Unpaid internships might as well scream “free labor”. They’re the epitome of being overworked and underpaid – asking for the same dedication, time, and effort as a paid job, but offering nothing in return except "experience" that may or may not lead to future opportunities.&nbsp;

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This may seem especially insulting when there are several <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-jobs-without-a-degree">high-paying jobs that don’t require a college degree</a> or unpaid work to break into.&nbsp;When you’re seeking experience, but experience is usually required to get a job, unpaid internships seem like a viable answer. We interviewed an unpaid research assistant intern at the end of this video that had similar thoughts.

Did you negotiate your salary? New York City, NY📍Salary Transparent Street ™️

Key points:<ul><li>Unpaid internships are not fair to workers and exclude individuals who cannot afford to work without pay.</li><li>It depends on your specific circumstances if an unpaid internship is worth it or not.</li><li>Unpaid internships are not the only option to get started in a new career. 60% of internships are actually paid.&nbsp;</li><li>You don’t have to settle for an unpaid internship. The highest salary for interns recorded in our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3Dintern&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">Salary Database</a> is $71,000 a year!</li></ul>

&nbsp;<h2>Paid vs. Unpaid Internships: The Pros &amp; Cons</h2>While the obvious upside to paid internships is the fact that they’re PAID, the downside to unpaid internships is that they’re not – which is a rather big con. It may seem like a slap in the face when offered an opportunity that doesn’t come with a paycheck. It’s essentially <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/pay-discrimination">pay discrimination</a> when companies think younger workers and those desperately seeking experience aren’t worth being paid fairly. We all know those companies are profiting off that labor in some way.

steve harvey gif of game show question about paying employees fairly

What if you can’t afford to work for free? Without income, you may need to rely on savings, family support, or a part-time job, adding extra stress or limiting your ability to focus fully on the internship.&nbsp;Whether the company agrees or not, unpaid internships may have a lasting impact on your future wages. That time spent at an unpaid internship may cause you to miss out on paid opportunities that may lead to <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-jobs-interviews-2024">higher-paying jobs</a> down the line or other opportunities that align better with your long-term career goals.&nbsp;Dr. Annie Cole, EdD, is a former college academic advisor who suggests short-term unpaid internships may be more worth your while in that respect. “A full-time internship might not be possible to do without getting paid, while a 10-hour per week internship might be workable,” she says.

How much do interns make? Washington, DC📍#salarytransparentstreet

Unpaid internships may also not guarantee a full-time position or even a job offer, leaving you without a clear long-term opportunity. In some cases, unpaid interns may even end up doing menial tasks or not gaining valuable experience, making the internship less beneficial.Having said that, there are still some advantages that come with unpaid internships. They can provide academic credits toward completing a degree, valuable hands-on experience, and connections in your field that can lead to job offers or referrals in the future.&nbsp;

You’ll also have a chance to see how things work in your field and develop practical skills and knowledge that can enhance your resume and make you more competitive in the job market. They may also help grow your portfolio.

<h2>Are unpaid internships worth it?</h2>It depends on the person and the specific unpaid internship for whether or not the unpaid internship is worth it.&nbsp;Cole suggests asking yourself, “Will this internship help accelerate my pathway to my dream career?”. “If the answer is 'Yes', then it's something to seriously consider. Even just a few months of strong unpaid internship experience can transform your resume and make you a shoe-in for the job you want after graduation,” she adds.Ask yourself these questions to help decide:<ul><li>Can you afford it?</li><li>What skills and experience will it give you and how will those help you in your field?</li><li>What valuable connections and mentorship can you gain?</li><li>Will it provide academic credits that will go towards a degree?</li><li>Does it provide a path to a paying position at the same company?</li><li>Can you find any paid internship opportunities that are similar?</li></ul>If the internship promises a future paid position at the company, you’re someone who can afford to take on unpaid work, or are still in school seeking academic credits, an unpaid internship may work for you. That’s if it seems like something that you will gain valuable experience from and gives you an advantage on your resume.<h2>Are unpaid internships legal?</h2>Honestly, any form of free labor should be illegal. Unfortunately, the current law says otherwise.&nbsp;Unpaid internships are legal under the <a href="https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/compliance-assistance/handy-reference-guide-flsa">Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)</a> if they primarily benefit the intern rather than the employer and meet the criteria of the Department of Labor's “primary beneficiary test,” which examines factors like educational training.

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If the work is for academic credit or within the bounds of being considered a learning environment, those unpaid internships are considered legal. These internships must also not displace paid employees or directly contribute to the employer’s profit.To check if an unpaid internship is legal, review the <a href="https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/fact-sheets/71-flsa-internships">DOL's internship guidelines</a> and ensure it meets the seven factors outlined, including receiving meaningful learning opportunities and not displacing paid employees. Consult an employment lawyer if you have concerns about a particular program.<h2>How to Find Paid Internships Instead</h2>As much as it’s beneficial to gain as much experience as you can in the beginning of your career, unpaid internships are not the only option.&nbsp;With 60.2% of internships being paid, according to the <a href="https://ccwt.wisc.edu/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/CCWT_NSCI-2021-Report.pdf">National Survey of College Internships Report</a> by the University of Wisconsin Center for Research on College-Workforce Transitions, you may even have better luck focusing on applying to paid internships rather than unpaid ones. Some interns are making as much as $71,000 a year, according to the highest salary recorded in our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3Dintern&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">Salary Database</a>.There are a few sites available to current students and grads to help find paid internships, including:<ul><li><a href="https://gogovernment.org/federal-internship-finder/">The Federal Internship Finder</a> - filter on “paid”</li><li><a href="https://internmatch.io/">InternMatch</a>&nbsp;</li><li><a href="https://www.wayup.com/s/internships/">WayUp</a></li><li><a href="https://joinhandshake.com/">Handshake</a>&nbsp;</li><li><a href="https://www.chegg.com/about/working-at-chegg/internships/">Chegg</a></li><li>Your school’s job listing job site or alumni network</li></ul>We believe you deserve to get paid for your work!Don’t forget to browse our other resources as you get your career started, 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!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!If this guide helps you land a higher-paying job, let us know! Send us an email ➡️ hello@salarytransparentstreet.comFor more Salary Transparent Street resources:<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>

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Are Unpaid Internships Worth It?

It’s no secret here that it’s important to <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/negotiate-salary-offer">negotiate your salary</a> and advocate for yourself, no matter the circumstances. However, several salary negotiation myths could be holding you back from doing just that.

Harmful narratives like “negotiating salary might be seen as combative” or “I shouldn’t get greedy” come from these myths, <a href="https://finance.yahoo.com/news/3-most-common-reasons-why-110051961.html">preventing employees from negotiating</a> and ultimately keeping them underpaid. I know it because I once had these same narratives running through my head.&nbsp;I didn’t negotiate at all for my first 2 jobs after college. I honestly thought I had no right to because I was so new to the field. Although I didn’t have any logical reason to think that, that fear comes from society’s general influence from the taboo of money and how talking about money can be seen as “rude”.&nbsp;Imagine if I negotiated my pay for those first 4 years of my career, what I could have done with that money, and how that would’ve affected my current salary. I feel jipped.&nbsp;It’s time to debunk these myths once and for all.

Did you negotiate your salary? New York City, NY📍#salarytransparentstreet

Key points:<ul><li>Negotiation myths keep workers overworked and underpaid, holding them back from years of additional earnings and wealth building.</li><li>Salary negotiation is a normal part of any hiring process.</li><li>Negotiating pay is a professional occurrence and demonstrates your value to the company. Especially when you come armed with your market rate.</li><li>Employers expect negotiations and are prepared for them. You should be too.</li></ul>

&nbsp;<h2>Myth #1: You’ll lose a job offer by negotiating salary.</h2>Why the myth exists:Thinking you might <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/can-you-lose-a-job-offer-by-negotiating-salary">lose a job offer because you negotiated</a> is a common occurrence. Especially when you don’t have much experience negotiating. This myth arises from not having much experience negotiating and the fear of being seen as overly demanding.&nbsp;Debunking the myth:It isn’t a part of normal business operations to pull a job offer when a candidate negotiates, and could indicate a poor company culture.&nbsp;Negotiating salary is a common and expected part of the job offer process. Employers typically anticipate some level of negotiation when thinking about their budget for the position.&nbsp;<h2>Myth #2: You shouldn’t talk about pay too early in the interview process.</h2>Why the myth exists:This myth often stems from concerns about appearing overly focused on compensation rather than the job itself. Additionally, there may be a fear of pricing oneself out of consideration or creating an awkward conversation.Debunking the myth:

Discussing pay early in an interview process can actually benefit both parties. Many employers will even ask about salary expectations as a <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/job-interview-questions-and-answers">job interview question</a>. It ensures alignment on salary expectations and avoids wasting time if there's a mismatch. It also demonstrates pay transparency and helps establish trust between the candidate and employer.Not knowing your market rate can put you at a disadvantage when interviewing for different jobs. You’ll need to do market research to make sure you’re getting paid fairly before moving forward in any hiring process. Use our <a href="https://view.flodesk.com/pages/626ccc8e1e8046b220253e47">free Market Research Guide</a> and <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/salary-negotiation-scripts">salary negotiation scripts</a> to help you bring up pay sooner rather than later.<h2>Myth #3: You shouldn’t ask for more money when the position already has a higher salary than your last job.</h2>Why the myth exists:Some individuals may believe that since the salary is already higher than their previous job, they shouldn’t push for more. The same thing applies when asking for a raise. They may fear that the employer would see them as entitled and greedy.&nbsp;Debunking the myth:Your worth is not solely determined by your previous salary. Asking for more is a common and reasonable practice, especially if the new role involves more responsibilities.&nbsp;It doesn’t matter how much of a <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-jobs-without-a-degree">high-paying job</a> it is. Employers understand that candidates seek fair compensation based on their skills and the market value of the position.&nbsp;

Did you negotiate your salary? New York City, NY📍Salary Transparent Street™️

<h2>Myth #4: Only your salary is negotiable.</h2>Why the myth exists:Even though salary negotiations take center stage during job offers, money isn’t the only thing on the table. Many candidates may not realize that you can also <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/negotiate-benefits">negotiate benefits</a> and perks.Debunking the myth:Employers often have flexibility in various components of the compensation package beyond just salary. Benefits like health insurance, vacation time, and professional development opportunities can all be subject to negotiation. Considering these factors holistically allows you to maximize your overall compensation and job satisfaction.

<h2>Myth #5: Negotiating is rude.</h2>Why the myth exists:There are cultural and societal norms that discourage discussions about money or perceived discomfort with assertiveness in negotiations. Some may fear that negotiating could be seen as ungrateful and hurt their chances of getting along with the employer. For instance, gender stereotypes may negatively affect negotiations. Even though research shows that <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/gender-and-negotiation">women negotiate just as much as men do</a>, they may have entirely different experiences.&nbsp;Debunking the myth:Negotiating is a part of a professional hiring process and is far from rude. It's a crucial step in ensuring a mutually beneficial employment agreement. Employers anticipate negotiation and often respect candidates who advocate for themselves professionally.<h2>Myth #6: You should accept a low salary just because you’re younger.</h2>Why the myth exists:Younger individuals may feel pressure to accept lower salaries due to limited experience or the assumption that they should be grateful for any opportunity.Debunking the myth:Your age does not dictate your worth or what you deserve in terms of compensation. It's your skills, qualifications, and the contributions that matter. Accepting a low salary solely based on age perpetuates unfair compensation practices and undermines your value in the workforce.

