When we think of high-paying jobs, traditional roles like doctor, lawyer, and business manager come to mind. However, some of the highest paying jobs in the world include roles you've never heard of. For example, my sister is a so-called “fire equipment engineer.” If there's anything I've learned from her career path, it's that the more niche your title is, the more a company will pay to retain you.
Of course, earning a six-figure income is not easy. Typically requires unique skills and expertise. (Or a healthy offering of nepotism.) Still, it's worth learning about the lucrative opportunities that can be found in unconventional or commonly overlooked fields. Here are just a few of the not-so-obvious jobs that can help you achieve a six-figure income if you know where to look.
data ethicist
In the era of big data and artificial intelligence, the role of data ethicists has emerged as important. Companies are increasingly concerned about the ethical implications of their data practices. Data ethicists guide organizations through complex ethical dilemmas and ensure that data is collected, analyzed, and used in accordance with moral and legal standards. With the increasing demand for responsible data management, professionals in this role can earn handsome salaries. According to ZipRecruiter, the national average annual salary is $160,723. Learn more about the path to becoming a data ethicist.
User experience (UX) researcher
User experience researchers analyze how people interact with products and services to improve usability and satisfaction. Conducting user tests, surveys, and interviews provides valuable insights that shape your design decisions. According to Salary.com, base salaries for UX researchers range from $101,035 to $124,591, with an average base salary of $111,637. Click here to learn more about the path to becoming a UX researcher.
ethical hacker
Emerging activity at the intersection of technology and data! Ethical hackers, also known as penetration testers or “white hat” hackers, help organizations identify and remediate security vulnerabilities. By simulating cyber attacks, we uncover weaknesses that malicious hackers can exploit. As cyber threats become more sophisticated, the need for ethical hackers has skyrocketed, with professionals earning an average salary of $106,290, according to Salary.com.
Medical Science Liaison
Medical Science Liaisons (MSLs) act as a liaison between pharmaceutical companies and medical professionals. Provides doctors, researchers, and other healthcare professionals with the latest information on medical products, research, and clinical trials. With a deep understanding of medicine and strong communication skills, his MSL can earn a great salary while contributing to medical advances. According to Glassdoor, the average salary for a Medical Science Representative in the United States is $157,091 per year.
MSLs require advanced scientific training and an academic background, typically consisting of a doctoral degree (PhD, PharmD, or MD) in the life sciences. Here's more information on how to aspire to become a medical science liaison.
drone pilot
As drones continue to revolutionize industries such as agriculture, construction, and film production, the demand for skilled drone pilots is increasing. According to the latest numbers from Glassdoor, the estimated total salary for a drone pilot in the US region is $120,772 per year, with an average salary of $89,181 per year. It's important to note that salaries vary by industry and location. For example, drone pilots involved in mapping and surveying earn significantly more than film and video pilots. Operating drones for tasks such as aerial photography, surveying, and mapping requires specialized training and certification. Learn more about.
Traveling nurse
Traveling nurses can help fill gaps in areas where there is a shortage of nurses, which is why they are in high demand. Depending on how you look at it, travel can be a plus or minus, but the pay is high, with an average annual salary of $119,635, according to Indeed.com. Benefits include a tax-free housing allowance, a tax-free per diem, transportation reimbursement, and a signing bonus.
engineering project manager
Engineers make good money. Engineers who manage other engineers earn very well. Engineering project managers create detailed project plans, recommend budgets, and manage staffing and equipment needs. The average annual median salary for this role is $148,206.
Take out
While traditional high-paying jobs are still viable options, some of the highest-paying jobs aren't exactly the same as the ones you remember from high school job fairs. Even if a career change isn't in your future, it may help guide the young professionals in your life to explore lesser-known opportunities.
