<p><strong>Want to get into tech but not sure where to start?</strong></p><p>We get it. Tech workers are bringing home some serious dough. We’ve seen tech salaries in our salary database as high as $900,000 a year at companies like Google and Meta.&nbsp;</p><p>However, tech doesn’t just pay extremely well. It’s also in high demand as one of the fastest-growing industries with a lot of promise in both job satisfaction and independence. But with so many career paths (developer, data analyst, UX designer, cybersecurity, and more), choosing the right fit can feel overwhelming.</p><p>Let’s be honest, when you don’t have a clear direction, it’s easy to get stuck in research mode instead of making real progress.</p><p><strong>✨ That’s where this FREE tech career quiz comes in.</strong></p><h2><strong>Tech Career Quiz</strong></h2><p>In just 2 minutes, we’ll help you figure out which area of tech fits your interests, strengths, and goals – no experience required.</p><p><strong>Here’s what you’ll get:</strong></p><ul><li>Questions designed to expose you to different tech career options and uncover your natural strengths and work preferences.</li><li>Scenarios that reveal what kinds of tech roles might <i>actually</i> be a good fit for you.</li><li>A personalized result pointing you toward the tech path that matches <i>you</i>, whether it’s coding, design, data, or something in between.</li><li>Free resources to help you get started in your chosen area (courses, career guides, and more)!</li></ul><p>No gatekeeping. No tech jargon. Just clarity and your first step toward a career in tech.</p><p><strong>👇 Take the quiz and get started!</strong></p>

green desktop cover image with tech worker illustration and title text overlay that reads "which tech job is right for you?"

green cover image with tech worker illustration and title text overlay that reads "which tech job is right for you?"

Tech Career Quiz: Which Tech Career Is Right For You?

<p><strong>Not sure which trade is right for you?</strong></p><p>Skilled trades are making a major comeback and for good reason. With fewer people entering these fields and demand higher than ever, trade workers are earning serious money <i>without</i> a four-year college degree.</p><p>We’ve interviewed electricians making over <strong>$100 an hour</strong>, plumbers making up to<strong> $110,000 a year</strong>, and even tattoo artists making <strong>$150 an hour</strong>. And that’s just the beginning.</p><p>But here’s the thing: There’s no one-size-fits-all trade job. There are many career paths to choose from and if you’re not sure where to start, it’s easy to feel stuck.</p><p><strong>💼 Enter our FREE trade jobs quiz.</strong></p><h2><strong>Find Your Trade Quiz</strong></h2><p>Take this 1-minute quiz to find which skilled trade fits you best based on what you’re good at, what you love, and how you want to live your life.</p><p><strong>Here’s what you’ll get when you take the quiz:</strong></p><ul><li>Questions that uncover your natural talents, work style, and preferences.</li><li>Scenarios to help match you with a trade that fits your vibe, whether that’s solving problems, building things, or working with your hands.</li><li>A personalized result showing which trade career might be your best fit.</li><li>Free beginner-friendly resources to help you explore that path, including training options and next steps.</li></ul><p><strong>&nbsp;👇 Take the quiz and find your trade.</strong></p>

desktop cover image for the quiz page with a green background, trade worker illustrations for 4 different types of trade roles, and title text overlay that reads "free quiz: which trade job best fits you?"

cover image for the quiz page with a green background, trade worker illustrations for 4 different types of trade roles, and title text overlay that reads "free quiz: which trade job best fits you?"

Find Your Trade Quiz: Which Trade Job Best Fits You?

<p><i><strong>This article is sponsored by TripleTen. </strong></i><a href="https://tripleten.com/special/free-career-consultation/?utm_channel=influencers&amp;utm_source=influencers&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=influencers_salarytransparentstreet0525blog&amp;utm_content=post"><i><strong>Use discount code SALARY for 30% off any TripleTen bootcamp!</strong></i></a></p>

<p>Not every path into tech starts with a computer science degree. For Gerardo Antolino-Torres II, it began with a baseball glove, progressed to a sheriff’s badge, and ultimately led to a world of bug reports and software testing.</p><p>After years in law enforcement, Gerardo made the bold decision to change careers, and <a href="https://tripleten.com/qa-engineer/?utm_channel=influencers&amp;utm_source=influencers&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=influencers_salarytransparentstreet0525blog&amp;utm_content=post">TripleTen’s QA bootcamp</a> helped him turn that pivot into a reality. <strong>Today, he’s a Software Tester at KBR Inc., supporting the U.S. Navy with tools that have real-world impact.</strong></p><h2>From the Field to the Firewall ⚾</h2><p>Gerardo’s first passion wasn’t tech, it was baseball. He played professionally in the minor leagues before moving into law enforcement, where he worked for six years. “I had a passion to help people, to make a difference,” he said of his time in public service.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Eventually, he felt he had hit a ceiling and wanted to find a path that allowed him to grow professionally while continuing to make an impact.</p><p>When Gerardo stumbled upon quality assurance (QA), something clicked. “You find a bug, they fix it, and you see the result—that kind of direct influence really drew me in,” he said.&nbsp;</p><h2>Landing His First Tech Role 🛬</h2><p>After completing <a href="https://tripleten.com/qa-engineer/?utm_channel=influencers&amp;utm_source=influencers&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=influencers_salarytransparentstreet0525blog&amp;utm_content=post">TripleTen’s QA bootcamp</a> and earning his QA certification, Gerardo dove into job hunting, with a career coach from TripleTen guiding him along the way. He sent out more than 300 applications before his persistence paid off. He landed his current role at KBR Inc. in November 2024, where he now works as a Software Tester in support of the U.S. Navy.&nbsp;</p><p>What skill helped him stand out? <strong>Automated testing.</strong></p><p>“The people interviewing me didn’t even have automation experience yet,” he said. “But they were trying to implement it, and I had already learned it through TripleTen.” Just three days after his final interview, he received a job offer and officially became a Software Tester.</p><h2>A Paycheck—and a Purpose</h2><p>In his new role, Gerardo supports mission-critical software for the U.S. Navy, work that holds deep personal significance for him as his brother-in-law is a pilot, and one of the systems he tests is used to document the actions of military aircraft. “I can have an effect on that and potentially save his life,” he shared.</p><p>He also appreciates the newfound calm that comes with the switch to tech: “I’m a lot less stressed. I don’t have to dodge bullets, I don’t have to dodge knives, I just have to dodge questions sometimes.”</p>

<p>Now earning $75,000 a year and working toward his ISTQB Certified Tester Foundation Level (CTFL) certification, Gerardo is thriving in a career that allows him to continue helping people, without the danger that came with a badge.</p><h2>Advice for the Next Career Changer</h2><p>Gerardo urges others to lean into their lived experience when making a transition. “Always use your past experience to show how it can be an asset for the company,” he said. For those open to a new path, his story proves that it's never too late to start fresh.</p><p>And you don’t need a computer science degree, either; all you need is motivation and the right program (<a href="https://tripleten.com/special/free-career-consultation/?utm_channel=influencers&amp;utm_source=influencers&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=influencers_salarytransparentstreet0525blog&amp;utm_content=post">click here to learn more about TripleTen’s bootcamps</a>).&nbsp;</p><p>To connect with Gerardo and learn more about his journey, reach out to him on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerardo-antolino-torres-ii-21g09a">LinkedIn</a>.</p><p><i><strong>This article is sponsored by TripleTen. </strong></i><a href="https://tripleten.com/qa-engineer/?utm_channel=influencers&amp;utm_source=influencers&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=influencers_salarytransparentstreet0525blog&amp;utm_content=post"><i><strong>Use discount code SALARY for 30% off any TripleTen BootCamp!</strong></i></a><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p><p><strong>For more Salary Transparent Street resources:</strong></p><ul><li>Want to join the movement? Explore thousands of individually reported salaries nationwide across all industries in our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a>!</li><li>Do you know if you're being underpaid? <a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/p/underpaid-quiz">Take our free quiz</a> to find out!</li><li>Need help determining your market rate? Download our free <a href="https://view.flodesk.com/pages/626ccc8e1e8046b220253e47">Market Research Guide</a> to learn what you should be making.</li><li>Need help negotiating your salary? Download our free <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/free-salary-negotiation-guide">Salary Negotiation Guide</a>!</li><li>Follow us on <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@salarytransparentstreet">TikTok</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/salarytransparentstreet/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salarytransparentstreet">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/salarytransparentstreet">YouTube </a>and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/salarytransparentstreet/">LinkedIn </a>for daily pay transparency interviews and career news you can use!</li><li>Subscribe to our <a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/subscribe">weekly newsletter</a> for news updates, professional deep dives, learning opportunities, and more!</li></ul>

From Professional Baseball Player to Software Tester

<p><strong>Working a corporate job isn’t the only way to create a stable career. </strong>Learning a skilled trade is an extremely underrated route that offers many <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-trade-jobs">high-paying trade job options</a>.</p><p>Not only that, these jobs are in high demand! There is a growing skills gap in several trades due to many tradespeople aging out of their jobs and fewer people choosing to work those jobs. For instance, <a href="https://www2.deloitte.com/us/en/pages/about-deloitte/articles/press-releases/us-manufacturing-could-need-new-employees-by-2033.html">Deloitte </a>reported that 1.9 million skilled trade jobs in manufacturing are expected to go unfilled by 2033, an industry that accounts for <a href="https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/operations/our-insights/delivering-the-us-manufacturing-renaissance">$2.3 trillion of the US’s GDP</a> and supports hundreds of local economies across the U.S.</p><p>Combine that with the growing demand for trade workers in other areas, such as wind turbine technicians (growth rate <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/wind-turbine-technicians.htm">60%</a>), electricians (growth rate <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/construction-and-extraction/electricians.htm">11%</a>), and HVAC technicians (growth rate <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/heating-air-conditioning-and-refrigeration-mechanics-and-installers.htm">9%</a>), and you’ll see a massive opportunity in these <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/top-jobs-of-2025">top jobs of the future</a>.</p><p>What’s great about these roles is that they don’t require a 4-year bachelor's degree or a hefty college bill. Many positions offer the ability to earn while you learn through apprenticeships and other on-the-job training opportunities, and tend to pay well with great benefits due to many being <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/how-to-join-a-union">union jobs</a> (although not all trades have union representation).</p>

How Much Do Trade Workers Really Make? Earnings Revealed at LaborFest

<p><strong>In this guide, you’ll learn what qualifies as a trade job, which one is right for you, and how to enter that trade.</strong></p><p>We also included salary data that we’ve collected from the past 3+ years of interviews, data we’ve collected in our online <a href="http://salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a> (don’t forget to <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/onboarding">join and add</a> your salary too!), and job data from the <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh">U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook</a>.</p><p>*Keep in mind that our Salary Database currently doesn’t have a way to distinguish between base pay and total compensation. Our salary data may also include other compensation, such as bonuses, commissions, stock options, equity, or other forms of pay in addition to their yearly salary.</p><h2><strong>List of Trades to Explore (and How to Get Into Them)</strong></h2><p>Trade jobs are hands-on careers that require specialized training in a specific skill or craft, can often be found in industries like construction, manufacturing, and transportation, and many provide <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-jobs-without-a-degree">high-paying opportunities without a degree</a>.</p><p>Beyond the familiar trades, there are also lesser-known paths in fields like healthcare, culinary arts, cosmetology, and technology that offer similar skilled and high-demand roles. Just like an electrical line worker is a trade worker, so are tattoo artists.&nbsp;</p><p>Let’s explore each industry, typical roles available, expected pay, and how to get into each. If you don’t know which trade job you want to explore, take our free quiz to help you decide which one suits you best! 👇</p>

<h2>Construction</h2><p>Construction trade jobs involve hands-on expertise in areas such as building, masonry, plumbing, carpentry, and installation for flooring and other building components. These workers are responsible for turning architectural plans into safe and functional buildings. Constructing our cities and communities would be impossible without them. The great thing about this trade is that it also has many roles available in <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-government-jobs">high-paying government jobs</a>.</p>

How much does a #constructionworker make in 📍Washington, DC?#salarytransparentstreet

<figure class="table"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:50%;"><col style="width:50%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>No Degree Required (Apprenticeship, On-the-Job Training, or Licensing)</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Certificate or Trade School Preferred</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><ul><li>Construction laborer</li><li>Construction manager</li><li>Electrician (apprenticeship required)</li><li>Plumber, Pipefitter, Steamfitter (apprenticeship required)</li><li>Carpenter (apprenticeship optional, common)</li><li>Ironworker (apprenticeship required)</li><li>Sheet Metal Worker (apprenticeship required)</li><li>Roofer</li><li>Drywall Installer</li><li>Glazier</li><li>Mason (apprenticeship required)</li><li>Flooring Installer</li><li>Concrete Finisher</li><li>Painter</li><li>Elevator Installer &amp; Repairer (apprenticeship required)</li></ul></td><td><ul><li>Heavy Equipment Operator (certifications like National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (<a href="https://www.nccco.org/docs/default-source/osha/crane-operator-certification---employers-guide-112118a.pdf?sfvrsn=7da0fb0e_2">NCCCO</a>) preferred)</li><li>Crane Operator (certifications like NCCCO often preferred)</li></ul><p><br>&nbsp;</p></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>How to get into it:</strong> Start with a high school diploma or GED and then enter an apprenticeship program. These can be found through local trade unions, such as United Association Union of Plumbers, Fitters, Welders and Service Techs (<a href="https://ua.org/">UA</a>), the International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron Workers (<a href="https://www.ironworkers.org/">IW</a>), the International Union of Elevator Constructors (<a href="https://www.iuec.org/">IUEC</a>), and other <a href="https://nabtu.org/affiliates/">North American unions</a>. Opportunities can also be found through construction companies and some send their employees to school for free. If you want to operate heavy machinery, look at <a href="https://www.nccco.org/docs/default-source/osha/crane-operator-certification---employers-guide-112118a.pdf?sfvrsn=7da0fb0e_2">NCCCO </a>certifications as well.</p><p><strong>Potential pay:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Median salary:</strong> <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/construction-and-extraction/home.htm">$58,360</a> a year</li><li><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database:</strong> <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3Dconstruction&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$650,000</a> a year</li></ul><p><strong>Get started with these courses or programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/VxQrd6">Construction Techniques and Practices Specialization</a> (use as a way to explore this field, but look for your local construction trades union to get into their apprenticeship program)</li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/6yxazQ">Construction Management Specialization</a></li></ul><h2>Manufacturing</h2><p>Manufacturing trade jobs focus on the production, assembly, and maintenance of products. These are your welders, machinists, and assemblers. These roles are essential for creating everything from machinery to consumer goods, and utilize skills such as equipment operation and mechanical aptitude to produce high-quality products.</p><figure class="table"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:50%;"><col style="width:50%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>No Degree Required (Apprenticeship, On-the-Job Training, or Licensing)</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Certificate or Trade School Preferred</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><ul><li>Welder (on-the-job training or apprenticeship)</li><li>Machinist (on-the-job training or apprenticeship)</li><li>Assembler</li><li>Fabricator</li><li>Forklift Operator</li><li>General Laborer / Production Worker</li><li>Packaging Operator</li></ul></td><td><ul><li>CNC (Computer Numerical Control) Operator (National Institute for Metalworking Skills (<a href="https://themanufacturinginstitute.org/workers/skills-certifications/nims/">NIMS</a>) certification available)</li><li>Quality Control Inspector</li><li>Production Technician</li><li>Metal Finisher</li><li>Industrial Maintenance Technician</li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>How to get into it:</strong> Many manufacturing trades offer apprenticeships with the requirement of a high school diploma or GED. Apprenticeships can be found through local trade unions, such as the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (<a href="https://www.goiam.org/get-organized/#get-organized-tab-0">IAM</a>) and the <a href="https://iuanpw.org/">International Union of Allied, Novelty and Production Workers</a>, and manufacturing companies by applying directly. There are also trade school programs and certifications required, such as <a href="https://themanufacturinginstitute.org/workers/skills-certifications/nims/">NIMS</a>.</p><p><strong>Potential pay:&nbsp;</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Median salary:</strong> <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/industrial-machinery-mechanics-and-maintenance-workers-and-millwrights.htm">$63,510</a> a year</li><li><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database:</strong> <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3Dwelder&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$96,000</a> a year</li></ul><p><strong>Get started with these courses or programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/APAzYa">Manufacturing Industry 101</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/e1QoxQ">Welding Processes in Heavy Manufacturing &amp; Quality Controls</a></li></ul><h2>Automotive and Transportation</h2><p>Automotive and transportation trade jobs involve skilled work repairing, maintaining, and operating a wide range of vehicles and transportation systems. These roles are important to keeping transportation safe, covering everything from cars and trucks to buses, planes, and even rail equipment.</p>

