When you are looking for a job, it is important to compare salaries between different fields. Doing research on various high-paying careers can help you to make an informed decision about which path to take with your career.

This article provides an overview of 21 nonmedical jobs that offer high salaries. With this information, you can make an informed decision about your career choice.

What industries have high-paying jobs?

Health care and medicine are not the only industries with high-paying jobs. Other industries that offer greater earning potential include:

• Business
• Energy
• Engineering
• Finance
• Information technology
• Law

61 highest-paying nonmedical jobs

Airline pilot, orthodontist, anesthesiologist, petroleum engineer

Some nonmedical jobs that make close to or more than $100,000 a year include being an airline pilot, orthodontist, and anesthesiologist, as well as a petroleum engineer.

1. Judge

National average salary: $77,295 per year

Primary duties:

A judge hears allegations from the defense and prosecution to decide on cases in court. They question witnesses and listen to testimonies to gather evidence and make rulings.

2. Nuclear engineer

National average salary: $81,720 per year

Primary duties:

A nuclear engineer’s duties include researching nuclear energy and radiation processes to create systems and equipment, monitoring nuclear waste disposal, and overseeing power plant operations.

3. Risk manager

National average salary: $84,634 per year

Primary duties:

A risk manager identifies potential financial, business, security, legal or other related risks for an organization. They conduct assessments and audit processes to determine the organization’s exposure to various risks.

4. Compensation and Benefits Manager

A compensation and benefits manager is responsible for designing and administering pay and benefits programs. Although not required, a bachelor’s degree in business management is beneficial for this field.

• As of May 2019, the median annual income for compensation and benefits managers was $122,270.
• The projected job growth rate over the next decade for a compensation and benefits manager is 3%, which is slower than average.

Compensation and benefits managers are found across a variety of industries, much like HR managers.

5. Statistician

National average salary: $87,587 per year

Primary duties:

A statistician’s job is to select the size and type of survey samples that best solve a business’s or agency’s problem. To do this, they design questionnaires and conduct research. Their findings are then presented in publications.

6. Finance manager

National average salary: $90,939 per year

Primary duties:

A finance manager is responsible for the financial stability and health of a company. This includes monitoring expenses, providing financial reports to managerial staff, and advising on investment opportunities.

7. Front-end developer

National average salary: $92,869 per year

Primary duties:

A front-end developer creates the data for a website using coding languages such as JavaScript, HTML and CSS. They focus on developing features and designs that improve user experience by creating a balance between function and aesthetic in the layout.

8. Economist

National average salary: $96,804 per year

Primary duties:

An economist provides analysis of market activities to advise businesses in economic decisions and create models for economic forecasting. Some ways they collect data include using surveys, sampling techniques and looking at socioeconomic data.

9. Data scientist

National average salary: $101,891 per year

Primary duties:

A data scientist uses scientific methods and processes to build models and address business issues. They compile data from multiple sources to recommend changes to a company’s business strategies.

10. Hardware design engineer

National average salary: $105,201 per year

Primary duties:

A hardware design engineer designs and modifies components for computers and other devices. They collaborate with software engineers to create these new components and meet system requirements.

11. Chief executive officer

National average salary: $106,381 per year

Primary duties:

A CEO manages an organization and makes major corporate decisions. They develop and articulate a company’s vision, serve as a spokesperson for the company, oversee the business’s fiscal activity and monitor daily operations.

12. Strategy manager

National average salary: $107,731 per year

Primary duties: They also develop and implement plans that will help the organization achieve its goals.

A strategy manager evaluates an organization to identify opportunities for improvement. To do this, they conduct research and assess market trends. They also develop and implement plans that will help the organization achieve its goals.

13. Senior project manager

National average salary: $108,342 per year

Primary duties:

A senior project manager is responsible for the successful completion of a project by overseeing its various stages. This includes creating a schedule and securing funding for the project, as well as ensuring that team members complete their tasks on time.

14. Corporate controller

National average salary: $113,112 per year

Primary duties:

The corporate controller is responsible for the accounting and financial functions of an organization, including analysis of balance sheets, monitoring of financial controls and resources.

