<p><i>Heads up: This article may include affiliate links or sponsored content from brands we trust. Using them doesn’t cost you anything and helps support our mission.</i></p><p><strong>Thinking about a job in healthcare?</strong> Healthcare careers not only offer a wide range of opportunities with strong job growth, but also provide high salaries and room for advancement.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>The healthcare industry doesn’t mess around. It accounts for <strong>over 18% of the entire U.S. GDP</strong> (Gross Domestic Product) with <a href="https://www.cms.gov/data-research/statistics-trends-and-reports/national-health-expenditure-data/nhe-fact-sheet">national health expenditure</a> projected to surge by <strong>70% to $7.7 trillion by 2032</strong>, according to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.</p><p>The demand is only increasing, and in many of the <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-healthcare-jobs">highest-paying healthcare jobs</a> too. The <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/">U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook</a> projects <strong>1.9 million healthcare job </strong>openings each year up to 2033. If you’re wanting to start a career in healthcare, now is the time.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>In this career guide, we’ll be breaking down the most in-demand healthcare careers, including everything from doctors, nurses, and mental health professionals to emergency services and even lesser-known professions like </strong><a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/certified-anesthesiologist-assistant"><strong>certified anesthesiologist assistants</strong></a><strong>.</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>We’ll be digging into what they do, the skills needed, how to get started and <a href="https://imp.i384100.net/JKvrLv">courses to take</a>, and what you can expect to earn for each role <i>using salary data recorded from real healthcare professionals in our </i><a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/salary-database"><i>Salary Database</i></a><i> and other data sources like Glassdoor and the BLS.</i></p><p>Let’s dive in.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Healthcare Careers to Explore</strong></h2><p>With the rise in <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/pay-transparency-laws">pay transparency laws</a>, people are talking more about their salary, challenging <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/pay-discrimination">pay discrimination</a>, and opening up about their careers. Thanks to this, we've been able to talk to dozens of healthcare professionals in our interviews about the ins and outs of their jobs and what they make. Use this data to explore the many different areas of healthcare and decide which one might be the best for you.&nbsp;</p><p>Here’s a sneak peek from our <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/how-we-made-1million">street interviews</a> into a few of the healthcare careers covered in this guide:</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Use our </strong><a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/job-board"><strong>Salary Transparent Job Board</strong></a><strong> as a tool to help explore some of these roles even further!&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Doctors &amp; Physicians</h2><p>Most of us know what doctors are, but if you need a refresher, doctors work with patients to diagnose and treat them. In certain cases, they have to perform surgery, but that's only if it's absolutely necessary. They give a big chunk of their life to healthcare and often work long hours, nights, weekends, and holidays. But that doesn’t mean it isn’t a career worth getting into.&nbsp;</p><p>Doctors have a wide range of specialties to choose from with a ton of earning potential. They’re among the highest-paid professions in healthcare (<a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3Dsurgeon&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters="><strong>$1.5M</strong></a><strong> was the highest salary we found in our database</strong>) and have the ability to make a direct impact on the lives of their patients, making this also one of the most meaningful and <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/happiest-jobs">happiest jobs</a> ranked by <a href="https://www.payscale.com/data-packages/most-and-least-meaningful-jobs">Payscale</a> and data from our interviews.</p>

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CzEbEYLOxf8/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CzEbEYLOxf8/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; 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<figure class="table"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Job Title</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Role</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Skills Needed</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Entry-Level Education &amp; Training</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Salary</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><strong>General Practitioner (Family Medicine)</strong></td><td>Diagnoses and treats a wide range of health issues for all ages</td><td>Broad medical knowledge and communication skills</td><td>Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) and 3-year residency</td><td>$80K - $350K+</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Internal Medicine Physician</strong></td><td>Specializes in adult health and treats chronic illnesses</td><td>Diagnostic skills, analytical thinking, and communication skills</td><td>MD or DO and internal medicine 3-year residency</td><td>$298K - $486K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Surgeon</strong></td><td>Operates on patients for treatment</td><td>Precision and decision-making skills under pressure</td><td>MD or DO and 5-7 years of surgical residency</td><td>$250K - $1.5M</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Pediatrician</strong></td><td>Provides medical care for infants and children</td><td>Patience and the ability to talk to kids</td><td>MD or DO and 3 years of pediatric residency</td><td>$255K - $400K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Oncologist</strong></td><td>Diagnoses and treats cancer through chemotherapy and other treatments.</td><td>Oncology-specific knowledge and attention to detail</td><td>MD or DO and internal medicine 3-year residency with 2-3 years of oncology fellowship</td><td>$400K - $525K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Anesthesiologist</strong></td><td>Manages pain relief and vital functions during surgeries</td><td>Physiology knowledge and patient monitoring skills</td><td>MD or DO and anesthesiology 4-year residency&nbsp;</td><td>$400K - $625K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Cardiologist</strong></td><td>Specializes in diagnosing and treating heart and blood vessel conditions</td><td>Cardiology expertise and ability to interpret tests</td><td>MD or DO and 3-year internal medicine residency with 3-year cardiology fellowship</td><td>$390K - $623K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Radiologist</strong></td><td>Interprets medical images (X-rays, MRIs, CT scans) to diagnose illnesses</td><td>Imaging interpretation skills and technology proficiency</td><td>MD or DO and 4-5-year radiology residency&nbsp;</td><td>$216K - $403K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Dermatologist</strong></td><td>Diagnoses and treats skin, hair, and nail conditions</td><td>Detail-oriented and &nbsp;patient communication skills</td><td>MD or DO and 3-4-year dermatology residency&nbsp;</td><td>$333K - $620K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Physician Assistants (PAs)</strong></td><td>Works under physician supervision to diagnose and treat patients&nbsp;</td><td>Medical knowledge, diagnostic reasoning, and patient communication skills</td><td>Master’s degree from an ARC-PA accredited PA program and licensure (PANCE)</td><td>$68K - $220K</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>How to get into it:</strong> Doctors typically start with a bachelor’s degree that has a focus in biology, chemistry, or other related field. The MCAT (<a href="https://students-residents.aamc.org/taking-mcat-exam/take-mcat-exam">Medical College Admission Test</a>) is required to apply to medical school, which typically lasts four years. You'll need to complete a residency program in your chosen specialty, which can take 3 to 7 years depending on the field, before you can work independently. There may also be licensing exams required or additional fellowships for sub-specialization. Physician assistants typically don’t need to pursue anything higher than a master’s degree.</p>

#CardiacAnesthesiologist in Phoenix, AZ📍#salarytransparentstreet #salarytransparency

<p><strong>Get started with these courses and programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/JKY3Q7" rel="sponsored">Introductory Human Physiology</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/o4a2bE" rel="sponsored">Human Anatomy and Medical Terminology Fundamentals Specialization</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/vPgLOy" rel="sponsored">Cancer Biology Specialization</a></li></ul><p><strong>🎓</strong> If you're considering a career in medicine and need help financing your education, start comparing your options early. <strong>We've partnered with Money.com to bring you </strong><a href="https://secure.money.com/pr/r8fc8db4eb91" rel="sponsored"><strong>trusted student loan providers</strong></a><strong> who can help you fund your degree without surprises! </strong>👇</p>