How Much Do Auto Trades Pay? Insights from the SEMA Trade Show

<figure class="table"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:50%;"><col style="width:50%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>No Degree Required (Apprenticeship, On-the-Job Training, or Licensing)</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Certificate or Trade School Preferred</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><ul><li>Automotive Service Technician &amp; Mechanic (apprenticeship or on-the-job training)</li><li>Diesel Mechanic (apprenticeship or on-the-job training)</li><li>Truck Driver (CDL required)</li><li>Motorcycle Mechanic&nbsp;</li><li>Bus Driver (CDL required)</li></ul></td><td><ul><li>Aircraft &amp; Avionics Mechanic/Technician (completion of FAA-approved aviation maintenance school)</li><li>Auto &amp; Diesel Engine Specialist/Technician (Automotive Service Excellence (<a href="https://ase.com/">ASE</a>) certification often required)</li><li>Ship &amp; Boat Mechanic</li><li>Electric Vehicle (EV) Technician&nbsp;</li><li>Transportation Inspector (DOT or FAA certifications may be required depending on sector)</li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>How to get into it:</strong> These positions typically require a high school diploma or GED, then hands-on training through an apprenticeship or program focused on automotive or diesel technology. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FoSE3CWZTgo&amp;t=105s">We interviewed a mechanic </a>who went to high school for half the day and trade school the other half, where both counted for high school credit. This helped them start working right away after high school.&nbsp;</p><p>Apprenticeships can be found through dealerships, repair shops, and unions like the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers (<a href="https://www.smart-union.org/">SMART</a>). Certifications like <a href="https://ase.com/">ASE </a>are often required or highly recommended.</p><p><strong>Potential pay:&nbsp;</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Median salary:</strong> <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/home.htm">$58,230</a> a year</li><li><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database: </strong><a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3Daircraft+technician&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$220,000</a> a year</li></ul><p><strong>Get started with these courses or programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/QjGqv6">Introduction to Mechanics</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/Wy9jPe">Flight Mechanics - The Basics</a></li></ul><h2>Energy and Utilities</h2><p>Energy and utilities trade jobs involve essential services like electricity, water, and gas. The most common role you often hear about are electricians (which you’ll also see listed under the ‘Construction’ section above, but it also falls under ‘Energy’), but there are several others that are lesser-known and pay well, such as wind turbine technicians. These roles are crucial for ensuring reliable infrastructure and safety, and often require skills in equipment operation and power system monitoring.&nbsp;</p>

How much do union #electricians make? #paytransparency #electricianjobs #trades

<figure class="table"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:50%;"><col style="width:50%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>No Degree Required (Apprenticeship, On-the-Job Training, or Licensing)</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Certificate or Trade School Preferred</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><ul><li>Power Plant Operator (on-the-job training; licensing may be required)</li><li>Water/Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator (on-the-job training; state license required)</li><li>Electrician (apprenticeship required)</li><li>Lineworker / Powerline Technician (apprenticeship required)</li><li>Gas Utility Technician (on-the-job training; operator qualification required)</li><li>Wind Turbine Technician&nbsp;</li><li>Hydroelectric Plant Technician&nbsp;</li><li>Meter Installer &amp; Repairer</li></ul></td><td><ul><li>Solar PV Installer (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (<a href="https://www.nabcep.org/certifications/nabcep-board-certifications/">NABCEP</a>) certification preferred but not always required)</li><li>HVAC Technician (certificate programs commonly preferred)</li><li>Energy Systems Technician</li><li>Substation Technician&nbsp;</li><li>Utility Locator (certificate programs preferred; National Utility Locating Contractors Association (<a href="https://nulca.org/">NULCA</a>) certification available)</li><li>Geothermal Technician&nbsp;</li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>How to get into it: </strong>A high school diploma or GED is a great starting point, then look for specialized training through apprenticeships, technical schools, or utility-sponsored programs. Licensing and education requirements vary by role and state.&nbsp;</p><p>For example, electricians can find apprenticeships through their local International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (<a href="https://ibew.org/">IBEW</a>) union and typically need a state electrician license. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lx84Xrav_b0">An electrician apprentice we interviewed</a> is making <strong>$74 an hour</strong>! Look for your state’s requirements and opportunities through your state’s Labor and Industries website, local union hall (or website), utility companies, and workforce development centers.</p><p><strong>Potential pay:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Median salary:</strong> <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/production/power-plant-operators-distributors-and-dispatchers.htm">$103,600</a> a year</li><li><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database:</strong> <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DPower+Plant+Operator&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$100,000</a> a year</li></ul><p><strong>Get started with these courses or programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/QjGqEa">Introduction to Electronics</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/ra0vWj">Electric Power Systems</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/55qeB1">Solar Energy for Engineers, Architects and Code Inspectors Specialization</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/EEGKz2">Renewable Energy Specialization</a></li></ul><h2>Technology and IT Infrastructure</h2><p>Our technology infrastructure highly depends on trade workers to install and maintain technical hardware and networks. They often possess <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/high-income-skills">high-income skills,</a> such as troubleshooting and reverse engineering, and have many <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-tech-jobs">high-paying tech jobs </a>available to them because of it. Thanks to them, company networks can stay secure, public networks can be accessible, and our personal devices can exist on either of them.</p>

How much does a #SystemsAdministrator make?📍Detroit, MI #salarytransparentstreet

<figure class="table"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:50%;"><col style="width:50%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>No Degree Required (Apprenticeship, On-the-Job Training, or Licensing)</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Certificate, Trade School, or Associate Degree Preferred</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><ul><li>Cable Technician / Installer</li><li>Data Center Technician</li><li>Network Cabling Installer</li><li>Telecom Tower Technician</li><li>Field Service Technician</li><li>Audio-Visual (AV) Technician</li></ul></td><td><ul><li>System Administrator (associate degree recommended or CompTIA cert required)</li><li>Network Technician (associate degree recommended or CompTIA cert required)</li><li>Security Systems Technician</li><li>Fiber Optic Technician</li><li>Structured Cabling Technician</li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>How to get into it: </strong>Start with a high school diploma or GED, then gain skills through trade schools, community colleges, or certification programs. Also, look for opportunities through technical trade unions, such as the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (<a href="https://www.ifpte.org/">IFPTE</a>). Entry-level roles in IT support, networking, or cybersecurity often require certifications like <a href="https://imp.i384100.net/Vx2DnE">CompTIA A+</a>, <a href="https://imp.i384100.net/LK5eVa">Network+</a>, or <a href="https://imp.i384100.net/xLmAWk">Cisco’s CCNA</a>, which can be earned through online learning.</p><p><strong>Potential pay:&nbsp;</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Median salary: </strong><a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/telecommunications-equipment-installers-and-repairers-except-line-installers.htm">$64,310</a> a year</li><li><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database: </strong><a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DTechnician&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$126,000</a> a year</li></ul><p><strong>Get started with these courses or programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/9Lydm3">Computer Networks and Network Security</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/Vx2DnE">Preparation for CompTIA A+ Certification Specialization</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/BnRDEW">Bachelor of Information Technology</a></li></ul>

<p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Healthcare</h2><p>Healthcare trades encompass many different roles, such as pharmacy techs, dental assistants, and nurses. Many of these roles require specialized training, certifications, and associate degrees to ensure effective care and compliance with health regulations.</p>

How much do #EMTs make? #salarytransparency #salarytransparentstreet #paytransparency

<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>No Degree Required (Apprenticeship, On-the-Job Training, or Licensing)</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Certificate, Trade School, or Associate Degree Preferred</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><ul><li>Home Health Aide (on-the-job training)</li></ul></td><td><ul><li>Pharmacy Technician (certification like Certified Pharmacy Technician (<a href="https://www.ptcb.org/credentials/certified-pharmacy-technician">CPhT</a>) preferred)</li><li>Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT) (<a href="https://www.nremt.org/EMT/Certification">EMT certification</a> required)</li><li>Dental Assistant (on-the-job training; certification like Certified Dental Technicians (<a href="https://nbccert.org/certificants/certified-dental-technician/">CDTs</a>) preferred)</li><li>Radiologic Technician ( American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (<a href="https://www.arrt.org/">ARRT</a>) certification preferred; licensing required in most states)</li><li>Surgical Technologist (certification like Certified Surgical Technologist (<a href="https://www.nbstsa.org/cst-certification">CST</a>) preferred)</li><li>Respiratory Therapist ( Certified Respiratory Therapist (<a href="https://www.nbrc.org/examinations/crt/">CRT</a>) certification preferred; licensure required in most states)</li><li>Medical Laboratory Technician (certification from the American Society for Clinical Pathology (<a href="https://www.ascp.org/content/board-of-certification?utm_source=chatgpt.com">ASCP</a>) preferred)</li><li>Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) (completion of an accredited LPN program; licensure required in all states)</li><li>Dental Hygienist (certificate programs preferred; state licensure required)</li><li>Physical Therapy Assistant (certificate programs preferred; licensure required in most states)</li><li>Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (associate degree required; American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (<a href="https://www.ardms.org/">ARDMS</a>) certification preferred)</li><li>Occupational Therapy Assistant (associate degree required; licensure required in most states)</li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>How to get into it:</strong> After getting a high school diploma or GED, pursue training based on your specific healthcare trade. Options range from on-the-job training for roles like Home Health Aide to formal certificate or associate degree programs for more advanced positions. Many roles require or strongly prefer certification or licensure, such as <a href="https://www.ptcb.org/credentials/certified-pharmacy-technician">CPhT </a>for Pharmacy Technicians, <a href="https://www.arrt.org/">ARRT </a>for Radiologic Technicians, or state licenses for Licensed Practical Nurses, Dental Hygienists, and other allied health professionals.</p><p><strong>Potential pay:&nbsp;</strong></p><ul><li>Median salary: <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/home.htm">$83,090</a> a year</li><li>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database: <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DRadiologic+Technologist&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$131,000</a> a year</li></ul><p><strong>Get started with these courses or programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/BnGWr9">Foundation for Assisting in Home Care</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/JKj3GQ">Pharmacy Technician Fundamentals Specialization</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/Wy9jn3">Visualizing the Living Body: Diagnostic Imaging</a></li></ul><h2>Personal Services (Cosmetology, Lifestyle, and Culinary)</h2><p>Personal service trades focus on enhancing well-being and lifestyle through skills in areas like cosmetology and hair, baking and cooking, and fitness training. Many of these would also be considered <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-creative-jobs">creative jobs</a>, but also require some technical expertise with certification or licensing to provide quality services to clients.</p>

How much does a #TattooArtist make? Eugene, OR📍#salarytransparentstreet

<figure class="table"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:50%;"><col style="width:50%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>No Degree Required (Apprenticeship, On-the-Job Training, or Licensing)</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Certificate or Trade School Preferred</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><ul><li>Hair Stylist (state licensure required)</li><li>Nail Technician (state licensure required)</li><li>Makeup Artist</li><li>Esthetician (state licensure required)</li><li>Waxing Specialist (state licensure or certification often required)</li><li>Eyelash Technician (state licensure or certification may be required)</li><li>Tattoo Artist (apprenticeship or formal training often required; state or local licensing required)</li><li>Chef (culinary school optional)</li><li>Butcher</li><li>Baker</li><li>Bartender</li></ul></td><td><ul><li>Personal Trainer (certification from programs like the National Academy of Sports Medicine (<a href="https://www.nasm.org/">NASM</a>) or the National Council on Strength and Fitness (<a href="https://www.ncsf.org/">NCSF</a>) preferred)</li><li>Massage Therapist (state licensure required, certification from accredited program preferred)</li><li>Nutritionist (certificate programs preferred)</li><li>Graphic Artist/Designer (certificate programs and trade school programs available)</li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>How to get into it: </strong>Begin with a high school diploma or GED, then enroll in a state-approved training program or trade school for your chosen field, whether that’s cosmetology, barbering, culinary arts, or fitness training. Most personal service careers require certification or licensure, such as a state cosmetology license. The American Association of Career Schools has a great resource that shows<a href="https://myaacs.org/licensing/"> license requirements by state</a> for many of these trades.</p><p><strong>Potential pay:&nbsp;</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Median salary:</strong> <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/personal-care-and-service/home.htm">$35,110</a> a year</li><li><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database:</strong> <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DHair+Stylist&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$96,000</a> a year</li></ul><p><strong>Get started with these courses or programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/nXAOGx">Introduction to Cosmetic and Skincare Science</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/4GLkb1">Equitable Stage Makeup and Hair</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/6yxaON">Getting Started as a Personal Fitness Trainer</a></li></ul><h2>Public Safety and Infrastructure</h2><p>Public safety and infrastructure trades involve protecting communities and maintaining systems like waste management and environmental services. While many of these roles have entry-level work available with little requirements, there are many that also require certifications and specialized training.</p>

How much does a #MaintenanceWorker make in📍Boston, MA? #salarytransparentstreet #salarytransparency

<figure class="table"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:50%;"><col style="width:50%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;">No Degree Required (Apprenticeship, On-the-Job Training, or Licensing)</p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;">Certificate or Trade School Preferred</p></td></tr><tr><td><ul><li>Public Works Laborer&nbsp;</li><li>Sanitation Worker&nbsp;</li><li>Waste Management Worker&nbsp;</li><li>Street Maintenance Worker&nbsp;</li><li>Sewer Maintenance Worker</li><li>Solid Waste Collection Worker&nbsp;</li><li>Landfill Technician&nbsp;</li></ul></td><td><ul><li>Firefighter (EMT certification and trade school often required)</li><li>Recycling Technician or Coordinator (may require certification depending on locality)</li><li>Environmental Technician (certificate programs in environmental science or management preferred)</li><li>Solid Waste Manager (Certified Professional in Waste Management (<a href="https://www.nrep.org/certifications/certified-professional-waste-management-cpwm">CPWM</a>) preferred)</li><li>Public Works Inspector (American Public Works Association (<a href="https://www.apwa.org/education-careers/certification/">APWA</a>) and state-specific certifications preferred)</li><li>Hazardous Materials Removal Worker (Occupational Safety and Health Administration (<a href="https://www.osha.gov/training/certificate">OSHA</a>) certifications and specialized training preferred)</li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>How to get into it: </strong>A high school diploma or GED is enough to get started, as many entry-level positions don’t require a degree. However, you will need to complete any required training or certifications depending on the role. For example, a sanitation worker may not need a certification, but an environmental technician may need to be a <a href="https://www.osha.com/courses/certified-environmental-specialist.html">certified environmental specialist</a>.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Potential pay:&nbsp;</strong></p><ul><li>Median salary: <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/general-maintenance-and-repair-workers.htm">$48,620</a> a year</li><li>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database: <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DSolid+Waste+%26+Recycling+Specialist&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$63,000</a> a year</li></ul><p><strong>Get started with these courses or programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/yqOD0D">Introduction to Sustainability</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/mOa6AD">Utilities, Safety &amp; Environmental Care in Oil &amp; Gas Industry</a></li></ul><h2>How to Pick The Right Trade Job for You</h2><p>Choosing the right trade starts with understanding your own interests, skills, and physical preferences, whether you enjoy working with your hands, solving technical problems, helping others, or being outdoors.&nbsp;</p><p>Matching your strengths to the skills required in different trades can help you find a path that feels both natural and rewarding. To get started, you can take our free 1-minute trade jobs quiz to discover which roles align with your personality and abilities! 👇</p>