15. Actuary

National average salary: $114,272 per year

Primary duties: An actuary measures financial risks using advanced statistics. To do this, they compile statistical data and estimate the probability and economic cost of an event, such as a natural disaster.

16. General counsel

National average salary: $127,423 per year

Primary duties:

A corporation’s general counsel is responsible for providing legal advice, evaluating inputs, estimating risks, and identifying potential solutions to legal threats.

17. Corporate lawyer

National average salary: $132,786 per year

Primary duties:

A corporate lawyer provides expertise in commercial law. They prepare documents, evaluate partnerships, and negotiate deals for clients.

18. Patent attorney

National average salary: $142,227 per year

Primary duties:

A patent attorney assists clients in obtaining patents for their inventions and products by explaining technical information, advising during the application process, reviewing proposals and filing the patent with the appropriate government office.

19. Enterprise architect

National average salary: $144,111 per year

Primary duties:

As an enterprise architect, it is my responsibility to oversee the information technology structure development process. I evaluate systems to identify areas where organization’s business operation can be enhanced.

20. Senior director of business development

National average salary: $174,473 per year

Primary duties:

A senior director of business development is responsible for increasing a company’s revenue by finding new business opportunities. They develop relationships with stakeholders, direct market efforts and evaluate the company’s business goals.

21 Loan officer

National average salary: $214,265 per year

Primary duties:

A loan officer’s responsibilities include reviewing and authorizing the approval of credit, business, or real estate loans; meeting with loan applicants; monitoring account records; preparing loan proposals; and educating clients about regulations and policies.

21. Purchasing Managers

As a purchasing manager, you would be responsible for assisting the company in making informed and strategic decisions when acquiring necessary resources, services, and products to keep the business functional and improving. This position comes with an annual salary of around $154,000.

22. General and Operations Managers

This position may come with a range of duties, depending on the organization. Duties can often involve delegating through subordinates how to properly utilize company resources, manage corporate policy, and focus on human resources. A typical salary for this type of work is $155,000.

23. Marketing Managers

The marketing manager analyzes data from the company as well as competitors and uses that information to form a plan for subsequent marketing programs. Being aware of trends and responding accordingly is integral for success in this role. With an average salary of $157,000, this role is responsible for a lot of the company’s success.

24. Petroleum Engineers

The role of an oil and gas driller is to oversee drilling and to research ways to improve techniques for acquiring oil and gas. The average salary for this role is $158,000.

25. Architectural and Engineering Managers

As an architect or engineer, you can take on a lead role in projects by guiding them through the research stages, developing a realistic plan, and seeing the project through development. A normal baseline salary for a job of this nature is $158,000.

26. Natural Sciences Manager

Further research and development is needed in the fields of biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics. The average salary for this level of work is $160,000.

27. Computer Systems Manager

A background in technology and the ability to simplify information are beneficial for this role. Those who can handle a company’s data processing, analysis, and programming can expect to make upwards of $161,000.

28. Sales Managers

In this role, you would be responsible for distributing a product or service to customers. You would typically achieve this by developing a sales territory in which you work, and managing a team of sales representatives. Guiding the team in meeting quotas is another common responsibility. A common salary for this role is $163,000.

29. Financial Managers

This work focuses on creating a plan for investments and accounting in regards to company departments or even entire organizations. The average compensation for this role around Philadelphia is $171,000.

30. Chief Executive

The annual mean salary for this position is $240,000, a significant jump from the previous entries due to the scope of your responsibilities. In collaboration with the organization’s board of directors, the chief executive supports the future of the business at the top level, with the ability to enact far-reaching changes.

31. Chief Executives

The role of a CEO requires a deep understanding of the company’s vision and how to make it a reality. They are in charge of formulating the strategy that will guide the business, overseeing the organization’s complete operation, and evaluating its success. In order to pursue this career path, one must obtain a bachelor’s degree in a business-related field such as business management or public administration. The minimum amount of experience required for this position is five years.

