If you’re aiming for a six-figure salary, you’ve come to the right place. In this post, I’ll cover some top-paying jobs that can get you earning six figures or more annually. Whether you’re looking for a career change or just starting out, these career paths offer high earnings, job satisfaction, and a wide range of options. Plus, I’ll throw in some helpful affiliate resources to get you started on your journey. Let’s dive in!
1. Software Engineer
Software engineers design and build software applications, from mobile apps to complex systems. With tech in high demand, a six-figure salary is achievable within a few years of experience, especially if you specialize in in-demand areas like AI, machine learning, or cloud computing.
Getting Started:
Learn popular languages like Python or Java through Udacity or Codecademy. For job searches, check out Indeed and Wellfound where tech companies often post openings.
2. Financial Analyst
Financial analysts help organizations make data-driven investment decisions. They analyze financial data, project trends, and develop reports. Many financial analysts work for banks, investment firms, or major corporations and can easily work up to six figures.
Starting Tips:
Consider certifications like the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) from Kaplan for credibility. Once certified, search LinkedIn and ZipRecruiter for high-paying analyst roles.
3. Data Scientist
Data scientists analyze large sets of data to provide insights and solutions. Companies across sectors need these experts to make sense of data, making this one of the most lucrative jobs in tech.
How to Start:
Take courses in data science on Coursera or edX, where you can learn programming, statistics, and machine learning. Kaggle and DataJobs are great for finding entry-level roles to build your experience.
4. Project Manager
Project managers oversee projects from start to finish, ensuring they meet objectives, stay on budget, and adhere to deadlines. They work in various fields, from construction to IT, making it a flexible and well-paying role.
Path to Success:
Look into certifications like Project Management Professional (PMP) on PMI for better prospects. Sites like Glassdoor and Remote.co frequently post remote and in-office PM roles with six-figure potential.
5. Cybersecurity Specialist
With cyber threats on the rise, cybersecurity specialists are in high demand to protect data and networks. They identify vulnerabilities, enforce security protocols, and ensure compliance, making it one of the highest-paying roles in tech.
Getting Certified:
Platforms like Cybersecurity Masterclass and CompTIA provide excellent training. Once trained, check FlexJobs and CyberSecJobs for positions that pay top dollar.
6. Marketing Manager
Marketing managers oversee a company’s advertising, social media, and branding strategies. They lead teams, manage campaigns, and create brand awareness, and their experience and skills often lead to six-figure salaries.
Start Here:
Get certifications from HubSpot Academy and Google Digital Garage to boost your resume. Marketing management roles can be found on We Work Remotely and ZipRecruiter.
7. Pharmacist
Pharmacists fill prescriptions, consult with patients on medication, and ensure drug safety. It’s a rewarding job in healthcare, with high demand in hospitals, retail, and even online pharmacies, which usually translates to high earnings.
Pathway to Practice:
Pharmacy degrees are essential, so explore Kaplan for prep courses and exam resources. For job searches, check CareerBuilder and Glassdoor where pharmacies often list roles.
8. Real Estate Agent
Real estate agents help clients buy, sell, or rent properties. Agents who specialize in luxury markets or work in high-demand locations can make well over six figures through commissions alone
Your First Steps:
Take pre-licensing courses from Colibri Real Estate, and once licensed, consider listing with companies like Zillow and Redfin for job opportunities.
9. Business Consultant
Business consultants analyze and advise on strategies for improvement, focusing on efficiency, profits, or processes. Those with expertise in niche fields, like healthcare or tech, can easily command six-figure consulting fees.
Start as a Consultant:
Courses from Harvard Online and Coursera can add credibility. Many consultants find success with freelance platforms like Upwork or LinkedIn where they can market their services.
10. Airline Pilot
Airline pilots fly commercial airplanes and are responsible for the safety and comfort of passengers. With experience and the right training, pilots can quickly reach six-figure earnings.
Where to Start:
Check Pilot Institute for pilot certification courses. Major airlines like Delta and Southwest often list pilot job openings on Indeed.
11. Nurse Practitioner
Nurse practitioners provide primary and specialty healthcare, often working independently or with a physician. This role is highly sought after in hospitals, clinics, and private practices, with many nurse practitioners earning six figures.
Getting Certified:
Take a certification course through Nurse Practitioner School. Job sites like CareerBuilder and Monster often list high-paying NP roles.
12. Architect
Architects design buildings and structures, ensuring functionality, safety, and aesthetics. Experienced architects working on large projects can expect six-figure salaries, especially those specializing in high-demand areas like green architecture.
First Steps:
Earn an architecture degree and complete licensure exams. Kaplan offers prep courses. Check LinkedIn and Archinect for job openings in high-paying firms.
13. Investment Banker
Investment bankers help clients with mergers, acquisitions, and raising capital. Known for long hours, the rewards can be substantial, with high commissions and bonuses.
Building Your Skillset:
Consider certifications like the Series 63 or 79 exams from Kaplan. Top firms like Goldman Sachs and JP Morgan often post roles on LinkedIn.
14. Anesthesiologist Assistant
Anesthesiologist assistants work alongside anesthesiologists to provide anesthesia care to patients. With high demand in the healthcare sector, they can make six figures while working in hospitals or private practices.
Start Your Journey:
A Master’s degree is required, so check Kaplan for exam prep courses. For job openings, sites like Health eCareers and Indeed offer listings.
15. Cloud Architect
Cloud architects design cloud computing strategies, oversee applications, and manage cloud environments. As more companies move to the cloud, skilled architects are earning six figures for their expertise.
Path to Success:
Consider certifications in AWS, Google Cloud, or Microsoft Azure through Udacity. Job boards like Dice and remote Tech Jobs offer listings for remote and on-site roles.
There you have it—15 career paths that could lead you to six-figure earnings! Each job requires its own set of skills, and with a little training and the right resources, you can be on your way to landing one of these high-paying roles.