<p><strong>Don’t stop there. </strong>Explore different trades you’re interested in through job fairs (like the<a href="https://www.wawomenintrades.com/trades-fair"> Washington Women in Trades Fair</a>), free or low-cost short courses through course providers like <a href="https://imp.i384100.net/BnR05W">Coursera</a>, informational interviews with real-world insights like you’ll find on our <a href="https://imp.i384100.net/BnR05W">YouTube</a>, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@salarytransparentstreet">TikTok</a>, and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/salarytransparentstreet">Instagram</a>, volunteering, or shadowing professionals on the job. These steps can help you make an informed and confident decision about your future career.</p><h2>Starting a Career in Skilled Trades</h2><p>To successfully <a href="https://moneymow.com/getting-into-trade-jobs-a-no-fluff-guide-from-a-hands-on-career-coach/">kick off your trade career</a>, start where <i>you </i>are. If you’re still in high school, you can actually start there – really! As we learned from some of our past interviews, many trade workers actually started trade programs while in high school through half-day technical and trade schools that also accounted for high school credit.</p><p>If you’re out of high school, no worries. You can start from here too. Use resources available to you, such as the guide you’re reading now and the <a href="https://explorethetrades.org/what-we-do/trainingjobs/licensing-information/">Explore The Trades</a> website, to find apprenticeships, programs, and license requirements for the trade job you’re interested in.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Browse these union directories for more information and details on how to apply for an apprenticeship:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://aflcio.org/about-us/our-unions-and-allies/our-affiliated-unions">AFL-CIO Union Directory</a></li><li><a href="https://nabtu.org/affiliates/">North America’s Building Trade Unions</a></li><li><a href="http://apprenticeship.gov">Apprenticeship.gov</a></li></ul><p>These same union directories can also help you find trade jobs available through your local union, along with our very own <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/job-board">Salary Transparent Job Board</a>, <a href="https://www.unionhiringhall.org/">Union Hiring Hall</a>, <a href="http://usajobs.gov">USAJobs.gov</a>, and <a href="https://fbijobs.gov/skilled-trades">FBIJobs.gov</a> job boards.</p><p>All you need to do is take that first step, use these resources we’ve gathered for you, and start reaching out to local unions, schools, or companies. We’re here in your corner cheering for your success!</p><p>We also have a wealth of resources available to you as you navigate your career, including finding your <a href="https://view.flodesk.com/pages/626ccc8e1e8046b220253e47">market rate</a>, <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/job-interview-questions-and-answers">interview questions and answers</a> to prepare for, <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/salary-negotiation-scripts">salary negotiation scripts</a> and <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/salary-negotiation-myths">myths</a>, <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/how-to-ask-for-a-raise">how to ask for a raise</a>, and more!</p><p>Until next time, stay awesome, stay strong, and keep advocating for yourself no matter what! I’m Daniella, a former engineer who writes about tech, money, and careers, a current member of the <a href="https://www.cnet.com/personal-finance/financial-review-board/">CNET Money Expert Review Board</a>, and original founder of the award-winning blog and podcast for leveling up your money, career, and side hustles, <a href="https://iliketodabble.com/">I Like to Dabble </a>and <a href="https://iliketodabble.com/remote-work-bestie/">Remote Work Bestie</a>. I’m extremely passionate about workers' rights and financial freedom, so it’s a pleasure to be able to bring you this type of content through the <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub">Salary Transparent Street blog</a> (thank you for the opportunity, Hannah!) You can also follow me on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellamarquez/">Linkedin</a>. Chat soon!</p><p>If this guide helps you land a higher-paying job, let us know! Send us an email ➡️ hello@salarytransparentstreet.com</p><p><strong>For more Salary Transparent Street resources:</strong></p><ul><li>Want to join the movement? Explore thousands of individually reported salaries nationwide across all industries in our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a>!</li><li>Looking for a job? Start your job search on our salary transparent <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/jobs">job board</a>!</li><li>Do you know if you're being underpaid? <a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/p/underpaid-quiz">Take our free quiz</a> to find out!</li><li>Need help determining your market rate? Download our free <a href="https://view.flodesk.com/pages/626ccc8e1e8046b220253e47">Market Research Guide</a> to learn what you should be making.</li><li>Need help negotiating your salary? Download our free <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/free-salary-negotiation-guide">Salary Negotiation Guide</a>!</li><li>Follow us on <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@salarytransparentstreet">TikTok</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/salarytransparentstreet/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salarytransparentstreet">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/salarytransparentstreet">YouTube </a>and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/salarytransparentstreet/">LinkedIn </a>for daily pay transparency interviews and career news you can use!</li><li>Subscribe to our <a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/subscribe">weekly newsletter</a> for news updates, professional deep dives, learning opportunities, and more!</li></ul>

Article cover image for desktop with green background and skilled trades illustrations and title text overlay that reads "skilled trades career guide"

Article cover image with green background and skilled trades illustrations and title text overlay that reads "skilled trades career guide"

How to Get Into a Trade (With Advice From Real Trade Workers)

<p>The technology industry is a great space to get into for those seeking a high-paying, flexible, and future-ready career. <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-tech-jobs">Tech jobs</a> are in a massive growth period as IT spending from companies has quadrupled from 2023, with an expected spending amount of 5.7 trillion in 2025, according to a recent report by <a href="https://www2.deloitte.com/us/en/insights/industry/technology/technology-media-telecom-outlooks/technology-industry-outlook.html">Deloitte</a>.</p><p>The<a href="https://www.weforum.org/publications/the-future-of-jobs-report-2025/digest/"> projected technological change</a> that will occur over the next 5 years will add a whopping 78 million jobs to the labor market across industries. That means <i>more chances than ever</i> to break into tech, whether you’re into AI, design, marketing, data, or just want a stable remote job with real money potential.</p><p>Before you get stuck in the cycle of thinking, “but I don’t know how to code,” <strong>stop right there.</strong> 🫵</p><p>There are tons of jobs in tech that don’t require coding skills, but they do require digital skills. Tech and IT jobs offer both technical and non-technical opportunities, and there are many ways to get started with a career in tech and learn these <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/high-income-skills">high-income skills</a> with or without a degree.</p><p><strong>In this guide, you’ll learn which tech path is right for you, how to build the skills you need to get your foot in the door, and how to network and best position yourself to land the job — no matter your background or experience level.&nbsp;</strong></p><p>We also included salary data for each area of tech that we’ve collected from the past 3+ years of interviews, data we’ve collected in our online <a href="http://salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a> (don’t forget to <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/onboarding">join and add</a> your salary too!), and job data from the <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh">U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook</a>.</p><p>*Keep in mind that our Salary Database currently doesn’t have a way to distinguish between base pay and total compensation. Our salary data may also include other compensation, such as bonuses, commissions, stock options, equity, or other forms of pay in addition to their yearly salary.</p>

<h2>Different Career Paths to Break Into Tech</h2><p>Working in tech means one of two things: working at a tech company or working on a technical team at a non-tech company.&nbsp;</p><p>A marketing role at a tech company may qualify as “working in tech” just as much as an IT support person working for a healthcare services company does. One works in the tech industry while the other is a technical professional in a different industry. They both work in tech. For example, many <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-government-jobs">high-paying government jobs</a> and <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-creative-jobs">creative jobs</a> are tech roles.</p><p>There are also many companies that you may overlook as not being tech companies when thinking about pivoting into the space. For example, Mastercard is a financial tech company and Canva is a visual communication and design tech company. <strong>Keep this in mind as you work to build skills and look at the different tech career paths available.</strong></p>

Tech Jobs & Paychecks: Uncovering the Truth at RenderATL | Salary Transparent Street

<h2>Engineering and Development</h2><p>Engineering and development is an area that first comes to mind for many people when thinking of what a tech job looks like – coders in hoodies working around the clock. The truth is, not all engineers even write code. For example – while software engineers need to have some knowledge of certain programming languages, such as Python, C, or Java, there are some software engineers that spend the majority of their role in design, planning, or support and incident response.&nbsp;</p>

Software Engineers Make How Much? 🤯 Salary Transparent Street™️ Compilation 💵

<p><strong>Other areas of engineering and development to explore include:</strong></p><figure class="table"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:33.33%;"><col style="width:33.33%;"><col style="width:33.34%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Area</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>What They Do</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>What They Need to Know</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Systems Engineering</strong></td><td>Ensures hardware and software systems work together</td><td>Systems design, scripting, operating systems (OS) basics</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Hardware Engineering</strong></td><td>Builds and tests physical tech like circuits and processors</td><td>PCB design, C/C++, embedded systems</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Frontend Development</strong></td><td>Codes the visual parts of websites and apps</td><td>HTML, CSS, JavaScript, frameworks like React</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Backend Development</strong></td><td>Handles server logic, databases, and APIs</td><td>Python/Java, SQL, API design, security basics</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Full Stack Development</strong></td><td>Works on both frontend and backend</td><td>Web dev stack, Git, debugging</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Website Development</strong></td><td>Builds and updates websites</td><td>HTML, CSS, JavaScript, CMS tools</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Mobile App Development</strong></td><td>Creates apps for iOS and Android</td><td>Swift, Kotlin, mobile UI, app deployment</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Game Development</strong></td><td>Develops video games and interactive experiences</td><td>Unity/Unreal, C#, game logic, asset integration</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>Potential pay:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Median salary:</strong> <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm">$130,160</a> per year</li><li><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database:</strong> <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3Dsoftware+engineer&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$450,000</a> per year</li></ul><p><strong>How to get into it: </strong>Start looking at available degree programs in computer science, software engineering, information technology, or a similar area. Not all companies require a bachelor’s degree, and many also accept associate’s degrees, bootcamps, certifications, and/or coding samples demonstrating your knowledge as alternatives, especially if you have any experience from personal projects, freelancing, or entry-level tech roles.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Get started with these courses and programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/LKRdQj">Programming for Everybody (Getting Started with Python)</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/dO5J1K">IBM Full Stack Software Developer Professional Certificate</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/qzO6by">Amazon Junior Software Developer Professional Certificate</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/RG2dvg">Introduction to Systems Engineering</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/aOrGJM">Bachelor of Computer Science</a></li></ul><h2>Operations and Infrastructure</h2><p>The operations and infrastructure side of tech jobs are the folks who keep systems running smoothly. They manage servers, networks, systems (including cloud systems), deployments, and uptime so developers can ship code and provide a good user experience on their applications and systems.&nbsp;</p>

#CloudEngineers in Atlanta, GA📍#salarytransparentstreet #salarytransparency #howmuchdoyoumake

<p>For example, a DevOps engineer may be tasked with setting up an automated deployment pipeline, so that every time a developer pushes code, it automatically runs tests and deploys to the production environment. At the other end of that deployment, site reliability engineers are responsible for monitoring system performance and may respond to outages by rolling back the failed deployment and updating their incident response documentation and processes.</p><p><strong>Other areas of operations and infrastructure to explore include:</strong></p><figure class="table"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:33.33%;"><col style="width:33.33%;"><col style="width:33.34%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Area</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>What They Do</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>What They Need to Know</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><strong>System Administration</strong></td><td>Manages servers, updates, backups, and user access</td><td>OS basics, scripting, networking, troubleshooting</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Database Administration</strong></td><td>Maintains secure and high-performing databases</td><td>SQL, backup strategies, performance tuning, DB tools</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Cloud Engineering &amp; Infrastructure</strong></td><td>Builds and manages cloud systems</td><td>AWS/Azure/GCP, IaC tools (e.g., Terraform), networking</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Platform Engineering</strong></td><td>Supports tools and systems for software deployment</td><td>CI/CD, scripting, containers (Docker, Kubernetes)</td></tr><tr><td><strong>IT Support and Helpdesk</strong></td><td>Solves user tech issues</td><td>Troubleshooting, customer service, basic IT knowledge</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Service Event Management</strong></td><td>Handles incidents and restores services quickly</td><td>Monitoring tools, incident response, escalation procedures</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Technical Program Management</strong></td><td>Coordinates technical projects across teams</td><td>Agile/Scrum, cross-team communication, planning tools</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Project Management</strong></td><td>Plans and tracks project timelines and goals</td><td>Budgeting, timelines, task tracking, stakeholder management</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Program Management</strong></td><td>Oversees multiple related projects to align with business goals</td><td>Strategy, portfolio management, stakeholder alignment</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>Potential pay:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Median salary:</strong> <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/database-administrators.htm">$117,450</a> per year</li><li><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database:</strong> <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DDatabase+Administrator&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$115,000</a> per year</li></ul><p><strong>How to get into it:</strong> There are degree programs available in information systems, computer science, information technology, or related fields, but they aren’t always required for these roles. Trade schools/programs, certifications (like CompTIA), and hands-on experience in entry-level tech roles that don’t require degrees (such as helpdesk and customer support) can often be just as valuable.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Get started with these courses and programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/DyRdY2">System Administration and IT Infrastructure Services</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/YR2mOj">Introduction to Cloud Computing</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/nXW6aX">Google IT Support Professional Certificate</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/Vx2DnE">Preparation for CompTIA A+ Certification Specialization</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/BnRDEW">Bachelor of Information Technology</a></li></ul><h2>Networking and Security</h2><p>The networking and security departments handle network connectivity for companies, including what can and can’t pass through their network. They make sure devices are connected, systems can talk to each other securely, and that only authorized users have access to the right resources.</p>

🔒Cybersecurity Pay Compilation!#salarytransparentstreet #salarytransparency

<p>Even though certain roles may seem like they should be specific to either networking or security, you can’t really have one without the other. That’s why it seems that many of these roles may overlap, or at least require similar skill sets, so they can efficiently work together.</p><p><strong>Different areas of networking and security to explore include:</strong></p><figure class="table"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:33.33%;"><col style="width:33.33%;"><col style="width:33.34%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Area</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>What They Do</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>What They Need to Know</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Network Engineering</strong></td><td>Designs and builds secure, scalable networks</td><td>Routing, switching, firewalls, network protocols</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Network Administration</strong></td><td>Maintains network performance and user access</td><td>Monitoring tools, troubleshooting, permissions</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Security Engineering</strong></td><td>Builds systems to protect against cyber threats</td><td>Firewalls, intrusion detection, encryption, security tools</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Cloud Network Engineering</strong></td><td>Manages cloud-based network infrastructure</td><td>AWS/Azure networking, VPCs, load balancers, cloud security</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Cybersecurity</strong></td><td>Defends systems and data through testing and threat monitoring</td><td>Threat detection, pen testing, SIEM tools</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Cyber Incident Response</strong></td><td>Investigates and responds to security breaches</td><td>Forensics, threat containment, incident handling</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Identity &amp; Access Management</strong></td><td>Controls who can access systems and data</td><td>Authentication, authorization, IAM tools</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Information Security Management</strong></td><td>Sets policies to protect data and systems</td><td>Risk analysis, compliance standards, policy frameworks</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Governance, Risk &amp; Compliance (GRC)</strong></td><td>Ensures security and legal standards are met</td><td>Regulatory knowledge, audits, risk management</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>Potential pay:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Median salary:</strong> <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/information-security-analysts.htm">$120,360</a> per year</li><li><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database:</strong> <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DInformation+Security+Engineer&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$760,000</a> per year</li></ul><p><strong>How to get into it</strong>: You can explore degree programs in information technology, network engineering, cybersecurity, or related fields, but they aren’t always required for these roles. CompTIA certifications are also popular in this field. Hands-on experience is also desired, and can be fulfilled with personal projects (like if you set up an impressive network with security in your own home or for a small business).</p><p><strong>Get started with these courses and programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/9Lydm3">Computer Networks and Network Security</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/3Jm0nB">Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/Vx2DnE">Preparation for CompTIA A+ Certification Specialization</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/BnRDEW">Bachelor of Information Technology</a></li></ul><h2>Data and Artificial Intelligence (AI)</h2><p>Everything is data – what we buy, eat, and drink, what we watch online, our Instagram activity, where we live, what we do for work, and anything else we’ve ever done that is digitally available in the form of data. That may all seem like meaningless information, but for tech companies (or any company, for that matter), it’s gold.</p>

Data Scientists Make How Much? 🤯 Data Scientist Salary Compilation 💚 Salary Transparent Street

<p>Companies want to understand their customers’ and users’ data and use it in a way that improves products, and creates more personalized experiences. This is why they need skilled data and AI professionals to collect, clean, and analyze that data, so they can turn it into actionable insights and train AI with it.</p><p><strong>Different areas of data and AI to explore include:</strong></p><figure class="table"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:33.33%;"><col style="width:33.33%;"><col style="width:33.34%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Area</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>What They Do</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>What They Need to Know</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Data Analytics</strong></td><td>Analyzes and visualizes data to support decisions and track performance</td><td>Excel, SQL, BI tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI)</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Data Science</strong></td><td>Builds models to predict outcomes and reveal insights</td><td>Python/R, statistics, machine learning</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Data Engineering</strong></td><td>Builds systems to collect, clean, and store data</td><td>ETL tools, databases, cloud platforms, Python/SQL</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Machine Learning Engineering</strong></td><td>Deploys and scales machine learning models</td><td>Python, ML frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow), APIs, DevOps basics</td></tr><tr><td><strong>AI Research &amp; Development</strong></td><td>Researches and builds cutting-edge AI technologies</td><td>Deep learning, NLP, computer vision, academic research methods</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Business Intelligence (BI)</strong></td><td>Creates reports and dashboards for business insights</td><td>SQL, BI platforms, data visualization, metrics tracking</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Data Governance</strong></td><td>Manages data quality, privacy, and compliance</td><td>Data policies, security, regulations (GDPR, HIPAA)</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>Potential pay:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Median salary:</strong> <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/math/data-scientists.htm">$108,020</a> per year</li><li><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database: </strong><a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DData+Scientist&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$260,000</a> per year</li></ul><p><strong>How to get into it:</strong> Being some of the <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-tech-jobs">most in-demand jobs for the future</a>, data science, AI, and machine learning are fields that are growing so fast that many educational programs and courses can barely keep up with them. The best way to get into this field is to explore foundational courses (like those mentioned below) and to jump in and start trying tools out on your own. You can also explore degree programs and certificates in areas such as computer science, data science, and AI.</p><p><strong>Get started with these courses and programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="http://imp.i384100.net/K0ydoa">Introduction to Data Analytics</a></li><li><a href="http://imp.i384100.net/5510O2">Fundamentals of Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/N92yAV">Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate</a></li><li><a href="http://imp.i384100.net/qzO6rY">IBM Data Science Professional Certificate</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/aOrGJM">Bachelor of Computer Science</a></li></ul><h2>Product and Business</h2><p>The product and business area of tech are the folks that shape what gets built, why it matters, and how it reaches the right people. They visualize and plan what building the product will look like, what it will require, how it will meet user needs, and how to make sure that the product is successful.</p><p>For example, a product manager might work with users to identify pain points, then collaborate with designers and engineers to define features and prioritize a roadmap.</p>