• As of May 2019, the median salary for a chief executive was $184,460.
• The projected job growth rate over the next decade is 6%.

The most lucrative industries for this occupation are corporate management, local government, elementary and secondary education, and state government.

32. Securities Compliance Examiner

As a securities compliance examiner, you will be responsible for reviewing fund portfolios and financial information for companies, as well as performing background research and on-site examinations of operations to check compliance controls.

To become a securities compliance examiner, it is helpful to have a bachelor’s degree in economics, engineering, or physical science. However, having a master’s degree in one of these fields will improve your chance of advancement.

• The average annual salary for a securities compliance examiner is $181,645.
• This field is projected to expand by 7% over the next decade, putting it slightly above average.

The most lucrative positions in this field are with federal organizations.

33. Airline Pilot

To be an airline pilot, you will need a bachelor’s degree as well as an Airline Transport Pilot certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration. Psychology and aptitude tests must be passed in order to demonstrate the ability for critical thinking and sound decision making under pressure; these are requirements for being considered for a position.

• As of May 2019, the median salary for an airline pilot was $147,220 per year.
• The projected job growth for airline pilots is as fast as average, at 6% over the next decade.

Typically, an airline pilot will begin their career as a commercial pilot. A high school diploma or equivalent is necessary to become a commercial pilot.

34. Computer and Information Systems Managers

The responsibilities of a computer and information systems manager include organizing, planning and directing any computer-related activities within a company/organization. Highly sought after qualities in candidates for this position include experience in computers and technology, as well as an associates degree or higher in computers, science, or technology.

• As of May 2019, the median annual income of computer and information systems managers was $146,360.
• The projected job growth rate over the next decade for computer and information systems managers is 11%, which is much faster than average.

Computer and information systems managers are employed by companies who wish to have someone oversee their entire IT department.

35. Architecture/Engineering Manager

An architectural and engineering manager is responsible for managing the development of new products and designs, providing staff training and equipment, developing project budgets, and hiring and supervising staff. Most architectural and engineering managers have at least a bachelor’s degree in engineering and a master’s degree in architecture or another related specialty.

• As of May 2019, the annual median salary for architectural and engineering managers was $144,830.
• The projected potential for growth for architecture/engineering managers is 3% over the next 10 years, which is less than average.

The highest-paid positions for an architectural and engineering manager include senior project specialist, manufacturing engineering manager, and quality control systems manager.

36. Financial Manager

Financial managers typically need to have strong mathematical and technical skills and be detail-oriented and analytical. A bachelor’s degree in mathematics or a finance-related subject is typically needed, as is five years’ experience in a financial position such as accounting, financial analysis or auditing.

• As of May 2019, the median pay for a financial manager was $129,890.
• The projected outlook for growth for financial managers is 16% over the next 10 years, which puts it significantly above average.

Financial managers in industries such as banking, insurance, and investment typically earn high salaries.

37. Natural Sciences Manager

A natural sciences manager is responsible for developing goals and strategy for research, evaluating science staff members, monitoring projects, and providing assistance to laboratory staff. The minimum educational requirement for this role is a bachelor’s degree in a natural science; however, in some cases, a master’s degree in a related field, such as engineering, may be necessary. Many natural sciences managers have several years of experience working in entry- to mid-level science positions.

• As of May 2019, the median pay for a natural sciences manager was $129,100 per year.
• The projected job growth rate for natural sciences managers is as fast as average, at 6% over the next decade.

The highest-paying occupations in this field include laboratory manager, federal government research manager, and research coordination manager.

38. Sales Managers

A sales manager is responsible for overseeing and guiding a sales team within a company or organization. Although a degree is not required, a bachelor’s degree in management can be beneficial. In addition, work experience in sales can also be helpful.

• As of May 2019, the median annual salary of a sales manager was $126,640.
• The projected job growth rate over the next decade for a sales manager is 5%, which is average.

Sales managers are employed by retail stores and businesses that handle sales of goods and services.

