Careers Guide for Parents
Median salary, 2025–2035 employment outlook, and typical education requirements for 819 careers across 22 fields, sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and O*NET. Pediatric Surgeons tops the list at $559,030. Written for parents helping a teenager plan toward college and beyond.
Want to see which colleges lead to a given career? Browse colleges by state, or compare the highest-paying and fastest-growing occupations side by side.
Production
103 careers, topping out at $122,890 for Nuclear Power Reactor Operators. Fastest growing: Semiconductor Processing Technicians at +8.2%.
- Nuclear Power Reactor Operators$122,890 median · -5.9% growth
- Power Distributors and Dispatchers$106,730 median · +1.2% growth
- Power Plant Operators$102,040 median · -5.1% growth
- Petroleum Pump System Operators, Refinery Operators, and Gaugers$96,710 median · -1.9% growth
- Gas Plant Operators$87,820 median · -6.0% growth
- Stationary Engineers and Boiler Operators$78,620 median · +3.1% growth
- Chemical Plant and System Operators$78,120 median · -5.2% growth
- First-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers$74,450 median · +1.8% growth
All 103 production careers
- Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers
- Aircraft Structure, Surfaces, Rigging, and Systems Assemblers
- Tool and Die Makers
- Layout Workers, Metal and Plastic
- Model Makers, Metal and Plastic
- Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers
- Timing Device Assemblers and Adjusters
- Plant and System Operators, All Other
- Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators
- Machinists
- Chemical Equipment Operators and Tenders
- Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic
- Tire Builders
- Model Makers, Wood
- Metal-Refining Furnace Operators and Tenders
- Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers
- Engine and Other Machine Assemblers
- Milling and Planing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
- Jewelers and Precious Stone and Metal Workers
- Pourers and Casters, Metal
- Separating, Filtering, Clarifying, Precipitating, and Still Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
- Semiconductor Processing Technicians
- Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters
- Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators
- Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
- Paper Goods Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
- Rolling Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
- Tool Grinders, Filers, and Sharpeners
- Patternmakers, Wood
- Dental Laboratory Technicians
- Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
- Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
- Mixing and Blending Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
- Heat Treating Equipment Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
- Prepress Technicians and Workers
- Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers
- Crushing, Grinding, and Polishing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
- Coating, Painting, and Spraying Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
- Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers
- Foundry Mold and Coremakers
- Furnace, Kiln, Oven, Drier, and Kettle Operators and Tenders
- Medical Appliance Technicians
- Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
- Extruding and Drawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
- Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
- Fiberglass Laminators and Fabricators
- Cabinetmakers and Bench Carpenters
- Cutting and Slicing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
- Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
- Adhesive Bonding Machine Operators and Tenders
- Extruding and Forming Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Synthetic and Glass Fibers
- Upholsterers
- Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
- Molders, Shapers, and Casters, Except Metal and Plastic
- Metal Workers and Plastic Workers, All Other
- Printing Press Operators
- Extruding, Forming, Pressing, and Compacting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
- Food and Tobacco Roasting, Baking, and Drying Machine Operators and Tenders
- Furniture Finishers
- Woodworkers, All Other
- Molding, Coremaking, and Casting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
- Plating Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
- Cleaning, Washing, and Metal Pickling Equipment Operators and Tenders
- Woodworking Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Except Sawing
- Etchers and Engravers
- Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders
- Sawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Wood
- Grinding and Polishing Workers, Hand
- Food Batchmakers
- Print Binding and Finishing Workers
- Tailors, Dressmakers, and Custom Sewers
- Painting, Coating, and Decorating Workers
- Food Cooking Machine Operators and Tenders
- Cooling and Freezing Equipment Operators and Tenders
- Photographic Process Workers and Processing Machine Operators
- Butchers and Meat Cutters
- Slaughterers and Meat Packers
- Production Workers, All Other
- Food Processing Workers, All Other
- Textile Knitting and Weaving Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
- Ophthalmic Laboratory Technicians
- Helpers--Production Workers
- Textile Cutting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
- Textile Winding, Twisting, and Drawing Out Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
- Meat, Poultry, and Fish Cutters and Trimmers
- Textile Bleaching and Dyeing Machine Operators and Tenders
- Cutters and Trimmers, Hand
- Shoe and Leather Workers and Repairers
- Textile, Apparel, and Furnishings Workers, All Other
- Bakers
- Sewing Machine Operators
- Sewers, Hand
- Shoe Machine Operators and Tenders
- Pressers, Textile, Garment, and Related Materials
- Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Workers
Healthcare Practitioners and Technical
70 careers, topping out at $559,030 for Pediatric Surgeons. Fastest growing: Nurse Practitioners at +41.0%.