How much does a #DataScience #ProductManager make? Atlanta, GA📍#salarytransparentstreet

<p><strong>Other areas of product and business to explore include:</strong></p><figure class="table"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:33.33%;"><col style="width:33.33%;"><col style="width:33.34%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Area</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>What They Do</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>What They Need to Know</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Product Marketing</strong></td><td>Crafts messaging, drives adoption, and positions product in the market</td><td>Market research, copywriting, analytics, go-to-market strategy</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Solutions Architecture</strong></td><td>Designs tech solutions that meet business needs</td><td>Cloud platforms, system design, pre-sales knowledge</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Sales Engineering / Technical Sales</strong></td><td>Supports sales with product demos and technical expertise</td><td>Communication, product knowledge, light coding or system setup</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Technical Account Management</strong></td><td>Advises clients post-sale to ensure success</td><td>Customer service, technical knowledge, project coordination</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Customer Success</strong></td><td>Onboards and supports users to ensure long-term satisfaction</td><td>Product expertise, communication, training, retention strategies</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>Potential pay:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Median salary:</strong> <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/sales/sales-engineers.htm">$116,950</a> per year</li><li><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database: </strong><a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3Dproduct+manager&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$750,000</a> per year (total compensation)</li></ul><p><strong>How to get into it: </strong>Get started with exploring business and product management courses and certifications, such as the ones mentioned below. Degree programs are also available in business administration, information systems, and other related areas. Hands-on experience, such as creating and managing your own product (as many online creators do), impresses employers and could be your ticket to getting your foot in the door.</p><p><strong>Get started with these courses and programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="http://imp.i384100.net/9LyagQ">Business Foundations Specialization</a></li><li><a href="http://imp.i384100.net/4Ggj51">Product Management Essentials</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/LKRzPL">Digital Product Management Specialization</a></li><li><a href="http://imp.i384100.net/YR23DO">IBM Product Manager Professional Certificate</a></li><li><a href="http://imp.i384100.net/APRXWD">Bachelor of Science in Business Administration</a></li></ul><h2>Content, Marketing, and Design</h2><p>Any application or system is useless without a designed user flow, visual layout, and content for users to engage with. Why use an application if it’s all code and barely operable? Technical products also need documentation for users to refer to. This is all made possible by content writers, marketers, and designers.</p><p>For example, a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/shorts/bEBKGrEZHjI">UX (User Experience) designer</a> maps out how users will navigate a product to make sure it’s intuitive and accessible, while a UI (User Interface) designer creates the visual elements – like buttons, colors, and typography – that bring that experience to life.</p><p><strong>Other areas of content, marketing, and design to explore include:</strong></p><figure class="table"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:33.33%;"><col style="width:33.33%;"><col style="width:33.34%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Area</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>What They Do</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>What They Need to Know</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Content Strategy &amp; Content Writing</strong></td><td>Plans and writes content to support brand, marketing, and user engagement</td><td>Writing, content planning, search engine optimization (SEO), brand voice</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Technical Writing &amp; Documentation</strong></td><td>Creates manuals, guides, and technical docs for users and developers</td><td>Technical knowledge, clear writing, tools like Markdown, Confluence</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Marketing (Digital, SEO, Growth, etc.)</strong></td><td>Promotes products online and drives traffic, signups, and sales</td><td>SEO, analytics, ad platforms, growth strategies</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Product Design, UX/UI</strong></td><td>Designs user-focused interfaces and experiences</td><td>UX/UI design, Figma, prototyping, design systems</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Instructional Design &amp; E-learning</strong></td><td>Develops training content and digital learning programs</td><td>Curriculum design, e-learning tools, adult learning principles</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>Potential pay:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Median salary:</strong> <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/advertising-promotions-and-marketing-managers.htm">$156,580 per year</a></li><li><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database:</strong> <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3Dmarketing+manager&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$155,000</a> per year</li></ul><p><strong>How to get into it: </strong>You can explore degree programs available in marketing, communications, design, information technology, and other areas to break in, but courses and certifications may also be acceptable to employers. Hands-on experience, such as personal or freelance projects, can also help you break in. Some ideas include writing your own documents for apps you use, sharing designs you’ve created on social media, or showing how you use your social media account that proves your ability to market your skills.</p><p><strong>Get started with these courses and programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="http://imp.i384100.net/MAR3AN">Content Strategy</a></li><li><a href="http://imp.i384100.net/nXWJLa">Design Fundamentals</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/mOoye1">Google UX Design Professional Certificate</a></li><li><a href="http://imp.i384100.net/kOJGOv">Google Digital Marketing &amp; E-commerce Professional Certificate</a></li><li><a href="http://imp.i384100.net/gOak10">Bachelor of Science in Marketing</a></li></ul>

<h2>Quality Assurance (QA) and Testing</h2><p>QA and testing is the last stop before a technical product reaches the outside world. This is a critical stage in the development lifecycle to make sure no defects make it to the public and hurt users’ or customers’ trust in a company’s products.</p><p>There are several types of testing roles that fall within this area. For example, a QA tester may manually test a new feature to make sure it works as expected across different devices and browsers, while an automation tester writes scripts that automatically run tests every time code is updated.</p><p><strong>Other areas of QA and testing to explore include:</strong></p><figure class="table"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:33.33%;"><col style="width:33.33%;"><col style="width:33.34%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Area</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>What They Do</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>What They Need to Know</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Automation Testing</strong></td><td>Uses tools/scripts to run repeatable software tests automatically</td><td>Selenium, Python/Java, CI tools</td></tr><tr><td><strong>SDET (Software Dev Engineer in Test)</strong></td><td>Builds test automation frameworks and writes test code</td><td>Programming, testing frameworks, software dev principles</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Performance Testing</strong></td><td>Checks how software performs under load or stress</td><td>JMeter, LoadRunner, system monitoring</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Security Testing</strong></td><td>Finds vulnerabilities and tests defenses against attacks</td><td>OWASP, ethical hacking, security tools</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Manual Testing</strong></td><td>Tests software manually from a user’s point of view</td><td>Attention to detail, test cases, UI/UX awareness</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Regression Testing</strong></td><td>Re-tests features after updates to catch new bugs</td><td>Test planning, version control, automation tools</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Usability Testing</strong></td><td>Evaluates ease of use and overall user experience</td><td>UX principles, user research, feedback tools</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>Potential pay:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Median salary:</strong> <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm#tab-5">$101,800</a> per year</li><li><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database:</strong> <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DQuality+Assurance+Tester&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$154,000</a> per year</li></ul><p><strong>How to get into it: </strong>You have the option to explore degree programs in areas such as computer science and information systems, but they aren’t always required. Many QA roles also welcome candidates with bootcamp experience, certifications, or hands-on testing projects (especially automation testing).&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Get started with these courses and programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="http://imp.i384100.net/Qj23j9">Introduction to Software Testing</a></li><li><a href="http://imp.i384100.net/Oey3YK">Software Testing and Automation Specialization</a></li><li><a href="http://imp.i384100.net/BnRo50">Google IT Automation with Python Professional Certificate</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/09RDGY">IBM DevOps and Software Engineering Professional Certificate</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/aOrGJM">Bachelor of Computer Science</a></li></ul><h2>How to Gain Experience and Build a Portfolio</h2><p>As you explore different educational programs, think of ways to gain experience and show your work. There are many different ways to do this.</p><p><strong>Freelance and Side Projects</strong>: Start working on freelance gigs or side projects that focus on solving real-world problems and can yield results to build a portfolio and share on your resume. Websites like LinkedIn, Upwork, Fiverr, and GitHub are great for showcasing your work.</p><p><strong>Open Source Contributions:</strong> Contribute to open-source projects on GitHub to gain real-world coding experience and collaborate with professionals in the field.</p><p><strong>Build a Personal Brand</strong>: Create content, such as blogs, newsletters, YouTube tutorials, or podcasts, where you demonstrate your tech knowledge and build your online presence. LinkedIn is a great place to do this, especially for folks new to the space that want to stand out to recruiters and employers.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Take on Entry-Level Gigs:</strong> Offer your tech skills to non-profits, local businesses, online small businesses and creators in exchange for an entry-level salary or freelance rate, experience, testimonials, and portfolio pieces.</p><p><strong>Internships and Apprenticeships:</strong> Look for internships (<a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/are-unpaid-internships-worth-it">paid ones!</a>) or apprenticeships that offer mentorship and practical experience in real-world tech environments.&nbsp;</p><h2>Putting Together a Resume</h2><p>You'll need a resume when applying to jobs. Start out with pulling a simple resume template/format from tools like <a href="https://resumegenius.com/resume-templates/basic-templates">ResumeGenuis</a> or using a resume builder, such as <a href="https://www.tealhq.com/tools/ats-resume">Teal’s ATS friendly resume builder</a>. Then fill it in with your relevant information and experience.</p><p><strong>Highlight Transferable Skills:</strong> Emphasize skills like troubleshooting and problem-solving, project management, communication, and analytical thinking that are relevant across industries. For example, if you've managed teams or handled customer support, those organizational and communication skills are valuable in tech roles like project management or customer success. Be sure to pair these with results you were able to drive using these skills.</p><p><strong>Showcase Relevant Tech Experience:</strong> Even if you haven't worked in tech, include any personal projects, freelance gigs, or coursework that involved tech skills like coding, data analysis, or design. Mention tools or platforms you’ve used, such as GitHub for code or <a href="https://marketingplatform.google.com/about/analytics/">Google Analytics</a> for data. Include links to your LinkedIn and portfolio on your resume.</p><p><strong>Certifications and Learning: </strong>List any tech-related certifications or online courses you've completed (refer to affiliate links for courses, certs, and bootcamps that were mentioned above in each career path).</p><p><strong>Add a Cover Letter:</strong> <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/how-to-write-a-cover-letter">Cover letters</a> are perfect for situations when folks want to pivot into a new space. This is where you can explain your work experience and how it lines up with the role you’ve applied for, even when your experience isn’t a perfect match. You can explain your unique situation of wanting to pivot to this new area, what you’re doing to make it happen, and how you have the transferable skills, experience, credentials, and past results to back up why you’re perfect for the job. Show them what you can do for them and how you plan to do it.</p><h2>Connecting With Your Community</h2><p>Have you ever heard the phrase, “it’s not what you know, but who you know,”? Well, it’s partially true. You still need to know what you’re doing but you also need personal and professional connections who will champion you and your experience when referring or recommending you for positions.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Attend Tech Meetups and Conferences:</strong> Participate in local or virtual <a href="https://www.meetup.com/lp/tech-activities-and-groups/">tech events</a>, conferences, meetups, or hackathons to connect with professionals in the industry. Networking at these events can lead to job referrals and mentorship opportunities.</p><p><strong>Engage on LinkedIn: </strong>Connect with people in roles you're interested in, join relevant LinkedIn groups, and actively comment on industry-related posts. Share your own insights and projects to establish your personal brand and demonstrate your knowledge. Don’t forget to engage with the people at your current job too, even if it isn’t tech related.</p><p><strong>Find a Mentor: </strong>Reach out to experienced professionals in your desired tech field for advice and guidance. Having a mentor can provide valuable career insights, help you navigate challenges, and open up connection opportunities.</p><p><strong>Contribute to Open Source or Tech Communities:</strong> Get involved in online forums or contribute to open-source projects on platforms like <a href="https://github.com/">GitHub</a> or <a href="https://stackoverflow.com/">Stack Overflow</a>. These communities allow you to build relationships while demonstrating your skills.</p><h2>Staying On Track In Your Job Search&nbsp;</h2><p>There may be times during your job search and career path that you’ll feel discouraged. Breaking into a new career can be tough, and you may experience more rejections and crickets than you may get call backs. But everything you’re doing eventually pays off.&nbsp;</p><p>Not every opportunity is the right opportunity for you. Keep going, learning, and honing your job search skills, tapping into your network and using alternative job search methods along the way (and don’t forget to utilize our very own <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/jobs">transparent job board</a>!).</p><p>We also have a wealth of resources available to you as you navigate your career, including finding your <a href="https://view.flodesk.com/pages/626ccc8e1e8046b220253e47">market rate</a>, <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/job-interview-questions-and-answers">interview questions and answers</a> to prepare for, <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/salary-negotiation-scripts">salary negotiation scripts</a> and <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/salary-negotiation-myths">myths</a>, <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/how-to-ask-for-a-raise">how to ask for a raise</a>, guides to the <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-jobs-without-a-degree">highest-paying jobs without a college degree</a>, and more!</p><p>Until next time, stay awesome, stay strong, and keep advocating for yourself no matter what! I’m Daniella, a former engineer who writes about tech, money, and careers, a current member of the <a href="https://www.cnet.com/personal-finance/financial-review-board/">CNET Money Expert Review Board</a>, and original creator of the award-winning blog and podcast for leveling up your money, career, and side hustles, <a href="https://iliketodabble.com/">I Like to Dabble </a>and <a href="https://iliketodabble.com/remote-work-bestie/">Remote Work Bestie</a>. I’m extremely passionate about workers' rights and financial freedom, so it’s a pleasure to be able to bring you this type of content through the <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub">Salary Transparent Street blog</a> (thank you for the opportunity, Hannah!) You can also follow me on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellamarquez/">Linkedin</a>. Chat soon!</p><p>If this guide helps you land a higher-paying job, let us know! Send us an email ➡️ hello@salarytransparentstreet.com</p><p><strong>For more Salary Transparent Street resources:</strong></p><ul><li>Want to join the movement? Explore thousands of individually reported salaries nationwide across all industries in our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a>!</li><li>Looking for a job? Start your job search on our salary transparent <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/jobs">job board</a>!</li><li>Do you know if you're being underpaid? <a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/p/underpaid-quiz">Take our free quiz</a> to find out!</li><li>Need help determining your market rate? Download our free <a href="https://view.flodesk.com/pages/626ccc8e1e8046b220253e47">Market Research Guide</a> to learn what you should be making.</li><li>Need help negotiating your salary? Download our free <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/free-salary-negotiation-guide">Salary Negotiation Guide</a>!</li><li>Follow us on <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@salarytransparentstreet">TikTok</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/salarytransparentstreet/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salarytransparentstreet">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/salarytransparentstreet">YouTube </a>and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/salarytransparentstreet/">LinkedIn </a>for daily pay transparency interviews and career news you can use!</li><li>Subscribe to our <a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/subscribe">weekly newsletter</a> for news updates, professional deep dives, learning opportunities, and more!</li></ul>

green cover image with connectors and title text that reads "tech & IT career guide"

green cover image with connectors and title text that reads "tech & IT career guide" mobile cover image

How to Break Into Tech and IT (With Tips From Real Tech Workers)

<p>As technologies grow and evolve, so does the job market and what skills are in demand. The higher-paying and more in-demand your skills are, the better – for both your career and your wallet.</p><p>U.S. workers are earning a little over a median salary of<strong> $60,000</strong>, according to the <a href="https://www.bls.gov/news.release/pdf/wkyeng.pdf">Bureau of Labor Statistics</a>. That’s nothing compared to the <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/100k-salary-cities">six-figure salary</a> people need to live comfortably in some states and cities.&nbsp;</p><p>As the cost of living goes up, so should your pay. It’s important for folks to learn high-income skills to be able to provide for themselves, their families, and to build the ideal life they want.&nbsp;</p><p>The good news is that a college degree isn’t necessary to learn the skills you need to land a <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-jobs-without-a-degree">high-paying job</a>, especially when <strong>nearly half of companies are eliminating bachelor’s degree requirements</strong> for some positions, according to a recent report by <a href="https://www.intelligent.com/nearly-half-of-companies-plan-to-eliminate-bachelors-degree-requirements-in-2024/">Intelligent</a>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Let’s dig into some of the highest-earning skills we’ve found from interviewing professionals from all over the U.S.</p><p><i><strong>Are you being underpaid? Find out by taking our free quiz!</strong></i></p>