<h2>Nursing Careers</h2><p>Nursing is one of the most in-demand fields in healthcare and one of the <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/top-careers-for-the-future">top jobs of the future</a>, with a <strong>projected growth of 40% through 2033 for nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and nurse practitioners</strong>, according to the <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/nurse-anesthetists-nurse-midwives-and-nurse-practitioners.htm#tab-1">BLS</a>. Those aren’t the only <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-nursing-jobs">high-paying nursing fields</a> that are growing either.&nbsp;</p><p>Nursing offers a variety of career paths depending on your education, specialization, and where you want to work. Nurses can choose to work in a hospital, doctor’s office, clinic, surgery center, school, nursing home, rehabilitation center, hospice care, or travel for work. <strong>We interviewed a travel nurse in the video compilation below who’s on track to make $240,000 this year!&nbsp;</strong></p><p>There are also many <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-government-jobs">government jobs</a> available for nurses at public health clinics, VA hospitals, and military facilities.</p>

Happy Nurses Week! From $30/hour to $280,000, how much do nurses make? 🤑

<figure class="table" style="width:98.91%;"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Job Title</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Role</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Skills Needed</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Entry-Level Education &amp; Training</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Salary</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Registered Nurse (RN)</strong></td><td>Cares for patients and monitors their progress</td><td>Clinical and communication skills (and a little empathy)</td><td>Associate or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and pass the NCLEX-RN exam</td><td>$48K - $205K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN/LVN)</strong></td><td>Provides basic nursing care under RN or doctor supervision</td><td>Attention to detail and knowledge of basic clinical procedures</td><td>Practical nursing certificate, pass the NCLEX-RN exam, and state license</td><td>$39K - $106K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Nurse Practitioner (NP)</strong></td><td>Diagnoses and treats patients, prescribes medication, often works independently</td><td>Advanced assessment, diagnostic reasoning, and communication skills</td><td>Bachelor’s in Nursing and Master’s (MSN) or Doctorate and NP certification</td><td>$78K - 194K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)</strong></td><td>Provides advanced patient care and guides other nurses, usually in leadership or education roles</td><td>Leadership and clinical skills</td><td>BSN and MSN or Doctorate in Nursing and CNS certification</td><td>$54K - $150K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)</strong></td><td>Administers anesthesia and monitors patients during procedures</td><td>High attention to detail and pharmacology knowledge</td><td>BSN, CRNA Master’s program, and Doctorate in Nurse Anesthesia</td><td>$205K - $350K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Nurse Midwife (CNM)</strong></td><td>Delivers babies and offers reproductive health services.</td><td>Compassion and OB/GYN knowledge</td><td><p>BSN and MSN with a specialty in midwifery</p><p>&nbsp;</p></td><td>$108K - $142K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Travel Nurse</strong></td><td>Works short-term contracts in various locations to fill staffing gaps (usually pays very well!)</td><td>Able to adapt quickly and clinical skills</td><td>RN license with 1-2 years of experience in specialty area</td><td>$96K - $131K</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>How to get into it: </strong>Complete an accredited nursing program, such as an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). The NCLEX-RN exam is required to become a licensed RN. For entry-level roles like LPN, you can complete a shorter diploma or certificate program and pass the NCLEX-PN exam.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Get started with these courses and programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/o4amDY" rel="sponsored">The Nurse’s Toolkit</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/o4amDY" rel="sponsored">Getting Started with Clinical Skills: A Focus on the Patient</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/VxjozM" rel="sponsored">Interactive 3D Clinical Skills: A Gamified Experience</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/WyPWrn" rel="sponsored">Integrative Nursing Specialization</a></li></ul><h2>Mental &amp; Behavioral Health Careers</h2>

<p>Mental and behavioral health careers focus on supporting individuals struggling with emotional, psychological, and social well-being. They help people manage conditions like trauma and depression through therapy and other options for treatment.</p><p>Many positions in this field also pay well, with psychiatrists making <a href="https://www.bls.gov/oes/2023/may/oes291223.htm">$256,930</a> a year (mean wage) and the top 10% of psychologists making more than <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/psychologists.htm#tab-5">$157,330</a> a year, according to the BLS. <strong>We interviewed a psychologist in Eugene, OR in the video below that makes $120,000 a year!&nbsp;</strong></p>

How much does a #Psychologist make in Eugene, OR📍? #salarytransparentstreet #salarytransparency

<p>Mental health jobs like social workers and therapists also bring in a decent salary. <strong>We also interviewed a therapist and social worker who makes $95,000 a year!&nbsp;</strong></p>

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DGveahAR9Q7/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DGveahAR9Q7/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; 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<figure class="table"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Job Title</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Role</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Skills Needed</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Entry-Level Education &amp; Training</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Salary</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Clinical Psychologist</strong></td><td>Treats mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders, but they can't prescribe medications</td><td>Empathy, assessment skills, and knowledge of psychological theory</td><td>Doctorate in Psychology (PhD or PsyD) and state license)</td><td>$106K - 480K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Mental Health Counselor</strong></td><td>Helps people manage mental health conditions</td><td>Active listening and crisis intervention skills</td><td>Master’s in Counseling or related field and licensure (LPC, LMHC, etc.)</td><td>$56K - $150K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Psychiatrist</strong></td><td>Doctor who treats mental health disorders and can prescribe medications (something that psychologists can't do)</td><td>Medical knowledge, pharmacology, and communication skills</td><td>MD or DO and Psychiatry residency with medical license</td><td>$77K - $279K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Social Worker (LCSW/MSW)</strong></td><td>Supports people and their families through therapy and other resources</td><td>Advocacy and communication skills</td><td>Master’s in Social Work (MSW) and state licensure (LCSW)</td><td>$29K - $150K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT)</strong></td><td>Specializes in relationship dynamics and works with people and their families</td><td>Interpersonal insight and systematic thinking skills</td><td>Master’s in Counseling, Psychology, or MFT with LMFT licensure</td><td>$63K - $250K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Substance Abuse Counselor</strong></td><td>Helps clients overcome addiction through treatment</td><td>Patience and communication skills</td><td>Associate or Bachelor’s in addiction counseling or related field and certification</td><td>$44K - $79K</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>How to get into it: </strong>Most roles require at least a bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, or a related field, though many positions like counselors, therapists, and psychologists also require a master’s or doctoral degree with a license. Hands-on experience can be gained through <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/are-unpaid-internships-worth-it">internships </a>or supervised clinical hours. Entry-level roles like behavioral health technicians or peer support specialists can be great places to start.</p><p><strong>Get started with these courses and programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/9LBbLW" rel="sponsored">Mental Health Care Fundamentals</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/APYLra" rel="sponsored">Introduction to Psychology</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/Vxjonj" rel="sponsored">Social Work Practice: Advocating Social Justice and Change</a></li></ul><h2>Allied Health Professionals</h2><p>Allied health professionals work alongside doctors and nurses to support them and provide diagnostic, preventative, and therapeutic services, like respiratory therapy. Some of these positions are more well-known, such as physical therapists and surgical technologists, but also include newer positions like certified anesthesiologist assistants.</p><p><strong>We interviewed a certified anesthesiologist assistant in the video below that makes $300,000 a year and found a physical therapist in our salary database that makes </strong><a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DPhysical+Therapist&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters="><strong>$200,000</strong></a><strong> a year working at OA PT!</strong></p>

How much does a Certified Anesthesiologist Assistant make? Based in New Mexico, filmed in New York!