Plus, <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/pay-discrimination">pay discrimination</a> is illegal. Companies can’t discriminate against you based on your age, or anything else. Additionally, there are organized groups such as unions that exist for some of the <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-trade-jobs">highest-paying trade jobs </a>that can help fight pay discrimination and negotiate on your behalf.<h2>Myth #7: You have to tell them your past salaries if they ask.</h2>Why the myth exists:There are historical hiring practices where employers commonly asked for past salary information as part of the hiring process. Some candidates may believe they are obligated to disclose this information to proceed with the application or negotiation process.Debunking the myth:You are not legally obligated to disclose your past salary to potential employers, and in many states, there are <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/pay-transparency-laws">pay transparency laws</a> that prohibit employers from asking for this information.&nbsp;Revealing past salaries can perpetuate wage gaps and undermine your ability to negotiate based on your qualifications and the market value of the position. Instead, focus on discussing your salary expectations and the value you bring to the role.<h2>Myth #8: You shouldn’t negotiate higher than the posted salary range.</h2>Why the myth exists:This myth may arise from concerns about overstepping boundaries or appearing unrealistic in negotiations. Some may believe that the posted salary range represents a firm limit set by the employer and that negotiating beyond it is not acceptable.Debunking the myth:The posted salary range is often a starting point for negotiation rather than a strict boundary. Employers typically have some flexibility in adjusting salary offers, and also provide salary ranges. Negotiating higher than the posted range is not uncommon, especially if you can demonstrate the value you bring.

<h2>Myth #9: Rejecting an offer will ruin future opportunities.</h2>Why the myth exists:It’s normal to be scared of burning bridges in your career. No one wants to be perceived as ungrateful or difficult to work with. Candidates may worry that turning down a job offer from a particular company could negatively impact their chances of securing future opportunities with that organization or within the same industry.Debunking the myth:Rejecting a job offer is a common occurrence and is unlikely to permanently damage your professional reputation or future prospects. While it's essential to handle the situation respectfully and professionally, employers understand that candidates may have valid reasons for declining an offer.

<h2>Approaching Negotiations With Clarity and Confidence</h2>Anytime a negotiation myth pops into your head, a great way to help debunk it is to talk about it. You aren’t the only one who has these doubts. Start <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/discussing-salary-with-coworkers">discussions with coworkers</a> and friends about salary, <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/how-to-ask-for-a-raise">how to ask for a raise</a>, and your negotiation fears.&nbsp;Being transparent about our salaries helps to face these myths head on. <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/the-importance-of-salary-transparency">Pay transparency</a> arms us with the knowledge and tools to not only increase our income, but also help us understand our overall value as job candidates.&nbsp;Remember that negotiating is another way that you’re demonstrating your value. If you don’t value yourself in your career, who will?&nbsp;Want to join the movement? Explore over 5,000+ individually reported salaries nationwide across all industries in our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a>!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!If this guide helps you improve your negotiation skills, let us know! Send us an email ➡️ hello@salarytransparentstreet.comFor more Salary Transparent Street resources:<ul><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>

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9 Salary Negotiation Myths Debunked

There are many reasons why a layoff happens. Your employer could be downsizing, restructuring, or going through other operational changes. We’ve seen lots of layoffs recently with technology companies, but it can happen within any company!

How Much Do Software Engineers Make? Reactions to AI, Layoffs and More! The Break Room Episode 5

So, what can you even do when you get laid off?&nbsp;Layoffs are emotional and you’ll need some time to process, but it’s important to stay professional throughout the process. Sit with those emotions and feel your feelings, but don’t stay there.&nbsp;Follow these steps for what to do next.Key points:<ul><li>There are laws in place that protect workers’ rights in a layoff.</li><li>Get all of the details about your layoff in writing before you sign anything.</li><li>You may be entitled to a severance package, continuation of benefits, and unemployment.</li><li>Revisit your finances and adjust your budget to account for the loss of income.</li><li>Prepare a few things to re-enter the job market with, such as recommendation letters, resume and LinkedIn updates, and connect with your professional network.</li><li>Take it day-by-day as you handle the aftermath of your layoff and search for a new job.</li></ul>

&nbsp;<h2>Know Your Rights &amp; Revisit Your Contract</h2>Yes, employees have rights – even during a layoff! We reached out to retired employment attorney, <a href="https://delyannethemoneycoach.com/">Delyanne Barros</a>, to help us get a little more acquainted with what rights you may or may not have.&nbsp;After hearing the unsavory news of your layoff, expect a meeting request from human resources. It’s most likely to go over the details of the layoff and to ask for your signature.&nbsp;Barros says that employees should not sign anything before talking to an attorney. “Many employers will try to pressure you to sign a severance agreement or waiver on the spot. The best thing to do is to take it with you and say that you need to look it over carefully and that you will promptly get back to them,” says Barros.

Barros recommends that employees get familiar with the <a href="https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/layoffs/warn">Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act</a>. “Most states in the US are at-will states which means that an employer can fire for any reason or none at all. However, there are specific laws that apply to certain employers when conducting mass layoffs. The WARN Act requires employers with 100 or more employees to provide 60 days notice of any mass layoffs.”&nbsp;To find whether an employer has issued a WARN notice or not, a simple google search can help. ”An employee can look up whether their employer has issued a WARN notice by googling ‘Warn notice’ plus their state. Many states also have mini-WARN Acts that provide additional protections for employees at smaller companies,” she says.Employees’ rights outside of the WARN Act can get a little tricky, but Barros says to check your employment contract to see if it outlines any specific benefits in case of a layoff, and to reach out to the <a href="https://www.nela.org/">National Employment Lawyers Association (NELA)</a> to find an employment lawyer to work with.<h2>Request a “Layoff Letter”</h2>Your company can supply a confirmation letter, or “layoff letter”, that states that your position is being terminated. Ask them to include reasons for the layoff, the effective date of termination, date of your last paycheck, and details about any severance package or benefits that you’re entitled to.Having this letter gives you official documentation of your layoff, which may come in handy when applying for unemployment benefits and future job searches. It may be necessary if there are any disputes or legal issues related to the layoff.<h2>Understand Your Severance Package</h2>

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If you’re entitled to a severance package, lucky you! That will be your lifeline after your final paycheck – so don’t overlook it. It’s best to review all the details with a member of human resources so you fully understand your severance package and if it’s fair or not.Negotiation is the name of the game with severances. Just like <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/negotiate-salary-offer">negotiating salary during a job offer</a>, severance packages can also be negotiated. Barros says this is where an employment lawyer also comes in handy, but many people hesitate to reach out to one because they think they’re only useful when planning to sue an employer. “However, I coached many clients behind-the-scenes during severance negotiations or negotiated on their behalf if they preferred it,” she says.Barros advises employees to “consult with an employment attorney in their state before they engage in severance negotiations. Most attorneys will offer a free consultation and may provide some guidance during that meeting.”Employees wanting to speak with an employment lawyer should check <a href="https://exchange.nela.org/memberdirectory/findalawyer">NELA’s referral directory</a> online.&nbsp;<h2>Ask About Benefits</h2>You should always negotiate. Layoffs are no exception. Similar to <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/negotiate-benefits">negotiating benefits</a> during a job offer, go over your current benefits with human resources to see if compensation is warranted.&nbsp;Even if your benefit information is included in the layoff letter, discuss the specifics with human resources so you don’t have any unexpected surprises later on. Ask about health coverage changes, including the official end date of your employer-sponsored health plan and how to sign up for <a href="https://www.dol.gov/general/topic/health-plans/cobra">Continuation of Health Coverage (COBRA)</a>.&nbsp;But what about unused paid time off? You can absolutely get compensated for those if the company is able to include it.<h2>Look At Options to Continue Healthcare Coverage</h2>Depending on your employer, you may be able to sign up for COBRA to continue your health coverage. The time period for the coverage continuation usually falls around 18 months, but you’ll have to pay the full premium in addition to administration fees.

gif of larry david on snl saying "universal health care doesn't sound too crazy now, does it?"

Another option is looking at alternative health insurance options on the <a href="https://www.healthcare.gov/">Healthcare Marketplace</a>, or joining your spouse’s health plan.&nbsp;<h2>Review Your 401(k) &amp; Prepare for a 401(k) Rollover</h2>Your 401(k) is 100% yours and won’t go anywhere when you’re laid off. Employers will either keep it where it is, or transfer it to another 401(k) provider or Individual Retirement Account (IRA) of their choosing.&nbsp;This is where <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/401k-rollovers">401(k) rollovers</a> come in. It’s a good idea to rollover your 401(k) after your last day of employment so you aren’t at the mercy of the company’s choices. When rolling over a 401(k), there’s the option of transferring it to an IRA of your choosing. We recommend <a href="https://www.hicapitalize.com/?utm_source=STS&amp;utm_medium=email">Capitalize </a>to easily do this for you for free - which is one less headache for you.

&nbsp;<h2>Ask Your Boss for a Letter of Recommendation</h2>You need as many resources on your side as possible when you reenter the job market. This is where your boss can help!

gif of simon on zoey's playlist saying "morning, boss"

Set up a quick 1-on-1 with your boss during your last weeks or months at your job to see if they can write a letter of recommendation for you and if you can use them as a reference. Another option is asking them if they can fill out a recommendation for you on LinkedIn to help your profile attract recruiters.<h2>File for Unemployment Benefits</h2>Unemployment benefits are available to laid off employees if your employer contributed to the state’s unemployment insurance program. Payments from unemployment benefits, and its duration, will depend on your state.&nbsp;Visit the U.S. Department of Labor website to find your state and <a href="https://www.dol.gov/general/topic/unemployment-insurance">file for unemployment benefits</a>.<h2>Revisit Your Finances &amp; Adjust Your Budget</h2>Now that you’ve lost your primary source of income, it’s time to review your finances. Log into your different accounts including your checking, savings, and any investment accounts to take stock of your current financial situation.&nbsp;Re-adjust your budget and cut any expenses you can. If you’ve saved an emergency fund, determine how much of it you want to use and how you can rework your budget to accommodate it.<h2>Update Your Resume &amp; LinkedIn</h2>

It’s probably been awhile since you’ve updated your resume and LinkedIn. Many of us forget about them the longer we stay at one job. It’s time to update and revamp both to help you stand out when applying for jobs.Add information about your most recent job to your resume. Update it to include not only what you did, but also include the impact and results of your contributions. Then update your information on LinkedIn, including your past role and the skills used in that role. It’s also helpful to add keywords in your LinkedIn headline and select that you’re “Open to work” on your profile.<h2>Tap Into Your Network</h2>Your network is one of the most valuable resources when searching for a new job. Reach out to past colleagues on LinkedIn or other platforms, and any recruiters you’ve had contact with in the past.If you’re in any local networking groups, such as a women’s networking group or alumni organization, reconnect with them and see what events are happening near you or virtually. Online groups, such as career-focused communities on social media, can also be helpful when building a professional network.<h2>Really Think About Where You Want to Go From Here</h2>

gif with woman saying "into the next chapter of my life"

Before diving head first back into a job search, ask yourself what you really want to do from this point on. Do you want to work for a company in the same sector? Do you want the same role?&nbsp;Also think about how much you want to get paid and what sort of benefits you’re looking for in your next job. Our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a> and free <a href="https://view.flodesk.com/pages/626ccc8e1e8046b220253e47">Market Research Guide</a> can help when setting your market salary range.&nbsp;However, most people need a new job immediately to replace the loss of their primary income – especially when they don’t have an emergency fund to fall back on. You might have to charge right into a job search. If this is you, still think about what you really want to do. That next job isn’t going to be forever and if you find something better down the line, don’t be afraid to take it!<h2>Take Care of What Matters Most – Yourself</h2>Job hunting is exhausting. Take it day-by-day and know that you aren’t alone. It’s important to have some sort of structure in your days with a daily routine. Add some much-needed self care and set realistic expectations in your job search to promote a positive outlook.&nbsp;Please, please, please ask for help if you need it, whether that’s spending time with your friends to free your mind, working with a life or career coach, or reaching out to a mental health professional. There are people out there that can help you through this.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!If this guide helps you improve your negotiation skills, let us know! Send us an email ➡️ hello@salarytransparentstreet.comFor more Salary Transparent Street resources:<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 an illustration of 3 people looking at an online search board on top of a green background with a title text overlay that reads "what to do after a layoff"