- Pediatric Surgeons$559,030 median · +2.0% growth
- Cardiologists$496,010 median · +4.8% growth
- Radiologists$420,860 median · +3.4% growth
- Surgeons, All Other$414,010 median · +4.0% growth
- Anesthesiologists$391,490 median · +3.6% growth
- Orthopedic Surgeons, Except Pediatric$358,550 median · +4.0% growth
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons$352,220 median · +5.6% growth
- Emergency Medicine Physicians$335,550 median · +3.2% growth
All 70 healthcare practitioners and technical careers
- Dermatologists
- Physicians, Pathologists
- Prosthodontists
- Ophthalmologists, Except Pediatric
- Obstetricians and Gynecologists
- Orthodontists
- Psychiatrists
- Physicians, All Other
- General Internal Medicine Physicians
- Neurologists
- Family Medicine Physicians
- Nurse Anesthetists
- Dentists, All Other Specialists
- Pediatricians, General
- Dentists, General
- Podiatrists
- Medical Dosimetrists
- Pharmacists
- Optometrists
- Physician Assistants
- Nurse Midwives
- Nurse Practitioners
- Veterinarians
- Healthcare Diagnosing or Treating Practitioners, All Other
- Radiation Therapists
- Physical Therapists
- Nuclear Medicine Technologists
- Occupational Therapists
- Genetic Counselors
- Dental Hygienists
- Speech-Language Pathologists
- Registered Nurses
- Diagnostic Medical Sonographers
- Audiologists
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists
- Respiratory Therapists
- Orthotists and Prosthetists
- Radiologic Technologists and Technicians
- Chiropractors
- Therapists, All Other
- Dietitians and Nutritionists
- Acupuncturists
- Cardiovascular Technologists and Technicians
- Health Information Technologists and Medical Registrars
- Surgical Assistants
- Healthcare Practitioners and Technical Workers, All Other
- Hearing Aid Specialists
- Surgical Technologists
- Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses
- Athletic Trainers
- Recreational Therapists
- Paramedics
- Exercise Physiologists
- Medical Records Specialists
- Health Technologists and Technicians, All Other
- Veterinary Technologists and Technicians
- Opticians, Dispensing
- Pharmacy Technicians
- Ophthalmic Medical Technicians
- Psychiatric Technicians
- Emergency Medical Technicians
- Dietetic Technicians
Education, Training, and Library
62 careers, topping out at $128,500 for Law Teachers, Postsecondary. Fastest growing: Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary at +17.9%.
- Law Teachers, Postsecondary$128,500 median · +2.6% growth
- Economics Teachers, Postsecondary$123,920 median · +2.4% growth
- Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary$109,270 median · +7.8% growth
- Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary$107,310 median · +17.9% growth
- Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary$103,170 median · +2.4% growth
- Forestry and Conservation Science Teachers, Postsecondary$101,420 median · +2.8% growth
- Physics Teachers, Postsecondary$100,310 median · +2.4% growth
- Anthropology and Archeology Teachers, Postsecondary$99,650 median · +2.6% growth
All 62 education, training, and library careers
- Business Teachers, Postsecondary
- Agricultural Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary
- Political Science Teachers, Postsecondary
- Geography Teachers, Postsecondary
- Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary
- Architecture Teachers, Postsecondary
- Environmental Science Teachers, Postsecondary
- Chemistry Teachers, Postsecondary
- Area, Ethnic, and Cultural Studies Teachers, Postsecondary
- Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary
- Sociology Teachers, Postsecondary
- History Teachers, Postsecondary
- Library Science Teachers, Postsecondary
- Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary
- Philosophy and Religion Teachers, Postsecondary
- Nursing Instructors and Teachers, Postsecondary
- Mathematical Science Teachers, Postsecondary
- Foreign Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary
- English Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary
- Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary
- Communications Teachers, Postsecondary
- Postsecondary Teachers, All Other
- Social Work Teachers, Postsecondary
- Instructional Coordinators
- Recreation and Fitness Studies Teachers, Postsecondary
- Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary
- Special Education Teachers, All Other
- Family and Consumer Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary
- Education Teachers, Postsecondary
- Special Education Teachers, Secondary School
- Social Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary, All Other
- Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
- Librarians and Media Collections Specialists
- Special Education Teachers, Middle School
- Career/Technical Education Teachers, Secondary School
- Teachers and Instructors, All Other
- Career/Technical Education Teachers, Middle School
- Special Education Teachers, Preschool
- Archivists
- Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
- Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education
- Career/Technical Education Teachers, Postsecondary
- Curators
- Kindergarten Teachers, Except Special Education
- Adult Basic Education, Adult Secondary Education, and English as a Second Language Instructors
- Farm and Home Management Educators
- Museum Technicians and Conservators
- Educational Instruction and Library Workers, All Other
- Self-Enrichment Teachers
- Library Technicians
- Tutors
- Teaching Assistants, Postsecondary
- Substitute Teachers, Short-Term
- Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education
Construction and Extraction
59 careers, topping out at $109,910 for Elevator and Escalator Installers and Repairers. Fastest growing: Solar Photovoltaic Installers at +36.5%.