<p><strong>Key points:</strong></p><ul><li>High-income skills are a mix of hard skills, soft skills, and transferable skills.&nbsp;</li><li>You don’t need to get a college degree to learn high-income skills and make a six-figure salary.</li><li>Some of the highest-earning and in-demand skills include programming and coding, data science and analysis, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), and cybersecurity skills.</li><li>From salary data we’ve collected, high-income skills can pay anywhere from <strong>$98,000 to over $600,000</strong> (with some of these numbers being full compensation packages, not just salary).</li><li>Browse 10,000+ salaries for high-income skills on our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-databas">Salary Database.</a></li></ul><h2>What are high-income skills?</h2><p>High-income skills are skills that include specialized abilities and knowledge areas, are in high demand, and have a high value among employers. Because of this, they tend to bring in higher salaries and have a fair amount of job openings, making it easier for folks to not only earn more, but also be able to bounce back quicker after <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/what-to-do-when-you-get-laid-off">going through a layoff </a>or job change.</p><p>When thinking of what skills to learn to secure a stable and high-earning job, start with specialized hard skills. Hard skills are the key skills of a job. They are directly linked to your ability to perform that job and are usually expliciting mentioned in job descriptions.</p><p>Many STEM skills include hard skills. For example, knowing Python, which is a specific coding language, is seen as a hard skill in the software engineering world. Hard skills like this are very specific.&nbsp;</p>

Women in STEM Make How Much? Salary Transparent Street Compilation 💵

<p>Although you may notice that several high-income skills appear to be technical skills, your other hard skills, soft skills, and transferable skills are just as important. Learning these skills can be done in a number of ways, including getting a degree or certification, taking online courses, bootcamps, training programs, and on-the-job experience.&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Top 10 High-Income Skills to Learn</strong></h2><p>We’ve sleuthed into some of the highest-earning skills with the highest demand using salary data from past 3+ years of interviews, data we’ve collected in our <a href="http://salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a>, and job demand data from the <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/">U.S.Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook</a>. The results were pretty impressive.</p>

Highest Salaries We Interviewed In 2024 | Salary Transparent Street Compilation

<h2>1. Digital Marketing</h2><p>Marketing is a huge component for companies to become successful. Without it, it would be difficult to keep up brand visibility, bring in revenue, and grow as a company. This high-demand marketing skill is also a required skill set for one of the <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-creative-jobs">highest-paying creative jobs</a> out there – social media marketing management.</p>

gif of person saying "it's called brand awareness"

<p>Digital marketing involves working with different marketing channels, such as SEO, email marketing, and social media marketing. This involves expertise in tools like Google Analytics and social media management platforms like Instagram for tracking and optimizing campaigns. To start learning these skills, try a few online digital marketing courses (like this <a href="https://academy.hubspot.com/courses/digital-marketing">free digital marketing course</a> with certification from HubSpot) or play around with a business social media account to see if it’s something you’re interested in.</p><p><strong>Possible job titles:</strong></p><ul><li>Digital marketing manager</li><li>SEO specialist (search engine optimization specialist)</li><li>Content marketing manager</li><li>Social media manager</li><li>Email marketing specialist</li><li>Digital marketing analyst</li><li>Digital marketing specialist</li><li>Affiliate marketing manager</li><li>Marketing automation specialist</li></ul><p><strong>Median salary: </strong><a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/advertising-promotions-and-marketing-managers.htm">$156,580</a> a year</p><p><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database:</strong> <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DDigital+Marketing+Manager&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$230,000</a> a year for a digital marketing manager role at AMD</p><p><strong>Job outlook (2023-2033):</strong> 6% increase in job growth</p>

How much does a #CCO and #directorofmarketing make? Greenville, NC📍#salarytransparentstreet

<h2>2. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning</h2><p>Machine learning (ML) is a type of artificial intelligence (AI) where computers learn from data to make predictions or decisions without being explicitly programmed. Naturally, this includes data science skills and using programming languages like Python and R, and you’ll often see an overlap of data science and AI skills in several job positions. Other abilities include understanding ML techniques, deep learning methods, and frameworks like TensorFlow and PyTorch.&nbsp;</p>

gif of person waving laptop in air, saying "it's learning!"

<p>With these skills, you can create virtual work assistants, automate tasks, and even automate entire workflows. From searching for a job to finding an apartment or house — AI exists almost everywhere throughout our day-to-day lives. It’s one of the fastest growing and <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/top-jobs-of-2025">highest-paying jobs of the future</a>, so it’s a skillset you definitely shouldn’t ignore!&nbsp;</p><p>To start learning these skills, explore courses offered by <a href="https://aws.amazon.com/training/learn-about/machine-learning/">Amazon Web Services</a>, <a href="https://www.ibm.com/training/artificial-intelligence">IBM</a>, <a href="https://developers.google.com/machine-learning">Google</a>, or other online learning programs.</p><p><strong>Possible job titles:</strong></p><ul><li>Machine Learning Engineer</li><li>AI engineer</li><li>Research scientist (AI/ML)</li><li>AI/ML specialist</li><li>Deep learning engineer</li><li>AI prompt engineer</li></ul><p><strong>Median salary:</strong> <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-and-information-research-scientists.htm">$145,080</a> a year</p><p><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database: </strong><a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DMachine+Learning+Engineer&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$550,000</a> a year (total compensation for a machine learning director at Glassdoor)</p><p><strong>Job outlook from 2023 to 2027:</strong> 80% increase reported from the <a href="https://www.weforum.org/publications/the-future-of-jobs-report-2025/">Future of Jobs Report 2025</a></p>

#HealthcareTech in Denver, CO📍#salarytransparentstreet #salarytransparency #paytransparency

<h2>3. Programming and Coding</h2><p>Programming and coding include being proficient in programming languages, such as C++, Python, Javascript, Java, SQL, and other languages depending on their specialization. Since code ends up connecting different systems and data together, an understanding of data structures and databases is also included.</p>

<p>You really can’t go wrong learning any of these skills. They’re all foundational skills to many <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-tech-jobs">high-paying tech jobs </a>and you don’t need to learn them through a degree. <strong>70% of developers are self-taught</strong>, according to a <a href="https://survey.stackoverflow.co/2023/">Stack Overflow survey</a>. Learning and building these skills can be done through online courses, bootcamps, and certifications, such as those offered by <a href="https://www.codecademy.com/">Codecademy</a>.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Possible job titles:</strong></p><ul><li>Software engineer</li><li>Software developer</li><li>Software analyst</li><li>Back-end engineer</li><li>Front-end engineer</li><li>DevOps engineer</li><li>Web developer</li><li>Application developer</li><li>Full-stack developer</li><li>Technical support engineer</li></ul><p><strong>Median salary:</strong><a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm"> $130,160</a> a year</p><p><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database:</strong> <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3Dsoftware+engineer&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$450,000</a> a year (total compensation for a software engineer at Block)</p><p><strong>Job outlook (2023-2033):</strong> 17% increase in job growth</p>

<h2>4. Cloud Computing</h2><p>Cloud computing skills involve working with cloud services, including computing power, storage, and databases. A familiarity with cloud platforms such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure is needed. These platforms are essential for deploying, managing, and scaling applications and services.</p><p><br>&nbsp;</p>

justice league gif saying "to the cloud! like Microsoft"

<p><strong>96% of companies use at least one public cloud</strong>, which 50% of their workload is run in, according to a report done by <a href="https://www.virtana.com/the-state-of-multi-cloud-management-2024/">Vitana</a>, an AI-driven cloud management and monitoring solutions provider. The demand doesn’t stop there. With AWS dominating 32% of the cloud market, the demand for these skills will only continue to go up. Exploring <a href="https://aws.amazon.com/certification/">courses for AWS</a>, <a href="https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/credentials/certifications/azure-fundamentals/?practice-assessment-type=certification">Microsoft Azure</a>, and other cloud platforms can help you get started in this area.</p><p><strong>Possible job titles:</strong></p><ul><li>Cloud solutions architect</li><li>Cloud engineer</li><li>Cloud support engineer</li><li>Cloud developer</li><li>Cloud systems administrator</li><li>Cloud systems engineer</li><li>Cloud consultant</li><li>Cloud operations manager</li><li>Cloud security specialist</li></ul><p><strong>Median salary: </strong><a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-network-architects.htm">$129,840</a> a year</p><p><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database:</strong> <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DCloud+Consultant&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$261,000</a> a year for a cloud consultant role at Amazon Web Services</p><p><strong>Job outlook (2023-2033): 1</strong>5% increase in job growth</p>

<h2>5. Cybersecurity</h2><p>Cybersecurity skills involve understanding and implementing security protocols to protect systems and data from threats. This includes expertise in network security, encryption techniques, and vulnerability assessment to safeguard against data breaches and attacks.&nbsp;</p><p>Cybersecurity exists everywhere. Where there is a system or network that needs protection, there is cybersecurity. These skills are in high demand and pay well for good reason. cybersecurity professionals have a lot riding on their shoulders. The security of entire companies depends on them and their skills.</p><p>To get started learning cybersecurity skills, explore free courses (like <a href="https://pll.harvard.edu/course/cs50s-introduction-cybersecurity">this one from Harvard</a>) or explore <a href="https://www.comptia.org/certifications/cybersecurity-analyst">CompTIA cybersecurity certifications</a>.</p>

gif of kristen bell saying "see? that's why you make the big bucks"

<p><strong>Possible job titles:</strong></p><ul><li>Cybersecurity analyst</li><li>Information security analyst</li><li>Cybersecurity engineer</li><li>Incident response specialist</li><li>Penetration tester (ethical hacker)</li><li>Security consultant</li><li>Network security engineer</li></ul><p><strong>Median salary:</strong> <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/information-security-analysts.htm">$120,360</a> a year</p><p><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database:</strong> <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DInformation+Security+Engineer&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$760,000</a> per year for an information security analyst role</p><p><strong>Job outlook (2023-2033): </strong>32% increase in job growth</p>

#CyberSecurityAnalyst making $150k in Washington, DC📍#salarytransparentstreet #paytransparency

<h2>6. Sales</h2><p>Being able to sell anything to another person is an amazing skill. It requires persuasion, good communication skills, and emotional intelligence. There are hard skills involved too, such as an expertise in lead generation, prospecting, and closing deals, and a strong understanding of customer relationship management (CRM) tools and sales analytics.</p><p>Sales skills can be learned and strengthened through working entry-level sales positions, learning about ecommerce through online courses, taking training, or pursuing formal education for a degree. <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/learning/topics/sales-3">LinkedIn Learning</a> has a great selection of courses that you can get for free with your <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/learning-login/go/share">library card</a>.</p><p><strong>Possible job titles:</strong></p><ul><li>Sales representative</li><li>Sales associate</li><li>Sales engineer</li><li>Account manager</li><li>Sales manager</li><li>Business development manager</li><li>Sales director</li><li>Regional sales manager</li></ul><p><strong>Median salary:</strong> <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/sales/sales-engineers.htm">$116,950</a> a year</p><p><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database: </strong><a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DSales+manager&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$420,000</a> a year for a sales manager role</p><p><strong>Job outlook (2023-2033):</strong> 7% increase in job growth</p>

#SoftwareSales in Denver, CO📍#salarytransparentstreet #salarytransparency #paytransparency

<h2>7. Data Science and Analysis</h2><p>Data science and analytical skills are among some of the fastest growing in-demand skills. They include working with programming languages like Python and R, as well as expertise in SQL or NoSQL databases for querying data. Data visualization and working with big data and machine learning frameworks are also involved.&nbsp;</p><p>As data becomes more and more valuable in our digital world, these are the skills at the heart of the information technology industry. Resources like <a href="https://www.datacamp.com/">Data Camp</a> are great places to start when looking to learn data and AI skills.</p><p><strong>Possible job titles:</strong></p><ul><li>Data scientist</li><li>Data analyst</li><li>Data engineer</li><li>Data modeler</li><li>Data architect</li><li>Data visualization specialist</li><li>Business intelligence (BI) analyst</li></ul>

<p><strong>Median salary: </strong><a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/math/data-scientists.htm">$108,020</a> a year</p><p><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database:</strong> <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DData+Scientist&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$260,000</a> a year for a data scientist role at Amgen</p><p><strong>Job outlook (2023-2033):</strong> 35% increase in job growth</p><h2>8. Financial Services</h2><p>Skills in financial services involve financial analysis and forecasting, which includes analyzing large sets of financial data – so you have to love math and numbers. In order to effectively do this, there needs to be a strong understanding of budgeting, financial modeling, investment analysis, and risk management.</p>

gif of scene from hangover when he's calculating 

<p>Skills that involve handling and managing money are definitely going to be high-paying. Financial technology and services make it possible for people to withdraw money from the bank, spend from a credit card, and even plan their financial futures and retirement. Working at a bank is a great place to start seeking out some of these skills. <a href="https://openlearning.mit.edu/news/become-financially-savvy-free-online-courses-mit">MIT </a>has some wonderful free courses to get started with!</p><p><strong>Possible job titles:</strong></p><ul><li>Financial analyst</li><li>Investment banker</li><li>Financial advisor</li><li>Financial planner</li><li>Portfolio Manager</li><li>Risk Manager</li><li>Credit Analyst</li><li>Accountant</li><li>Tax Advisor</li></ul><p><strong>Median salary:</strong> <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/financial-analysts.htm">$99,890</a> a year</p><p><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database:</strong> <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DPortfolio+Manager&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$325,000</a> for a portfolio manager role</p><p><strong>Job outlook (2023-2033):</strong> 13% increase in job growth</p>

How much does a #FinanceManager in📍Austin, TX make? #salarytransparentstreet #salarytransparency

<h2>9. Project Management</h2><p>Project management skills involve planning, executing, and overseeing projects, including defining scope, managing timelines, and budgets. The most important pieces of project management are being able to engage stakeholders and manage risks. Managing a project also means to see it through to the end, and requires a proficiency in methodologies like Agile and Scrum to successfully deliver projects.&nbsp;</p>

gif of person saying "I'm a planner. I make plans."