What To Do When You Get Laid Off

What do you do and how much do you make?&nbsp;People have been asking me the first part of that question ever since I graduated college. However, the second part of that question is still seen as taboo and even “tacky” by many in our society. Salary transparency is here to challenge that idea to create a more equitable world of work.&nbsp;Salary transparency is when a company or individual openly shares their compensation. On a company level, its transparent pay policies that include listing salaries on job listings and publishing salaries internally to employees.&nbsp;On an individual level, it’s people discussing their pay with each other&nbsp; – whether that’s sharing it with friends, family, colleagues, officially within their organization, or online to end the gatekeeping culture around compensation. Because the secrecy around what we make at work only hurts the worker, not the company who’s profiting off of underpaid employees.This is why salary transparency is so important in our ever evolving world of work as we seek to close the gender pay gap – as well as other pay gaps including the racial pay gap, disability pay gap, age pay gap, and LGBTQ+ pay gap – and increase diversity and equal opportunities at work.&nbsp;

<h2>The Rise of Salary Transparency&nbsp;</h2>In the United States, the concept of salary transparency dates back to the early 20th century, when unions began demanding greater transparency around pay and benefits. Unions have historically been strong advocates for salary transparency, as it allows workers to negotiate better wages, benefits, and helps to keep employers accountable.In <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-government-jobs">government and public sector jobs</a>, salary transparency has also been the norm for many years. Many federal and state government agencies are required to make some form of wage information publicly available under laws like the&nbsp;<a href="https://home.treasury.gov/footer/freedom-of-information-act#:~:text=The%20Freedom%20of%20Information%20Act%20(FOIA)%20gives%20any%20person%20the,information%20found%20in%20the%20FOIA.">Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)&nbsp;</a>and state open records law.The private sector however, has just started to build momentum in a growing movement towards greater salary transparency. The rise of the internet, social media, and pages like our very own Salary Transparent Street fuels this rise with growing online communities and access to more transparent salary information.&nbsp;<a href="https://nypost.com/2023/03/10/i-found-a-listing-for-my-job-at-a-much-higher-salary-so-i-reapplied/">Employees&nbsp;</a>are now finding out that they were being underpaid at their jobs, including Salary Transparent Street’s founder, Hannah Williams, who found out she was making $20,000 less than her market rate&nbsp;which <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/why-i-started-salary-transparent-street">inspired her to start STS</a>.&nbsp;

Take our free quiz to find out if you're underpaid! 👇

&nbsp;<h2>The Evolution of Pay Transparency Laws</h2>It’s perfectly legal to discuss our pay with each other as employees and employers can’t legally prohibit employees from sharing that information. Remember that the next time you read a company policy that says otherwise.Under Executive Order 11246, employees have the right to discuss their pay with other employees and applicants. It states that an employee “cannot be disciplined, harassed, demoted, terminated, denied employment, or otherwise discriminated against because you exercised this right,” according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dol.gov/sites/dolgov/files/ofccp/regs/compliance/factsheets/FACT_PayTransparency-Sept16_ENGESQA508c.pdf">U.S. Department of Labor</a>.Congress also passed the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nlrb.gov/guidance/key-reference-materials/national-labor-relations-act">National Labor Relations Act</a>&nbsp;(NLRA) in 1935 that provides employees at private-sector companies the right to seek better working conditions and representation without the fear of retaliation. However, public-sector employees are excluded, which are any state employees, local and federal government workers, agricultural and domestic workers, independent contractors, and workers who are employed by a parent or spouse. Air and rail carrier employees are covered under the&nbsp;<a href="https://railroads.dot.gov/sites/fra.dot.gov/files/fra_net/1647/Railway%20Labor%20Act%20Overview.pdf">Railway Labor Act</a>.Additionally, there are currently 15 states that have enacted salary transparency laws that require disclosure of pay ranges. You can view all of these states and the pay transparency laws for each using our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/pay-transparency-laws">Pay Transparency Law Tracker</a>.These states include:&nbsp;<ul><li>California</li><li>Colorado</li><li>Connecticut</li><li>Hawaii</li><li>Illinois</li><li>Maryland</li><li>Massachusetts</li><li>Minnesota</li><li>Nevada</li><li>New Jersey</li><li>New York</li><li>Rhode Island</li><li>Vermont</li><li>Washington</li><li>Washington D.C.</li></ul>The differing laws vary in definition from state to state. For example, Colorado requires employers to include in job listings “a general description of all of the benefits and other compensation to be offered to the hired applicant,” along with the hourly or salary compensation/range for their position. Meanwhile, California requires employers to provide the pay scale in the job posting, but not information about “tangible benefits.”13 other states are now considering <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/pay-transparency-laws">pay transparency laws</a>, with legislation being introduced in Alaska, Connecticut, Delaware, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Missouri, Montana, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.&nbsp;

Person explaining salary transparency benefits gif

<h2>Benefits of Salary Transparency</h2>Pay transparency has several benefits for both the employee and employer.For instance, it helps to attract and retain talent for companies while improving employees’ job satisfaction, trust, and increasing productivity. It also helps to improve the reputation of companies and builds a culture of openness with profound long-term effects.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2023/03/19/ways-hr-is-thinking-about-attracting-and-retaining-gen-z-talent.html">Gen Z candidates</a>&nbsp;now expect transparency, and companies could lose out on top talent by not providing it.&nbsp;Salary transparency encourages fair &amp; equal pay while closing several different pay gaps. The most recent significant impact of salary transparency has been its ability to&nbsp;<a href="https://qz.com/work/2118866/the-pros-and-cons-of-salary-transparency">close the gender pay gap by 45%</a>&nbsp;in transparent organizations, according to a study at the University of Utah’s business school. It's also helpful for folks to land some of the <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-jobs-without-a-degree">highest-paying jobs without a college degree</a>.While there are several benefits of salary transparency, it also has its drawbacks. An&nbsp;<a href="https://hbr.org/2022/08/research-the-unintended-consequences-of-pay-transparency">unintended consequence</a>&nbsp;of transparent pay information is that it compresses pay and narrows the pay gap between employees at different levels of an organization or within a specific job category.&nbsp;Wage compression happens in two ways; salaries of lower-paid employees are raised to become more equitable with those of higher-paid employees, or when salaries of higher-paid employees are reduced to become more equitable with those of lower-paid employees. The second case is typically for higher-earning employees who have been historically cisgender white men that’ve out-earned other groups for decades 👀.

Corporate Bro gif with the words E-QUI-TY

<h2>How Companies Can Embrace Salary Transparency&nbsp;</h2>Achieving full salary transparency and pay equity will take more than the efforts of workers to break the stigma around talking about money. Three things have to come together to make this work – community, corporate, and congress. Congress and community are starting to do their part, with partial responsibility now shifting to corporate America.Even though there are no federal laws requiring private employers to disclose compensation information (yet), there are ways they can start embracing salary transparency sooner than later.A few ways corporations can start building equitable policies around pay include:<ul><li>Conducting a pay audit &amp; using data to set salary ranges:&nbsp;A pay analysis can help ensure pay equity internally for employees. This might include an audit on current compensation across organizations and referring to updated market and competitor pay data to compare to and update pay ranges.&nbsp;</li><li>Creating a pay transparency policy:&nbsp;Take into account applicable laws, company culture, and company reputation as you design a pay transparency policy that best fits. Will you need to share pay ranges on job listings and decide how to publish pay data internally to employees? How will you communicate these appropriately both externally and internally? Rolling the policy out in phases may be more beneficial to management than rolling it out all at once.&nbsp;</li><li>Preparing managers:&nbsp;Managers are going to be a big part of how a company communicates pay transparency policies to current and potential employees. This may especially change <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/negotiate-salary-offer">how negotiations work</a> with management and they may be less able to grant personal requests in negotiations as their salaries and benefits are more standardized per each position.</li><li>Publishing the pay information internally:&nbsp;This is corporate marketing 101. The way that a corporation decides to communicate how they are publishing salary information internally will have an effect on how it’s received by their employees and potential employees.</li><li>Adjusting &amp; adapting:&nbsp;As you build and publish new pay transparency policies, it will take some time to adapt with the varying personalities and opinions on pay transparency within an organization. Keeping an open line of communication with employees and management about the changes and allowing them to feel like they are a part of decisions being made will help create the most successful outcome.</li></ul>

Gif with a person saying pay what you owe me plus 20% for the inconvenience

<h2>Salary Transparency is The Future of Work</h2>Salary transparency is good for both the employer and employee, challenging both to create environments where they can succeed and grow. Now with over half of America enacting and thinking about pay transparency laws, the movement continues to grow.&nbsp;(AD) Do you know if you’re fairly paid?&nbsp;Fill out this&nbsp;<a href="https://payscale.pxf.io/c/3976832/1542560/16772">short salary survey</a>&nbsp;from Payscale to get a free salary and benefits report, and learn how you compare in your overall market. You'll also get career path predictions, see companies hiring for your role, and find out what skills can help you get ahead.* Disclaimer * to add at the end: This is an affiliate link, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you click through the link and make a purchase from one of our partners.&nbsp;Need help researching your market rate?? Download our&nbsp;<a href="https://view.flodesk.com/pages/626ccc8e1e8046b220253e47">free Market Research Guide</a>.Subscribe to&nbsp;<a href="https://view.flodesk.com/pages/629773b2f0870d83de7c7fc7">our weekly newsletter&nbsp;</a>for important recaps on the state of work culture, insightful interviews from successful professionals, and resources to help you navigate and advance in your career.Explore over 5,000+ individually reported salaries nationwide across all industries in our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a>!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!Send us an email ➡️ hello@salarytransparentstreet.com&nbsp;

The Importance of Salary Transparency

You finally did it. You conducted your market research, wrote the perfect email asking to meet with your boss, and successfully negotiated your salary to get paid what you’re worth. Feels amazing, right?

So…what do you do, now that those biweekly paychecks finally look the way you’ve always wanted them to? First: Celebrate a job well done. And second: Get smart about how you’re putting this newfound extra income to work.Because your money can (and should!) work as hard as you do. Today, I’m breaking down three super-savvy ways to make your money go the extra mile.<h2>First up: Make a plan.</h2>Just like you write out what to say before you ask your boss for a raise, you should write out the money journey you want to go on. Before you make any investments or open any new accounts, think about the answers to some big questions:<ul><li>How much extra money do you have to invest per pay period, once you’ve handled regular expenses like rent, groceries, gas, etc.?</li><li>What’s your risk tolerance as an investor? Do you like the bigger swings, or are you looking for more stability?</li><li>What are your goals as an investor? Are you saving for retirement, trying to make some side income, putting money aside for a big purchase, or just getting your feet wet?</li></ul>And it never hurts to familiarize yourself with the basics of investing—stocks, bonds, ETFs, 401(K)s, the works. Our friends at Public (an investing platform where you can build a portfolio with stocks, bonds, options, crypto, and more all in one place) have some great pointers for beginners <a href="https://public.com/learn/investing-for-beginners?wpsrc=Organic+Search&amp;wpsn=www.google.com">here</a>.<h2>Next: Explore different investing options (like in bonds with Public*).</h2>Public is one of the only modern brokerages to offer self-directed investing in bonds—aka bond investing actually designed in the 21st century. This is not your grandfather’s bond account.And we bet you’ll want in. After all, bonds are one of the best-kept secrets for super-successful investors. Why? They’re another way to deposit cash and earn yield—bonds are loans to governments, corporations, or other orgs that pay interest to investors.Public has tons of options to start investing in bonds. We’re talking…<ul><li>Thousands of corporate and Treasury bonds—so you get a wide array of choices, from your favorite big company to Uncle Sam</li><li>Fractional bonds—so you can start investing in bonds for as little as $100 (FYI: Before Public, you had to buy bonds for $1,000+ and in $100 increments—wild!)</li><li>A sleek, intuitive bond screener—so you can either build your own bond search or jump into preselects</li><li>An AI powered bond search—so you can find the perfect investment to fit your criteria and investing goals</li><li>A dedicated Bond Account – learn more below on how this works.</li></ul>Here’s how investing in a Bond Account works on Public:<ol><li>Invest your cash.</li><li>Your investment is allocated to a portfolio of 10 investment-grade and high-yield corporate bonds.</li><li>You get to decide whether you want to hold the bonds to maturity to maximize returns, or sell when you’re ready. You’ll also receive regular interest payments throughout the year.</li></ol>And you can earn a yield of up to 6% or more on your investment. Even the best high-yield savings accounts can’t promise that kind of return these days.&nbsp;

I’ve loved exploring my investing options on Public, including kicking off <a href="https://youtu.be/9sg5vvwZbhE?si=m4ggh-6Ppx-XOl_y">my own bond journey</a>. You can check out Public’s bond offerings <a href="http://public.com/STS">right this way</a>.<h2>Finally: Set it and forget it.</h2>Investing may sound like something that requires a ton of time and attention. But in reality? Automation is your friend.Because realistically, the stock market and the economy will always have their ups and downs. Trying to get in front of every economic ebb and flow is a one-way ticket to burnout—and one you certainly don’t need.All you need to do is:<ol><li>Some homework to make sure your investing game plan is right for you</li><li>Some diversification to ensure you’re not putting all your eggs (aka that hard-earned cash!) in one basket</li><li>Some long-term planning. Beyond that, you can then look to review your portfolio bi-annually.</li></ol>Bottom line: Making more money isn’t the only goal once you understand what you’re worth at work—you want that money to stretch as far as possible, and you can start investing intelligently at a brokerage like Public.