- Elevator and Escalator Installers and Repairers$109,910 median · +5.7% growth
- First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers$79,920 median · +5.0% growth
- Roof Bolters, Mining$78,540 median · -18.9% growth
- Boilermakers$76,410 median · -1.8% growth
- Terrazzo Workers and Finishers$76,170 median · -13.0% growth
- Construction and Building Inspectors$74,690 median · 0.0% growth
- Loading and Moving Machine Operators, Underground Mining$74,500 median · -15.8% growth
- Pile Driver Operators$73,300 median · -5.7% growth
All 59 construction and extraction careers
- Underground Mining Machine Operators, All Other
- Rail-Track Laying and Maintenance Equipment Operators
- Tapers
- Rotary Drill Operators, Oil and Gas
- Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters
- Electricians
- Structural Iron and Steel Workers
- Brickmasons and Blockmasons
- Continuous Mining Machine Operators
- Sheet Metal Workers
- Explosives Workers, Ordnance Handling Experts, and Blasters
- Carpenters
- Earth Drillers, Except Oil and Gas
- Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators
- Reinforcing Iron and Rebar Workers
- Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installers
- Derrick Operators, Oil and Gas
- Insulation Workers, Mechanical
- Service Unit Operators, Oil and Gas
- Plasterers and Stucco Masons
- Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators, Surface Mining
- Stonemasons
- Glaziers
- Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers
- Extraction Workers, All Other
- Floor Layers, Except Carpet, Wood, and Hard Tiles
- Tile and Stone Setters
- Roofers
- Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operators
- Solar Photovoltaic Installers
- Paperhangers
- Floor Sanders and Finishers
- Carpet Installers
- Highway Maintenance Workers
- Septic Tank Servicers and Sewer Pipe Cleaners
- Hazardous Materials Removal Workers
- Painters, Construction and Maintenance
- Insulation Workers, Floor, Ceiling, and Wall
- Pipelayers
- Rock Splitters, Quarry
- Fence Erectors
- Helpers--Extraction Workers
- Helpers--Brickmasons, Blockmasons, Stonemasons, and Tile and Marble Setters
- Construction Laborers
- Roustabouts, Oil and Gas
- Helpers--Roofers
- Helpers--Carpenters
- Helpers, Construction Trades, All Other
- Helpers--Electricians
- Helpers--Pipelayers, Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters
- Helpers--Painters, Paperhangers, Plasterers, and Stucco Masons
Office and Administrative Support
54 careers, topping out at $76,590 for Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants. Fastest growing: Couriers and Messengers at +8.0%.
- Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants$76,590 median · 0.0% growth
- First-Line Supervisors of Office and Administrative Support Workers$69,500 median · +0.1% growth
- Brokerage Clerks$65,750 median · -7.6% growth
- Postal Service Clerks$62,130 median · -0.3% growth
- Postal Service Mail Carriers$60,550 median · -0.3% growth
- Production, Planning, and Expediting Clerks$59,650 median · -1.3% growth
- Postal Service Mail Sorters, Processors, and Processing Machine Operators$58,470 median · -5.3% growth
- Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks$58,260 median · -15.9% growth
All 54 office and administrative support careers
- Legal Secretaries and Administrative Assistants
- Desktop Publishers
- Communications Equipment Operators, All Other
- Eligibility Interviewers, Government Programs
- Financial Clerks, All Other
- Public Safety Telecommunicators
- Cargo and Freight Agents
- Proofreaders and Copy Markers
- Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks
- Human Resources Assistants, Except Payroll and Timekeeping
- Procurement Clerks
- Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulance
- Statistical Assistants
- Credit Authorizers, Checkers, and Clerks
- Loan Interviewers and Clerks
- Information and Record Clerks, All Other
- Word Processors and Typists
- Insurance Claims and Policy Processing Clerks
- Court, Municipal, and License Clerks
- Billing and Posting Clerks
- Meter Readers, Utilities
- New Accounts Clerks
- Secretaries and Administrative Assistants, Except Legal, Medical, and Executive
- Bill and Account Collectors
- Correspondence Clerks
- Weighers, Measurers, Checkers, and Samplers, Recordkeeping
- Order Clerks
- Medical Secretaries and Administrative Assistants
- Interviewers, Except Eligibility and Loan
- Office and Administrative Support Workers, All Other
- Shipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks
- Office Clerks, General
- Customer Service Representatives
- Reservation and Transportation Ticket Agents and Travel Clerks
- File Clerks
- Tellers
- Telephone Operators
- Data Entry Keyers
- Office Machine Operators, Except Computer
- Mail Clerks and Mail Machine Operators, Except Postal Service
- Couriers and Messengers
- Switchboard Operators, Including Answering Service
- Receptionists and Information Clerks
- Gambling Cage Workers
- Library Assistants, Clerical
- Hotel, Motel, and Resort Desk Clerks
Installation, Maintenance, and Repair
51 careers, topping out at $103,020 for Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Powerhouse, Substation, and Relay. Fastest growing: Wind Turbine Service Technicians at +29.5%.
- Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Powerhouse, Substation, and Relay$103,020 median · +9.7% growth
- Electrical Power-Line Installers and Repairers$95,320 median · +10.3% growth
- Signal and Track Switch Repairers$92,460 median · +1.8% growth
- Electrical and Electronics Installers and Repairers, Transportation Equipment$84,890 median · +5.4% growth
- Avionics Technicians$82,280 median · +9.4% growth
- Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians$79,870 median · +5.4% growth
- First-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers$79,860 median · +4.1% growth
- Control and Valve Installers and Repairers, Except Mechanical Door$74,340 median · +4.3% growth
All 51 installation, maintenance, and repair careers
- Telecommunications Line Installers and Repairers
- Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment
- Commercial Divers
- Precision Instrument and Equipment Repairers, All Other
- Rail Car Repairers
- Watch and Clock Repairers
- Millwrights
- Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Except Engines
- Industrial Machinery Mechanics
- Wind Turbine Service Technicians
- Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers, Except Line Installers
- Radio, Cellular, and Tower Equipment Installers and Repairers
- Riggers
- Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists
- Medical Equipment Repairers
- Refractory Materials Repairers, Except Brickmasons
- Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers
- Maintenance Workers, Machinery
- Security and Fire Alarm Systems Installers
- Motorboat Mechanics and Service Technicians
- Farm Equipment Mechanics and Service Technicians
- Electric Motor, Power Tool, and Related Repairers
- Mechanical Door Repairers
- Automotive Body and Related Repairers
- Camera and Photographic Equipment Repairers
- Audiovisual Equipment Installers and Repairers
- Recreational Vehicle Service Technicians
- Locksmiths and Safe Repairers
- Home Appliance Repairers
- Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics
- Maintenance and Repair Workers, General
- Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Workers, All Other
- Motorcycle Mechanics
- Electronic Equipment Installers and Repairers, Motor Vehicles
- Outdoor Power Equipment and Other Small Engine Mechanics
- Computer, Automated Teller, and Office Machine Repairers
- Automotive Glass Installers and Repairers
- Coin, Vending, and Amusement Machine Servicers and Repairers
- Musical Instrument Repairers and Tuners
- Manufactured Building and Mobile Home Installers
- Bicycle Repairers
- Helpers--Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Workers
- Tire Repairers and Changers
Transportation and Material Moving
49 careers, topping out at $232,140 for Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers. Fastest growing: Taxi Drivers at +11.5%.
- Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers$232,140 median · +8.3% growth
- Air Traffic Controllers$148,080 median · +1.7% growth
- Commercial Pilots$123,220 median · +5.2% growth
- Ship Engineers$109,530 median · +2.7% growth
- Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels$92,460 median · +4.0% growth
- Transportation Inspectors$92,100 median · +2.2% growth
- Subway and Streetcar Operators$86,380 median · +3.7% growth
- Locomotive Engineers$81,410 median · +0.5% growth
All 49 transportation and material moving careers
- Railroad Conductors and Yardmasters
- Gas Compressor and Gas Pumping Station Operators
- Wellhead Pumpers
- Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firers
- Crane and Tower Operators
- Flight Attendants
- Pump Operators, Except Wellhead Pumpers
- Rail Yard Engineers, Dinkey Operators, and Hostlers
- Traffic Technicians
- Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity
- Tank Car, Truck, and Ship Loaders
- Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers
- Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors
- Bridge and Lock Tenders
- Airfield Operations Specialists
- Hoist and Winch Operators
- Rail Transportation Workers, All Other
- Sailors and Marine Oilers
- Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors
- Dredge Operators
- Bus Drivers, School
- Motorboat Operators
- Industrial Truck and Tractor Operators
- Transportation Workers, All Other
- Light Truck Drivers
- Conveyor Operators and Tenders
- Taxi Drivers
- Material Moving Workers, All Other
- Machine Feeders and Offbearers
- Aircraft Service Attendants
- Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers, Hand
- Driver/Sales Workers
- Passenger Attendants
- Stockers and Order Fillers
- Shuttle Drivers and Chauffeurs
- Motor Vehicle Operators, All Other
- Packers and Packagers, Hand
- Cleaners of Vehicles and Equipment
- Automotive and Watercraft Service Attendants
- Ambulance Drivers and Attendants, Except Emergency Medical Technicians
- Parking Attendants
Life, Physical, and Social Science
48 careers, topping out at $193,950 for Industrial-Organizational Psychologists. Fastest growing: Occupational Health and Safety Technicians at +19.4%.
- Industrial-Organizational Psychologists$193,950 median · +6.5% growth
- Physicists$172,250 median · +7.2% growth
- Political Scientists$142,080 median · -2.0% growth
- Astronomers$128,820 median · +7.8% growth
- Biochemists and Biophysicists$127,410 median · +12.3% growth
- Economists$124,720 median · +4.7% growth
- Physical Scientists, All Other$122,570 median · +2.1% growth
- Materials Scientists$117,790 median · +8.3% growth
All 48 life, physical, and social science careers
- Psychologists, All Other
- Nuclear Technicians
- Sociologists
- Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists
- Geographers
- Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers
- Social Scientists and Related Workers, All Other
- Clinical and Counseling Psychologists
- Atmospheric and Space Scientists
- Biological Scientists, All Other
- Hydrologists
- School Psychologists
- Life Scientists, All Other
- Chemists
- Occupational Health and Safety Specialists
- Urban and Regional Planners
- Food Scientists and Technologists
- Microbiologists
- Epidemiologists
- Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health
- Soil and Plant Scientists
- Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists
- Historians
- Foresters
- Conservation Scientists
- Forensic Science Technicians
- Anthropologists and Archeologists
- Survey Researchers
- Animal Scientists
- Hydrologic Technicians
- Life, Physical, and Social Science Technicians, All Other
- Social Science Research Assistants
- Occupational Health and Safety Technicians
- Chemical Technicians
- Biological Technicians
- Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health
- Forest and Conservation Technicians
- Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians
- Food Science Technicians
- Agricultural Technicians
Arts, Design, Entertainment, Sports, and Media
41 careers, topping out at $114,850 for Art Directors. Fastest growing: Coaches and Scouts at +6.1%.
- Art Directors$114,850 median · +4.2% growth
- Special Effects Artists and Animators$102,030 median · -0.3% growth
- Technical Writers$90,390 median · +0.8% growth
- Producers and Directors$90,360 median · +4.0% growth
- Commercial and Industrial Designers$83,910 median · +2.4% growth
- Fashion Designers$80,960 median · +0.1% growth
- Editors$77,920 median · -1.1% growth
- Writers and Authors$76,910 median · -0.3% growth
All 41 arts, design, entertainment, sports, and media careers
- Film and Video Editors
- Set and Exhibit Designers
- Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film
- Public Relations Specialists
- Music Directors and Composers
- Media and Communication Workers, All Other
- Sound Engineering Technicians
- Court Reporters and Simultaneous Captioners
- Artists and Related Workers, All Other
- Media and Communication Equipment Workers, All Other
- Lighting Technicians
- Interior Designers
- Athletes and Sports Competitors
- Designers, All Other
- Graphic Designers
- News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists
- Interpreters and Translators
- Broadcast Technicians
- Audio and Video Technicians
- Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators
- Choreographers
- Broadcast Announcers and Radio Disc Jockeys
- Coaches and Scouts
- Craft Artists
- Photographers
- Umpires, Referees, and Other Sports Officials
- Merchandise Displayers and Window Trimmers
- Floral Designers
- Entertainers and performers, sports and related workers, all other
- Disc jockeys, except radio
- Dancers
- Musicians and singers
- Actors
Management
37 careers, topping out at $213,990 for Chief Executives. Fastest growing: Medical and Health Services Managers at +24.2%.