39. Air Traffic Controllers

An air traffic controller is responsible for directing and coordinating aircraft, ensuring they maintain a safe distance from each other to prevent collisions in the air and on the runway. Candidates must be a U.S. citizen, have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited program, pass the FAA pre-employment test and air traffic controller specialists skills assessment battery, and complete training in the FAA academy.

• As of May 2019, the median annual salary for an air traffic controller was $124,540.
• The projected job growth rate over the next decade for an air traffic controller is 1%, which shows little to no change from the previous decade.

They are responsible for the safe, orderly, and expeditious flow of air traffic.

Air traffic controllers are federal employees who work in control towers at airports throughout the United States. They are responsible for ensuring the safe, orderly, and expeditious flow of air traffic.

40. Lawyers

The role of a lawyer can vary depending on the field and specialization. Many lawyers work in private or corporate legal offices and advise clients on business transactions and liability. Lawyers also defend clients against lawsuits and help interpret laws and regulations. A lawyer must have a three-year law degree and must pass the state bar examination.

• As of May 2019, the median annual salary for a lawyer is $122,960.
• The projected job growth rate for lawyers is as fast as average, at 6% over the next decade.

Some of the highest-paying legal jobs include members of Congress, trial lawyers, and intellectual property lawyers.

41. Purchasing Managers

Purchasing managers play an important role in ensuring that a company’s buying decisions are efficient and effective. In many cases, a purchasing manager will need at least a bachelor’s degree in business management, although this is not always required. Furthermore, successful purchasing managers should have strong skills in organization, time management, communication, and leadership.

• As of May 2019, the median annual pay for a purchasing manager was $121,110.
• The projected job growth rate over the next decade for a purchasing manager is a decline of 6%.

Purchasing managers typically work in an office setting, but travel may occasionally be required.

42. Advertising, Promotions, and Marketing Managers

Most advertising and marketing managers have at least an associates degree in marketing or advertising, with many going on to earn a bachelor’s degree or higher. However, some employers may accept applicants based on field experience alone. The role of an advertising or marketing manager is to promote different goods and services for a given company or client.

• As of May 2019, the median annual salary for advertising and marketing managers is $117,130.
• The projected job growth rate over the next decade for an advertising and marketing manager is 8%, which is faster than average.

Marketing and advertising managers typically work for marketing and advertising companies. However, some may be hired as freelancers.

43. Public Relations and Fundraising Managers

The role of public relations is to respond to any allegations and accusations, as well as perform crisis management for a client or company. Fundraising managers are in charge of coordinating ways to bring in funds and donations for a particular organization. A bachelor’s degree in public relations or communications is needed for those who want to obtain a position in this field.

• As of May 2019, the median annual income for public relations and fundraising managers was $116,180.
• The projected job growth rate over the next decade for a public relations and fundraising manager is 8%, which is faster than average.

Public relations managers can work for PR companies or be hired by individual clients or organizations to help with fundraising.

44. Postsecondary Law Teachers

Postsecondary law teachers teach courses on law. Those who have obtained this position usually have a bachelor’s, master’s or Ph.D. in law. Extensive knowledge of law and skills in leading, teaching and communicating are needed to succeed in this field.

• As of May 2019, the median annual pay for a postsecondary law teacher was $113,530.

Postsecondary law teachers are employed through colleges, universities, professional schools, and junior colleges. Many work full time during the school year and teach summer session courses. Some law teachers are also practicing lawyers, which gives them the opportunity to bring their experience into the classroom.

45. Human Resources Managers

The role of a human resources manager is to plan, direct, hire, and reinforce rules within an organization. This position requires a combination of schooling and work experience. Prospective HR managers should have at least a bachelor’s degree but a master’s degree may be most sought after for some positions.

• As of May 2019, the median annual pay for a human resource manager was $113,300.
• The projected job growth rate over the next decade for a human resource manager is 7%, which is faster than average.

Human resource managers are employed in a variety of industries and work in office settings. Some human resource managers may be required to travel to further their education or train and recruit employees.