*Paid endorsement for Public Investing, Inc. Not investment advice. All investing involves the risk of loss, including loss of principal. Brokerage services for US Listed and registered securities, options and Bonds in a self-directed brokerage account are offered by Public Investing. ETFs, options and Bonds are available to US members only.&nbsp;*The 6.8% yield is the average, annualized yield to worst (YTW) across all ten bonds in the Bond Account, before fees, as of 10/24/2024. A bond’s yield is a function of its market price, which can fluctuate; therefore, a bond’s YTW is not “locked in” until the bond is purchased, and your yield at time of purchase may be different from the yield shown here. The “locked in” YTW is not guaranteed; you may receive less than the YTW of the bonds in the Bond Account if you sell any of the bonds before maturity or if the issuer defaults on the bondA Bond Account is a self-directed brokerage account with Public Investing, member FINRA/SIPC. Deposits into this account are used to purchase 10 investment-grade and high-yield bonds.. Public Investing charges a markup on each bond trade. See our <a href="https://public.com/disclosures/fee-schedule">Fee Schedule</a>.&nbsp;Bond Accounts are not recommendations of individual bonds or default allocations. The bonds in the Bond Account have not been selected based on your needs or risk profile. See <a href="https://public.com/disclosures/bond-account">Bond Account Disclosures</a> to learn more. Fractional Bonds are offered by Public Investing. They are exposed to various risks typical of bond investments, including liquidity risk, interest rate risk, credit risk, inflation risk, and potential tax liabilities.&nbsp;Fractional&nbsp; Bonds also carry additional risks including that they are only available on Public and cannot be transferred to other brokerages. The value of these investments may be less than the original cost at the time of redemption. Typically, bonds with higher risk yields carry greater risk of default. Fractional Bonds are only bought and sold by a single market participant, Moment Markets.&nbsp; Bonds may be available from different brokers or dealers at prices different than those displayed.&nbsp; All prices are subject to change without prior notice. Public Investing earns a fee on every fractional bond trade. Trading 6 Month Treasury Bills through Fractional Bond investing offered by Public Investing is separate from the Public Treasury Account offered in partnership with Jiko. See risks: <a href="http://public.com/disclosures/apex-fractional-bond-disclosure">public.com/disclosures/apex-fractional-bond-disclosure</a>.Alpha is an AI research tool powered by GPT-4.&nbsp; Alpha is experimental and may generate inaccurate responses.&nbsp; Output from Alpha should not be construed as investment research or recommendations, and should not serve as the basis for any investment decision. Public makes no warranties about its accuracy, completeness, quality, or timeliness of any Alpha out. Please independently evaluate and verify any such output for your own use case.

Green cover image with background graphic of dollars with wings and overlay text that reads "how to make money work as hard as you do" and bottom text that read "sponsored by public"

Mobile cover image with green background and background graphic of dollars with wings and overlay text that reads "how to make your money work as hard as you do" and bottom text that reads "sponsored by public"

How to Make Your Money Work as Hard as You Do

The President of the United States currently makes $400,000 a year, which is set by congress and is one of the highest-paying government jobs out there. But you don’t have to be the president to make six-figures working in the government.

gif of colonial person saying how wonderfully bureaucratic

Government jobs are a great option for folks who want to serve their community while earning a stable income. They're currently boosting job growth with 294,000 new government jobs being added so far in 2024, according to employment data from the <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ces/">U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</a>, and were named one of the next hot jobs in the place of tech jobs for teens and Gen Z by <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/gen-z-hot-jobs-tech-layoffs-healthcare-government-careers-2024-7">Business Insider</a>.These don’t only include jobs in the federal government, but also jobs in state and local government, military, public health, infrastructure, administrative, and legislative branch jobs.&nbsp;Besides the fact that jobs in the public sector are owned and managed by the government rather than private ownership, the job duties themselves aren’t that much different between the two sectors. This is especially true for roles with comparable titles and functions.There are many <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-jobs-without-a-degree">high-paying jobs</a> in government, with the highest salary recorded in our Salary Database of $200,000 for civil engineers. They also may provide certain benefits that aren’t available at private companies, such as pensions. Similar to the role of unions for <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-trade-jobs">high-paying trade jobs</a>, several government jobs also have a strong union presence, providing collective bargaining power for wages, benefits, and working conditions.

Government Workers On Benefits, Pay Transparency, and More! The Break Room | Episode 11

Key points:<ul><li>The highest-paying government jobs are attorneys, air traffic controllers, nurse practitioners, and cybersecurity analysts.</li><li>Not all top-paying government jobs require a degree. Some may hire based on skills, certifications, or experience.</li><li>Contrary to the private sector, all government salaries are publicly shared.</li><li>Browse thousands of more publicly shared salaries on our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-databas">Salary Database</a> – for both private and public sectors.</li></ul>

&nbsp;<h2>10 Highest-Paying Government Jobs That Can Make Over $100k in 2024</h2>Transparency is the name of the game - and we're here for it! Government jobs actually paved the way for salary transparency. Before there were any <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/pay-transparency-laws">pay transparency laws</a> set, public sectors were already fighting <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/pay-discrimination">pay discrimination</a> and have been sharing salary data since the <a href="https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/foia#:~:text=The%20Freedom%20of%20Information%20Act%20(FOIA)%20allows%20any%20person%20the,in%20writing%20by%20any%20person.">Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) </a>was enacted in 1966. Now it’s time for us to sink our teeth into some of that juicy data.After pulling together salary data from the past 2+ years of interviews, our <a href="http://salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a>, the <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/">U.S.Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook</a> and the <a href="https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/pay-leave/salaries-wages/">U.S. Office of Personnel Management</a>, we’ve identified 10 top-earning government jobs in high demand for 2024.You can find all of the highest government salaries we recorded by filtering for “government” in our <a href="http://salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a>. Don’t forget to join and add your salary too!<h2>1. Attorney</h2>Median salary: $145,760 per yearHighest salary recorded in our Salary Database: $157,000Attorneys that work in government have similar responsibilities and duties to private attorneys, but instead of representing individuals or businesses, they represent the government. They usually work for government agencies at the local, state, or federal level, with duties that may include prosecuting criminal cases, providing legal advice to government departments, or drafting and enforcing regulations.

One reason why government attorneys are paid well is the heightened level of responsibility and specialized expertise required for their position. They must holistically understand public law and government procedures, and also be skilled in researching legal issues, drafting legal documents, and preparing reports for governmental use. We recently interviewed a lawyer who makes $215,000 with only 2 years of experience!Education needed: A Juris Doctor (JD) degree and passing the bar exam.Job outlook (2022-2032): 8% increase in job growth

Lawyers Make How Much?! Legal Professionals Compilation | Salary Transparent Street

<h2>2. Air Traffic Controller</h2>Median salary: $137,380 per yearHighest salary recorded in our Salary Database: $170,000When we take a plane flight anywhere, there are air traffic controllers that work at several different airports to make sure we have a safe trip through coordinating different aircrafts. The only difference for government air traffic controllers is that they typically work for national aviation authorities, such as the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Many may also come from a military background and bring experience from military air traffic control. We interviewed an air traffic controller who went through the military and makes a base salary of $175,000!Air traffic controllers undergo extensive training to handle the high-stakes nature of their job and require a specific set of hard skills to perform their day-to-day duties. A few of these skills include knowledge of radar and surveillance systems and the ability to communicate effectively. They must also have exceptional flight data and aerospace management skills.Education needed: The completion of an associate’s or Bachelor's degree through <a href="https://www.faa.gov/jobs/students/schools">AT-CTI programs</a> set by the FAA and complete training at the <a href="https://www.faa.gov/">Federal Aviation Administration</a> (FAA) academy.Job outlook (2022-2032): 1% increase in job growth

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

<h2>3. Nurse Practitioner</h2>Median salary: $129,480Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database: $164,000The demand for government nurse practitioners is skyrocketing. The position is one of the <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-healthcare-jobs">highest-paying healthcare jobs</a> and was named the best job in 2024 by <a href="https://money.usnews.com/money/careers/articles/the-25-best-jobs#:~:text=Nurse%20anesthetists%20are%20registered%20nurses,critical%20decisions%20about%20patient%20care.">U.S. News &amp; World Report</a>, with a projected 118,600 new jobs by 2032.

The difference between nurse practitioners that work for the government versus those that work in the private sector is they often work within public health clinics, VA hospitals, or military facilities. Their primary duties are to provide healthcare services, diagnosing and treating patients.&nbsp;Skills needed to be a successful nurse practitioner are advanced clinical knowledge, proficiency in medical procedures, and expertise in pharmacology. They must also understand the unique needs of military or veteran patients if they work in military settings or Veterans Affairs (VA) hospitals.Education needed: Become a registered nurse (RN) through an accredited nursing program, obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), a masters degree, and be board certified. We interviewed a nurse practitioner who makes $144,000 a year plus bonuses after getting a bachelor’s degree, working as a registered nurse, and then went back to school for a master’s degree in nursing.Job outlook (2022-2032): 38% increase in job growth

How Much Do Nurses Make? Nurse Salary Compilation 💚 Salary Transparent Street

<h2>4. Cybersecurity Analyst or Specialist</h2>Median salary: $120,360 per yearHighest salary recorded in our Salary Database: $153,000Positions in cybersecurity are set to soar in the next ten years as one of the<a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-tech-jobs"> highest-paying tech jobs</a>, especially those in the government. So much so that the national cyber director is openly encouraging the adoption of skill-based hiring to fill these jobs, according to a 2024 <a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/oncd/briefing-room/2024/04/29/press-release-wh-cyber-workforce-convening/">press release</a> by The White House.U.S. government intelligence data is a coveted item by hackers, and cyber security analysts are there to protect it. Analysts typically work for federal agencies, such as the Department of Homeland Security, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the National Security Agency (NSA), along with the Department of Defence, and state and local governments.&nbsp;Cybersecurity analysts are experts at securing network infrastructures and protocols, including firewalls and VPNs. They’re also coders that need to write and understand code or for automating tasks, using knowledge of encryption methods to protect sensitive data. A day in the life of one of these analysts may include monitoring and responding to threats, debugging issues, and implementing security measures. &nbsp;

Education needed: A Bachelor's degree in cybersecurity, computer science, or something similar. Not all jobs may require a degree and may be accepted based on skills and certifications. We interviewed a cybersecurity analyst who makes $150,000 after 5 years of experience and a bachelor’s degree in information security!Job outlook (2022-2032): 32% increase in job growth

