The United States, recognized globally as a hub of innovation, finance, and culture, has drawn numerous international students to pursue their studies. Upon finishing their education in the United States, many of these students aspire to secure a suitable job and living in the country. In this article, we will highlight the 10 highest paying jobs in the US to serve as a valuable reference for international students seeking employment after graduation.
Why choose the top 10 highest paying jobs in the US?
Choosing one of the top 10 highest paying jobs in the US provides great financial security, allowing individuals to easily manage living expenditures, invest for the future, and maintain a high standard of living. These positions offer excellent pay, making them appealing to people seeking stability and long-term financial success.
Furthermore, many of these high paying jobs are available in industries with significant demand and growth potential, providing good chances for professional advancement and job stability. Professionals in these industries frequently have access to ongoing learning and development, which helps them remain competitive in the workplace.
Surgeon
Surgeons, one of the top 10 highest paying jobs in the US, have longer residency requirements than other doctors. After completing medical school, surgeons must undergo a five-year residency and a 1–3 year fellowship. Surgeons typically specialize in areas such as orthopedic surgery, neurosurgery, cardiovascular surgery, or general surgery. Their duties involve diagnosis and evaluation, planning for surgery, and providing follow-up care.
Median salary: $426,000 per year
To start, aspiring surgeons, who are among the top 10 highest paying jobs in the US, must complete a four-year bachelor’s degree. Following this, they attend medical school for another four years, earning either a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree. After medical school, they enter a residency program, which typically lasts a minimum of five years in general surgery. Some may choose to pursue further specialization through a fellowship, which can add an additional 1-3 years of training in a specific surgical area, such as orthopedic or neurosurgery.
In addition to their educational requirements, surgeons must obtain the necessary licensing to practice medicine by passing the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) or the Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX).
Chief Executive Officer
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) is the top management executive within a company, responsible for leading the organization in establishing and fulfilling its strategic objectives. As one of the top 10 highest paying jobs in the US, the CEO role is also considered one of the most prestigious positions, particularly in New York. However, the path to becoming a CEO is challenging. Large corporations often require candidates to possess an MBA, along with significant management or supervisory experience. It is also worth noting that New York ranks among the highest-paying states for CEOs.
Median salary: $196,000 per year
Most CEOs possess at least a bachelor’s degree in fields such as business administration, finance, or a related discipline, with many opting for an MBA, particularly in larger organizations. Substantial work experience is vital, often ranging from 10 to 15 years in relevant sectors, including management positions. Many CEOs advance through the ranks, gaining diverse experience in various roles within their industry. Many CEOs are appointed by a company’s board of directors, making it essential for candidates to showcase a proven track record of success and a strategic vision.
Dentist
Dentists hold one of the top 10 highest paying jobs in the US, and their responsibilities are extensive. They work closely with patients, using various tools such as drills, digital scanners, X-ray machines, and lasers. Many dentists also choose to specialize in areas like dental anesthesia or oral and maxillofacial surgery. Additionally, they provide preventive oral health services, including teeth whitening, cleanings, polishing, and routine checkups tailored to their patients’ needs.
Median salary: $174,110 per year
To pursue one of the top 10 highest paying jobs in the US, candidates must obtain a bachelor’s degree, followed by earning a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) or Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) and complete a residency program approved by the Dental Certification Commission.
Engineering manager
An engineering manager is responsible for directing, coordinating, and planning the technical activities and performance of a company’s engineering team. This role also involves recruiting and supervising project personnel. Additionally, engineering managers are tasked with proposing and managing the department’s budget. In New York, engineering managers earn approximately 6% more than their counterparts nationwide, making it one of the top 10 highest paying jobs in the state.
Median salary: $150,000 per year
Many engineering managers have advanced degrees, such as a Master of Business Administration (MBA) or a Master of Engineering, which can improve their qualifications and employment opportunities. Typically, candidates must have 5-10 years of relevant engineering experience.
IT Manager
Nearly all organizations require IT managers, with a particularly high demand in financial and insurance companies, manufacturing firms, and the government sector. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for IT managers is projected to grow by 15.4% from 2022 to 2032. Over this period, an estimated 86,000 new IT management positions are expected to be added.