<figure class="table" style="width:98.92%;"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Job Title</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Role</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Skills Needed</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Entry-Level Education &amp; Training</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Salary</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Certified Anesthesiologist Assistant (CAA)</strong></td><td>Assists anesthesiologists in anesthesia care plans</td><td>Precision, physiology knowledge, and can work with others in a team</td><td>Bachelor’s degree and Master’s from CAAHEP-accredited program with certification</td><td>$177K - $514K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Surgical Technologist</strong></td><td>Prepares operating rooms and assists surgeons during procedures</td><td>Attention to detail and knowledge of sterile technique</td><td>Certificate or Associate's degree from accredited surgical tech program</td><td>$29K - $115K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Physical Therapist (PT)</strong></td><td>Helps patients recover mobility and manage pain through physical rehab</td><td>Anatomy knowledge and communication skills</td><td>Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) and state license</td><td>$45K - $200K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Occupational Therapist (OT)</strong></td><td>Helps patients improve their ability to perform daily activities after injury or illness</td><td>Creativity, problem-solving, and therapeutic planning skills</td><td>Master’s or Doctorate in OT and national board certification</td><td>$57K - $192K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP)</strong></td><td>Diagnoses and treats speech, language, and swallowing disorders in children and adults.</td><td>Communication and assessment skills</td><td>Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology and national certification with license</td><td>$51K - $230K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Respiratory Therapist</strong></td><td>Cares for patients with breathing or cardiopulmonary disorders</td><td>Respiratory therapy knowledge and emergency response skills</td><td>Associate's or Bachelor’s degree in respiratory therapy and state license</td><td>$63K - $110K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Dietitian or Nutritionist</strong></td><td>Advises patients on nutrition and creates dietary plans for them</td><td>Nutrition science and counseling skills</td><td>Bachelor’s in Nutrition or Dietetics and supervised practice with registered dietician credential</td><td>$44K - $94K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Audiologist</strong></td><td>Treats hearing and balance disorders using auditory technology</td><td>Technical and listening skills</td><td>Doctor of Audiology (AuD) and state license</td><td>$72K - $170K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Recreational Therapist</strong></td><td>Provides therapy through art and recreational activities</td><td>Creativity, empathy, and therapeutic planning skills</td><td>Bachelor’s degree in recreational therapy or related field and certification</td><td>$53K - $93K</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>How to get into it: </strong>Depending on the role, you'll need to complete a certificate, associate, or bachelor's program. Many programs take 1 to 2 years and include hands-on clinical training. Certification or state licensing is often required, and some roles, like physical or occupational therapy, require advanced degrees. Starting in an entry-level support position or shadowing a professional can also help you break into the field. <strong>The CAA we interviewed suggests to really shadow and think about it before committing.&nbsp;</strong></p><p><strong>Get started with these courses and programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/RGDJJR" rel="sponsored">Professionalism in Allied Health</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/kOPLDV" rel="sponsored">Managing Your Health: The Role of Physical Therapy and Exercise</a></li></ul><h2>Dentistry Careers</h2><p>Dentistry careers focus on diagnosing, treating, and preventing issues related to the teeth, gums, and the mouth. This field doesn’t just include dentists either. It includes other specialized professionals with <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/high-income-skills">high-income skills</a> like orthodontists, endodontists, periodontists, and pediatric dentists. There are also supporting roles in this field, such as dental hygienists and dental assistants that are essential to delivering patient care.&nbsp;</p><p>You don’t have to be a dentist to make the big bucks either. <strong>We interviewed a dental hygienist (who was also a former CDC health advisor) that makes $69 to $72 an hour!</strong></p>

How much does a #DentalHygienist make in📍Arlington, VA?#salarytransparentstreet #dentalhygiene

<p>&nbsp;</p><figure class="table"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Job Title</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Role</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Skills Needed</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Entry-Level Education &amp; Training</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Salary</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Dentist (DDS or DMD)</strong></td><td>Treats issues related to teeth, gums, and oral health through cleanings, fillings, extractions, and other procedures</td><td>Manual dexterity, patient care, diagnostic skills</td><td>Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD)</td><td>$38K - $500K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Dental Hygienist</strong></td><td>Cleans teeth and examines patients for signs of oral disease</td><td>Communication and preventive care skills</td><td>Associate's or Bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene and state license</td><td>$54K - $150K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Dental Assistant</strong></td><td>Assists dentists during procedures and sterilizes tools</td><td>Clinical support skills and equipment knowledge</td><td>Certificate or diploma from accredited dental assisting program</td><td>$29K - $61K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Orthodontist</strong></td><td>Specializes in aligning teeth and jaws using braces and retainers</td><td>Precision, aesthetic sense, and patient communication skills</td><td>DDS or DMD and orthodontic residency (2–3 years)</td><td>$120K - $330K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Prosthodontist</strong></td><td>Designs and fits artificial teeth and dental prosthetics for patients with missing or damaged teeth</td><td>Attention to detail and prosthetic design</td><td>DDS or DMD and prosthodontics 3-year residency&nbsp;</td><td>$480K - $805K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Periodontist</strong></td><td>Treats gum disease and places dental implants</td><td>Surgical skills and gum disease management</td><td>DDS or DMD and periodontics 3-year residency&nbsp;</td><td>$251K - $468K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Endodontist</strong></td><td>Specializes in diagnosing and treating issues inside the tooth, particularly root canals</td><td>Good motor skills, pain management, diagnostic expertise</td><td>DDS or DMD and endodontics residency (2–3 years)</td><td>$413K - $734K</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

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<p><strong>How to get into it: </strong>Start with specialized education programs, such as dental school for dentists or accredited training for dental hygienists and assistants. Gaining hands-on experience through entry-level roles or internships can also be a valuable stepping stone into the field. <strong>We interviewed a dental assistant in the video above who entered the field as a sterilization tech in high school, an entry-level job that’s great for getting your foot in the door.&nbsp;</strong></p><p><strong>Get started with these courses and programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/dental-career-guide">Dental Career Guide</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/6yR2Bb" rel="sponsored">Introduction to Dental Medicine</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/LKYezo" rel="sponsored">Dentistry 101</a></li></ul><h2>Optometry Careers</h2><p>Optometry is a specialized healthcare field focused on eye care and the early detection of eye-related diseases. These professionals are usually the first line of defense in identifying broader health issues through the eyes. It’s also an area in high demand for professionals, with a <strong>9% projected job increase each year through 2033 for optometrists</strong>, according to the <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/optometrists.htm">BLS</a>.</p>