🔒Cybersecurity Pay Compilation!#salarytransparentstreet #salarytransparency

<h2>5. Economist</h2>Median salary: $115,730Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database: $175,000Government economists work with economic data to inform decision-makers on the economic implications of various policies, such as reducing unemployment or controlling inflation. They typically work at federal government agencies, such as the Departments of Treasury, Commerce, and Labor and the Federal Reserve, state and local governments, and regulatory agencies.The day-to-day duties include anything from economic data analysis to modeling and predicting outcomes based on various scenarios. They must also know how to conduct research, prepare reports, and provide insights on economic issues.Education needed: A Bachelor's or Master’s degree in economics, public policy, business, or other related fields. We interviewed an economist who makes $68,000 a year after completing his master’s degree and a 6-month internship!&nbsp;Job outlook (2022-2032): 6% increase in job growth &nbsp;

How much do a #BusinessAnalyst and #Economist make?📍Baltimore, MD #salarytransparentstreet

<h2>6. Data Scientist</h2>Median salary: $108,020 per yearHighest salary recorded in our Salary Database: $160,000Governments can’t make decisions without understanding their data. That’s where data scientists come in. Due to the demand for data scientists and AI expertise, <a href="https://federalnewsnetwork.com/federal-report/2024/01/opm-leads-governmentwide-data-scientist-hiring-effort-to-build-up-ai-expertise/">The Office of Personnel Management (OPM)</a> announced in 2024 a governmentwide hiring effort.&nbsp;Their job is to interpret large volumes of data to inform public policy decision-making. Without them, the government wouldn’t know how to optimize government programs and services, improve efficiency, and address societal challenges.

anchorman gif of ron burgundy saying it's science

The daily job duties of a government data scientist include data management and analysis, and interpreting that data to create visual representations and communicate findings to stakeholders.&nbsp;Education needed: A Bachelor's degree is data science, computer science, engineering, or equivalent area. Some jobs may hire based on skills, experience, and certifications in place of a Bachelor's degree requirement. We interviewed a data scientist who makes $110,000 a year after a data science bootcamp and a bachelor’s degree in business!Job outlook (2022-2032): 35% increase in job growth

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

<h2>7. Statistician</h2>Median salary: $104,860 per yearHighest salary recorded in our Salary Database: $158,000Anytime we see census data from the government, statisticians are the ones behind the scenes designing the census survey and collecting that data. Then analyze that data to identify population growth trends and inform resource allocation for public services like schools and hospitals. They also evaluate unemployment rates and economic indicators to help guide policy decisions on job creation and social programs.

But how is that any different from data analysts and data scientists? The main difference is statisticians develop and apply advanced mathematical models to process and analyze data, while data analysts focus on using established tools and methods to interpret data and provide practical insights. However, there are times when they work together.Education needed: A bachelor's degree in statistics, mathematics, or related field and a master's degree or PhD may be required for advanced positions.&nbsp;Job outlook (2022-2032): 11% increase in job growth<h2>8. Program Analyst</h2>Median salary: $99,410 per yearHighest salary recorded in our Salary Database: $134,000Government program analysts use data to create policies. Their primary job duty is to evaluate and improve public programs, such as public health and economic development programs, through data analysis and reporting.&nbsp;Program analysts can be a sort of catch-all job title due to their variety of job responsibilities. Sometimes they have duties that resemble a software engineer with project management skills or being a business analyst that works to improve government processes and functions. The role may vary widely depending on the government agency and program.Skills needed to become a program analyst include coding skills using various programming languages, and expertise in interpreting data and applying methodologies. They tend to work with tools such as Excel, SAS, database management systems, and project management software.&nbsp;Education needed: A degree may not be an absolute requirement and may depend on the specific position. However, a Bachelor's degree in relevant fields like public administration, economics, or data science, or becoming a Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM) or the Certified Analytics Professional (CAP) may be helpful in securing a job.Job outlook (2022-2032): 10% increase in job growth

Old Town, Alexandria, VA📍#salarytransparency #equalpay #diversitymatters #howmuchdoyoumake

<h2>9. Civil Engineer</h2>Median salary: $95,890 per yearHighest salary recorded in our Salary Database: $200,000Civil engineering involves the design, planning, and overseeing the construction and maintenance of infrastructure projects that are vital to our everyday lives. Think of the roads you drive and the buildings you see. They wouldn’t exist without civil engineers.

gif of person saying i'm a civil engineer

Other projects civil engineers oversee in addition to roads and buildings include bridges, water supply systems, wastewater management, railways, airports, tunnels, flood control systems, and park and recreational facilities. Their daily duties include anything from developing and reviewing designs to performing site inspections, and vary based on the project they’re working on.Education needed: A Bachelor's degree in civil engineering is typically required.Job outlook (2022-2032): 5% increase in job growth

Find out how to get a #ConstructionJob with @indeed’s free resources at the link in our bio! #IndeedPartner #salarytransparentstreet #salarytransparency #paytransparency #equalpay #howmuchdoyoumake #indeed #constructionsalary #constructionpay #constructionjobs #tradejob 

<h2>10. Budget Analyst</h2>Median salary: $84,940 per yearHighest salary recorded in our Salary Database: $117,000A government budget analyst, also referred to as a budget officer, works for public institutions, such as federal government agencies, and state and local government departments, to help manage and track how money is spent.Government budgets go through 3 main phases; budget formulation, budget presentation/enactment, and budget execution. Budget analysts assist in these phases by analyzing past spending and future needs, and create budget proposals from their findings. From there, they help government entities stick to their budgets and track their performance.

spongebob squarepants gif of fish calculating something

Their work is key to everyday public services and programs, such as education, healthcare, and social programs. The budgets they work on could end up deciding things like how much money is allocated to schools or where your tax money goes.&nbsp;Education needed: A Bachelor's degree in business, public administration, accounting, economics, or statistics is typically required. We interviewed a budget analyst that makes $93,000 a year with 5 years of experience!Job outlook (2022-2032): 3% increase in job growth

The Wharf, Washington, D.C.📍#salarytransparency #equalpay #diversitymatters #howmuchdoyoumake

<h2>How to Break Into Government Jobs</h2>Many government jobs use the same transferable skills for equivalent jobs in the private sector. The skills for breaking into the public sector are no different. You go through the same motions of seeking required education, networking, and gaining experience through internships or entry-level work.&nbsp;Some government jobs pay on a per-level basis using the General Schedule (GS). There are 15 different grades, starting from GS-1 to GS-15, with GS-15 being the highest-paying classification. How these grades are assigned to different positions are based on the level of responsibility, difficulty, specific hard skills required, and qualifications required. Positions that are classified at a GS-5 and above require a Bachelor's degree, and those above GS-9 require a Master’s degree. Keep these in mind as you look at open jobs and decide what education path you’ll take.A great way to gain the most relevant experience is by looking for government agencies that have any entry-level positions open, or working contract jobs for companies that contract with the government. They don’t have to be in the specific position you’re going for, especially if you haven’t met all of the qualifications just yet, but can be in adjacent positions with less qualifications while you finish school and work your way up. However, if there is a position that you think you’d be perfect for but don’t meet all the qualifications, apply to it anyway.&nbsp;To start searching for and applying to government jobs, use <a href="https://www.usajobs.gov/">USAJOBS</a>, a website managed by the U.S. government for their federal hiring process. Don’t forget to use our list of the <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/job-interview-questions-and-answers">most common interview questions and answers</a> when preparing for your interview, and always advocate for yourself and <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/negotiate-salary-offer">negotiate your salary</a> at any job you work.We know you’ll land a good one and can’t wait to see what differences you make in our everyday lives!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!If this guide helps you land a higher-paying job, let us know! Send us an email ➡️ hello@salarytransparentstreet.comFor more Salary Transparent Street resources:<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>

illustration of government building and dollar bills against a split green background with title text overlay that says highest-paying government jobs

10 Highest-Paying Government Jobs & How to Land Them

Healthcare is one of the largest industries in the U.S. and is projected to exceed 5 trillion dollars in 2024, according to the <a href="https://www.cms.gov/data-research/statistics-trends-and-reports/national-health-expenditure-data/projected">National Health Expenditures (NHE) data</a> from The Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services' (CMS).&nbsp;It also has some of the <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-jobs-without-a-degree">highest-paying jobs</a>, with six-figure salaries paying as much as $525,000 for oncologists, $500,000 for dentists, and $475,000 for emergency medicine physicians – which are the largest healthcare salaries recorded in our <a href="http://salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a>. With the amount of responsibility and student loans that many of these professionals have, the pay makes sense.

Even if you don’t want to be a doctor, there are still other high-paying medical jobs to choose from, such as nurse anesthetists with salaries as high as $350,000 recorded in our Salary Database.&nbsp;There is a ton of growth potential in this industry, with as much as a <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/nurse-anesthetists-nurse-midwives-and-nurse-practitioners.htm#tab-6">40% projected job growth</a> between now and 2033 for some roles, making it a great option for those who want to work in medicine.&nbsp;Key points:<ul><li>Some of the highest-paying healthcare jobs are oncologists and emergency medicine physicians.</li><li>You don’t have to become a doctor to land a high-paying healthcare job.</li><li>The highest-paying healthcare jobs that don’t require doctoral degrees are nurse anesthetists and physician assistants.</li><li>Browse thousands of more publicly shared salaries on our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-databas">Salary Database</a>.</li></ul>

&nbsp;<h2>9 Highest-Paying Healthcare Jobs That Pay Over $100k</h2>We’ve identified 9 top-earning jobs in the healthcare industry 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 (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook</a>.&nbsp;Here’s a sneak peak of a few medical salaries from our recent interviews:

💰Healthcare Jobs + Pay Compilation!#salarytransparentstreet #paytransparency #howmuchdoyoumake

You can find all of the highest healthcare salaries we recorded 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!<h2>1. Oncologist</h2>Median salary: <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/physicians-and-surgeons.htm">$239,200 per year</a> or moreHighest salary recorded in our Salary Database: <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3Doncologist&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$525,000</a>Oncologists specialize in diagnosing and treating cancer. They manage a patient's cancer care throughout the course of the disease, including diagnosis, treatment, follow-up, and palliative care. Many oncologists are also involved in researching and learning about new cancer treatments. Without them, many cancer patients would lose hope.&nbsp;Oncologists typically specialize in one of three areas: medical oncology, radiation oncology, or surgical oncology. They’re required to have a strong understanding of cancer biology and treatment modalities, as well as be able to manage any side effects. Depending on their speciality, their required years of residency may change but typically fall within 3 to 7 years. After that, they can become board-certified.&nbsp;Job outlook (2023-2033): 4% increase in job growthEducation needed: Doctoral or medical professional degree, 3 to 7 years of residency, and passage of the <a href="https://www.usmle.org/">United States Medical Licensing Exam</a> (USMLE).<h2>2. Emergency Medicine Physician</h2>Median salary: <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/physicians-and-surgeons.htm">$239,200 per year</a> or moreHighest salary recorded in our Salary Database: <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DEmergency+Medicine+Physician&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$475,000</a>Emergency medicine physicians specialize in treating patients with acute illnesses or injuries that require urgent care. If you’ve ever been to the emergency room, those are the doctors that you see. They typically work in high-pressure environments, such as hospital emergency rooms or trauma centers, and their role is to provide immediate medical attention to patients of all ages and with a wide variety of conditions.Before they can become full-fledged doctors, emergency medicine physicians need to complete 3 to 4 years of residency before becoming board-certified. Even though this position has the potential to be high-earning, residency isn’t. We interviewed an emergency medicine resident who is currently earning $66,000 in her 2nd year of residency. Keep this in mind when exploring different medical roles.Job outlook (2023-2033): 4% increase in job growthEducation needed: Doctoral or medical professional degree, 3 to 4 years of specialty training in emergency medicine, and passage of the USMLE.

Resident Physicians make how much?! Student loans + unionization! Washington, DC📍

<h2>3. Anesthesiologist</h2>Median salary: <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/physicians-and-surgeons.htm">$239,200 per year</a> or moreHighest salary recorded in our Salary Database: <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DAnesthesiologist&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$450,000</a>If you’ve ever had to have a surgery done, remember when you were knocked out cold by the lovely medical professional who had you count down from 100? They were an anesthesiologist, who are medical doctors who specialize in administering anesthesia and managing pain. Because of them, your safety and comfort is ensured during and after medical procedures – and are responsible for your sound surgical slumber.

