Discover detailed information on popular six-figure jobs, including average salaries, education requirements, job outlook, and resume examples for each role.
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Despite stagnant wages at the national level, some jobs are still dishing out big salaries, nearly two times or more than the national average annual wage.
Below is a list of popular jobs that make six figures with an average annual wage of at least $100,000. We ranked these roles by the number of professionals working in each field and included projected growth and typical education requirements.
Check out these 25 career paths with potential earnings of $100K or more, with insights on daily tasks and education requirements.
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Dentists diagnose and treat issues with teeth, gums, and other parts of the mouth. They may run their own practices, work with partners, or serve as associate dentists in established offices.
This role requires graduation from an accredited dental program and state licensure, which typically involves passing written and clinical exams.
Check out our dentist resume examples to see how to highlight clinical expertise, patient care, and practice management skills.
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Computer and information systems managers oversee an organization’s information systems, including data processing, systems analysis, and technology implementation. They collaborate with leadership to set tech goals and ensure the right systems support business objectives.
A bachelor’s degree is typically required for this role.
Check out our IT manager resume examples to see how to highlight technical leadership, project management, and strategic technology achievements.
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Engineering managers oversee engineering teams, coordinate projects, and lead research and development initiatives within architecture or engineering firms. They ensure projects meet technical, budgetary, and timeline requirements.
A bachelor’s degree is typically required, though many also hold advanced degrees in engineering, architecture, or urban planning.
Explore our engineering manager resume examples to see how to highlight team leadership, project management, and technical expertise.
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Financial managers oversee an organization’s financial health by directing activities such as budgeting, forecasting, reporting, investing, and risk management. They analyze financial data, guide strategic decisions, and ensure regulatory compliance.
A bachelor’s degree is typically required, and many professionals pursue advanced credentials such as an MBA or specialized certifications.
Check out our finance manager resume examples to learn how to highlight achievements in financial leadership, cost savings, and strategic planning.
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Marketing managers develop and execute strategies to grow revenue, lead marketing teams, and create campaigns that attract and retain customers. They analyze market data, track campaign performance, and guide teams on tools and processes to meet business goals.
A bachelor’s degree is typically required for this role.
Explore our marketing manager resume examples to see how to highlight campaign results, team leadership, and strategic planning skills.
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Air traffic controllers coordinate the movement of aircraft to maintain safe distances and ensure efficient air traffic flow. They work in control towers, approach control facilities, or en route centers, often under high-stress conditions that require maximum concentration. Night, weekend, and rotating shifts are common.
Most air traffic controllers enter the field with an associate or bachelor’s degree through the FAA’s Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative, combined with on-the-job training. Candidates must be U.S. citizens and pass medical and background checks.
Check out our air traffic controller resume examples to see how to highlight attention to detail, safety management, and communication skills.
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Petroleum engineers develop and implement methods to extract and produce oil and gas efficiently and safely. They may work in offices or on drilling and well sites, often traveling to coordinate with engineers, field workers, and clients.
A bachelor’s degree in petroleum engineering or a related field, such as mechanical, civil, or chemical engineering, is typically required, and practical experience through internships is highly valued.
Check out our petroleum engineer resume examples to see how to highlight technical problem-solving, project management, and field engineering skills.
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Compensation and benefits managers develop, implement, and oversee employee pay and benefits programs. They ensure that compensation structures are competitive, compliant with regulations, and aligned with organizational goals.
A bachelor’s degree and several years of related work experience are typically required for this role. These managers work across nearly every industry and may work more than 40 hours per week.
Check out our compensation and benefits manager resume examples to see how to highlight HR strategy, payroll management, and benefits program expertise.
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Human resources managers oversee hiring, onboarding, employee relations, and compliance with employment laws. They develop policies, manage HR teams, and support organizational growth and culture.
A bachelor’s degree is typically required, though graduate programs in human resources are also common.
Check out our HR manager resume examples to see how to highlight achievements in leadership, talent management, and compliance.
Optometrists examine, diagnose, and treat eye and vision conditions, and prescribe corrective lenses and manage eye health. They work primarily in private offices or optical stores and often have flexible schedules that may include evenings or weekends.
This career requires a Doctor of Optometry (O.D.) degree and state licensure to practice.
Check out our optometrist CV example to see how to highlight clinical skills, patient care, and vision management expertise.
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Physician assistants provide healthcare services under a doctor’s supervision, including conducting exams, administering treatments, and counseling patients. This role requires a master’s degree from an accredited physician assistant program rather than a medical degree.
Explore our physician assistant resume examples to see how to highlight clinical skills, patient care, and healthcare support achievements.
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Nurse practitioners provide advanced healthcare by diagnosing and treating illnesses, ordering and interpreting tests, and prescribing medications. They often serve as primary care providers and play a critical role in patient management.
A master’s degree is typically required for this role.
Check out our nurse practitioner resume examples to see how to highlight clinical expertise, patient care, and advanced practice achievements.
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Software developers design, build, and maintain applications, systems, and software for computers, smartphones, and other devices. This role requires strong technical expertise, including proficiency in programming languages and problem-solving skills.
A bachelor’s degree is typically required to enter the field.
Browse our software developer resume examples to learn how to showcase coding projects, technical skills, and measurable achievements.
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Computer network architects design, implement, and maintain data communication networks, including LANs, WANs, intranets, and extranets. They align network infrastructure with an organization’s business goals and ensure reliable, secure connectivity.
A bachelor’s degree is typically required for this role.
