Top-Paying Jobs of the Year: Highest Salaries by Industry

With a strengthening economy and unemployment near 4.3 percent—down from 5.3 percent two years earlier—the U.S. job market is favorable for workers.

While sectors such as textiles, some manufacturing, and publishing face ongoing challenges, other industries are expanding quickly and offering attractive salaries. Most of the highest-paying roles are concentrated in technology, healthcare, and finance, and typically require advanced degrees or specialized training. That said, several lucrative positions—like data architect or plant manager—can be reached with a bachelor’s degree and relevant experience.

Bottom line: If you’re planning for college or choosing a career path, many high-paying opportunities exist. Achieving them usually demands dedication, a strong work ethic, and, in some cases, significant student loans.

For professionals already in the workforce, now is a strong time to leverage your skills to pursue a raise or a higher-paying role. Industry data shows that switching jobs can yield notable pay increases—often up to 20 percent. Enhancing technical skills through courses or online platforms will increase your marketability across many fields. Below is a concise, SEO-optimized guide to 25 of the highest-paying jobs from a recent Glassdoor report. Glassdoor limited the list to U.S.-based job titles with at least 100 salary reports between 2/1/16 and 1/31/17 and used a proprietary method to estimate median base pay while accounting for factors like location and seniority.

Physician

Physicians diagnose, treat, and prevent illnesses and injuries. This role is among the highest paid and one of the most secure careers—healthcare needs persist regardless of economic cycles. However, becoming a physician requires many years of education and training, including a bachelor’s degree (commonly in biology or pre-med) followed by a four-year Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) program and residency.

Pharmacy Manager

A pharmacy manager is a licensed pharmacist who oversees medication-dispensing operations in hospitals, retail pharmacies, or clinics. Entry into Pharm.D. programs typically requires no bachelor’s degree and the Doctor of Pharmacy curriculum covers toxicology, pathophysiology, and pharmacy law. Advancement to management generally requires experience; some managers pursue additional graduate degrees in pharmacy administration.

Patent Attorney

Patent attorneys draft and file patent applications and protect inventors’ intellectual property. The role can be demanding, involving long hours and court appearances. Typical requirements include a four-year undergraduate degree, a Juris Doctor (J.D.) law degree, passing a state bar exam, and qualification to appear before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

Medical Science Liaison

Medical science liaisons (MSLs) use research expertise and communication skills to provide clinicians and stakeholders with information on therapies, devices, and drugs. MSLs typically represent pharmaceutical or biotech companies to healthcare decision-makers and regulators. Educational credentials often include advanced degrees such as a Ph.D., M.D., or Pharm.D.

Pharmacist

Pharmacists advise patients about medication use, preventative care, and medical concerns while dispensing prescriptions. Education typically includes at least two years of undergraduate coursework followed by a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree and passing the North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination. Many pharmacists complete residencies or fellowships for specialized practice.

Enterprise Architect

Enterprise architects align IT and business strategy to create a holistic roadmap that helps organizations meet goals and improve performance. They work across industries such as banking and retail. Typical qualifications include a bachelor’s degree and five to ten years of IT experience, along with relevant certifications.

Physician Assistant

Physician assistants (PAs) provide medical care under the supervision of physicians. PAs complete accredited educational programs—usually master’s level—that take about two years and typically require a bachelor’s degree plus healthcare experience for admission. Licensure is required to practice.

Applications Development Manager

Applications development managers lead software development teams to design, build, and maintain software, web applications, and services. Responsibilities include budgeting, project oversight, and user training. Employers typically expect a bachelor’s in computer science or a related field; advanced roles may require an M.S. or MBA.

R&D Manager

Research and development managers oversee projects, budgets, and techniques for product development in manufacturing, scientific, and technology sectors. They manage life-cycle strategies and cost accounting. Most R&D managers hold a master’s degree and a strong background in engineering or the hard sciences.