Anesthesiologists work across various settings, including operating rooms, labor and delivery units, intensive care units (ICUs), and pain management clinics. You may think this profession has zero to no work-life balance, much like several doctors, but that isn’t always the case. We interviewed a cardiac anesthesiologist who makes up to $700,000 a year, has 4 kids, and has never missed anything of importance. They place a high importance on that balance.Job outlook (2023-2033): 4% increase in job growthEducation needed: &nbsp;Doctoral or medical professional degree, 4 years of residency, and passage of the USMLE.

#CardiacAnesthesiologist in Phoenix, AZ📍#salarytransparentstreet #salarytransparency

<h2>4. Nurse Anesthetist (CRNAs)</h2>Median salary: <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/nurse-anesthetists-nurse-midwives-and-nurse-practitioners.htm#tab-5">$212,650 per year</a>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database: <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DNurse+Anesthetist&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$350,000</a>Nurse anesthetists, or Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs), are advanced practice nurses who specialize in administering anesthesia. Their main role is providing anesthesia care to patients undergoing surgical, medical, or diagnostic procedures.The main difference between CRNA’s and anesthesiologists is their education and training. CRNAs are advanced practice nurses with specialized training in anesthesia, while anesthesiologists are medical doctors who complete a medical degree and a residency in anesthesiology. Anesthesiologists typically oversee anesthesia care in more complex cases and have a broader scope of medical practice compared to CRNAs.Job outlook (2023-2033): 40% increase in job growthEducation needed: Master's degree. We interviewed a CRNA who makes $280,000 a year and started out as a registered nurse (RN), worked in the ICU for 7 years (she said the minimum requirement was 1 year), then went to anesthesia school. New nurse anesthetists will be required to have a doctoral degree by 2025, according to the <a href="https://college.mayo.edu/academics/explore-health-care-careers/careers-a-z/nurse-anesthetist/#:~:text=Completing%20advanced%20training%20to%20become,a%20doctoral%20degree%20by%202025.">Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science</a>.

#NurseAnesthetist in New York City📍#salarytransparentstreet #salarytransparency #paytransparency

<h2>5. Dentist</h2>Median salary: <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/dentists.htm">$170,910 per year</a>&nbsp;Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database: <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DDentist&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$500,000</a>As much as you may hate going to the dentist, those pearly whites of yours have a different opinion. Dentists are who take care of your oral hygiene and overall health. In addition to caring for their patient’s teeth, they also treat conditions related to the gums and mouth.Dentists aren’t the only high-paying dental role out there. Oral surgeons, orthodontists, and prosthodontists are other possible specialties to explore – with oral surgeons making a median salary of <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/dentists.htm#tab-5">$239,000</a>, according to the BLS. Dentists have the option to become oral surgeons, but not all dentists are oral surgeons.&nbsp;Job outlook (2023-2033): 5% increase in job growthEducation needed: Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree and passage of the <a href="https://jcnde.ada.org/inbde">Integrated National Board Dental Examination (INBDE)</a>.<h2>6. Pharmacist</h2>Median salary: <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/pharmacists.htm">$136,030 per year</a>&nbsp;Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database: <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DPharmacist&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$177,000</a>While doctors write prescriptions, pharmacists fill them. Pharmacists are healthcare professionals who specialize in the safe and effective use of medications. They play a vital role in patient care by ensuring that medications are prescribed and used properly, providing valuable information to patients and healthcare providers, and contributing to public health initiatives.A pharmacist's salary may vary depending on where they work. Those working in ambulatory healthcare services make a median salary of $150,110, while those who work in hospitals make $141,880, according to <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/pharmacists.htm#tab-5">the BLS</a>. Pharmacists that work at your local drug store make a little less at $131,290. We interviewed a pharmacist that makes $100,000 a year working in a hospital.Job outlook (2023-2033): 5% increase in job growthEducation needed: A PharmD, or Doctor of Pharmacy and passage of the <a href="https://nabp.pharmacy/programs/examinations/naplex/">North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX)</a>.

How much does a Pharmacist make? 💊 Washington, DC📍#salarytransparentstreet #pharmacistsalary

<h2>7. Optometrist</h2>Median salary: <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/optometrists.htm">$131,860 per year</a>&nbsp;Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database: <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DOptometrist&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$380,000</a>If you’re having trouble seeing clearly and think you might need glasses or contacts, an optometrist is who you go to see. Optometrists are doctors who specialize in eye care and vision health. They perform eye examinations, diagnose vision problems, and provide treatments, including prescribing corrective lenses and managing certain eye diseases.

Where optometrists end up working has a lot to do with their pay. Those who work at outpatient care centers make a median salary of $182,200 a year, while those who work in offices make a lower salary of $125,140, according to the <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/optometrists.htm#tab-5">BLS</a>.Job outlook (2023-2033): 9% increase in job growthEducation needed: Doctor of Optometry (O.D.) degree and passage of the <a href="https://oat.ada.org/">Optometry Admission Test (OAT)</a>. We interviewed an optometrist that spent 8 years in schooling and currently makes $143,000 a year.

#Optometrist in Denver, CO📍#salarytransparentstreet #paytransparency  #optometry#optometristsalary

<h2>8. Physician Assistants</h2>Median salary: <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/physician-assistants.htm">$130,020 per year</a>&nbsp;Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database: <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=">$165,000</a>Have you ever made a doctor appointment and were instead scheduled with your doctor’s physician assistant? There’s a good reason for that.&nbsp;Physician Assistants (PAs) practice medicine under the supervision of physicians. They play a vital role in providing patient care in various medical settings, including hospitals, clinics, and outpatient facilities. When doctors aren’t available, they help handle the load by consulting with patients during routine appointments and some specialty care.

PAs in outpatient care centers tend to make the most, with a median salary of <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/physician-assistants.htm#tab-5">$141,050 recorded by the BLS</a>. We interviewed a PA who currently makes $130,000 a year with 10 years of experience.Job outlook (2023-2033): 28% increase in job growthEducation needed: Master's degree and passage of the <a href="https://www.nccpa.net/become-certified/">Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE)</a>.

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

<h2>9. Veterinarian</h2>Median salary: <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/veterinarians.htm">$119,100</a> per yearHighest salary recorded in our Salary Database: <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DVeterinarian&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$230,000</a>Our fur babies need doctors too. Veterinarians are continually growing in demand as the number of pets grows (and the necessary care needed for those cuties). So much so that the profession is projected to grow 19% by 2033, making it a great option for animal lovers.&nbsp;It’s a career that allows you to spend your days with your favorite people – animals. You’ll be responsible for diagnosing and treating animals through preventative care, surgeries, and advising pet owners on animal health and wellness.

Even though it’s a great high-paying job, there can be a few downsides to it too. If you can’t handle seeing animals at their worst, then this may not be the job for you. You have to be someone who will be there to medically treat them no matter what. They’re counting on you!Job outlook (2023-2033): 19% increase in job growthEducation needed: Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM or VMD) degree at an <a href="https://www.avma.org/education/center-for-veterinary-accreditation/accredited-veterinary-colleges">accredited college of veterinary medicine</a>.

<h2>How to Break Into High-Paying Medical Jobs&nbsp;</h2>Breaking into some of the highest-paying healthcare jobs can be a tough feat to say the least. Doctors and surgeons require as much as 15 years of school and training for some specialties before they can practice on their own, and it isn’t cheap either. If you need help covering the bill, <a href="https://students-residents.aamc.org/financial-aid/paying-medical-school">The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC)</a> is a great resource for finding financial aid.

PT 3! Healthcare Jobs + Pay Compilation #salarytransparentstreet #paytransparency #paycompilation

However, there are plenty of positions in the medical field that pay well and have lower barriers to entry, such as nurse practitioners who earn a median salary of <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/nurse-anesthetists-nurse-midwives-and-nurse-practitioners.htm#tab-5">$126,260</a> with a master’s degree as a minimum requirement. This is also one of the <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/top-jobs-of-2025">highest-paying in demand jobs of the future</a>. The highest salary recorded for nurse practitioners in our Salary Database is <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=">$164,000</a> a year.&nbsp;Radiation therapists and nuclear medicine technologists both fall above <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/">$90,000</a> median yearly salaries and only require associate degrees! Some of the <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-trade-jobs">highest-paying trade jobs</a> also fall under healthcare, such as sonographers and radiology technicians.Whatever role you wish to explore in medicine, spend a good amount of time shadowing higher-up professionals to get a good feel for what you really want to do. Maybe one day you’ll be the one to save our lives! 😷Don’t forget to browse our other resources as you break into this field, including <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!Learn about more high-paying jobs:<ul><li><a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-creative-jobs">8 Highest-Paying Creative Jobs That Pay $100k or More</a></li><li><a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-government-jobs">10 Highest-Paying Government Jobs &amp; How to Land Them</a></li><li><a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-trade-jobs">18 Highest-Paying Trade Jobs With Low Barriers to Entry</a></li><li><a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-jobs-without-a-degree">17 Highest-Paying Jobs Without a College Degree (All Pay Over $60K)</a></li></ul>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!If this guide helps you land a higher-paying job, let us know! Send us an email ➡️ hello@salarytransparentstreet.comFor more Salary Transparent Street resources:<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>

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Top 9 Highest-Paying Healthcare Jobs With Six-Figure Salaries

Has anyone ever told you that you have to go to college to get a high-paying job? Even if they don't know what you even want to do, society still pushes college as the ultimate solution.&nbsp;With the average cost of a 4-year college being $38,496 for in-state students and $54,183 for out-of-state students, according to the <a href="https://educationdata.org/average-cost-of-online-college">Education Data Initiative</a>, college degrees are becoming harder and harder to afford.

Even though college degrees are necessary for several professions such as for doctors or lawyers, they aren’t required for everything. Many companies now value experience over a college degree and are changing their policies to attract better candidates.&nbsp;Key points:<ul><li>There are jobs paying over $60,000 that don’t require a college degree.</li><li>Some of the highest-paying jobs that don't require a degree include software engineers, real estate brokers, and entrepreneurs.&nbsp;</li><li>Necessary skills and experience can be learned through online courses or on the job.</li><li>Our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a> has access to more high-paying job titles.</li></ul>

&nbsp;<h2>17 Highest-Paying Jobs That Don’t Require a College Degree (All Pay Over $60K)</h2>Use this list of 17 high-paying jobs that don’t require a college degree to start thinking of what you want to do and what’s required.&nbsp;All salary information below was pulled from <a href="https://www.glassdoor.com/Salaries/">Glassdoor </a>where you can also view open roles for each position. Job growth information was pulled from the <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/">Occupational Outlook Handbook</a> by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Keep in mind that the numbers below may change depending on your location.Our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a> is another great resource for salary reporting. Thankfully, <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/pay-transparency-laws">pay transparency laws</a> and the <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/the-importance-of-salary-transparency">salary transparency movement</a> has allowed for easy access to that salary information.&nbsp;

Highest Salaries We Interviewed In 2023 | Salary Transparent Street Compilation

<h2>1. Real Estate Broker</h2>Median annual salary: $178,287Total potential pay: $132,000 - $236,000Highest-paying salary in our Salary Database: $100,000A real estate broker is someone who is a licensed intermediary between buyers and sellers in real estate transactions. They're basically real estate agents with an additional license to be a broker. Their primary role is to facilitate the purchase, sale, or lease of properties.The top skills needed for this job are communication skills and market knowledge, which can also be learned on the job. If you're someone who window shops on sites like Zillow and geeks out over real estate, this job might be perfect for you.Entry-level education required: High school diploma or equivalent, real estate agent license, real estate broker license, and any specific licensing requirements that vary by stateWork experience required: NoneProjected growth rate up to year 2032: 3%<h2>2. Software Engineer</h2>Median annual salary: $140,318Total potential pay: $113,000 - $425,000Highest-paying salary in our Salary Database: $425,000Software engineers are responsible for designing, developing, testing, and maintaining software applications or systems. It's one of the <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-tech-jobs">top tech salaries</a> for a reason as they're expected to wear many hats and may work long hours. Their job includes analyzing user requirements and building software using programming languages such as Java, Python, C++, and many others.&nbsp;

“Software engineer” has become a sort of catch-all position and not all companies use that title. Other job titles with the same duties include “software developer”, “front-end developer”, “back-end engineer”, and “machine learning engineer” – among many others, which all pay pretty well.We interviewed a software engineer who works on mobile apps and makes $205,000 a year with a whopping 25-50% bonus!They’re usually required to work in cross-functional teams, including product managers and quality assurance, so they must possess sufficient problem-solving and communication skills.&nbsp;Education, training, or license requirements: High school diploma or equivalent and <a href="https://spacecoders.com/sts">Space Coders</a> is a great service to learn how to code software (in addition to web development and any other job that requires coding)Work experience required: None but companies may ask for code samples or if you have a github (which you can create using mock projects of your own or through freelance projects)Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 25%

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

<h2>3. Ethical Hacker/Cybersecurity Analyst</h2>Median annual salary: $134,452Total potential pay: $101,000 - $184,000Highest-paying salary in our Salary Database: $166,000An ethical hacker, also known as a white-hat hacker, is a cybersecurity professional who is authorized to target vulnerabilities in computer systems, networks, and applications. These positions may also fall under “cybersecurity analyst” or “cybersecurity engineer” as possible job titles.&nbsp;Their primary role is to identify and assess potential security risks and weaknesses in order to strengthen a company's cybersecurity. Their demand has skyrocketed over the last decade and continues to increase with a 32% projected growth by 2032, especially in the government -- and is listed as one of the <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-government-jobs">highest-paying government jobs</a>.If you're someone that's interested in hacking and learning more about cybersecurity – but doesn't want to get involved in anything illegal – look at pursuing a career in ethical hacking or cyber security.