Median salary: $159,000 per year
To become an IT manager, candidates normally need a bachelor’s degree in information technology, computer science, or a similar discipline. IT managers typically have 5-10 years of experience in IT roles, having worked as systems analysts or network administrators before becoming managers. Hands-on experience managing IT systems, budgets, and teams is critical to success. Some positions may additionally require certificates, such as Certified Information Systems Manager (CISM) or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), to demonstrate technical expertise and leadership ability.
Petroleum Engineer
The field of petroleum production is marked by its high scientific and technological complexity, as well as its strong technical focus. As one of the top 10 highest paying jobs in the US, the demand for skilled professionals in this sector continues to grow as production evolves and personnel turnover persists in petroleum companies. There is a growing need for individuals who possess advanced scientific knowledge, cultural awareness, and specialized technical abilities to effectively manage and apply petroleum production technologies. Petroleum engineers can work in petroleum companies, engaging in oil and gas drilling engineering, oil production engineering, oil reservoir engineering, reservoir evaluation, and other related work.
Median salary: $137,330 per year
Students must possess a bachelor’s degree in petroleum engineering or a related subject, such as mechanical or chemical engineering. Aspiring petroleum engineers might consider earning a Professional Engineer (PE) license, which entails completing the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) test, gaining relevant job experience, and passing the Principles and Practice of Engineering exam.
Financial Manager
Candidates applying for this position must have a minimum of five years of experience with specific companies. As the demand for financial managers has grown, this role has emerged as one of the top 10 highest paying jobs in the US. While some positions may necessitate certification or licensing, a bachelor’s degree is the minimum educational requirement for this job.
In the role of a financial manager, you will oversee accounting and management functions, work on budgets and financial reports, and potentially take on a supervisory role, where you’ll monitor employees and provide guidance on financial decisions.
Median salary: $134,180 per year
Most financial managers have at least a bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, business administration. Employers prefer candidates with 5-7 years of relevant experience in finance or accounting, often requiring prior roles in financial analysis, budgeting, or accounting. Professional certifications, such as Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), can further improve job prospects and credibility in the field.
Data scientist
Data scientists are responsible for collecting and pre-processing data, interpreting it to identify trends in consumer behaviour and patterns, presenting their findings through clear visuals and reports, and ensuring adherence to data privacy regulations. More specifically, a data scientist may specialize in fields such as IT, sales, marketing, or any business sector that relies on statistical analysis. Their role is increasingly vital to a company’s operations, as they provide valuable insights that drive decision-making.
Median salary: $130,000 per year
Data scientists typically hold a bachelor’s degree in computer science, statistics, mathematics, or a related field. They must be proficient in programming languages such as Python or R, as well as familiar with data analysis and visualization tools. Familiarity with machine learning and big data technologies is also advantageous. Data scientists must have strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication abilities in order to comprehend complicated data sets and successfully communicate their findings to non-technical stakeholders.
Lawyer
Lawyers serve as advocates, counselors, and representatives for individuals, businesses, and organizations. They also offer legal advice and opinions on matters that do not necessarily require court litigation. Lawyers play a crucial role in upholding justice, safeguarding rights, and navigating the intricacies of the legal system.
Median salary: $127,990 per year
Aspiring lawyers must attend law school and receive a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, which normally takes three years. To meet the licensure requirements in most states, students must attend an American Bar Association (ABA)-accredited law school. After graduating from law school, candidates must pass the bar test in the state where they plan to practice.
Sales Manager
Sales manager role is an excellent choice for individuals seeking one of the top 10 highest paying jobs in the US. Key responsibilities include overseeing a sales team, establishing sales targets, and possibly participating in the recruitment and training of employees. In this position, you will lead a sales team, help set objectives, and assess performance. Additionally, you will be responsible for addressing customer concerns, creating budgets, and formulating strategies to expand the customer base.
Median salary: $127,490 per year
Candidates for sales manager positions often require a bachelor’s degree in business administration, marketing, or a related discipline. Sales managers must have several years of expertise in sales and a proven track record of meeting or exceeding sales targets. Experience in leadership or team management can also be very beneficial.
