Climbing the career ladder by getting promoted and switching companies is one way to boost your salary. Sometimes, however, the best way to improve your finances is by selecting a job with high pay, growth potential, and potentially the flexibility to work remotely.
Below, we'll look at 10 jobs that pay over $150,000 with strong future growth potential, so that you can set yourself up well for career success.
Editor's note: All salary information is taken from Indeed unless otherwise noted.
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Enterprise architect
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Average salary: $150,982
Enterprise architects are IT professionals who design and manage an organization's technology systems, ensuring that they align with business strategy. Their responsibilities include developing IT strategies, evaluating and recommending new technologies, and leading large-scale digital projects.
Most enterprise architects have a strong background in computer science and information technology, and may also hold specific technical certifications. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that jobs for architects in databases and computer networks will grow by 9% and 13%, respectively, through 2033.
Optometrist
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Average salary: $154,108
Optometrists are health care professionals who diagnose and treat vision problems, eye diseases, and injuries. They detect conditions like glaucoma and cataracts, prescribe corrective lenses, provide vision therapy, and refer patients to ophthalmologists for surgery when necessary.
Becoming an optometrist requires a doctor of optometry (OD) degree, as well as licensing in the state where you practice. The BLS projects that optometrist jobs will grow by 9% through 2033.
Software engineering manager
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Average salary: $159,128
Software engineering managers lead teams of software developers in designing, building, and maintaining software applications. They are responsible for overseeing the software development lifecycle by setting goals, managing resources, and interfacing with other departments.
To become a software engineering manager, a degree in computer science is recommended, along with previous experience as a software engineer. The BLS estimates that computer and information systems manager jobs will grow by 17% through 2033.
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Corporate counsel
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Average salary: $163,431
Corporate counsels, also called "in-house lawyers," provide legal advice to companies and organizations on matters such as contracts, employment law, intellectual property, and risk management. They are responsible for drafting legal documents, ensuring regulatory compliance, and handling legal disputes and issues.
In-house lawyers must have a law degree (JD) and pass the bar exam, and typically have previous experience at a law firm. The BLS projects that job growth for lawyers will be 5% through 2033.
AI developer
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Average salary: $163,745
AI developers design and build artificial intelligence systems, such as machine learning models and computer vision software. They are responsible for collecting and processing data, training and developing AI models, and integrating AI solutions into software products.
While some AI developers are self-trained, many have an undergraduate or graduate degree in computer science, machine learning, or artificial intelligence. The BLS estimates that jobs in software development will grow by 17% through 2033.
Physicist
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Average salary: $168,996
Physicists study the fundamental properties of the universe, including matter, energy, and space. They conduct scientific experiments to explain natural phenomena, and may work for universities, research laboratories, or the government.
Becoming a physicist requires a graduate degree in physics or a related scientific field, and often a Ph.D. for research positions. The BLS projects that job growth for physicists and astronomers will be 7% through 2033.
Certified registered nurse anesthetist
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Average salary: $231,285
Certified registered nurse anesthetists are nurses who specialize in providing anesthesia and pain management to patients undergoing surgery or other medical procedures. They work closely with surgeons and anesthesiologists to ensure patient safety throughout the entire procedure, from before to after.
To be a nurse anesthetist, candidates must obtain a bachelor's degree in nursing and a nursing license, as well as a doctoral program and certification in nurse anesthesia. According to the BLS, nurse anesthetist, nurse midwife, and nurse practitioner jobs will grow by 40% through 2033.
Dentist
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Average salary: $233,336
Dentists diagnose and treat problems with the teeth, gums, and other parts of the mouth and provide preventive care such as cleanings and exams. Day-to-day responsibilities may include filling cavities, performing extractions and cosmetic procedures, and fitting crowns and dentures.
Becoming a dentist requires a doctor of dental surgery (DDS) or doctor of dental medicine (DMD) degree, as well as obtaining a dentistry license. The BLS estimates that job growth for dentists will be 5% through 2033.
Pathologist
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Average salary: $255,312
Pathologists are physicians who specialize in diagnosing illness and disease by examining laboratory samples such as blood and tissue. They help identify conditions such as cancer, infections, and autoimmune disorders.
Completing medical school and a pathology residency is required to become a pathologist, as well as a medical license. The BLS projects that job growth for pathologists will be 5% through 2033.
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Psychiatrist
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Average salary: $275,286
Psychiatrists are medical professionals who diagnose and treat mental health disorders. They evaluate patients through psychological assessments, prescribe medications, and may provide other treatments such as psychotherapy.
To become a psychiatrist, candidates must complete medical school and a psychiatry residency and obtain a medical license. According to the BLS, psychiatrist jobs will grow by 8% through 2033.
Bottom line
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Jobs in law, health care, science, and technology are both some of the fastest-growing and highest-paid positions, with a strong outlook over the next decade.
If you're looking for a change in your career path, these 10 jobs paying over $150,000 with high growth potential are a solid foundation and can help lower your financial stress. Figure out which jobs fit your skills and interests, and then make plans to acquire the education and experience you'll need to make the switch.
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