Education, training, or license requirements: High school diploma or equivalent and some companies may require cybersecurity certificates, which can be acquired through online courses and trainingWork experience required: Some I.T. experience may be requiredProjected growth rate up to year 2032: 32%<h2>4. Entrepreneur</h2>Median annual salary: $117,921Total potential pay: $88,000 - $180,000 (or more depending on the size of the business)Highest-paying salary in our Salary Database: $180,000An entrepreneur is someone who creates and runs their own business. They either work as a sole proprietor, in which they’re the only one who gets paid in their business after expenses (this is what freelancers do), or they could also be responsible for paying contractors or employees that work for them as a Limited Liability Company (LLC) or S corporation. The latter isn’t always easy when you’re also trying to pay yourself. We interviewed a business owner who makes up to $2,000 a day running her business and earnings depend on the month and the season.

#Entrepreneur in Louisville, KY📍#salarytransparentstreet #salarytransparency #paytransparency

Entrepreneurs are responsible for almost everything in their business, unless they outsource it. When they aren’t working on product ideas, talking one-on-one with clients, or anything else they do within their business, they might also handle bookkeeping, accounting, and the legal side of the business.&nbsp;Starting and running a business isn’t easy, but things do get easier with time. Take it from the pros! We interviewed Mark Cuban, Barbara Corcoran, and a few other successful entrepreneurs who were kind enough to give us a little look into their work and pay, as well as provide some advice for those just getting started.

Asking Mark Cuban and Barbara Corcoran How Much They Make | Salary Transparent Street

Education, training, or license requirements: None but taking online courses on how to run a business can be helpfulWork experience required: NoneProjected growth rate up to year 2032: 8%<h2>5. Sales Representative</h2>Median annual salary: $104,536Total potential pay: $78,000 - $143,000Highest-paying salary in our Salary Database: $105,000A sales representative, also known as a sales rep, is responsible for promoting and selling products or services on behalf of a company. A sales department exists in almost every industry and every type of company you can think of. This means you can work in any sector of your choosing – whether it’s technology, healthcare, or any other sector.&nbsp;

This job involves identifying potential customers and their problems so they can present solutions that align with the benefits of whatever product they’re selling - a <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/high-income-skills">high-income skill </a>that many businesses are on the lookout for.The number one skill they need to do this job well is relationship management so they can work to build and maintain relationships with clients – as well as address inquiries, negotiate terms, and close deals.Education, training, or license requirements: High school diploma or equivalent. We interviewed a sales rep that makes $89,500 a year after 8 years of experience. She has a degree in communications and she thinks it is valuable to have a degree but it isn’t absolutely required.Work experience required: NoneProjected growth rate up to year 2032: 4%

How much can you make in #Sales in📍Arlington, VA? #salarytransparentstreet #salarytransparency

<h2>6. Application Tester</h2>Median annual salary: $99,731Total potential pay: $76,000 - $170,000Highest-paying salary in our Salary Database: $170,000Application testers, also known as a software testers or quality assurance (QA) testers, evaluate software applications to ensure they meet quality standards and functional requirements before being released to the public. Their primary role involves identifying defects and bugs in software applications and provide feedback to developers for improvement.Their daily responsibilities range from test planning and execution to bug reporting and collaborating with cross-functional teams. Due to their role, they must have an attention to detail, possess high analytical skills, and have a technical aptitude to be able to perform tests.Education, training, or license requirements: High school diploma or equivalentWork experience required: Some hands-on application testing experienceProjected growth rate up to year 2032: 25%<h2>7. Digital Marketer</h2>Median annual salary: $92,682Total potential pay: $72,000 - $230,000Highest-paying salary in our Salary Database: $230,000As one of the <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-creative-jobs">highest-paying creative jobs</a>, a digital marketer is responsible for planning, executing, and optimizing online marketing strategies to promote products, services, and brands. Several other job titles also fall under the role of “digital marketer” including “digital marketing manager” “digital marketing analyst”, and “digital marketing specialist”. The specific title depends on the company hiring.

Their job involves leveraging various digital channels, such as social media, email, search engines, and websites, to reach target audiences and drive engagement. Their goal is to increase brand awareness and generate leads for a business.Skills needed usually involve website design basics, creative thinking, and the ability to interpret data to execute marketing campaigns.&nbsp;Education, training, or license requirements: High school diploma or equivalentWork experience required: None but companies prefer to see portfolios (which you can create one using mock projects of your own or through freelance projects)Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 6%<h2>8. Web Developer</h2>Median annual salary: $89,521Total potential pay: $70,000 - $165,000Highest-paying salary in our Salary Database: $165,000A web developer is someone who is responsible for designing, building, and maintaining websites or web applications. Their job involves translating a client's or organization's needs into functional and visually appealing websites, ensuring a user-friendly experience. Usually this also involves working with designers and content managers to make sure all requirements are met for the final product.Web developers use programming languages such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, and may work with various frameworks and content management systems.&nbsp;Education, training, or license requirements: High school diploma or equivalent and aspiring web developers can take online training with organizations like<a href="https://spacecoders.com/sts"> Space Coders</a>, which is a program that teaches kids and adults how to code through playing gamesWork experience required: None but companies prefer to see portfolios (which you can create one using mock projects of your own or through freelance projects)Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 16%<h2>9. Technical Writer</h2>Median annual salary: $81,911Total potential pay: $67,000 - $101,000&nbsp;Highest-paying salary in our Salary Database: $96,000Technical writers specialize in creating clear and concise documentation for complex technical information. This documentation can be anything from internal documentation and user guides to technical blogs and whitepapers. For instance, the person writing all the documentation for a development team is called a "technical writer", while the person writing technical blogs on the company's website may also be called a "technical writer".Skills required to do this job include technical proficiency, writing and editing skills, and the ability to communicate complex information in a way that is easily digestable for the target audience.Education, training, or license requirements: High school diploma or equivalentWork experience required: None but companies prefer to see portfolios (which you can create one using mock projects of your own or through freelance projects)Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 7%<h2>10. Insurance Agent</h2>Median annual salary: $80,128Total potential pay: $60,000 - $138,000Highest-paying salary in our Salary Database: $138,000Insurance agents help their clients to determine their specific insurance needs and select the appropriate coverage plans. Their responsibilities include explaining policy details, answering any questions, and providing recommendations. They also work with clients throughout the application process, for claims processing, and are available for any needed help during the coverage plan period.What's great about this job is you don't need a specific career path or much prior experience to get into it. We interviewed an insurance agent that makes $104,000 a year in his dream job. He first worked as a chef that did a lot of grunt work with low wages in return. In comparison, this job came easy to him and paid much better.

#InsuranceAgent in Salt Lake City, UT📍#salarytransparentstreet #salarytransparency #paytransparency

Since they’re expected to maintain ongoing relationships with clients to ensure their insurance coverage remains suitable over time, they must be highly skilled in communication. Insurance agents should also have a vast knowledge of insurance products so they can effectively analyze plan options and drive sales.Education, training, or license requirements: High school diploma or equivalentWork experience required: NoneProjected growth rate up to year 2032: 8%<h2>11. Transportation, Storage, or Distribution Manager</h2>Median annual salary: $79,417Total potential pay: $62,000 - $103,000Highest-paying salary in our Salary Database: $60,000Transportation, storage, and distribution managers are responsible for overseeing the efficient movement, storage, and distribution of goods within a supply chain. Their job involves coordinating transportation services, managing storage facilities, and optimizing distribution networks to ensure timely delivery of products.A few of their job duties may include collaborating with logistics teams and implementing strategies to streamline the overall supply chain process. They must also have skills in leadership, logistics, inventory control, and anything that helps them be an effective manager.Education, training, or license requirements: High school diploma or equivalentWork experience required: Some warehouse and supply chain experience may be requiredProjected growth rate up to year 2032: 18%<h2>12. Executive Assistant</h2>Median annual salary: $77,987Total potential pay: $61,000 - $190,000Highest-paying salary in our Salary Database: $190,000Executive assistants perform a wide range of duties in their job. They typically serve executives of both small and large companies, answering calls, responding to emails, adjusting schedules, making travel plans, etc. They do anything the executive can’t. Their role can even advance into helping the executive put together their work, such as making presentations, writing reports, and anything else that can help their superior get more done.&nbsp;Another name for the role of an executive assistant can also be “executive coordinator, “administrative assistant”, “administrative coordinator”, “business manager”, or “virtual assistant”.Education, training, or license requirements: High school diploma or equivalent. But some employers may require additional education.Work experience required: None but depending on the employer, they may require some secretarial experience.Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 6%<h2>13. Bartender</h2>Median annual salary: $73,075Total potential pay: $56,000 - $150,000Highest-paying salary in our Salary Database: $150,000Bartenders are an under-rated high-paying job that requires little to no schooling, even though there are bartending schools available.

Do you have a side hustle? #Marketing #Bartender working multiple jobs! #salarytransparentstreet

Bartenders do exactly what their title entails, they tend to a bar. However, that isn’t all they do. Not only are they taking your order, mixing your drinks, serving you food, and supplying you with company, they also clean the bar, take inventory, order supplies, make the schedule, and the list goes on. They’re basically managing the bar.Education, training, or license requirements: High school diploma or equivalent, and bartending school if required.Work experience required: None (but some restaurant experience is preferred)Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 3%<h2>14. Language Translator</h2>Median annual salary: $70,713Total potential pay: $56,000 - $90,000Highest-paying salary in our Salary Database: N/A but if you’re a translator, <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">add your salary</a>!A language translator is someone who is responsible for converting written or spoken content from one language to another. This involves accurately conveying the meaning, tone, and cultural nuances of the original text or speech.&nbsp;Translators work across various industries, including legal, medical, technical, and literary fields, ensuring effective communication between individuals and groups who speak different languages.Education, training, or license requirements: High school diploma or equivalent and fluency in 2 or more languages.Work experience required: NoneProjected growth rate up to year 2032: 4%<h2>15. Electrician</h2>Median annual salary: $68,727Total potential pay: $53,000 - $104,000Highest-paying salary in our Salary Database: $104,000Working as an electrician is one of the<a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-trade-jobs"> highest-paying trade jobs</a> out there that also doesn't require a college degree. Their job involves interpreting electrical blueprints, wiring buildings, and ensuring the safe and efficient distribution of electricity.