<p>Some project management jobs may require a college degree, however project management certifications are great for breaking into project management. Start learning these skills with free courses like <a href="https://www.pmi.org/kickoff">this one from the Project Management Institute</a>, then browse their certifications. <a href="https://grow.google/certificates/project-management/">Google </a>is another great certification resource for this one.</p><p><strong>Possible job titles:</strong></p><ul><li>Project manager</li><li>Program manager</li><li>Project coordinator</li><li>Project director</li><li>Project management officer (PMO)</li><li>Scrum master</li><li>Project lead</li><li>Product manager</li></ul><p><strong>Median salary: </strong><a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/project-management-specialists.htm">$98,580</a> a year</p><p><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database:</strong> <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3Dproject+manager&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$300,000</a> a year for a project manager role</p><p><strong>Job outlook (2023-2033):</strong> 6% increase in job growth</p>

How much does a #ProjectManager make in Denver, CO📍?#salarytransparentstreet #salarytransparency

<h2>10. UI/UX Design</h2><p>UI/UX design skills include proficiency in design tools such as Adobe XD, Sketch, and Figma for creating user interfaces. This involves expertise in wireframing and prototyping, which set the stage for creating engaging designs that enhance user interaction.&nbsp;</p><p>There are also 5 main skills that UI/UX designers should have, according to <a href="https://xd.adobe.com/ideas/career-tips/5-must-have-skills-for-ux-designers/">Adobe</a>. Those are front-end development, voice design, writing microcopy, UI design skills, and understanding data. To start learning about UI/UX design, start with free courses online to see if it’s something you want to explore deeper. <a href="https://edex.adobe.com/teaching-resources/introduction-to-ux-and-ui-design">Adobe </a>and <a href="https://www.codecademy.com/learn/intro-to-ui-ux">Codecademy </a>both have free courses to get started with.</p><p><strong>Possible job titles:</strong></p><ul><li>UI designer (user interface designer)</li><li>UX designer (user experience designer)</li><li>UI/UX engineer</li><li>Web designer</li><li>Product designer</li><li>Interaction designer</li><li>User researcher</li><li>UI/UX engineer</li></ul><p><strong>Median salary:</strong><a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/web-developers.htm"> $92,750</a> a year</p><p><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database:</strong> <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DUx+Designer&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$175,000</a> a year for a UX designer role at Fidelity Investments</p><p><strong>Job outlook (2023-2033):</strong> 16% increase in job growth</p>

#SeniorWebDesigner in Washington, DC📍#salarytransparentstreet #salarytransparency

<h2>Trending High-Income Skills and Looking Forward</h2><p>Skills that will continue to increase in demand over the next 10 years are software engineering, data science, cybersecurity, and AI/ML – which has the highest increase of 80%. Tech has always been a high-paying field, but it’s about to get even more so.&nbsp;</p><p>There are also other high-income skills we didn’t mention in this list but are great areas to explore – such as nursing and <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/nurse-anesthetists-nurse-midwives-and-nurse-practitioners.htm">nurse practitioners</a>, which have a 38% increase in demand over the next 8 years. The healthcare sector alone is expected to account for <strong>2.1 million new jobs by 2032</strong>, according to the <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/home.htm">U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</a>.&nbsp;</p><p>There are also <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-trade-jobs">high-paying trades</a> that are increasing in demand over that time, such as occupational therapy assistants with a 23% increase in demand.</p><p>Whatever you choose to explore, we know you’ll make the right choice. Learning high-income skills is one thing, but it’s up to you to <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/negotiate-salary-offer">negotiate your salary</a> and <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/how-to-ask-for-a-raise">ask for future raises</a>, to significantly increase your income with your new skills. We’ll be right here cheering you on!</p><p>That wraps it up for this week. Until next time, stay awesome, stay strong, and keep advocating for yourself no matter what! I’m Daniella, a writer, engineer, and creator of <a href="https://iliketodabble.com/">I Like to Dabble </a>and <a href="https://iliketodabble.com/remote-work-bestie/">Remote Work Bestie</a> - my blog and podcast for leveling up your money, career, and side hustles. I’m extremely passionate about workers' rights and financial freedom, so it’s a pleasure to be able to bring you this type of content through the <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub">Salary Transparent Street blog</a> (thank you for the opportunity, Hannah!) You can also follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/iliketodabbleblog/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@iliketodabble">TikTok</a>, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellamarquez/">Linkedin</a>, and <a href="https://twitter.com/iliketodabble">Twitter</a>. Chat soon!</p><p>If this guide helps you land a higher-paying job, let us know! Send us an email ➡️ hello@salarytransparentstreet.com</p><p><strong>For more Salary Transparent Street resources:</strong></p><ul><li>Want to join the movement? Explore thousands of individually reported salaries nationwide across all industries in our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a>!</li><li>Do you know if you're being underpaid? <a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/p/underpaid-quiz">Take our free quiz</a> to find out!</li><li>Need help determining your market rate? Download our free <a href="https://view.flodesk.com/pages/626ccc8e1e8046b220253e47">Market Research Guide</a> to learn what you should be making.</li><li>Need help negotiating your salary? Download our free <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/free-salary-negotiation-guide">Salary Negotiation Guide</a>!</li><li>Follow us on <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@salarytransparentstreet">TikTok</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/salarytransparentstreet/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salarytransparentstreet">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/salarytransparentstreet">YouTube </a>and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/salarytransparentstreet/">LinkedIn </a>for daily pay transparency interviews and career news you can use!</li><li>Subscribe to our <a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/subscribe">weekly newsletter</a> for news updates, professional deep dives, learning opportunities, and more!</li></ul>

Desktop featured image with a green background, illustration of a skill level meter, and title text overlay that reads "high income skills to learn"

Featured image with a green background, illustration of a skill level meter, and title text overlay that reads "high income skills to learn"

10 High-Income Skills to Learn Without a Degree

<p>If you’ve ever wanted to land a high-paying tech job, now is the time. The tech industry is going through a major evolution period, with AI and information processing technologies projected to create <strong>11 million jobs</strong> globally by 2030, according to the <a href="https://www.weforum.org/publications/the-future-of-jobs-report-2025/digest/?gad_source=1&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQiAz6q-BhCfARIsAOezPxnMkMggai_ruo5Ax4LQ95Ejcjs3JYj8EaI24xcG_6BH0OY6rbj_HHcaAs7zEALw_wcB">Future of Jobs Report 2025</a>.</p><p>This is mainly being driven by <strong>60%</strong> of businesses that are expected to broaden their digital access in that time. As businesses ramp up their efforts, employees are the ones behind the scenes making it happen.&nbsp;</p><p>Some of the top-paying tech jobs powering the industry include software engineering managers, product managers, machine learning engineers, and network and cybersecurity engineers. We found some of these jobs paying as much as <strong>$900,000</strong> (total compensation) in our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a>!</p><p>Let’s dive into the data.</p>

<p><strong>Key points:</strong></p><ul><li>The fastest-growing top-paying tech jobs are machine learning engineers and data scientists, both of which have a job growth rate of over 30% over the next 5 years.</li><li>There are a variety of ways to <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/how-to-break-into-tech">break into tech</a>, even if you don’t have a traditional 4-year degree.</li><li>Some of the top tech companies that often hire for these positions include Microsoft, Oracle, IBM, Cisco, Meta, Amazon, and Google.</li><li>Browse thousands of more publicly shared salaries on our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a>.</li></ul><h2><strong>12 Highest-Paying Tech Jobs in 2025</strong></h2><p>We’ve identified these top-paying tech jobs using salary data from the past 3+ years of interviews, data we’ve collected in our <a href="http://salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a>, and job data from the <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh">U.S.Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook</a>.</p><p>Keep in mind that our Salary Database currently doesn’t have a way to distinguish between base pay and total compensation. Our salary data may also include other compensation, such as bonuses, commissions, stock options, equity, or other forms of pay in addition to their yearly salary.</p>

<p>You can find more salary data by searching for any of the below positions in our Salary Database. Don’t forget to <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/onboarding">join </a>and add your salary too!</p><h2>1. <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/job-board?job_title=software+engineer+manager&amp;city=&amp;state=&amp;country=&amp;locationLabel=&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=posted_at&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">Software Engineering Manager</a></h2><p><strong>Median salary:</strong><a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/computer-and-information-systems-managers.htm"> $169,510</a> per year</p><p><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database:</strong> <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3Dsoftware+engineering+manager&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$900,000</a> per year (total compensation) at Meta</p><p>Software engineering managers lead and support a team of software engineers while overseeing the development and delivery of a company’s software projects. A few of their daily duties include roadmap planning with stakeholders, representing their engineering team in business meetings, and negotiating ownership and workstreams with other teams and managers.</p><p>Software engineering managers tend to have more technical expertise than general managers and many spend time as a software engineer before moving over to management. This is especially true for companies like IBM, Meta, and Microsoft, which have a high demand for software engineering managers with a technical background.</p><p><strong>Job outlook (up to 2033): </strong>17%</p><p><strong>Education needed:</strong> Bachelor’s degree</p><h2>2. <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/job-board?job_title=technical+product+manager&amp;city=&amp;state=&amp;country=&amp;locationLabel=&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=posted_at&amp;sortOrder=-1">Technical Product Manager</a></h2><p><strong>Median salary:</strong> <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/advertising-promotions-and-marketing-managers.htm">$156,580</a> per year</p><p>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database: <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3Dproduct+manager&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$750,000</a> (total compensation) per year at Bloomberg</p><p>Technical product managers ensure a product aligns with user needs, technical feasibility, and business goals. For example, a technical product manager at a fintech company may work with stakeholders to define and build a new mobile payment feature, while also making sure it meets security and compliance standards.&nbsp;</p><p>It’s a lot of responsibility to be weighing on someone’s shoulders, which is why the position pays so well. We interviewed a data science product manager who works in govtech and makes <strong>$165,000 a year</strong> after consulting for 8 years.</p>

<p>Technical product managers may use tools like Jira or Azure DevOps for project management, SQL for data analysis, and Confluence for documentation. Companies that have a high demand for technical product managers, such as Amazon and TikTok, may also require some experience with APIs and programming languages like Python.</p><p><strong>Job outlook (up to 2033):</strong> 8%</p><p><strong>Education needed:</strong> Bachelor’s degree</p><h2>3. <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/job-board?job_title=research+and+development&amp;city=&amp;state=&amp;country=&amp;locationLabel=&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=posted_at&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">Computer and Information Research Scientist</a></h2><p><strong>Median salary:</strong> <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-and-information-research-scientists.htm">$145,080</a> per year</p><p><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database</strong>: <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DResearcher&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$150,000</a> per year</p><p>Computer and information research scientists perform research and work to solve complex problems in areas like AI, data science, and cybersecurity. A few of their duties may include designing and training machine learning models, working to develop new algorithms, and publishing their findings. For example, an AI research scientist may design and train machine learning models, such as those used within natural language processing (NLP) for tasks like text classification and language translation.</p><p>This role may fall under a few different job titles, including AI research scientist, AI research engineer, and research and development (R&amp;D) engineer. Companies that often hire for these positions are Meta and Oracle.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Job outlook (up to 2033):</strong> 26%</p><p><strong>Education needed:</strong> Bachelor’s or Master’s degree</p><h2>4. <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/job-board?job_title=machine+learning+engineer&amp;city=&amp;state=&amp;country=&amp;locationLabel=&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=posted_at&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">Machine Learning Engineer</a></h2><p><strong>Median salary:</strong><a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/advertising-promotions-and-marketing-managers.htm"> </a><a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-and-information-research-scientists.htm">$145,080</a> per year</p><p><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database:</strong> <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DMachine+Learning+Engineer&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$140,000</a> per year</p><p>Machine learning is used in almost every application we use daily, and machine learning engineers are the professionals behind the code, making our everyday online experience come to life. They leverage frameworks like TensorFlow or PyTorch to build and deploy machine learning models, such as those used in Spotify for personalized playlists and Apple Maps for route optimization.</p><p>With a projected <strong>80% job growth</strong> over the next 5 years, it’s one of the <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/top-jobs-of-2025">highest-paying jobs of the future</a>. Companies like Apple, Spotify, and Google, and many other big tech companies have an increasing demand for machine learning engineers and are constantly hiring for these positions.</p><p><strong>Job outlook (2025-2030):</strong> 80% (taken from the <a href="https://reports.weforum.org/docs/WEF_Future_of_Jobs_Report_2025.pdf">Future of Jobs Report</a>)</p><p><strong>Education needed:</strong> Bachelor’s degree</p><h2>5. <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/job-board?job_title=software+engineer&amp;city=&amp;state=&amp;country=&amp;locationLabel=&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=posted_at&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">Software Engineer</a></h2><p><strong>Median salary:</strong> <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm">$130,160</a> per year</p><p><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database:</strong> <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3Dsoftware+engineer&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$450,000</a> per year (total compensation) per year at Block</p><p>Software engineers work with a variety of tools and programming languages to develop and support software and mobile applications. A few programming languages software engineers need to know include Python, Java, Javascript, C++, and SQL for building applications and managing databases - all of which are <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/high-income-skills">high-income skills</a> can be used in a variety of areas across tech, not just software engineering.</p><p>They also use tools like Git for version control and integrated development environments (IDEs) like Visual Studio Code for development. Companies that have a high demand for software engineers due to their constant software updates and initiatives include Mastercard, Uber, and Chewy.</p><p><strong>Job outlook (up to 2033):</strong> 17%</p><p><strong>Education needed</strong>: Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree, but some jobs may accept certifications or experience in place of a traditional degree. We interviewed a software engineer who makes <strong>$250,000 a year</strong> without a degree or any certifications. They started out at a call center, then moved up from there.</p>

<h2>6. <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/job-board?job_title=network+engineer&amp;city=&amp;state=&amp;country=&amp;locationLabel=&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=posted_at&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">Network Engineer</a> or <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/job-board?job_title=cloud+engineer&amp;city=&amp;state=&amp;country=&amp;locationLabel=&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=posted_at&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">Cloud Engineer</a></h2><p><strong>Median salary:</strong> <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-network-architects.htm">$129,840</a> per year</p><p><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database:</strong> <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DNetwork+architect&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=created_at&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$130,000</a> per year</p><p>Network and cloud engineers ensure reliable connectivity by designing and maintaining physical and virtual networks. While cloud engineers focus on cloud-based infrastructure, network engineers may focus on on-premises and hybrid infrastructure, but may also focus on cloud infrastructure as a part of their duties. They typically work with networking tools like VMware and cloud platforms like Microsoft Azure.</p>

<p>Network and cloud engineer roles can also fall under alternative job titles, such as cloud network engineer and network architect. Companies like Microsoft and Intel have an increasing demand for network and cloud engineers and are often hiring for these positions, which offer great pay and the option for remote work in some cases.</p><p>We interviewed a cloud engineer couple who work remotely and make <strong>$120,000 a year </strong>each after 7 years of experience.</p><p><strong>Job outlook (up to 2033):</strong> 13%</p><p><strong>Education needed:</strong> Bachelor’s degree</p>

<h2>7. <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/job-board?job_title=information+security+engineer&amp;city=&amp;state=&amp;country=&amp;locationLabel=&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=posted_at&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">Information Security</a> or <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/job-board?job_title=cybersecurity+engineer&amp;city=&amp;state=&amp;country=&amp;locationLabel=&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=posted_at&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">Cybersecurity Engineer</a></h2><p><strong>Median salary:</strong> <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/information-security-analysts.htm">$120,360</a> per year</p><p><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database:</strong> <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DInformation+Security+Engineer&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$760,000</a> per year</p><p>Information security engineers and cybersecurity engineers are another case in the tech industry where two different job titles do the same thing. Their main role is to design and implement security measures to protect an organization’s systems, network, and data.</p><p>In order to do their job, they may use security monitoring tools like Splunk and vulnerability scanning tools like Nessus. With a projected job growth of 33%, top tech companies like Cisco and T-Mobile are often hiring for these positions. It’s also one of the <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-government-jobs">highest-paying government jobs</a> due to the demand to improve cybersecurity across government agencies.</p><p><strong>Job outlook (up to 2033):</strong> 33%</p><p><strong>Education needed:</strong> Bachelor’s degree. We interviewed a cybersecurity analyst that makes <strong>$150,000 a year</strong> and says certifications are huge to get into the role, but a degree and certification will help you stand out.</p>

<h2>8. <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/job-board?job_title=database+administrator&amp;city=&amp;state=&amp;country=&amp;locationLabel=&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=posted_at&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">Database Administrator</a></h2><p><strong>Median salary:</strong> <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/database-administrators.htm">$117,450</a> per year</p><p><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database:</strong> <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DDatabase+Administrator&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$115,000</a> per year</p><p>Database administrators (DBAs) manage and support databases for companies and organizations, including government offices and agencies. They work with different types of databases, including MySQL, Oracle, SQL Server, and MongoDB, and languages such as SQL for querying and Python or Shell scripting for automating database management tasks.</p><p>For example, a DBA at a retail company may manage the customer database and optimize SQL queries to speed up product searches, while also ensuring the database can handle peak shopping seasons like Black Friday.</p><p>Companies that often hire database administrators are Spectrum, Oracle, and Lumen.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Job outlook (up to 2033):</strong> 9%</p><p><strong>Education needed: </strong>Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree, but some companies may accept database-specific certifications and experience in place of a traditional degree.</p><h2>9. <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/job-board?job_title=data+scientist&amp;city=&amp;state=&amp;country=&amp;locationLabel=&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=posted_at&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">Data Scientist</a></h2><p><strong>Median salary:</strong> <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/math/data-scientists.htm">$108,020</a> per year</p><p><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database:</strong> <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DData+Scientist&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$260,000</a> per year</p><p>Data scientists solve complex business problems through cleaning and analyzing large datasets, extracting insights, and building predictive machine-learning models. They may use programming languages like R for statistical analysis and data visualization, and machine learning and data manipulation tools like Pandas.</p><p>Even though a Bachelor’s degree in a technical field is typically required, we interviewed a data scientist with a business degree who makes <strong>$110,000 a year </strong>after breaking into data science with a boot camp.</p><p><strong>Job outlook (up to 2033):</strong> 36%</p><p><strong>Education needed: </strong>Bachelor’s degree</p>