46. Software Developer

As a software developer, you will be responsible for designing and implementing software engineering applications. If you are interested in progressing into management, a software development manager is responsible for providing support for development and technical staff, training software engineering staff, and managing their performance.

Most employers require a bachelor’s degree in computer science or computer engineering. A few senior-level positions may require a master’s degree in computer science or business.

• As of May 2019, the median annual salary for a software developer was $107,510.
• The projected growth rate for software developers over the next decade is 21%, which is significantly higher than average.

The most experienced software developers are in high demand and can command high salaries.

47. Computer Network Architect

An enterprise architect is responsible for analyzing and resolving issues related to business, technology, and data. They must have a bachelor’s degree in engineering, manufacturing, or technology, as well as a minimum of seven years’ experience in analysis.

• As of May 2019, the average annual salary for a computer network architect was $104,650.
• The projected job growth rate over the next decade for computer network architects is 5%, which is on par with average.

The companies that offer the highest potential earnings are Dell Technologies, Intel Corporation, and Electronic Data Systems.

48. Respiratory Therapist

If you have ever sought treatment for difficulty breathing, you may have seen a respiratory therapist. Respiratory therapists provide care for patients with a variety of breathing disorders, including chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma or emphysema. They also treat patients across the lifespan, from premature neonates with undeveloped lungs to elderly patients suffering from lung disease.

Median Salary: $60,280

Predicted Rise in Employment: Predicted 23% Rise between 2016 and 2026

Required Education: Minimum of Associate’s Degree

Additional Information:

In order to become a respiratory therapist, individuals must earn an associates degree at a minimum. With that said, respiratory therapists need to become licensed in their state (with the exception of Alaska). Based on current projections, employment for respiratory therapists is expected to rise at a rate much faster than average due to growth in the middle-aged and elderly population. Given that these age groups are more susceptible to respiratory conditions, the demand for respiratory therapists is anticipated to increase.

49. Dietitians and Nutritionists

Dietitians and nutritionists are health care professionals who specialize in food and nutrition. They use their knowledge to promote a healthy diet and manage disease. Dietitians and nutritionists are valuable resources in the treatment of obesity and diabetes.

Median Salary: $60,370

Predicted Rise in Employment: Predicted 15% Rise between 2016 and 2026

Required Education: Minimum of Bachelor’s Degree

Additional Information:

Continued growth is expected for dietician and nutritionist roles as we learn more about the connection between diet and overall health. This growth will be fuelled by an ageing population and an increase in chronic health conditions.

50. Radiologic and MRI Technicians

Radiologic and MRI technologists, also known as radiographers, are non-physician healthcare professionals who perform imaging services such as x-rays. MRI technologists are trained to provide patients with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans to help physicians with diagnostics.

Median Salary: $61,240

Predicted Rise in Employment: Predicted 13% Rise between 2016 and 2026

Required Education: Minimum of Associates’s Degree

Additional Information:

Employment of radiologic or MRI technologists is expected to grow by almost 30,300 jobs through 2026. Most professionals need an associate’s degree and are licensed or certified in their states.

51. Diagnostic Medical Sonographers and Cardiovascular Technologists and Technicians, Including Vascular Technologists

Diagnostic imaging professionals include medical sonographers, cardiovascular technologists and technicians, including vascular technologists. They are also called diagnostic imaging workers. They use specialized equipment to create images or conduct tests that help physicians make informed diagnoses. Most of these professionals work in hospitals but some work in doctors’ offices or lab settings.

Median Salary: $67,080

Predicted Rise in Employment: Predicted 17% Rise between 2016 and 2026

Required Education: Minimum of Associate’s Degree

Additional Information:

The field of data science is growing at a rapid pace, with an estimated 21,100 new positions opening up across the United States by 2026.

52. Orthotic and Prosthetics Professionals

Orthotic and prosthetic professionals are among the highest paid non-physician health care providers. These professionals design, fabricate, measure and fit orthotic and prosthetic devices for all ages. They work with artificial limbs, braces, and other medical or surgical prosthetic devices. Positions are found in a variety of industries including: healthcare and social assistance, scientific research and development services, ambulatory healthcare services, educational services, and manufacturing.