#Optometrist in Denver, CO📍#salarytransparentstreet #paytransparency  #optometry#optometristsalary

<figure class="table"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Job Title</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Role</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Skills Needed</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Entry-Level Education &amp; Training</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Salary</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Optometrist (OD)</strong></td><td>Treats vision problems and prescribes glasses and contacts</td><td>Strong diagnostic skills and eye health management</td><td>Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree and state license</td><td>$38K - $380K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Optometric Technician</strong></td><td>Assists optometrists with patient exams and clinical tasks</td><td>Patient care and equipment handling skills</td><td>On-the-job training or certificate program</td><td>$29K - $51K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Optometric Assistant</strong></td><td>Supports optometrists with administrative duties and clinical support</td><td>Organizational and communication skills</td><td>On-the-job training or certificate program</td><td>$39K - $60K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Optical Dispenser</strong></td><td>Helps patients select and adjust eyeglasses and contact lenses</td><td>Customer service and product knowledge</td><td>Certificate or Associate's degree, and training in optical dispensing</td><td>$52K - $96K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Vision Therapist</strong></td><td>Provides therapy for visual disorders and eye movement problems</td><td>Patient care and therapeutic skills</td><td>OD degree and additional vision therapy certification</td><td>$51K - $81K</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>How to get into it: </strong>Complete undergraduate studies followed by a specialized graduate program in optometry. <strong>We interviewed an optometrist in the video below that makes $143,000 a year and started with undergraduate and graduate school. </strong>Roles like optometric technicians, assistants, and dispensers don't require a degree.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Get started with these courses and programs:&nbsp;</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/GKYrAr" rel="sponsored">Visual Perception and the Brain</a></li></ul><h2>Emergency Services Careers</h2><p>Emergency services careers are fast-paced and come with a lot of pressure. You're the first on the scene, in the weeds of it all, trying to provide care that could save (or not save) someone's life. It's extremely high stress, but also fulfilling.&nbsp;</p><p>A few of these roles include EMTs, paramedics, and emergency dispatchers, and they usually work in ambulances, local government, private or local medical and surgical hospitals, or outpatient care centers. <strong>For instance, the </strong><a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/emts-and-paramedics.htm#tab-5"><strong>highest-paying work environments for EMTs</strong></a><strong> and paramedics are outpatient care centers ($67,990) and local government ($59,840), according to the BLS.</strong></p><figure class="table" style="width:98.91%;"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Job Title</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Role</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Skills Needed</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Entry-Level Education &amp; Training</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Salary</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Paramedic</strong></td><td>Stabilizes patients with life-saving procedures and medication administration</td><td>Quick decision-making and trauma care skills</td><td>EMT certification and Paramedic program with state license</td><td>$44K - $110K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)</strong></td><td>Provides basic emergency care</td><td>Basic life support and has to be calm under pressure</td><td>EMT training program (120–150 hours) and state certification</td><td>$48K - $82K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Critical Care Transport Technician</strong></td><td>Transports critically ill or injured patients between medical facilities while providing high-level care</td><td>Advanced monitoring and critical care knowledge</td><td>Paramedic or RN license with additional critical care certification</td><td>$53K - $85K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Emergency Dispatcher</strong></td><td>Answers 911 calls and dispatches emergency responders</td><td>Communication skills and ability to multitask</td><td>High school diploma and dispatcher training with certification (varies by state)</td><td>$49K - $76K</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

Happy National EMS Week! 🚑 How much do EMTs and Paramedics make? We found out! #paytransparency

<p><strong>How to get into it: </strong>Hands-on training programs like EMT certification, which can be completed in just a few months. Many folks gain field experience and pursue additional credentials, such as becoming a paramedic, to increase their skills and salary. <strong>We interviewed a paramedic in the video above who makes $60,000 a year after 3 and a half years as an EMT before getting their paramedic license.</strong></p><p><strong>Get started with these courses and programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/Z6ePr1" rel="sponsored">Become an EMT Specialization</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/zxD6jM" rel="sponsored">Vital Signs: Understanding What the Body Is Telling Us</a></li></ul><h2>Diagnostic &amp; Laboratory Careers</h2><p>The identification and treatment of diseases depends on the testing performed by diagnostic and laboratory professionals. They work behind the scenes to provide accurate data that informs nearly every medical decision. Roles like radiologic technologists, sonographers, and medical lab technicians use advanced equipment and scientific methods to detect abnormalities like blood disorders, which is a huge deal!&nbsp;</p><p>If they were to make a mistake and miss something, it could severely impact someone's life, which is also why they're paid well. <strong>Sonographers are actually ranked the 4th on our </strong><a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-trade-jobs">highest-paying trade job list</a><strong>! We found a sonographer in our</strong> <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a><strong> making </strong><a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3Dsonographer&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$230,000</a><strong> a year after 3 years and a bachelor’s degree!</strong></p><figure class="table"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Job Title</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Role</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Skills Needed</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Entry-Level Education &amp; Training</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Salary</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Medical Laboratory Technician</strong></td><td>Collects and analyzes body fluids and tissue samples&nbsp;</td><td>Lab procedures and data analysis skills</td><td>Associate degree in medical lab technology and certification (ASCP or similar)</td><td>$49K - $77K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Phlebotomist</strong></td><td>Draws blood from patients for lab tests, transfusions, or donations</td><td>Steady hands and patient care skills</td><td>Certificate or diploma from phlebotomy training program</td><td>$19K - $55K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Radiologic Technologist (X-ray, MRI, CT Tech)</strong></td><td>Operates imaging equipment to create diagnostic images like X-rays and CT scans</td><td>Imaging technology and safety protocols</td><td>Associate degree in radiologic technology and ARRT certification</td><td>$38K - $131K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Ultrasound Technician (Sonographer)</strong></td><td>Uses ultrasound machines to capture images of internal organs or pregnancies.</td><td>Anatomy and imaging interpretation skills</td><td>Associate or bachelor’s degree in sonography and certification (ARDMS)</td><td>$81K - $230K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Pathologist (MD)</strong></td><td>Diagnoses diseases by examining tissues and cells under a microscope</td><td>Medical diagnosis, lab analysis, and report writing skills</td><td>Medical degree (MD or DO) and residency in pathology with board certification</td><td>$160K - $510K</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>How to get into it: </strong>Radiologic technologists, sonographers, and pathologists all require some sort of college degree. Other roles, such as phlebotomy or medical lab technician, offer on-the-job training or short programs, which is perfect for career changers or those without a four-year degree. <strong>We interviewed a phlebotomist in the video below who started out giving plasma, and when she learned about the job and saw that the only requirement was a high school diploma, she went for it! She was a dental assistant before that.</strong></p>