- Chief Executives$213,990 median · +3.2% growth
- Computer and Information Systems Managers$175,140 median · +15.8% growth
- Architectural and Engineering Managers$171,270 median · +5.5% growth
- Natural Sciences Managers$167,220 median · +8.2% growth
- Marketing Managers$166,790 median · +6.9% growth
- Financial Managers$166,570 median · +9.7% growth
- Human Resources Managers$149,280 median · +5.5% growth
- Compensation and Benefits Managers$149,230 median · +1.1% growth
All 37 management careers
- Sales Managers
- Purchasing Managers
- Public Relations Managers
- Managers, All Other
- Advertising and Promotions Managers
- Training and Development Managers
- Industrial Production Managers
- Fundraising Managers
- Medical and Health Services Managers
- Construction Managers
- Administrative Services Managers
- Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers
- Facilities Managers
- Education Administrators, Kindergarten through Secondary
- General and Operations Managers
- Education Administrators, Postsecondary
- Postmasters and Mail Superintendents
- Education Administrators, All Other
- Emergency Management Directors
- Gambling Managers
- Farmers, Ranchers, and Other Agricultural Managers
- Social and Community Service Managers
- Entertainment and Recreation Managers, Except Gambling
- Funeral Home Managers
- Property, Real Estate, and Community Association Managers
- Personal Service Managers, All Other
- Food Service Managers
- Lodging Managers
- Education and Childcare Administrators, Preschool and Daycare
Architecture and Engineering
36 careers, topping out at $161,740 for Computer Hardware Engineers. Fastest growing: Industrial Engineers at +12.4%.
- Computer Hardware Engineers$161,740 median · +9.1% growth
- Petroleum Engineers$144,910 median · +2.0% growth
- Aerospace Engineers$134,960 median · +8.3% growth
- Nuclear Engineers$133,970 median · +0.4% growth
- Electronics Engineers, Except Computer$130,220 median · +3.7% growth
- Chemical Engineers$125,040 median · +4.7% growth
- Engineers, All Other$122,930 median · +3.7% growth
- Electrical Engineers$120,630 median · +9.9% growth
All 36 architecture and engineering careers
- Health and Safety Engineers, Except Mining Safety Engineers and Inspectors
- Materials Engineers
- Marine Engineers and Naval Architects
- Bioengineers and Biomedical Engineers
- Environmental Engineers
- Mining and Geological Engineers, Including Mining Safety Engineers
- Mechanical Engineers
- Industrial Engineers
- Civil Engineers
- Architects, Except Landscape and Naval
- Agricultural Engineers
- Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians
- Cartographers and Photogrammetrists
- Landscape Architects
- Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians
- Electrical and Electronics Drafters
- Surveyors
- Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians
- Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians
- Mechanical Drafters
- Calibration Technologists and Technicians
- Architectural and Civil Drafters
- Industrial Engineering Technologists and Technicians
- Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians
- Drafters, All Other
- Environmental Engineering Technologists and Technicians
- Surveying and Mapping Technicians
Personal Care and Service
31 careers, topping out at $97,150 for Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance. Fastest growing: Animal Caretakers at +12.1%.
- Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance$97,150 median · +6.1% growth
- First-Line Supervisors of Gambling Services Workers$63,820 median · +3.5% growth
- Embalmers$58,780 median · +0.7% growth
- Morticians, Undertakers, and Funeral Arrangers$55,010 median · +3.0% growth
- Costume Attendants$50,400 median · +5.9% growth
- First-Line Supervisors of Personal Service Workers$48,590 median · +6.3% growth
- First-Line Supervisors of Entertainment and Recreation Workers, Except Gambling Services$48,560 median · +5.3% growth
- Exercise Trainers and Group Fitness Instructors$47,160 median · +7.3% growth
All 31 personal care and service careers
- Skincare Specialists
- Crematory Operators
- Residential Advisors
- Personal Care and Service Workers, All Other
- Animal Trainers
- Concierges
- Motion Picture Projectionists
- Barbers
- Baggage Porters and Bellhops
- Recreation Workers
- Gambling Service Workers, All Other
- Locker Room, Coatroom, and Dressing Room Attendants
- Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists
- Manicurists and Pedicurists
- Funeral Attendants
- Animal Caretakers
- Childcare Workers
- Gambling and Sports Book Writers and Runners
- Gambling Dealers
- Ushers, Lobby Attendants, and Ticket Takers
- Entertainment Attendants and Related Workers, All Other
- Shampooers
- Amusement and Recreation Attendants
Business and Financial Operations
30 careers, topping out at $117,330 for Financial Risk Specialists. Fastest growing: Logisticians at +17.6%.