• manufacturing
• health and personal care
• hospitals.

Median Salary: $69,120

Predicted Rise in Employment: Predicted 22% Rise between 2016 and 2026

Required Education: Minimum of Master’s Degree

Additional Information:

As the baby boom population enters old age, the demand for orthotic and prosthetic professionals is expected to continue to grow. Cardiovascular disease and diabetes, the leading causes of limb loss, are more common with older individuals.

53. Occupational Health and Safety Specialist and Technicians

Organizations strive to meet workplace health and safety standards. Occupational health and safety professionals are on the frontline of workplace health and safety. These highly paid non-physician healthcare providers collect and analyze data across a variety of work environments. They help ensure they are meeting industry standards and regulations. They also make recommendations and help remediate compliance issues.

Median Salary: $69,370

Predicted Rise in Employment: Predicted 8% Rise between 2016 and 2026

Required Education: Minimum of Bachelor’s Degree

Additional Information:

The field of Occupational Health and Safety Technology is projected to grow 11 percent from 2016 to 2026, which is as fast as the average for all occupations. This growth projection is based on the need for employers to adhere to existing and new regulations in the workplace. A number of degree programs in healthcare quality and patient safety can connect students quickly with this emerging field.

54. Chiropractors

Chiropractors are among the most highly educated non-physician healthcare professionals. They treat patients through spinal adjustments and manipulation (and other clinical interventions). This helps alleviate health problems of the neuromusculoskeletal system. Most work independently, but some work in group chiropractic practice. To become a chiropractor, one must earn a Doctor of Chiropractic degree which typically takes four years after undergraduate study.

Median Salary: $71,410

Predicted Rise in Employment: Predicted 12% Rise between 2016 and 2026

Required Education: Doctoral or professional degree

Additional Information:

The chiropractic field is projected to grow by 5,900 jobs from 2016 to 2026. This growth is attributed to the increasing interest in integrative or complementary healthcare as a way to manage pain and promote overall wellness. Chiropractors use non-surgical methods and do not prescribe drugs, which makes chiropractic care very appealing to patients.

55. Registered Nurse

hospitals, clinics, schools and community health centers.

As a registered nurse, you will be focused on providing care to patients. There are a few different ways to become an RN, but most have a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN). RNs provide and coordinate patient care and give advice and support to patients and their families. RNs can be found in most healthcare settings including: hospitals, clinics, schools and community health centers.

• hospitals
• physician offices
• home health
• long term care facilities.

Median Salary: $71,730

Predicted Rise in Employment: Predicted 15% Rise between 2016 and 2026

Required Education: Minimum of Bachelor’s Degree

Additional Information:

An aging baby boomer population that will need more health care services as they age

An increased emphasis on preventive care

A greater number of individuals with chronic and degenerative health conditions

The field of registered nursing is expected to grow at a rate of 15 percent from 2016 to 2026. This growth is much faster than the average growth for all occupations nationwide. The field will continue to grow for a variety of reasons, including an aging baby boomer population that will need more health care services as they age, an increased emphasis on preventive care, and a greater number of individuals with chronic and degenerative health conditions.

• a focus on preventative care
• an increase in chronic conditions
• an aging baby boomer population.

56. Dental Hygienist

Dental hygienists are an essential part of a dental office. They are responsible for cleaning patients’ teeth, checking for oral diseases or decay such as gingivitis. They also provide other preventative dental measures such as fluoride treatment or x-rays. Dental hygienists are also responsible for educating patients on how to improve and maintain good oral health for themselves and their families.

Median Salary: $74,820

Predicted Rise in Employment: Predicted 20% Rise between 2016 and 2026

Required Education: Minimum of Associate’s Degree

Additional Information:

Dental hygienists are required to have, at minimum, an Associate’s Degree in dental hygiene. All states require dental hygienists to be licensed in order to practice. The demand for dental hygienists is expected to grow at a rate much faster than average due, in part, to continued research showing the direct link between oral and overall personal health.