How much does a #Phlebotomist and fmr #DentalAssistant make? Washington, DC #salarytransparentstreet

<p><strong>Get started with these courses and programs:&nbsp;</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/Wy9jn3" rel="sponsored">Visualizing the Living Body: Diagnostic Imaging</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/kOP7zN" rel="sponsored">Improving Diagnostic Accuracy with GenAI</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/55BXAL" rel="sponsored">Blood Film Morphology - A Practical Guide</a></li></ul><h2>Healthcare Administration &amp; Management</h2><p>Healthcare administration and management is on the business and operational side of healthcare. They ensure that hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and other medical facilities run smoothly and up to standards. Without them, these facilities would find it much harder to pass inspection and make sure they're following the law, let alone be able to take patients and manage scheduling throughout the day.&nbsp;</p><p>Common roles include healthcare administrators, clinical directors, and health information managers. <strong>We interviewed a healthcare administrator in the video below that makes $150,000 a year because he is over a huge service line, which means he manages and oversees a large, specialized area of healthcare services.</strong></p>

How much does a #HealthcareAdministrator and #PhysicalTherapist make?📍Glendale, CA Thank you so much again to everyone who came to our meet-up! We loved meeting all of you! Thanks for your transparency! #salarytransparentstreet #capitalonepartner #capitalonecafe #paytransparency #salarytransparency 

<figure class="table" style="width:99.1%;"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Job Title</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Role</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Skills Needed</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Entry-Level Education &amp; Training</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Salary</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Healthcare Administrator</strong></td><td>Oversees the daily operations of hospitals, clinics, or healthcare systems</td><td>Leadership, budgeting, and healthcare policy knowledge</td><td>Bachelor’s or Master’s in Healthcare Administration or related field</td><td>$120K - $193K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Medical and Health Services Manager</strong></td><td>Plans and coordinates medical services in a facility</td><td>Strategic planning and communication skills</td><td>Bachelor’s or Master’s in Health Administration, Public Health, or Business</td><td>$103K - $184K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Health Information Manager</strong></td><td>Manages patient records and health data systems in compliance with data privacy laws</td><td>Technical literacy and data analysis skills</td><td>Bachelor’s in Health Information Management or related and RHIA certification</td><td>$58K - $94K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Clinical Director</strong></td><td>Leads clinical programs and manages staff</td><td>Healthcare leadership and compliance knowledge</td><td>Master’s in Healthcare Administration, Nursing, or Public Health</td><td>$70K - $143K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Practice Manager</strong></td><td>Manages the business side of a private medical practice, including staffing and billing</td><td>Operations, medical billing, and management skills</td><td>Associate or bachelor’s degree in healthcare admin or business</td><td>$75K - $132K</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>How to get into it:</strong> Most healthcare administration and management careers require at least an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree. Internships and entry-level roles like medical office assistant or patient services coordinator can help you build experience while pursuing your degree. Certifications such as <a href="https://my.pahcom.com/cmm">Certified Medical Manager (CMM)</a> can also boost your credibility and earning potential.</p><p><strong>Get started with these courses and programs:&nbsp;</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/2aBPJa" rel="sponsored">Johns Hopkins Medical Office Manager Professional Certificate</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/zxD6y6" rel="sponsored">Healthcare Management and Finance</a></li></ul><h2>Pharmacy &amp; Pharmaceutical Careers</h2><p>Your pharmacy can have a huge impact on your health and well-being. Pharmacists make sure your medications are used safely and effectively so you don't have any unintended side effects that could be dangerous to your health. This is why they’re among the highest paid in this area.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>We interviewed 2 pharmacists in the video below that make $110,000 a year, one who works in retail and the other that works in a hospital.</strong> There are also other roles in this area, like pharmacy technicians, pharmaceutical sales representatives, and clinical pharmacologists.</p>

#Pharmacists from Texas in Atlanta, GA📍#salarytransparentstreet #paytransparency #howmuchdoyoumake

<figure class="table" style="width:100%;"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Job Title</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Role</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Skills Needed</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Entry-Level Education &amp; Training</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Salary</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Pharmacist</strong></td><td>Dispenses medications and and ensures prescriptions are safe&nbsp;</td><td>Pharmacology and communication skills</td><td>Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) + licensure</td><td>$110K–$150K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Pharmacy Technician</strong></td><td>Assists pharmacists by preparing medications and managing inventory</td><td>Accuracy, organization, and knowledge of medications</td><td>High school diploma + certificate or on-the-job training</td><td>$35K–$55K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Pharmaceutical Sales Representative</strong></td><td>Promotes and sells medications to healthcare providers and organizations</td><td>Sales, product knowledge, interpersonal skills</td><td>Bachelor’s in life sciences, business, or related field</td><td>$70K–$120K+</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Clinical Pharmacologist</strong></td><td>Conducts research and advises on the use and development of medications in clinical settings</td><td>Research, data analysis, pharmacokinetics</td><td>Pharm.D. or Ph.D. in Pharmacology + clinical experience</td><td>$95K–$140K</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>How to get into it: </strong>Many start with a degree in biology, chemistry, or a related science field. Entry-level roles like pharmacy technician or pharmaceutical sales reprentative often require certifications or short training programs rather than advanced degrees.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Get started with these courses and programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/JKj3GQ" rel="sponsored">Pharmacy Technician Fundamentals</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/jejMR5" rel="sponsored">Pharmacy Medication and Safety</a></li></ul><h2>Public Health &amp; Community Health</h2>

Harrisburg, PA📍#salarytransparency #salarytransparentstreet #paytransparency #equalpay #closethepaygap #diversityandinclusion

<p>Public health and community health careers focus on improving the health and well-being of entire populations rather than individual patients. These professionals promote healthy human behaviors and prevent disease in communities through education, research, policy, and community outreach.</p><p>A few of these roles include epidemiologists who track disease patterns and public health nurses who provide care and education.</p><figure class="table"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Job Title</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Role</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Skills Needed</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Entry-Level Education &amp; Training</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Salary</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Epidemiologist</strong></td><td>Studies patterns and causes of diseases to improve public health and prevent outbreaks</td><td>Analytical and data analysis skills</td><td>Bachelor’s or Master’s in Public Health, Epidemiology, or related field</td><td>$33K - $250K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Public Health Nurse</strong></td><td>Provides community-based healthcare and education</td><td>Clinical nursing and community outreach skills</td><td>BSN and public health experience or certification</td><td>$74K - $102K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Community Health Worker</strong></td><td>Connects underserved populations with healthcare resources&nbsp;</td><td>Interpersonal and advocacy skills</td><td>High school diploma or equivalent with on-the-job training or certificate</td><td>$42K - $62K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Environmental Health Specialist</strong></td><td>Monitors and enforces environmental regulations to protect public health</td><td>Environmental science and regulatory knowledge</td><td>Bachelor’s in Environmental Health or related science and certification</td><td>$63K - $104K</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