Full interview with #UnionElectricians in Arlington, VA📍#salarytransparentstreet #tradejobs

Electricians must be able to troubleshoot electrical issues and conduct inspections with a heightened attention to detail. They may specialize in areas such as wiring for new constructions, electrical repairs, or maintenance of complex industrial systems.&nbsp;Education, training, or license requirements: High school diploma or equivalent, and an apprenticeship where they get paid while training on the job. We interviewed a union electrician that makes $54 an hour as an apprentice, but will make $109 an hour once he completes his 5 years of schooling.Work experience required: NoneProjected growth rate up to year 2032: 6%

Trade Job Salaries | Salary Transparent Street Compilation

<h2>16. Video Editor</h2>Median annual salary: $61,468Total potential pay: $46,000 - $82,000Highest-paying salary in our Salary Database: $76,000Video editors are responsible for refining raw video footage into a polished final product. This involves cutting and sequencing clips, with transitions, effects, and sound elements to enhance storytelling. Think of your favorite YouTube and TikTok videos and the cool transitions you saw in those videos. Those were made possible by a video editor!

A few of the tools they use to do their job are a computer, video editing software, photo editing software, and anything else they need to complete the project. They also must stay updated on industry trends and possess a keen eye for detail to deliver high quality work.Education, training, or license requirements: High school diploma or equivalentWork experience required: None but companies prefer to see portfolios (which you can create one using mock projects of your own when you have no work experience or through freelance projects)Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 7%<h2>17. Plumber</h2>Median annual salary: $60,311Total potential pay: $47,000 - $88,000Highest-paying salary in our Salary Database: $88,000Plumbers are responsible for making sure plumbing systems are efficient and safe in residential, commercial, or industrial settings. Their job involves working with various plumbing components to ensure the proper functioning of water supply, drainage, and heating systems.&nbsp;

#SeniorOperationsManager and #Plumber in Phoenix, AZ📍#salarytransparentstreet #salarytransparency

They must have knowledge of plumbing tools and be able to critically think and provide advice on plumbing system improvements.&nbsp;Education, training, or license requirements: High school diploma or equivalent and plumber certificationWork experience required: None&nbsp;Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 2%<h2>Frequently Asked Questions About High-Paying Jobs That Don't Require a Degree</h2><h2>What job without a degree pays the most?</h2>The highest-paying jobs that don't require a degree include software engineers, ethical hackers, real estate brokers, application testers, sales representatives, and entrepreneurs.<h2>What are the easiest high-paying jobs?</h2>No high-paying job is necessarily "easy" but many can be low-stress. A few of these low-stress jobs that are high-paying include technical writers and web developers.<h2>How can I make $100,000 a year without a college degree?</h2>Making a <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/100k-salary-cities">$100k salary</a> without a college degree is achievable with the right combination of skills, experience, and determination. A few $100k salary jobs include software engineering, cybersecurity, real estate, entrepreneurship, trade jobs, and commission-based roles like sales.&nbsp;Research these industries and focus on building the skills they require. Many of these skills can be learned through online courses, workshops, or self-study resources. From there, look for programs and certifications to increase your earning potential, network and build relationships with people in those sectors, and don't forget to always negotiate your pay and <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/how-to-ask-for-a-raise">ask for a raise at work</a> when needed (and no, you won't <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/can-you-lose-a-job-offer-by-negotiating-salary">lose a job offer by negotiating</a>)!<h2>What is the highest paid job without experience?</h2>The highest-paying job without experience is working as a real estate broker.<h2>Landing The Job</h2>There are tons of high-paying jobs that don’t require a college degree. Our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a> lists even more salary information for you to use in your research.If you have a profession in mind that you want to learn more about, start with looking up that job title on job sites to get a clearer idea on the different responsibilities. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@SalaryTransparentStreet">Our YouTube channel </a>is a hidden gem for learning more about different professions and how much they make.&nbsp;Linkedin can be another great tool for researching positions. Search for job titles under the people tab to see what education, training, and experience they have in those positions to get a behind-the-scenes look.From there, look up online courses to build your skills and improve your resume as you start applying for some of these roles. And don't forget to <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-jobs-without-a-degree">negotiate your salary</a> using our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/salary-negotiation-scripts">salary negotiation scripts</a>!Don’t forget to browse our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a> and <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/onboarding">join the movement</a>!&nbsp;That wraps it up for this week. Until then, 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!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!

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.Explore over 5,000+ individually reported salaries nationwide across all industries in our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a>!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!Subscribe to our <a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/subscribe">weekly newsletter</a> for news updates, professional deep dives, learning opportunities, and more!Send us an email ➡️ hello@salarytransparentstreet.com

featured desktop image of people working against a green background and title text overlay that reads "highest-paying jobs no degree required)

featured image of people working against a green background and title text overlay that reads "highest-paying jobs no degree required)

17 Highest-Paying Jobs Without a College Degree (All Pay Over $60K)

Navigating the art of <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/negotiate-salary-offer">salary negotiation</a> can be a difficult task, especially when you’re scared that you could lose a job offer because of it. Don’t let that fear get the best of you.&nbsp;Worrying about all the bad things that could happen will only add insecurity to your efforts. Have you thought about what good things might happen? Because there’s a higher chance of a good outcome from negotiating rather than a bad one like a rescinded job offer.&nbsp;There are people that work some of the <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-jobs-without-a-degree">highest-paying jobs without a college degree</a>. They're not only in the corporate world either. There are just as many <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-trade-jobs">high-paying trade jobs</a> out there too. One reason they increased their pay is by negotiating their salary.&nbsp;Always negotiate your salary and benefits no matter what doubts may pop in your head. How you go about that is the secret sauce to getting what you want.

&nbsp;Key points:<ul><li>Job offers aren’t normally rescinded due to negotiating.</li><li>There are ways to avoid losing a job offer, but some things may be out of your control.&nbsp;</li><li>Don’t let fear stop you from negotiating and advocating for yourself. Always negotiate no matter what.&nbsp;</li></ul><h2>Can You Lose a Job Offer By Negotiating Salary?</h2>Can you really lose a job offer by negotiating salary? Well, yes and no. It’s actually a rare occurrence because employers expect people to negotiate when receiving a job offer. But it still happens as not all employers are the same. &nbsp;

For instance, <a href="https://www.thecut.com/article/ask-a-boss-job-offer-rescinded-after-negotiating.html">The Cut </a>published a letter from a woman who lost a job offer after negotiating, but most likely due to something that happened on the employer’s end. They almost didn’t publish the letter in fear that it would deter other women from negotiating, but thought it was important to share since the topic isn’t something that is talked about often.&nbsp;However, <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2022/05/13/85-percent-of-americans-who-negtiated-a-job-offer-were-successful.html">a survey from Fidelity</a> found 85% of Americans and 87% of professionals ages 25 to 35 were successful when negotiating salary and benefits, meaning they got at least close to what they negotiated for. Remember, those odds are in your favor. If you let the fear of negotiating overcome you, you could lose out on some serious wealth building money in the future.<h2>Why Do Employers Rescind Job Offers?</h2>Usually it has little to do with you and everything to do with the employer. Pulling offers when a candidate negotiates is outside of normal business operations and could indicate that they lack a professional culture in their hiring process. If that’s the case, you probably don’t want to be working for them anyway.

On the other hand, there may be things happening on the employer side that fairly explains why they rescinded the offer, but they rarely reveal those details. They could’ve found a stronger candidate last minute, changed organizational needs, or received pressure to hire an internal candidate from higher up management.When negotiating salary and <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/negotiate-benefits">benefits</a>, there will always be things outside your control. Instead, focus on what you can control.<h2>The Do’s &amp; Don’ts of Salary Negotiation</h2>There are several reasons why a job offer might be rescinded. When you can’t control much from what happens behind the scenes of the employer, you can at least control your end of the negotiation.Let’s dig into a few do’s and don’ts of salary negotiation so you can step into the discussion fully prepared.<h2>Don’t Make Unrealistic Demands When Negotiating</h2>When negotiating your compensation package or <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/how-to-ask-for-a-raise">asking for a raise</a>, avoid responding with excessive counteroffers or demands that are unrealistic. These could be demands that are against company policy, rebounding with a new ask each time they respond, and anyway that shows you are unwilling to meet an agreement.&nbsp;<h2>Do Provide Proof of Your Value</h2>Make sure you have a justifiable reason that has to do with your value as a candidate when negotiating. For example, when negotiating for a higher salary but using personal preference instead of presenting it as your market salary could appear as a red flag to the employer. Our <a href="https://view.flodesk.com/pages/64c03066207ff6fa282b6bac?referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com%2F">Free Negotiation Guide</a> is a great resource to assist you in how to present your value to the company.

<h2>Don’t Be Combative or Aggressive</h2>This goes hand-in-hand with unrealistic demands, which could be seen as combative and an indication that you may be difficult to work with. If you act unprofessionally or aggressive during the negotiation, including passive aggressively, that could be another reason a job offer would be withdrawn.<h2>Do Make Sure to Be a Good Communicator During The Hiring Process</h2>When receiving a job offer, make sure to stay in constant contact with the recruiter and hiring manager in the most professional way possible. This includes when negotiating over the phone and email. Don’t leave them hanging for days without prompt communication of how long to expect when they’ll hear from you next. You want to show them that you are a good communicator and are reachable. This will also show them how you’ll perform in the new role and that you’re easy to work with when coming to an agreement.

<h2>Don’t Beat Around The Bush</h2>Talking about pay and benefits earlier in the interview process will help set expectations and prevent excessive negotiations after a job offer. If you were to ask about the salary in the first few interviews, that is an expected question to bring up and sets the stage for when negotiations come around during a job offer. Due to several <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/pay-transparency-laws">pay transparency laws </a>across the country, it’s illegal in some states for them to refuse that question.<h2>Do Work On Your Timing</h2>Trying to negotiate after accepting a job offer or after a round of negotiations when terms were already agreed on could be a red flag as well, but isn’t always.&nbsp; If you decide to negotiate after accepting the job offer, we have a few <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/salary-negotiation-scripts">salary negotiation scripts</a> to help you with handling that situation.&nbsp;<h2>When Job Offers are Non-Negotiable</h2>Another reason that isn’t talked about much is when a job offer is non-negotiable. If an employer sends you a job offer and states that it’s non-negotiable but you still try to negotiate, you may receive a response along the lines of, “This offer is non-negotiable and if that doesn’t work for you, then we can’t move forward.” In that case, it’s your decision to move forward with the job offer as-is or continue your job search.Considering a few of these reasons, you should still negotiate for a fair compensation package no matter what. It’s how you go about it that you should be careful of. Keep in mind what’s most important to you in that package, what isn’t, and what you’re willing to compromise on.

<h2>How to Avoid Losing a Job Offer During Salary Negotiations</h2>There will always be doubts that come to mind when approaching negotiations. Some call it “imposter syndrome”, but in reality it’s a very real and universal insecurity many folks share. Asking for money and advocating for your needs in any setting is uncomfortable, especially with added pressure from a job offer. Those doubts are just that - doubts. They aren’t real and are grounded in all the “what-ifs” that cycle through our mind when we get scared.But employers are not all evil overlords waiting to pull the rug out from every candidate that negotiates. Companies value people who advocate for themselves. If they don’t, how could they advocate and make sound decisions for the company in their job position?So, even if it’s possible to lose a job offer, it isn’t necessarily because you decided to negotiate. Always negotiate and advocate for yourself no matter what and use our <a href="https://view.flodesk.com/pages/64c03066207ff6fa282b6bac?referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com%2F">Free Negotiation Guide</a> as your own personal blueprint.

&nbsp;That wraps it up for this week. Until then, 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!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!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.Explore over 5,000+ individually reported salaries nationwide across all industries in our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a>!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!Subscribe to our <a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/subscribe">weekly newsletter</a> for news updates, professional deep dives, learning opportunities, and more!Send us an email ➡️ hello@salarytransparentstreet.com &nbsp;

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Losing a job offer just by negotiating seems pretty unfair. Does that even happen? Let's dig in and learn the do's and don'ts of negotiating (and grab our Free Salary Negotiation Guide while you're at it).

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