<h2>10. <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/job-board?job_title=web+developer&amp;city=&amp;state=&amp;country=&amp;locationLabel=&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=posted_at&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">Web Developer or Engineer</a></h2><p><strong>Median salary: </strong><a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/web-developers.htm#tab-5">$105,950</a> per year</p><p><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database:</strong> <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3Dweb+developer&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$165,000</a> per year</p><p>Web developers and engineers build websites using front-end languages like HTML, CSS, and Javascript, and back-end systems like servers and databases. They’re responsible for making sure the finished product is not only functional but is also user-friendly and visually appealing.&nbsp;</p><p>We interviewed a web developer who makes<strong> $175,000 a year </strong>after 5 years of experience who states that sometimes you might spend hours on debugging something in the code. You’ll need to love coding to love web development.</p><p>Companies that often hire web developers and engineers include Adobe and Amazon.</p><p><strong>Job outlook (up to 2033):</strong> 8%</p><p><strong>Education needed:</strong> Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree, but some jobs may accept certifications or experience in place of a traditional degree.</p>

<h2>11. <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/job-board?job_title=systems+engineer&amp;city=&amp;state=&amp;country=&amp;locationLabel=&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=posted_at&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">Systems Engineer</a> or <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/job-board?job_title=systems+administrator&amp;city=&amp;state=&amp;country=&amp;locationLabel=&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=posted_at&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">Administrator</a></h2><p><strong>Median salary:</strong> <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/network-and-computer-systems-administrators.htm#tab-5">$104,070</a> per year</p><p><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database:</strong> <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DData+Scientist&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$260,000</a> per year</p><p>System engineers design and implement systems at companies, while system administrators support the systems and make sure they’re functioning per the organization’s needs. Even though the roles are slightly different, many jobs in this area include an overlap of skills and duties, as covered in our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-trade-jobs">highest-paying trade jobs</a> article. Systems engineers may also fulfill the role of administrators and vice versa.</p><p>Both of these roles require knowledge of different operating systems, such as Linux/Unix, Windows, and macOS. Tools they often use in their role include VMware for managing virtual machines and scripting languages like PowerShell for automation in Windows environments.</p><p>Companies that have a high demand for system engineers and administrators and often hire for those roles include AT&amp;T and Boeing.</p><p><strong>Job outlook (up to 2033):</strong> -3%</p><p><strong>Education needed:</strong> Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree, but some jobs may accept certifications or experience in place of a traditional degree. We interviewed a systems administrator who makes <strong>$93,000 a year</strong> and has an Associate’s degree but didn’t have that degree when they started. Their job offered tuition reimbursement and supported his decision to get a degree.</p>

<h2>12. <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/job-board?job_title=quality+assurance+tester&amp;city=&amp;state=&amp;country=&amp;locationLabel=&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=posted_at&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">Quality Assurance (QA) Tester</a></h2><p><strong>Median salary:</strong> <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm#tab-5">$101,800</a> per year</p><p><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database:</strong> <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DQuality+Assurance+Tester&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$154,000</a> per year</p><p>A <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/job-board?job_title=qa+tester&amp;city=&amp;state=&amp;country=&amp;locationLabel=&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=posted_at&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">QA tester</a> is someone who tests software and websites to make sure they meet functional requirements and are defect-free. They assure the quality of the software they’re testing and that it behaves the way it’s expected to, even during any type of input or user activity.</p><p>QA testers may use scripting languages like Python and Java to automate testing, and use performance testing tools like JMeter. Companies that often hire QA testers include Meta and Cognizant.</p><p><strong>Job outlook (up to 2033): </strong>12%</p><p><strong>Education needed:</strong> Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree, but some jobs may accept certifications or experience in place of a traditional degree.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p><h2>How to Land a Top-Paying Job in Tech</h2><p>There are many different routes to take when trying to get your foot in the door in the tech industry. Many jobs require a traditional Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree but also accept experience, certifications, and other online learning.</p><p>A few of the tech professionals we interviewed expressed their different routes of learning, from different degrees to boot camps and being self-taught. There are courses available on LinkedIn Learning, Google, and even through companies like <a href="https://www.ibm.com/training">IBM </a>that may help you get started.&nbsp;</p><p>When you’re still getting your degree or trying to find other ways to break into tech, put together a portfolio of your project work from courses and personal projects, specifically on GitHub (this is standard in the tech world). Also, look for ways to get into an entry-level tech job that doesn’t require a degree to build experience, such as working in a call center or doing low-level technical support.</p><p>Don’t forget to browse our other resources as you navigate your career, including finding your <a href="https://view.flodesk.com/pages/626ccc8e1e8046b220253e47">market rate</a>, <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/job-interview-questions-and-answers">interview questions and answers</a> to prepare for, <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/salary-negotiation-scripts">salary negotiation scripts</a> and <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/salary-negotiation-myths">myths</a>, <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/how-to-ask-for-a-raise">how to ask for a raise</a>, guides to the <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-jobs-without-a-degree">highest-paying jobs without a college degree</a>, and more!</p><p>That wraps it up for this week. Until next time, stay awesome, stay strong, and keep advocating for yourself no matter what! I’m Daniella, a writer, engineer, and creator of <a href="https://iliketodabble.com/">I Like to Dabble </a>and <a href="https://iliketodabble.com/remote-work-bestie/">Remote Work Bestie</a> - my blog and podcast for leveling up your money, career, and side hustles. I’m extremely passionate about workers' rights and financial freedom, so it’s a pleasure to be able to bring you this type of content through the <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub">Salary Transparent Street blog</a> (thank you for the opportunity, Hannah!) You can also follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/iliketodabbleblog/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@iliketodabble">TikTok</a>, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellamarquez/">Linkedin</a>, and <a href="https://twitter.com/iliketodabble">Twitter</a>. Chat soon!</p><p>If this guide helps you land a higher-paying job, let us know! Send us an email ➡️ hello@salarytransparentstreet.com</p><p><strong>For more Salary Transparent Street resources:</strong></p><ul><li>Want to join the movement? Explore thousands of individually reported salaries nationwide across all industries in our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a>!</li><li>Do you know if you're being underpaid? <a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/p/underpaid-quiz">Take our free quiz</a> to find out!</li><li>Need help determining your market rate? Download our free <a href="https://view.flodesk.com/pages/626ccc8e1e8046b220253e47">Market Research Guide</a> to learn what you should be making.</li><li>Need help negotiating your salary? Download our free <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/free-salary-negotiation-guide">Salary Negotiation Guide</a>!</li><li>Follow us on <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@salarytransparentstreet">TikTok</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/salarytransparentstreet/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salarytransparentstreet">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/salarytransparentstreet">YouTube </a>and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/salarytransparentstreet/">LinkedIn </a>for daily pay transparency interviews and career news you can use!</li><li>Subscribe to our <a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/subscribe">weekly newsletter</a> for news updates, professional deep dives, learning opportunities, and more!</li></ul>

featured image with green background and robotic illustration and overlay text that says "highest-paying tech jobs"

featured image with green background and a robotic illustration and text overlay that says "highest-paying tech jobs"

12 Highest-Paying Tech Jobs In 2025 (All Pay Over $100k)

<p>The <a href="https://reports.weforum.org/docs/WEF_Future_of_Jobs_Report_2025.pdf">Future of Jobs Report 2025</a> by the World Economic Forum indicates that AI is more likely to improve human work through human-machine collaboration in fields like information technology and medical and healthcare services – both of which offer the <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-jobs-interviews-2024">highest-paying jobs</a> with the most growth over the next 10 years.</p><p>In short – your job is safe as long as you learn how to work with emerging technologies and adapt as the job market changes. That’s the secret to landing a high-paying job in the future.</p><p><strong>Key points:</strong></p><ul><li>The fastest-growing future jobs are computer research scientists, AI and machine learning specialists, and physician assistants.</li><li>Roles with the most decline over the next decade include cashiers, ticket clerks, and administrative assistants.</li><li>A bachelor’s degree (or above) is required for most of these roles, with a few information technology roles that may require certifications to get ahead.</li><li>Browse thousands of more publicly shared salaries on our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a>.</li></ul>

<h2><strong>7 Highest-Paying Jobs In Demand for The Future</strong></h2><p>We’ve identified these top future jobs using salary data from the past 3+ years of interviews, data we’ve collected in our <a href="http://salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a>, the <a href="https://reports.weforum.org/docs/WEF_Future_of_Jobs_Report_2025.pdf">Future of Jobs Report 2025</a> by the World Economic Forum, and job data from the U.S.Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook’s <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/fastest-growing.htm">Fastest Growing Occupations Report</a>.</p><p>You can find more salary data by searching for any of the below positions in our Salary Database. Don’t forget to <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/onboarding">join </a>and add your salary too!</p><h2>1. <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/job-board?job_title=research+and+development&amp;city=&amp;state=&amp;country=&amp;locationLabel=&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=posted_at&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">Computer and Information Research Scientists</a></h2><p><strong>Median salary</strong>:<a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-and-information-research-scientists.htm"> $145,080</a> per year</p><p><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database</strong>: <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DResearcher&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$150,000</a> per year</p><p>As technology continues to evolve over the next decade, computer research scientists are leading the way through their work in studying and developing new technologies in computing, including (but not limited to) algorithm design, system analysis, and software development.&nbsp;</p><p>There are tons of different routes a research scientist can take. They may also work with other scientists and engineers to integrate solutions in other sectors like healthcare and finance, and share their findings through published academic papers and reports. Some may also teach courses at universities.</p><p>A few alternative job titles to look up to get into this<a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-tech-jobs"> high-paying tech job</a> include software engineer with a focus on research, AI research scientist, and research and development (R&amp;D) engineer.</p><p><strong>Job outlook (2023-2033): </strong>26%</p><p><strong>Education needed:</strong> Bachelor’s or Master’s degree</p><h2>2. <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/job-board?job_title=AI&amp;city=&amp;state=&amp;country=&amp;locationLabel=&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=posted_at&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">AI </a>and <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/job-board?job_title=machine+learning&amp;city=&amp;state=&amp;country=&amp;locationLabel=&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=posted_at&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">Machine Learning (ML) Specialist</a></h2><p><strong>Median salary</strong>: <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm">$130,160</a> per year</p><p><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database:</strong> <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DMachine+Learning+Engineer&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$140,000</a> per year</p><p>AI and ML specialists focus on building and implementing AI and ML systems and programs to solve a specific problem. Many of the apps you come in contact with every day have AI and ML specialists behind them to provide specific solutions to you that you may never think twice about.</p><p>For example, when looking at an app like Zillow and their Zestimate that shows you the estimated worth of your house, the machine learning algorithms and models behind it were built by a team of AI and ML specialists and engineers.&nbsp;</p><p>Alternative job titles for this role may include machine learning engineer, AI engineer, and AI solutions architect.</p><p><strong>Job outlook (2025-2030):</strong> 80% (taken from the Future of Jobs Report)</p><p><strong>Education needed:</strong> Bachelor’s degree<br>&nbsp;</p>

Interested in #DataScience? Explore 17 DS certifications at the link in our bio! #indeedpartner

<h2>3. <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/job-board?job_title=physician+assistant&amp;city=&amp;state=&amp;country=&amp;locationLabel=&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=posted_at&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">Physician Assistant</a></h2><p><strong>Median salary</strong>: <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/physician-assistants.htm">$130,020</a> per year</p><p><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database</strong>: <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DPhysician+Assistant&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$220,000</a> per year</p><p>Physician assistants are licensed medical professionals who work with a physician to provide medical care. They perform many of the same duties physicians do, such as patient care, diagnosis, treatment, and even performing procedures, but their role doesn’t duplicate the doctor’s work. They are there to help handle the load of patients and expand access to medical services – and for good money too.</p><p>We interviewed a physician assistant with 10 years of experience that makes <strong>$130,000 a year</strong>. Her advice for pursuing this career is to do a lot of shadowing to make sure it’s truly what you want to do.</p><p><strong>Job outlook (2023-2033)</strong>: 28%</p><p><strong>Education needed</strong>: Master’s degree</p>

How much do a #BehavioralMentalHealth worker and #PhysicianAssistant make? Broccoli City Festival📍

<h2>4. <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/job-board?job_title=nurse+practitioner&amp;city=&amp;state=&amp;country=&amp;locationLabel=&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=posted_at&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">Nurse Practitioner</a></h2><p><strong>Median salary:</strong> <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/nurse-anesthetists-nurse-midwives-and-nurse-practitioners.htm">$126,260</a> per year</p><p><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database</strong>: <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DNurse+Practitioner&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$194,000</a> per year</p><p>Nurse practitioners are registered nurses who provide different healthcare services, such as diagnosing and treating medical conditions and managing patient care. There are several different areas they can specialize in, like family practice or pediatrics, and may work in hospitals, clinics, or private practices.</p><p>We interviewed a nurse practitioner who makes over<strong> $200,000 a year (base salary $144,000) </strong>with 8 years of experience, and was a labor and delivery nurse for 6 years before that. She took the traditional education route of a 4 year Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing degree, became a nurse, then went back to school for her Master’s to become a nurse practitioner.</p><p>Her advice is that she recommends exploring all of the different opportunities in nursing before deciding what’s right for you.</p><p><strong>Job outlook (2023-2033): </strong>46%</p><p><strong>Education needed:</strong> Master’s degree</p>

#NursePractitioner in Washington, DC📍Follow @monicathenp to learn more 💚#salarytransparentstreet

<h2>5. <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/job-board?job_title=cybersecurity&amp;city=&amp;state=&amp;country=&amp;locationLabel=&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=posted_at&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">Cybersecurity</a>/<a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/job-board?job_title=Information+Security+Analyst+&amp;city=&amp;state=&amp;country=&amp;locationLabel=&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=posted_at&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">Information Security Analyst&nbsp;</a></h2><p><strong>Median salary: </strong><a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/information-security-analysts.htm">$120,360</a> per year</p><p><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database</strong>: <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DCyber+Security+Analyst&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$180,000</a> per year</p><p>Many of us know what happens when our credit card or social security numbers are leaked, and it isn’t pretty. Cybersecurity analysts help make sure that doesn’t happen by protecting an organization’s computer systems and networks from cyber threats.&nbsp;</p><p>We interviewed two cybersecurity analysts that both made over $100,000 a year: <strong>$135,000 a year and $150,000 a year. </strong>One of those engineers shared that he doesn’t think a college degree is absolutely necessary, but has a bachelor’s degree in information technology and thinks it helped him get in the door. He also recommends that certifications may also help you get ahead in this field.</p>

<p><strong>Job outlook (2023-2033):</strong> 33%</p><p><strong>Education needed:</strong> Bachelor’s degree</p><h2>6. <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/job-board?job_title=healthcare+administrator&amp;city=&amp;state=&amp;country=&amp;locationLabel=&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=posted_at&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">Medical and Health Services Manager</a></h2><p><strong>Median salary:</strong> <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/medical-and-health-services-managers.htm">$110,680</a> per year</p><p><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database:</strong> <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DMedical+Manager&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$95,000</a> per year</p><p>Following the trend of the growing demand in the healthcare field, medical and health services managers are the third <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-healthcare-jobs">highest-paying healthcare jobs</a> on this list. These are your healthcare administrators at hospitals, surgery centers, and other healthcare facilities who oversee the operations and ensure everything runs smoothly and complies with healthcare laws and regulations.</p><p>A typical path to get into this field is a bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration or a mix of education in both healthcare and business. Many healthcare administrators may also pursue a master’s degree.</p><p><strong>Job outlook (2023-2033): </strong>29%</p><p><strong>Education needed:</strong> Bachelor’s degree</p><h2>7. <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/job-board?job_title=data+scientist&amp;city=&amp;state=&amp;country=&amp;locationLabel=&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=posted_at&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">Data Scientist/Big Data Specialist</a></h2><p><strong>Median salary: </strong><a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/math/data-scientists.htm">$108,020</a> per year</p><p><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database:</strong> <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DData+Scientist&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$260,000</a> per year</p><p>The main role of a data scientist is to analyze and interpret complex data in order to provide insights and trends to solve business problems. For example, the Future of Jobs report used as a source for this article was something that wouldn’t be possible if it weren’t for data scientists to make sense of jobs data.&nbsp;</p><p>We interviewed several data scientists, all of who make over $100,000. The highest salaries we interviewed in this video were <strong>$245,000 and $250,000 a year.</strong> Many in this video also had a mix of base salary, bonuses, and stock options in their compensation packages.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Job outlook (2023-2033): </strong>36%</p><p><strong>Education needed:</strong> Bachelor’s degree</p>

How much do Data Scientists make? #SalaryTransparentStreet #SalaryTransparency #datascientist