Corporate Controller

Corporate controllers are senior financial managers responsible for financial reporting and overseeing accounting departments. Employers generally require a bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or business administration. Professional credentials like CPA, CFA, or CMA enhance career prospects.

Software Engineering Manager

Software engineering managers lead teams that design and develop software systems used in applications, operating systems, and databases. A bachelor’s degree in software engineering, computer science, or mathematics is typical, and internships provide valuable practical experience.

IT Architect

IT architects design technology strategies and select IT investments that improve efficiency and deliver business value. Common qualifications include a bachelor’s in MIS or computer science and professional certifications such as Microsoft Certified Architect.

Software Architect

Software architects design large-scale software systems and make technical decisions that affect cost, schedule, and functionality. They work closely with development teams and often hold an undergraduate degree and professional certifications.

Nurse Practitioner

Nurse practitioners (NPs) provide a broad range of medical services including physical exams, ordering tests, and prescribing treatments. NPs usually hold a master’s degree and must be licensed, often after passing the NCLEX-RN and additional NP certification requirements.

Solutions Architect

Solutions architects design and integrate IT systems to meet client requirements. They consult on programming, integration, and testing, and typically hold a bachelor’s degree in IT, computer science, or software engineering; some roles require a master’s or specialized certifications.

Data Architect

Data architects design and manage data frameworks that allow organizations to store, integrate, and consume data efficiently. Employers usually seek candidates with a bachelor’s degree in computer science or information technology. Certifications like the Certified Data Management Professional (CDMP) can strengthen credentials.

Actuary

Actuaries analyze mathematical, statistical, and historical data to estimate the financial consequences of risk. Typical duties include modeling risk scenarios, testing strategies, and advising clients. An undergraduate degree in mathematics, statistics, finance, economics, or business is common, plus professional certification from the Society of Actuaries (SOA) or Casualty Actuarial Society (CAS).

IT Program Manager

IT program managers coordinate an organization’s technology initiatives, supervise IT teams, and guide project execution. Candidates typically have at least a bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field; some roles accept associate degrees combined with strong work experience.

UX Manager

User experience (UX) managers lead efforts to improve how people interact with applications and interfaces. They oversee design, usability testing, and the overall look and functionality of digital products. Common backgrounds include psychology, visual design, communications, or computer science, along with familiarity with design tools and front-end technologies.

Systems Architect

Systems architects plan and maintain an organization’s hardware and software infrastructure, handle installations and upgrades, and perform troubleshooting and cost analysis. Education ranges from associate degrees to bachelor’s degrees, often supplemented by specialized certifications.

Plant Manager

Plant managers coordinate production, purchasing, and distribution while developing strategies to improve profitability and efficiency. Responsibilities include training supervisors, maintaining schedules, and ensuring workplace safety. Many employers prefer candidates with a graduate degree in business or technology management, combined with substantial operational experience.

Scrum Master

Scrum masters facilitate agile development by guiding teams, removing obstacles, and improving workflows. They promote organization, communication, and a collaborative environment. While formal education varies, most scrum masters hold at least a bachelor’s degree and specialized agile or Scrum certification.

Financial Planning & Analysis Manager

Financial planning and analysis (FP&A) managers lead budgeting, forecasting, and investment analysis efforts. They prepare reports for executives and oversee accounting and finance teams. Employers typically require a bachelor’s degree in business administration, finance, or economics and often value professional certifications.

Nuclear Engineer

Nuclear engineers design, develop, and operate systems used in nuclear power and apply radioactive materials for industrial and medical uses. Entry-level roles often require a bachelor’s degree; advanced positions may require a master’s or doctorate, and public-sector engineers must hold state licensure.

Attorney

Attorneys advise clients, interpret the law, and represent clients in legal matters and court proceedings. Requirements include an undergraduate degree, a Juris Doctor (J.D.), and passing the state bar exam to practice law. The duties and expectations of attorneys vary by jurisdiction and practice area.