How much does an Environmental Health and Safety Manager make in Boston, MA? #capitalonepartner

<p><strong>How to get into it: </strong>Start with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in public health, health science, or a related field. <strong>We interviewed an environmental and safety manager in the video below making $90,000 a year who started with getting a master’s degree, internships, and certifications to move up in his role. Certifications he took included </strong><a href="https://www.bcsp.org/associate-safety-professional-asp"><strong>Associate Safety Professionals </strong></a><strong>and </strong><a href="https://www.bcsp.org/certified-safety-professional-csp"><strong>Certified Safety Professionals</strong></a><strong>.</strong></p><p><strong>Get started with these courses and programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/dOqbOM" rel="sponsored">Epidemiology: The Basic Science of Public Health</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/xLq0J5" rel="sponsored">Foundations of Public Health Practice</a></li></ul><h2>Health Education &amp; Advocacy</h2>

#HealthCoach in San Francisco, CA📍#salarytransparentstreet

<p>The area of health education and advocacy focuses on empowering individuals and communities to make informed health decisions. An example of one of these types of programs is the Tips From Former Smokers campaign launched by the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/health-communication/php/communication-resources/featured-campaigns.html#:~:text=Let's%20Stop%20HIV%20Together,testing%2C%20prevention%2C%20and%20treatment.">Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)</a> supported by health educators and patient advocates.</p><p>The BLS projects a higher-than-average<strong> </strong><a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/health-educators.htm"><strong>job growth of 7%</strong></a><strong> each year through 2033 </strong>for healthcare education careers, making it a promising area to get into.</p><figure class="table"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Job Title</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Role</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Skills Needed</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Entry-Level Education &amp; Training</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Salary</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Health Coach</strong></td><td>Guides individuals to improve health behaviors through education</td><td>Communication and motivational skills</td><td>Certification in health coaching</td><td>$48K - $78K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Patient Advocate</strong></td><td>Assists patients in navigating healthcare systems and understand treatments</td><td>Empathy and communication skills</td><td>High school diploma and BCPA certification</td><td>$43K - $73K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Health Educator</strong></td><td>Develops and delivers programs that teach healthy behaviors and disease prevention</td><td>Teaching and public speaking skills (some marketing skills can also help)</td><td>Bachelor’s degree in health education, public health, or related field</td><td>$43K - $71K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Medical Interpreter</strong></td><td>Provides language translation services between patients and healthcare providers</td><td>Fluency in multiple languages and communication skills</td><td>Certification in medical interpretation&nbsp;</td><td>$76K - $142K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Genetic Counselor</strong></td><td>Advises patients on inherited conditions and genetic testing options</td><td>Genetics knowledge and communication skills</td><td>Master’s degree in genetic counseling</td><td>$99K - $185K</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>How to get into it: </strong>Start with certifications or pursuing a degree for the role that you’re interested in. Then look for volunteer or entry-level roles in clinics or nonprofits to gain experience. Strong communication skills and fluency in a second language can also give you an edge, especially for medical interpreters or health educators.</p><p><strong>Get started with these courses and programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/K0Yojn" rel="sponsored">Health Coaching Conversations</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/LKYzXj" rel="sponsored">Medical Terminology</a></li></ul><h2>Support &amp; Technical Roles</h2>

How much do a #MedicalAssistant and #Consultant make in📍Atlanta, GA? #salarytransparentstreet

