with patients to improve communication and speech issues. They typically need a state license and a master’s degree in speech pathology.
Chiropractor
Average annual income: $81,846
Chiropractors are healthcare professionals who treat neuromuscular problems and chronic pain by making spinal and sometimes other joint adjustments. To become a chiropractor, you must earn a Doctor of Chiropractic degree and a state license.
Senior Physical Therapist
Average annual income: $81,715
A senior physical therapist is an experienced healthcare professional specializing in relieving pain and improving patient mobility. You’ll need to complete a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree and pass the National Physical Therapist Examination to get this job.
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Laboratory Manager
Average annual income: $81,555
Laboratory managers are in charge of the lab staff and environment. They order supplies, ensure everyone follows safety procedures and create the lab schedule.
Sales Manager
Average annual income: $81,041 [1]
A sales manager oversees a team of sales associates selling the company’s products [94]. They may need to travel to other company offices or to visit distributors [94]. This job does not require a college degree [94].
Systems Administrator
Average annual income: $81,035
A systems administrator is in charge of their organization’s computer software, hardware and network. They’re responsible for making sure everything runs smoothly so all employees can complete their work without disruptions.
Occupational Therapist
Average annual income: $82,227
Occupational therapists help people with cognitive, motor or other disability-related issues. They incorporate daily occupational tasks into their therapy to work toward physical rehabilitation.
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Industrial Engineer
Average annual income: $80,816
Industrial engineers create systems to help companies use raw materials, machinery and people more efficiently. They often work in laboratories, manufacturing facilities and offices.
Systems Analyst
Average annual income: $79,891
Systems analysts are IT professionals who design and monitor business technology systems, as explained by Indeed. You can become a systems analyst with a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field.
Purchasing Manager
Average annual income: $79,610
Purchasing managers oversee the employees responsible for buying products and services that businesses need. They may start as purchasing agents or buyers to obtain the necessary experience to become a purchasing manager.
Market Researcher
Average annual income: $78,645
A market researcher analyzes data related to consumer preferences and industry factors to help companies make business decisions. You generally need a bachelor’s degree to hold this position.
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Registered Nurse Case Manager
Average annual income: $78,158
Registered nurse case managers coordinate care among individual patients, medical service providers and insurance companies, according to Indeed. You must be a registered nurse to become a registered nurse case manager and some employers may require additional certification.
Management Analyst
Average annual income: $77,576
Management analysts examine organizations to recommend ways to become more efficient and productive. They generally work as consultants for the companies they advise. To become a management analyst, you generally need a bachelor’s degree in a field like business administration, finance or data science.
Political Affairs Officer
Average annual income: $77,533
Political affairs officers are diplomatic experts who study the local politics and issues of a given region. They may work for the United Nations, U.S. Foreign Service or similar organizations.
Broker
Average annual income: $77,384
Brokers act as the intermediary between buyers and sellers to help facilitate sales. They charge a commission and often work in industries like real estate and finance. You typically need a bachelor’s degree to be a broker, except for real estate brokers. Depending on the industry, some brokers also need to pass licensing or certificate exams.
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Director of Public Relations
Average annual income: $76,102
The director of public relations is responsible for maintaining and improving the organization’s public image. They manage crises, liaise with the media and craft internal and external communication in line with the company’s PR strategy. Directors of public relations generally have bachelor’s degrees in communications or public relations and some may pursue advanced degrees in these fields.
Judge
Average annual income: $75,297
Judges rule over proceedings in local, state and federal courts. To become a judge, you need a law degree and typically some legal experience. Judges are then elected or appointed, depending on the position.
Cost Estimator
Average annual income: $72,751
Cost estimators analyze data to estimate the resources necessary to provide products or services. You generally need a bachelor’s degree to become a cost estimator.
School Psychologist
Average annual income: $72,147
School psychologists support teachers and students using their mental health expertise. They typically work in public primary and secondary schools. You need a master’s degree, Doctor of Psychology degree, or Ph.D. in school psychology to hold this position.
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Marketing Manager
Average annual income: $70,297
Marketing managers lead associate marketers in efforts to promote companies and make them more profitable. You need a bachelor’s degree in marketing or a related field and marketing experience to hold this position.
If you’re considering a career change, these high-paying professions are great options to consider. Remember that salaries can vary by region and change over time. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and apply for a role in one of these lucrative fields.
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