- Financial Risk Specialists$117,330 median · +7.4% growth
- Personal Financial Advisors$105,070 median · +1.4% growth
- Financial and Investment Analysts$102,740 median · +7.2% growth
- Project Management Specialists$102,320 median · +6.7% growth
- Management Analysts$101,860 median · +10.1% growth
- Labor Relations Specialists$95,420 median · +2.1% growth
- Financial Examiners$94,160 median · +9.3% growth
- Budget Analysts$91,640 median · +1.9% growth
All 30 business and financial operations careers
- Accountants and Auditors
- Credit Analysts
- Business Operations Specialists, All Other
- Agents and Business Managers of Artists, Performers, and Athletes
- Logisticians
- Insurance Underwriters
- Financial Specialists, All Other
- Compliance Officers
- Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists
- Cost Estimators
- Insurance Appraisers, Auto Damage
- Compensation, Benefits, and Job Analysis Specialists
- Claims Adjusters, Examiners, and Investigators
- Loan Officers
- Human Resources Specialists
- Fundraisers
- Training and Development Specialists
- Tax Examiners and Collectors, and Revenue Agents
- Meeting, Convention, and Event Planners
- Farm Labor Contractors
- Tax Preparers
- Credit Counselors
Protective Service
24 careers, topping out at $106,040 for First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives. Fastest growing: Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists at +13.1%.
- First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives$106,040 median · +3.3% growth
- Detectives and Criminal Investigators$93,790 median · +0.2% growth
- First-Line Supervisors of Firefighting and Prevention Workers$93,530 median · +3.7% growth
- Transit and Railroad Police$90,230 median · +3.2% growth
- First-Line Supervisors of Correctional Officers$77,970 median · -2.5% growth
- First-Line Supervisors of Protective Service Workers, All Other$76,400 median · +1.9% growth
- Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers$76,210 median · +3.5% growth
- Fire Inspectors and Investigators$75,920 median · +4.2% growth
All 24 protective service careers
- Fish and Game Wardens
- Transportation Security Screeners
- Firefighters
- Correctional Officers and Jailers
- Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists
- Bailiffs
- First-Line Supervisors of Security Workers
- Private Detectives and Investigators
- Parking Enforcement Workers
- Animal Control Workers
- Gambling Surveillance Officers and Gambling Investigators
- Protective Service Workers, All Other
- Crossing Guards and Flaggers
- Security Guards
- School Bus Monitors
- Lifeguards, Ski Patrol, and Other Recreational Protective Service Workers
Sales and Related
22 careers, topping out at $124,900 for Sales Engineers. Fastest growing: Insurance Sales Agents at +3.3%.
- Sales Engineers$124,900 median · +2.8% growth
- Sales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing, Technical and Scientific Products$104,920 median · +1.2% growth
- First-Line Supervisors of Non-Retail Sales Workers$87,520 median · +0.5% growth
- Securities, Commodities, and Financial Services Sales Agents$78,660 median · +1.4% growth
- Real Estate Brokers$73,220 median · +0.8% growth
- Sales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing, Except Technical and Scientific Products$72,080 median · -0.9% growth
- Sales Representatives of Services, Except Advertising, Insurance, Financial Services, and Travel$69,990 median · +2.7% growth
- Advertising Sales Agents$64,820 median · -7.2% growth
All 22 sales and related careers
- Insurance Sales Agents
- Real Estate Sales Agents
- Travel Agents
- First-Line Supervisors of Retail Sales Workers
- Models
- Sales and Related Workers, All Other
- Door-to-Door Sales Workers, News and Street Vendors, and Related Workers
- Counter and Rental Clerks
- Demonstrators and Product Promoters
- Parts Salespersons
- Gambling Change Persons and Booth Cashiers
- Telemarketers
- Retail Salespersons
- Cashiers
Computer and Mathematical
21 careers, topping out at $140,300 for Computer and Information Research Scientists. Fastest growing: Data Scientists at +34.6%.
- Computer and Information Research Scientists$140,300 median · +21.8% growth
- Database Architects$139,500 median · +9.4% growth
- Software Developers$135,980 median · +10.2% growth
- Computer Network Architects$134,050 median · +7.7% growth
- Actuaries$130,000 median · +9.2% growth
- Information Security Analysts$129,180 median · +21.0% growth
- Mathematicians$126,710 median · +0.6% growth
- Data Scientists$120,230 median · +34.6% growth
All 21 computer and mathematical careers
- Computer Occupations, All Other
- Computer Systems Analysts
- Statisticians
- Database Administrators
- Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
- Web and Digital Interface Designers
- Computer Programmers
- Network and Computer Systems Administrators
- Web Developers
- Operations Research Analysts
- Mathematical Science Occupations, All Other
- Computer Network Support Specialists
- Computer User Support Specialists
Food Preparation and Serving
17 careers, topping out at $62,470 for Chefs and Head Cooks. Fastest growing: Cooks, Restaurant at +12.1%.