<p>Support and technical roles in healthcare still qualify as healthcare careers, but they work in the backend of healthcare information systems (software, databases, etc). These are your medical assistants, medical billers and coders, and medical records technicians that work for a variety of healthcare environments. Medical assistants specifically have a <strong>high growth rate of </strong><a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/medical-assistants.htm"><strong>15%</strong></a><strong> </strong>and are continually growing in demand.</p><p>Some roles may be easier to break into with certificates, associate’s degrees, or on-the-job training.</p><figure class="table"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Job Title</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Role</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Skills Needed</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Entry-Level Education &amp; Training</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Salary</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Medical Assistant</strong></td><td>Performs administrative and clinical tasks to support healthcare providers in clinics</td><td>Organizational and clinical skills</td><td>CCMA certification or associate’s from accredited medical assisting program</td><td>$23K - $61K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Sterile Processing Technician</strong></td><td>Prepares surgical instruments and equipment for medical procedures</td><td>Sterilization techniques and strong attention to detail</td><td>Sterile processing technician program, certification, and on-the-job training</td><td>$38K - $82K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Medical Biller &amp; Coder</strong></td><td>Manages patient billing and manages insurance claims (while making sure medical codes match the billed procedures)&nbsp;</td><td>Detail-oriented, knowledge of medical codes, and software skills</td><td>Certificate or associate degree in medical billing and coding</td><td>$42K - $81K</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Medical Records Technician</strong></td><td>Manages patient health records and verifies information for accuracy</td><td>Organizational and data privacy skills</td><td>Certificate or associate degree in health information management</td><td>$23K - $51K</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>How to get into it: </strong>Most of these roles are often great entry points into the industry and can sometimes be started with a high school diploma or Associate's degree. Many start with short training programs or certifications in areas like medical assisting, while others go on to pursue advanced degrees. <strong>We interviewed a medical assistant who makes $19 an hour working at a private dermatology office and she started with a bachelor’s in biology!</strong></p><p><strong>Get started with these courses and programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/55BOW1" rel="sponsored">Clinical Medical Assistant Fundamentals</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/xLqAey" rel="sponsored">Medical Billing and Coding Fundamentals</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/dOqbaM" rel="sponsored">AAPC Medical Biller Professional Certificate</a></li></ul><h2>How to Start a Career in Healthcare</h2><p>If you want to get into healthcare, start by researching the roles you’re interested in and their requirements first so you know what to expect, especially so you can plan for the duration and cost of schooling. Don’t think you need a fancy degree either. There are actually tons of <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-jobs-without-a-degree">high-paying jobs that don’t require a degree</a> that can help you break in.</p><p><strong>Use entry-level healthcare careers like these to help get experience as you continue with any advanced education you need toward your chosen career path:</strong></p><ul><li>Medical assistant</li><li>Surgical technologist</li><li>Dental assistant</li><li>Optometric technician or assistant</li><li>Phlebotomist</li><li>Pharmacy technician</li><li>Patient advocate</li><li>Medical interpreter</li><li>EMT</li><li>LPN</li></ul><p>The <a href="https://www.nhanow.com/">National Healthcareer Association</a> can help with any required certifications to break into these entry-level roles. You can also request on-the-job training if you have any prior healthcare education or experience, or show that you’re pursuing education.&nbsp;</p><p>If you’re pursuing roles that require advanced degrees or extensive programs, start with looking at reputable schools and programs and reading reviews from students on <a href="https://unigo.com">Unigo</a> and <a href="https://www.nhanow.com/">GradReports</a>. Shadow other healthcare professionals to get as much exposure as you can and see if the career you’re pursuing is truly right for you.</p><h2>Where to Find Healthcare Jobs</h2><p><strong>Start your job search with our </strong><a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/job-board"><strong>Salary Transparent Job Board</strong></a><strong> and healthcare-focused job boards.</strong></p><p>A few popular ones to start with include:</p><ul><li><a href="https://www.healthecareers.com/">Health eCareers</a></li><li><a href="https://hospitalcareers.com/">HospitalCareers</a></li><li><a href="http://nurse.com">Nurse.com</a></li><li><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/">LinkedIn</a> for targeted searches.</li></ul><p>Also check for job openings at hospitals, clinics, surgery centers, doctor offices, healthcare recruiters, and government websites directly.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Taking the Next Steps Toward Your Healthcare Career</h2><p>Your career starts with small steps, like volunteering, applying for an entry-level healthcare job (even part-time as a <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-side-hustles">side hustle</a> while in school), or taking an intro course to help clarify your path. Even taking the time to read about different roles (like reading this guide) is a small step in the right direction.&nbsp;</p><p>Above all else, consider your lifestyle goals as you move forward. Think about the hours you want to work, the income you need, and the environment you want to work in. We spend a good chunk of our life working. Might as well make sure you at least enjoy what you’re doing.</p><p>We also have a wealth of resources available to you as you navigate your career, including finding your <a href="https://view.flodesk.com/pages/626ccc8e1e8046b220253e47">market rate</a>, <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/how-to-write-a-cover-letter">how to write a cover letter</a>, <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/job-interview-questions-and-answers">interview questions and answers</a> to prepare for, <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/salary-negotiation-scripts">salary negotiation scripts</a> and <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/salary-negotiation-myths">myths</a>, <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/how-to-ask-for-a-raise">how to ask for a raise</a>, more <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/topic/free-guides">free career guides</a>, and much more!</p><p>Until next time, stay awesome, stay strong, and keep advocating for yourself no matter what! I’m Daniella Flores, a former engineer who writes about tech, money, and careers, and a current member of the <a href="https://www.cnet.com/personal-finance/financial-review-board/">CNET Money Expert Review Board</a>. I’m extremely passionate about workers' rights and financial freedom, so it’s a pleasure to be able to bring you this type of content through the <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub">Resource Hub </a>(thank you for the opportunity, Hannah!) You can also follow me on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellamarquez/">Linkedin</a>. Chat soon!</p><p>If this guide helps you land a higher-paying job, let us know! Send us an email ➡️ hello@checksalaries.com</p><p><strong>For more Salary Transparent Street resources:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Want to join the movement?</strong> Explore thousands of individually reported salaries nationwide across all industries in our <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a>!</li><li><strong>Looking for a job?</strong> Start your job search on our salary transparent <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/jobs">job board</a>!</li><li><strong>Do you know if you're being underpaid? </strong><a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/p/underpaid-quiz">Take our free quiz</a> to find out!</li><li><strong>Need help determining your market rate?</strong> Download our free <a href="https://view.flodesk.com/pages/626ccc8e1e8046b220253e47">Market Research Guide</a> to learn what you should be making.</li><li><strong>Need help negotiating your salary?</strong> Download our free <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/free-salary-negotiation-guide">Salary Negotiation Guide</a>!</li><li><strong>Want to save more of what you earn?</strong> Get transparent savings with our partner, the <a href="https://secure.money.com/pr/h5b4cb990813">Capital One Shopping App</a>.💸Automatically apply coupons, get alerts on price drops, earn shopping rewards, and more <i>for free!</i></li><li><strong>Follow us on</strong> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@salarytransparentstreet">TikTok</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/salarytransparentstreet/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salarytransparentstreet">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/salarytransparentstreet">YouTube </a>and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/salarytransparentstreet/">LinkedIn </a>for daily pay transparency interviews and career news you can use!</li><li><strong>Subscribe to our </strong><a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/subscribe">weekly newsletter</a> for news updates, professional deep dives, learning opportunities, and more!</li></ul>

desktop cover image with green background and various healthcare icons like bandaids, stethoscope, and a clipboard with title text overlay that reads "healthcare career guide"

mobile cover image with green background and various healthcare icons like bandaids, stethoscope, and a clipboard with titles text overlay that reads "healthcare career guide"

How to Get Into Healthcare (+ Tips From Real Healthcare Workers)

<p>Knowing how much you should be making, i.e.<strong> your market rate or market salary</strong>, is essential to getting paid what you deserve. This is <strong>NOT </strong>what your company happens to pay you. Your market rate or salary is set by the labor market, not by your employer’s budget or your last <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/how-to-prepare-for-a-performance-review">performance review</a>.</p><p>The only way to find out what your market rate should be is by researching it, and without that, you could end up severely underpaid.</p><p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/hannahwilliamsllc/">Hannah Williams</a>, the founder of Salary Transparent Street and Check Salaries, was a data analyst in Washington, D.C., making a salary she thought was fine<i> until she found out it wasn't</i>. She used the exact tips laid out in this guide to find a new role paying her a f<strong>air market rate of $115,000</strong>. Let's get you there too.</p><p><strong>Key points:&nbsp;</strong></p><ul><li>Your market rate (or market salary) depends on your job title, years of experience, location, skills and education, and company size and industry.</li><li>Use public salary data sources like our <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a> of over 20,000 individually reported salaries when performing your market salary research.</li><li>Most people can finish this research in under 30 minutes.</li><li>Once you have your market rate, use it to ask for a raise and in salary negotiations.</li></ul><h2>What is a Market Rate or Salary?</h2><p>Your market rate or salary (also referred to as your market <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/salary-range">salary range)</a> is what employers in your industry are currently paying people with your job title, experience, skills, and location.&nbsp;</p><p>For example, two people with the same job title can have very different market salaries. A software engineer with 3 years of experience in Des Moines, Iowa and one in San Francisco, California are not competing in the same market, even if the role is classified as a <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-remote-jobs">remote job</a>. Neither are two marketing managers where one has a bachelor’s degree and one doesn't.</p><p>You'll also hear market rate and market salary being called <strong>salary benchmarking</strong> or <strong>compensation benchmarking</strong>. Employers already have this analysis on you and have compensation analysts dedicated to it. This guide just gives you the same information they already have.</p><h2>How Much Should I Be Making?</h2><p>There’s no single correct number.<strong> How much you should be making depends on:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Job title: </strong>Your job title, any variations (because job titles can be inconsistent across companies and industries), and <i>the work you actually do.</i></li><li><strong>Years of experience (YOE): </strong>How many years of relevant experience you have in the field.</li><li><strong>Location:</strong> The location you’re based out of. Higher cost-of-living areas tend to have higher-paying jobs than lower cost-of-living areas.</li><li><strong>Education, skills, and certifications:</strong> This is your expertise and everything you have that a hiring manager would pay extra for. The more in-demand skills you have, the better.&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Company size and industry: </strong>What you should be making based on a company’s size and industry for a specific role. Startups may have lower salaries while larger companies like Fortune 500 companies may pay more with better benefits.</li></ul><p>Once you lock those down, you can look up your number and be able to confidently defend it in <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/negotiate-salary-offer">salary negotiations</a> (and see when you’re <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/lowball-job-offer">being lowballed</a>).</p><h2>How to Research Your Market Rate and Salary Range in 5 Steps</h2><p>Market research will help you calculate your salary range by pulling salary data for your role, recording your findings, and validating with real conversations. <strong>Once complete, your expected rate and salary range will look something like this (numbers will be different, of course):</strong></p>