Explore our network engineer resume examples to see how to highlight network design, implementation, and optimization skills.
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Veterinarians diagnose, treat, and care for animals' health while also helping protect public health. They work in private clinics, hospitals, farms, laboratories, classrooms, or zoos, depending on their specialty and practice setting.
This role requires a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from an accredited program and a state license to practice.
Check out our veterinarian resume examples to see how to highlight clinical expertise, animal care, and client communication skills.
Photo Credit: Cultura Creative (RF) / Alamy Stock Photo
General and operations managers oversee daily business operations, coordinate across multiple departments or locations, and ensure that organizational goals are met efficiently. They often supervise department heads and help shape company strategy.
While a bachelor’s degree is typically required, some professionals pursue advanced degrees to expand their opportunities.
Explore our operations manager resume examples to see how to effectively highlight leadership, budgeting, and operational achievements.
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Chemical engineers apply principles of chemistry, physics, and engineering to design processes and equipment for producing products such as gasoline, detergents, and paper. They typically work in offices or laboratories, often full-time, and may exceed 40 hours per week.
A bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering or a related field is generally required, and internships or cooperative education experience are preferred.Check out our chemical engineer resume examples to see how to highlight process design, technical problem-solving, and project management skills.
Photo Credit: Hero Images Inc. / Alamy Stock Photo
Industrial production managers oversee daily operations in manufacturing plants, coordinating production while ensuring quality, cost efficiency, and meeting output targets. A bachelor’s degree is typically required for this role.
Explore our production manager resume examples to see how to highlight operational leadership, process optimization, and production management skills.
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Medical and health services managers coordinate the delivery of healthcare in hospitals, clinics, and other medical facilities. They handle administrative tasks, manage staff, oversee budgets, and ensure compliance with healthcare regulations, allowing physicians and providers to focus on patient care.
A bachelor’s degree is typically required for this role.
Check out our hospital administrator resume examples to see how to showcase achievements in leadership, operational management, and process improvement.
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Art directors oversee the visual style and imagery in magazines, newspapers, product packaging, and film or television productions. They guide creative teams to ensure cohesive design, branding, and storytelling. Many art directors work in advertising, publishing, motion pictures, or design services, while a significant number are self-employed.
Most art directors hold a bachelor’s degree in art or design and have five or more years of experience as a graphic designer, illustrator, or photographer.
Check out our creative director resume examples to see how to highlight creative leadership, design direction, and project management skills.
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Postsecondary education administrators manage academic programs, student services, research initiatives, and institutional communications at colleges and universities. They coordinate staff and resources to support student success and institutional goals.
A master’s degree, often in Higher Education Administration, is typically required for this role.
Check out our school administrator resume examples to see how to highlight achievements in leadership, program management, and academic administration.
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Construction managers oversee building projects from planning to completion, coordinating with architects, engineers, and subcontractors. They manage budgets, schedules, and on-site teams to ensure projects meet quality, safety, and regulatory standards. A bachelor’s degree is typically required, and strong project management skills are essential.
Explore our construction manager resume examples to learn how to highlight leadership, budgeting, and project delivery achievements.
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Administrative services managers oversee an organization’s administrative operations, including records management, information distribution, and office support. They focus on streamlining processes rather than facilities management. A bachelor’s degree is typically required for this role.
Check out our administrative manager resume examples to learn how to highlight organizational leadership, process improvement, and office management skills.
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Chief executives set the strategic direction of organizations, from startups to large corporations, and make high-level decisions in coordination with boards and senior managers. They oversee operations, guide leadership teams, and ensure organizational goals are met.
A bachelor’s degree is typically required, though many hold advanced degrees.
Check out our chief executive officer resume examples to see how to highlight leadership, strategic planning, and organizational management achievements.
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Transportation, storage, and distribution managers coordinate logistics operations, including transportation, warehousing, and distribution, ensuring compliance with company policies and regulations. This role is unique on this list as it typically requires only a high school diploma or equivalent.
Check out our logistics manager resume examples to see how to highlight operational leadership, supply chain management, and efficiency improvements.
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There are many jobs where you can make over six figures, ranging from healthcare and tech to finance and management. Examples include software developers, physicians, dentists, engineers, IT managers, and financial managers.
Most high-paying roles require specialized education, professional certifications, or several years of experience. Job seekers should also consider the industry, location, and demand, as these factors can significantly impact salary potential.
You can make $100,000 a year without a college degree in fields like real estate, sales management, transportation and logistics, or skilled trades such as elevator installation or commercial plumbing.
Success usually comes from building experience, developing specialized skills, and earning certifications or licenses. Strong networking, proven performance, and leadership abilities can also help you advance faster and reach high-paying roles even without a traditional four-year degree.
The “easiest” job to make $100K depends on your skills and interests. While jobs that make six figures aren’t low-effort, some roles let you reach six figures relatively quickly.
Sales managers, real estate brokers, and transportation or logistics managers can earn $100K or more with strong performance, experience, and industry knowledge.
These jobs often reward results over formal education, so building a track record, networking, and developing skills can accelerate your path to a high salary.
Jobs in healthcare and technology are leading in both growth and pay. Nurse practitioners, physical therapists, and veterinarians are in high demand due to aging populations and expanded healthcare needs.
In tech, software developers and IT managers are also growing rapidly as businesses rely more on digital solutions. These careers not only offer six-figure salaries but also strong job stability and advancement opportunities, making them top choices for ambitious job seekers.
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