In a perfect world, everyone would be able to benefit from their passion. However, it’s difficult to deny that some fields are inherently more lucrative than others. If you don’t see yourself gaining an MD or a JD, careers site Glassdoor has compiled a list of lesser-known positions that frequently pay $100,000 or more per year. The complete list is available on Glassdoor’s website.
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1. Airline Pilot
Fly the friendly skies and earn a median annual base salary of $120,000. This is a fantastic position for someone who enjoys travel, is skilled at managing people, and is calm under pressure.
2. Dentist
If you have an interest for science and a desire to help others, you can operate a dental business and earn more than $125,000 per year. All you need to do is complete a few undergraduate and PhD programs.
3. Drilling Engineer
These mechanical engineers create and implement plans for energy and water drilling sites, earning upwards of $115,000 per year.
4. Equity Research Associate
If you have an aptitude for numbers and patterns, this may be an excellent opportunity for you. Equity research associates analyze and report on financial and business trends, and positions are available in a variety of financial institutions. They can earn up to $100,000 as a median salary.
5. Geophysicist
Some geophysicists study how the earth is evolving, while others extract valuable minerals from the ground. These experts conduct experiments using gravity, seismic, electrical and magnetic methods. They can earn more than $120,000 a year.
6. Nurse Practitioner
The medical field is growing as the population ages, but you don’t have to be a doctor to receive six figures in this line of work. Nurse practitioners can run their own practices and need a graduate degree in nursing. The median base salary for nurse practitioners is $100,000.
7. Reservoir Engineer
Ideal for someone with technical know-how, reservoir engineers are the ones who figure out where energy reserves are, particularly of oil and gas, and find the safest ways obtain them. They can make more than $143,000 a year.
8. Regional Sales Executive
There are several types of companies that require sales executives to help them get their word out and teach customers about their products. The job requires excellent people skills and may involve a bit of travel, and those at the high end can earn more than $100,000 a year.
9. Software Architect
These skilled coders create and build the software systems and infrastructures for businesses and organizations. They can make nearly $140,000 annually — even those just starting out.
10. Special Agent
Whether working for an agency like the CIA or FBI or a private entity, special agents’ duties can range from collecting and analyzing intelligence to protecting assets. They can make a median base salary of $121,000 a year.