<h2>How to Embrace a Dynamic Job Market</h2><p>Now that you know what’s growing the most in demand and pay, it’s important to know what jobs may be in jeopardy. Expected roles to decline over the next decade include cashiers, ticket clerks, administrative assistants, and executive secretaries.&nbsp;</p><p>As you navigate the job market over the next few years, the most important skill you can have is the desire to never stop learning and upskilling. Staying on top of new technologies and how certain sectors are changing and adapting – and making sure your skills can keep up – will set you apart from many others who don’t take the initiative to do the same.</p><p>Don’t forget to browse our other resources as you navigate your career, including finding your <a href="https://view.flodesk.com/pages/626ccc8e1e8046b220253e47">market rate</a>, <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/job-interview-questions-and-answers">interview questions and answers</a> to prepare for, <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/salary-negotiation-scripts">salary negotiation scripts</a> and <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/salary-negotiation-myths">myths</a>, <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/how-to-ask-for-a-raise">how to ask for a raise</a>, guides to the <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-jobs-without-a-degree">highest-paying jobs without a college degree</a>, and more!</p><p>That wraps it up for this week. Until next time, stay awesome, stay strong, and keep advocating for yourself no matter what! I’m Daniella, a writer, engineer, and creator of <a href="https://iliketodabble.com/">I Like to Dabble </a>and <a href="https://iliketodabble.com/remote-work-bestie/">Remote Work Bestie</a> - my blog and podcast for leveling up your money, career, and side hustles. I’m extremely passionate about workers' rights and financial freedom, so it’s a pleasure to be able to bring you this type of content through the <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub">Salary Transparent Street blog</a> (thank you for the opportunity, Hannah!) You can also follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/iliketodabbleblog/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@iliketodabble">TikTok</a>, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellamarquez/">Linkedin</a>, and <a href="https://twitter.com/iliketodabble">Twitter</a>. Chat soon!</p><p>If this guide helps you land a higher-paying job, let us know! Send us an email ➡️ <a href="mailto:hello@salarytransparentstreet.com">hello@salarytransparentstreet.com</a></p><p><strong>For more Salary Transparent Street resources:</strong></p><ul><li>Want to join the movement? Explore thousands of individually reported salaries nationwide across all industries in our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a>!</li><li>Do you know if you're being underpaid? <a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/p/underpaid-quiz">Take our free quiz</a> to find out!</li><li>Need help determining your market rate? Download our free <a href="https://view.flodesk.com/pages/626ccc8e1e8046b220253e47">Market Research Guide</a> to learn what you should be making.</li><li>Need help negotiating your salary? Download our free <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/free-salary-negotiation-guide">Salary Negotiation Guide</a>!</li><li>Follow us on <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@salarytransparentstreet">TikTok</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/salarytransparentstreet/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salarytransparentstreet">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/salarytransparentstreet">YouTube </a>and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/salarytransparentstreet/">LinkedIn </a>for daily pay transparency interviews and career news you can use!</li><li>Subscribe to our <a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/subscribe">weekly newsletter</a> for news updates, professional deep dives, learning opportunities, and more!</li></ul>

green featured image with title text and background illustration of different jobs

7 Highest-Paying In-Demand Jobs for 2025 and The Future

<p>2024 was a wild year. <strong>15 states</strong> now have <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/pay-transparency-laws">pay transparency laws</a> that legally require employers to disclose pay in job listings. Even though that’s only a fraction of the U.S., it’s still a huge win!</p><p>Because of the rise of <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/the-importance-of-salary-transparency">salary transparency</a>, even employers in states that don’t legally require pay disclosure are including salary ranges in their job listings.</p>

People on the voice cheering saying "that's what I'm talking about!"

<p>Salary Transparent Street was created to help workers get paid what they’re worth and provide career exploration services many of us didn’t get when we were in school. Since day one, we’ve done this nationwide through <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/how-we-made-1million">street interviews</a> with complete strangers.</p><p>In 2024, we interviewed workers from a variety of different industries and sectors. We talked to an air traffic controller making $175,000 who got started through the military, an anesthesiologist assistant making a little over $200,000 who worked 40 to 60 hours a week, and a well-known comedian and musician who makes a little over $250,000, among many others.</p><p>We actually found a total of a little over <strong>$5 million earned</strong> just between the top 10 highest-paying jobs we interviewed over the past year (including a few that <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-jobs-without-a-degree">don’t require a college degree</a>). 🤯&nbsp;</p><p>Keep in mind that these 10 jobs aren’t representative of the majority of hard-working Americans or Salary Transparent Street. In compiling the data for this article, we also looked at trends across all interviews. We found our <strong>median salary interviewed is $86,000</strong>, which is much closer to the <a href="https://www.bls.gov/news.release/wkyeng.nr0.htm">national median</a>.</p><p>You can find more of the highest-earning salaries we’ve gathered by searching our Salary Database. <strong>Don’t forget to </strong><a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/onboarding"><strong>join </strong></a><strong>and add your salary too!</strong></p><p><strong>Key points:</strong></p><ul><li>Out of these top 10 salaries, the highest we interviewed was $3 million, while the lowest was $175,000.</li><li>This list includes content creation, entertainment, technology, healthcare, and government jobs.</li><li>3 of the top 10 highest-paying jobs we interviewed are in healthcare.</li><li>Everyone started somewhere, and most did not make this much at the beginning of their career path.</li><li>Browse thousands of more publicly shared salaries on our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a>.</li></ul>

<p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>10 Highest-Paying Jobs We Interviewed in 2024</strong></h2><p>Out of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@SalaryTransparentStreet">250 interviews</a> we did in 2024, these were the jobs with the highest salaries.</p>

<h2>1. E-Commerce Content Creator: $3,000,000</h2><p>The highest salary we interviewed was an e-commerce content creator who also does social media monetization and <strong>made $3M</strong> last year. She has over 15 million subscribers across all platforms, with 1 million followers for her personal brand on YouTube.</p><p>E-commerce content creators are one of the <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-creative-jobs">highest-paying creative jobs</a> available and do a variety of things in their role. They’re responsible for producing engaging content like product descriptions, blog posts, social media campaigns, and videos to attract and convert online shoppers. On top of all that, they also have to manage their business.</p><p>To get started in this field, she recommends picking something you’re interested in, using the power of social media, and staying consistent.&nbsp;</p><p>But is this amount even true?&nbsp;</p><p>It’s understandable to see someone claim an income of $3M and think they might be lying. Profit margins are high in e-commerce but we included her because she still would have likely made the top of the list if we knew her <i>exact</i> take-home pay.</p><p>For comparison, STS has about half of her following and brought in over $1M this year.<br>&nbsp;</p>

How much does this #ContentCreator and worker in #ECommerce make in Miami, FL? #capitalonepartner

<h2>2. Developer Advocate and Creator: $300,000 - $400,000</h2><p>We interviewed a developer advocate and content creator who makes between <strong>$300,000 to $400,000 a year</strong>, topping the list as the 2nd highest-paying job. <strong>But what even is a developer advocate?</strong></p><p>A developer advocate is like a software developer that helps other companies develop and implement their software. They then take that feedback to their company for ways to improve the product.</p><p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/jeremiahpeoples?igsh=ZW04d2FlaHUwM2lr">They got started</a> in the Air Force, where they taught themself how to code, then worked as a software engineer before becoming a developer advocate.&nbsp;</p>

How did he go from the Air Force, to #SoftwareEngineer to #DeveloperAdvocate making $300K+?!

<h2>3. Comedian and Musician: $250,000+</h2><p>Following the trend of multi hyphenated professionals – who are folks that explore several different types of work – we interviewed a comedian and musician who makes <strong>$250,000 a year</strong>.&nbsp;</p>

morgan jay singing with a guitar on stage

<p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/morganjay/">Morgan Jay</a> is a well-known entertainer with 2.1 million followers on Instagram who makes the majority of his income from touring for shows, colleges, clubs, corporate events, and private events. However, he didn’t make any money at all for the first 10 years and worked in retail to get by.&nbsp;</p><p>Even though his gross income may net close to half a million dollars, he indicated that a big portion of that goes to his agents, managers, lawyers, taxes, and other expenses. After that, he is left with about half – $250,000.</p>

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C4n1J-NOTTL/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C4n1J-NOTTL/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C4n1J-NOTTL/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Salary Transparent Street (@salarytransparentstreet)</a></p></div></blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>

<h2>4. Termite Inspector: $249,000</h2><p>Termite inspection is quite a unique job. They assess properties for signs of termite activity, damage, and infestation risks. They usually use various tools for their job, such as moisture meters and probing devices.</p><p>The termite inspector we interviewed <strong>makes $249,000 a year</strong>. He’s in his 3rd year on the job and loves what he does.</p>

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C2uuKNwuip8/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C2uuKNwuip8/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C2uuKNwuip8/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Salary Transparent Street (@salarytransparentstreet)</a></p></div></blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>

<h2>5. Solutions Engineer Manager: $220,000+</h2><p>We interviewed a manager of solutions engineers that makes anywhere <strong>between $220,000 to $250,000 a year</strong> in their role.</p><p>Solutions engineers are very similar to software engineers, except that they’re more involved in the design and implementation phases rather than the development and maintenance of software applications.</p><p>Managing teams of solutions engineers requires technical experience, familiarity with the applications they’re designing, and the ability to effectively manage people and teams.</p>

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C48V9a_uKAQ/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C48V9a_uKAQ/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C48V9a_uKAQ/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Salary Transparent Street (@salarytransparentstreet)</a></p></div></blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>

<h2>6. Physician: $221,000</h2><p>Physicians are known to have high salaries, especially considering how much they end up paying for school.</p><p>We interviewed a physician that makes <strong>$221,000 a year</strong>. However, she didn’t feel well compensated, having to work 50 to 60 hours a week, but she stated that her hospital probably compensates her better than most in the area.&nbsp;</p><p>Given that she is a general internist primary care doctor and the shortage of them, she indicated it would be nice if she also received additional benefits, such as having student loans paid off.</p><p>Unfortunately, we can’t include her full interview because we chose to take it down. She ended up facing retaliation at work and we don’t want workers to get in trouble.&nbsp;</p><p>This brings up an interesting question though – Was the backlash she faced illegal?<strong> Check our </strong><a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/pay-transparency-laws"><strong>pay transparency law tracker</strong></a><strong> to know your rights.</strong></p>

<p>To learn more about well-paid medical jobs, check out our article on the <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-healthcare-jobs">highest-paying healthcare jobs</a>!</p><h2>7. <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/ibew/">International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW)</a> Electrician: $107 an hour</h2><p>Union electricians are known to get paid VERY well with outstanding benefits. We interviewed an IBEW electrician who makes <strong>$107 an hou</strong>r after 22 years of union work. She started out making $7 an hour as an apprentice.</p><p>The pay isn’t the only good part of the job either. She indicated her healthcare benefits are top-tier and she loves the solidarity and community that comes with the role.</p><p>There are electrician jobs that are both union and non-union. She raves about the perks of working in a union. Frankly, we agree! If non-union electricians want to<a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/how-to-join-a-union"> join or form a union</a>, they can absolutely do that!</p><p>Working as an electrician isn’t the only trade job with great pay. Check out our article on the 18 <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/how-to-join-a-union">highest-paying trade jobs</a> for more!</p>

⚡How Much Do Female Electricians Make? Real Pay, Real Stories from Women in the IBEW💸

<h2>8. Certified Anesthesiologist Assistant (CAA): $200,000+</h2><p>We interviewed a CAA who <strong>makes over $200,000 a year</strong> as her base salary, plus her overtime, and has worked in the role since 2021. Her salary is based in Florida, she loves her job, and her compensation package allows for a good amount of time off to enjoy her life.</p><p>To get into the role, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/caalifestyle?igsh=NnAzNzNsNGpteHMw">she first</a> completed her bachelor’s degree, did some pre-health experiences, research, then got into the <a href="https://www.anesthetist.org/become-a-caa">CAA program</a>.</p>

#CAA making $200K+! #CertifiedAnesthesiologistAssistant #salarytransparentstreet @CAALifestyle

<h2>9. Pediatric ICU Travel Nurse: $200,000</h2><p>It makes sense that out of the top 10 highest-paying salaries on this list, there are 3 different jobs in healthcare. We interviewed a <a href="https://www.instagram.com/laylathenurse?igsh=MTJlMWpsdWtqempzOQ==">pediatric ICU travel nurse</a> making <strong>$200,000 a year</strong>. She’s been a nurse for 5 and a half years and a travel nurse for 3 of those years.</p><p>Travel nurses typically work short-term assignments that last anywhere from 8 to 26 weeks or more in various healthcare facilities to address staffing shortages. They often have the flexibility to choose their assignments, locations, and schedules, and make for quite the appealing career choice for those who enjoy travel and variety.</p>

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C4iz69CRe3v/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C4iz69CRe3v/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C4iz69CRe3v/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Salary Transparent Street (@salarytransparentstreet)</a></p></div></blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>

<h2>10. Air Traffic Controller: $175,000</h2><p>The last one on this list is an air traffic controller we interviewed that <strong>makes $175,000 a year</strong>. Air traffic control is actually one of the<a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-government-jobs"> highest-paying government jobs </a>out there!</p><p>A common misconception is that not every controller is in a control tower! He indicated that there are 3 different facilities that they work in; tower control facilities, area control centers, and terminal radar approach control (TRACON). In general, the area control centers make more money because they handle a larger volume of traffic.</p><p>He got started through the military, but stated that you need about 3 years of general work experience to break into the field, and, most importantly, you can’t be older than 31 when you apply.</p>

gif of 2 air traffic control people from SNL with kate mckinnon

How much does an #AirTrafficController make?📍Arlington, VA #salarytransparentstreet

<h2><strong>How to Land a High-Paying Job in 2025</strong></h2><p>There aren't any special secrets or shortcuts to earning a high salary with great benefits. It all takes work.</p><p>As you can see from our interviews, everyone starts out somewhere and may not make a ton in the beginning. It’s the years of consistent work and education that helps them reach a higher salary, even if it’s only a few years like we saw with some of the interviews in this list.&nbsp;</p><p>As we close out 2024, what will 2025 have in store for us? More high-paying jobs and money in your pocket, we presume 🤑</p><p>That wraps it up for this week. Until next time, stay awesome, stay strong, and keep advocating for yourself no matter what! I’m Daniella, a writer, engineer, and creator of <a href="https://iliketodabble.com/">I Like to Dabble </a>and <a href="https://iliketodabble.com/remote-work-bestie/">Remote Work Bestie</a> - my blog and podcast for leveling up your money, career, and side hustles. I’m extremely passionate about workers' rights and financial freedom, so it’s a pleasure to be able to bring you this type of content through the <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub">Salary Transparent Street blog</a> (thank you for the opportunity, Hannah!) You can also follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/iliketodabbleblog/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@iliketodabble">TikTok</a>, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellamarquez/">Linkedin</a>, and <a href="https://twitter.com/iliketodabble">Twitter</a>. Chat soon!</p><p>If this guide helps you land a higher-paying job, let us know! Send us an email ➡️ <a href="mailto:hello@salarytransparentstreet.com">hello@salarytransparentstreet.com</a></p><p><strong>For more Salary Transparent Street resources:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Want to join the movement? Explore thousands of individually reported salaries nationwide across all industries in our </strong><a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database"><strong>Salary Database</strong></a><strong>!</strong></li><li><strong>Do you know if you're being underpaid? </strong><a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/p/underpaid-quiz"><strong>Take our free quiz</strong></a><strong> to find out!</strong></li><li><strong>Need help determining your market rate? Download our free </strong><a href="https://view.flodesk.com/pages/626ccc8e1e8046b220253e47"><strong>Market Research Guide</strong></a><strong> to learn what you should be making.</strong></li><li><strong>Need help negotiating your salary? Download our free </strong><a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/free-salary-negotiation-guide"><strong>Salary Negotiation Guide</strong></a><strong>!</strong></li><li><strong>Follow us on </strong><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@salarytransparentstreet"><strong>TikTok</strong></a><strong>, </strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/salarytransparentstreet/"><strong>Instagram</strong></a><strong>, </strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/salarytransparentstreet"><strong>Facebook</strong></a><strong>, </strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/salarytransparentstreet"><strong>YouTube </strong></a><strong>and </strong><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/salarytransparentstreet/"><strong>LinkedIn </strong></a><strong>for daily pay transparency interviews and career news you can use!</strong></li><li><strong>Subscribe to our </strong><a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/subscribe"><strong>weekly newsletter</strong></a><strong> for news updates, professional deep dives, learning opportunities, and more!</strong></li></ul>

Mobile cover image with green background and title text overlay with dollar bill illustrations

The Newsletter

Stay Transparent

The
Newsletter