57. Nuclear Medicine Technologist

Nuclear medicine technologists use a sophisticated scanner to produce images of various areas of a patient’s body. They prepare radioactive drugs and administer them to patients undergoing the scans. The radioactive drugs cause abnormal areas of the body to appear different from normal areas in the images, allowing doctors to locate and treat problem areas.

Median Salary: $76,820

Predicted Rise in Employment: Predicted 10% Rise between 2016 and 2026

Required Education: Minimum of Associate’s Degree

Additional Information:

Nuclear medicine technologists are in high demand due to the aging population. This group relies on nuclear medicine technologists to provide imaging to patients with conditions like cancer or heart disease.

58. Speech-Language Pathologist

Speech-language pathologists assess, diagnose, and treat communication and swallowing disorders in children and adults. Common causes of these disorders include:

• strokes
• brain injury
• developmental delays
• autism

Instead of “Almost 40% of speech therapists work in schools, while the rest work in healthcare facilities including hospitals,” a more professional way to say this would be “Approximately 40% of speech therapists are employed in educational settings, with the remainder working in healthcare facilities such as hospitals.”

Median Salary: $77,510

Predicted Rise in Employment: Predicted 18% Rise between 2016 and 2026

Required Education: Minimum of Master’s Degree

Additional Information:

Employment of speech-language pathologists is expected to grow 18 percent from 2016 to 2026, which is considered much faster than the average growth for all occupations. The average age of the baby-boom population advancing puts them at greater risk for health conditions that cause speech or language impairments, such as strokes and dementia.

59. Genetic Counselor

hospitals, clinics, private practices, research laboratories, and biotechnology companies.

A genetic counselor is a healthcare professional who specializes in genetics and counseling. They provide risk assessment, education, and support to patients who want information about their risk for inheriting certain diseases. They also interpret genetic tests and serve as patient advocates. Most genetic counselors work full-time in a variety of settings including: hospitals, clinics, private practices, research laboratories, and biotechnology companies.

• medical centers
• private and public hospitals
• diagnostic laboratories

Median Salary: $80,370

Predicted Rise in Employment: Predicted 29% Rise between 2016 and 2026

Required Education: Minimum of Master’s Degree

Additional Information:

The field of Genetic Counseling is seeing a faster than average rate of growth, with a prediction of almost 900 new positions nationwide by 2026.

60. Radiation Therapist

Radiation therapists are an important part of the healthcare team that administers high doses of radiation to treat cancer or other serious diseases. They collect and analyze patient data to plan a patient’s treatment. Most radiation therapists have earned at least an associate’s degree and are usually licensed or certified by their particular state. Radiation therapist jobs can be found in:

• hospitals
• physician offices
• outpatient treatment centers

These well-paid non-physician positions are usually full-time.

Median Salary: $82,330

Predicted Rise in Employment: Predicted 13% Rise between 2016 and 2026

Required Education: Minimum of Associate’s Degree

Additional Information:

The employment of radiation therapists is expected to rise by 13 percent from 2016 to 2026. This growth is considered to be faster than the average growth for all occupations. As the population ages and radiation therapies advance, the demand for radiation therapists is expected to rise. The result of this is that there will be about 2,400 new jobs available over the 10-year period.

61. Occupational Therapist

Occupational therapists (OTs) are highly trained professionals who work with patients who have been injured, are ill, or have disabilities. OTs help these patients develop, recover, and improve the skills they need for everyday activities like eating, dressing, and grooming. Many OTs work in clinics or hospitals, but others work in nursing homes, schools, or provide home health services.

Median Salary: $84,270

Predicted Rise in Employment: Predicted 24% Rise between 2016 and 2026

Required Education: Minimum of Master’s Degree

Additional Information:

Employment of occupational therapists is projected to grow 24 percent from 2016 to 2026, which is much faster than the average growth for all occupations. The demand for occupational therapists will likely increase due to the aging population and the greater need for occupational therapy services for conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and autism.