Mean Income: $65,770 Top 10%: $110,210
Transportation inspectors are the overseers of our roads, bridges, and sidewalks. They are usually hired by both the government and large construction companies to make sure that safety procedures are met. This job literally saves lives, which is why it requires a few key qualifications. The job might be very physically demanding, or involve mostly desk work, depending on who you work for.
You’ll obviously need some mechanical and/or construction background in-order to qualify for the job. Based on your state, different certifications are also required. It’s also extremely important to be knowledgeable in regulations, rules, and procedures, as that’s the essence of the job.
Astronomers
Mean Income: $93,340 Top 10%: $155,480
Working as an official astronomer can earn just as much money, if not more, than any other well-paying job. If you have a love for the stars but not enough courage to fly into space, becoming an astronomer could be perfect for you. This job can earn you up to $150,000 annually!
To become an astronomer, you’ll need a Ph.D. and a master’s degree. Publishing some articles also helps a lot, but this takes years to do. Ignore any naysayers because this job will give you all the flexibility you could want and need, and could potentially lead to you writing the next hit sci-fi book that ends up as a Hollywood film. Then we’ll see who’s laughing.
HR Managers
Mean Income: $108,600 Top 10%: $169,310
Offices can be quite a complicated environment to work in. Tensions between co-workers, employees and managers, and many other dynamics are at constant play throughout the day. Add those people who were born before the politically correct era into the mix, and you’ve got yourself quite an interesting work-day as an HR Manager.
The job combines many skills but is mostly about making people happy. You’ll most likely need a degree in the subject for an entry-level position. If you’ve got some experience and can help mediate between people, this might just be one of the most rewarding jobs you can possibly get. And hey, it also pays very well!
Database Administrators
Mean Income: $77,350 Top 10%: $108,500
Database administration is an extremely cool job. If you work as a freelancer, you’ll basically get to work from home and help secure private databases for companies. If you’re a tech wiz and don’t mind the occasional CEO freaking out when their computers don’t work, this is a very profitable and rewarding venture.
You should have at least a few years of experience working on SQL databases and/or online databases. In addition, having a degree helps, but it’s not mandatory. Being great at problem-solving is obviously important, as you’re basically taking the role of protecting the precious data of these companies.
Multimedia Artists and Animators
Mean Income: $68,060 Top 10%: $109,370
Digital artistry has received a bad rap in recent years as a job that requires enormous hours for very little pay. This is true when you’re working for visual effects companies and most video-game developers, but the job is much better if you work for a business. As a digital artist, you’ll get to work from home, and have extremely flexible hours.
Since this is a very artistic job, you’ll obviously need to have a great visual sense. It’s also important to be adept at various digital art software such as Photoshop, After Effects, Illustrator, and others, mostly depending on your field. Having a portfolio is important as well.