- Chefs and Head Cooks$62,470 median · +6.6% growth
- Cooks, Private Household$47,940 median · +5.1% growth
- First-Line Supervisors of Food Preparation and Serving Workers$44,080 median · +5.4% growth
- Cooks, All Other$37,690 median · +5.2% growth
- Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria$37,450 median · +2.8% growth
- Cooks, Restaurant$37,390 median · +12.1% growth
- Cooks, Short Order$35,880 median · -5.2% growth
- Food Preparation and Serving Related Workers, All Other$35,840 median · +5.5% growth
Healthcare Support
16 careers, topping out at $72,300 for Occupational Therapy Assistants. Fastest growing: Physical Therapist Assistants at +23.0%.
- Occupational Therapy Assistants$72,300 median · +21.5% growth
- Physical Therapist Assistants$68,380 median · +23.0% growth
- Massage Therapists$58,450 median · +15.3% growth
- Healthcare Support Workers, All Other$48,430 median · +4.8% growth
- Dental Assistants$48,070 median · +7.4% growth
- Medical Equipment Preparers$47,700 median · +10.8% growth
- Medical Assistants$45,690 median · +12.9% growth
- Phlebotomists$45,230 median · +6.8% growth
Community and Social Service
16 careers, topping out at $71,900 for Social Workers, All Other. Fastest growing: Marriage and Family Therapists at +13.5%.
- Social Workers, All Other$71,900 median · +2.3% growth
- Healthcare Social Workers$67,880 median · +8.5% growth
- Marriage and Family Therapists$66,940 median · +13.5% growth
- Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists$66,270 median · +3.0% growth
- Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors$64,330 median · +2.9% growth
- Health Education Specialists$64,070 median · +5.6% growth
- Clergy$60,810 median · +2.4% growth
- Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers$60,280 median · +10.3% growth
All 16 community and social service careers
Farming, Fishing, and Forestry
14 careers, topping out at $59,320 for First-Line Supervisors of Farming, Fishing, and Forestry Workers. Fastest growing: Agricultural Equipment Operators at +8.6%.
- First-Line Supervisors of Farming, Fishing, and Forestry Workers$59,320 median · +3.8% growth
- Fallers$52,100 median · -9.9% growth
- Animal Breeders$51,130 median · +3.0% growth
- Logging Workers, All Other$50,840 median · -7.6% growth
- Agricultural Inspectors$49,940 median · +2.3% growth
- Logging Equipment Operators$49,740 median · -3.8% growth
- Log Graders and Scalers$46,330 median · -2.2% growth
- Forest and Conservation Workers$43,680 median · -1.5% growth
Building and Grounds Cleaning and Maintenance
10 careers, topping out at $58,430 for First-Line Supervisors of Landscaping, Lawn Service, and Groundskeeping Workers. Fastest growing: Pest Control Workers at +5.5%.
- First-Line Supervisors of Landscaping, Lawn Service, and Groundskeeping Workers$58,430 median · +4.0% growth
- Tree Trimmers and Pruners$50,960 median · +4.2% growth
- First-Line Supervisors of Housekeeping and Janitorial Workers$49,100 median · +3.2% growth
- Grounds Maintenance Workers, All Other$46,860 median · +3.7% growth
- Pesticide Handlers, Sprayers, and Applicators, Vegetation$46,340 median · +3.9% growth
- Pest Control Workers$45,250 median · +5.5% growth
- Building Cleaning Workers, All Other$44,040 median · +2.0% growth
- Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers$39,150 median · +4.7% growth
All 10 building and grounds cleaning and maintenance careers
Legal
8 careers, topping out at $159,670 for Lawyers. Fastest growing: Lawyers at +4.7%.
- Lawyers$159,670 median · +4.7% growth
- Judges, Magistrate Judges, and Magistrates$153,990 median · +2.8% growth
- Administrative Law Judges, Adjudicators, and Hearing Officers$117,860 median · 0.0% growth
- Arbitrators, Mediators, and Conciliators$75,530 median · +4.7% growth
- Legal Support Workers, All Other$72,110 median · -0.3% growth
- Judicial Law Clerks$64,920 median · +2.8% growth
- Paralegals and Legal Assistants$62,890 median · -0.3% growth
- Title Examiners, Abstractors, and Searchers$58,650 median · +2.1% growth