market salary image with data analyst details, skills, and market rate range

<p>Your best bet is to consult several sources to figure out what the norm is for someone like you in your industry. That means 3 to 5 different online sources and talking with other professionals in your field.</p><p><strong>Here are the steps to conduct standard market salary research:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Go to your search platform of choice</strong> and look for something like “Find salaries” or “Salary calculator.”</li><li><strong>Search for your job title </strong>with your experience in the city your role is based in.</li><li><strong>Check out the low, high, and average salaries for that job</strong> to get an idea of what your expectations should be. Look for salaries and jobs that are as close to your experience as possible. For example, when I search in our <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DData+analyst&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=highestEducation%3D64811af3061f88ce2a2ce1d7%3Aindustry%3DHospital%2C+Health+Care%2C+Social+Services%3AjobType%3DFull-time%3AworkLocation%3D">Salary Database for ‘data analyst’</a> and select ‘full-time’ for the job type, ‘bachelor’s degree’ for the highest education level, and ‘hospital, health care, social services’ for the industry, I see the lowest salary of $55,000 and the highest salary of $117,000.</li><li><strong>Jot down the lowest and highest salaries in your research (these are your range)</strong> and calculate the average <strong>(highest + lowest) ÷ 2 </strong>to get your average salary rate.</li><li><strong>Lather, rinse, and repeat across other platforms and resources </strong>to come up with a handful of numbers. Also take note of the benefits packages that you see tied to the salaries in your research to take into account for total compensation.</li></ul><h2>Best Free Salary Research Tools to Use</h2><p>Use these free salary data sources in your market research for comparison.</p><figure class="table"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:33.33%;"><col style="width:33.33%;"><col style="width:33.34%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Salary Tool</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Data source</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Best for</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/salary-database">Check Salaries Database</a></td><td>Self-reported and validated with full context (YOE, company, etc.)</td><td>Seeing real salaries and the story behind them</td></tr><tr><td><a href="https://www.bls.gov/bls/blswage.htm">BLS Wage Data</a></td><td>Government survey of employers</td><td>The most rigorous baseline with broad job categories</td></tr><tr><td><a href="https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/pay-salary/salary-calculator">Indeed Salary Calculator</a></td><td>Job postings and self-reported&nbsp;</td><td>Fast reads on common titles</td></tr><tr><td><a href="https://payscale.pxf.io/c/3976832/1542560/16772">Payscale Salary Survey</a></td><td>Self-reported survey</td><td>Adjusting for specific skills and certifications</td></tr><tr><td><a href="https://www.levels.fyi/verified/">Levels.fyi Verified Salary Stream</a></td><td>Verified offer letters</td><td>Tech salaries and anyone with equity in the mix</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Live job postings in states with </strong><a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/pay-transparency-laws">pay transparency laws</a></td><td>Employers’ legally required compensation data&nbsp;</td><td>The most current data available anywhere</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><h2>Validate Your Market Salary Research With Real Conversations</h2><p>While databases and resources like the above are super helpful, they don’t always tell the whole story. That’s why it’s best to bolster those quantitative findings with some qualitative conversations.</p><p>Start by tapping into your professional network and asking others with similar jobs and fields if they’re comfortable sharing their salary. The best way to <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/discussing-salary-with-coworkers">talk about salary transparency</a> is to be transparent yourself. By kickstarting it with your own willingness to share, you can show that this is a safe space for your colleague or professional connection.</p><p><strong>Feel free to use social media as an excuse:</strong></p><p>"Hey, do you watch Salary Transparent Street? I saw an interview recently with someone who has our same job title and similar experience, and they make a lot more than I do. I make $60,000 a year and I'm wondering if I might be underpaid. Would you feel comfortable sharing what you think our market rate should be?"</p><p>This works because you aren’t demanding their exact salary. You’re opening up a conversation about what the market rate might be. People are much more comfortable sharing ranges rather than exact numbers, especially since you’ve started the conversation with your numbers.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Then follow up with:</strong></p><ul><li>How did you grow in your career to get to that salary?</li><li>What certifications, experiences, or special skills have you leveraged to earn more?</li><li>Is there anyone else with a similar background you'd recommend I talk to?</li></ul><p><strong>One legal note worth knowing: </strong>In the U.S., the <a href="https://www.nlrb.gov/guidance/key-reference-materials/national-labor-relations-act">National Labor Relations Act </a>protects most non-supervisory employees' right to discuss pay with coworkers. A company policy telling you not to is, in most cases, unenforceable.</p><h2>How to Use Your Market Salary Research to Negotiate or Ask for a Raise</h2><p>Now you’re armed with tons of information about what you *should* be making for the work you’re doing. What now?</p><p>If you think your compensation isn’t quite right given your market research, it’s time to talk to your boss.</p><p>Schedule a time to talk about your total compensation package and let them know that’s what you’d like to discuss. You don’t want to take your manager by surprise here. You’ve done your homework and the time will be best spent if they get a chance to do theirs as well!</p><p>If you’re<a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/how-to-ask-for-a-raise"> requesting a raise</a>, put your market salary research findings in an official letter and bring this letter (supported with your sources) to the meeting for your manager to review. It's important to have a paper trail for these kinds of conversations.</p><p><strong>Use this script in a conversation with your boss (after the small talk about the weather and whatever else):&nbsp;</strong></p><p><strong>Your boss:</strong> “What’s on your mind? I understand you want to talk about your compensation.”</p><p><strong>You: </strong>“Yes! Thanks for agreeing to meet with me to have this discussion. Based on my market research of this role in my area and with my experience, my expected salary is $X. I’d like to talk about how we can work together to get to that point."</p><p><i><strong>Helpful tip: </strong></i>This would be a great place to mention your unique skills and experiences to validate your findings. Prepare 2 to 3 strong talking points and focus on how your qualitative skills support the quantitative impact you've had on projects.</p><p><strong>Good luck and let us know how it goes by emailing us at</strong><a href="mailto:hello@checksalaries.com"><strong> </strong>hello@checksalaries.com</a>!</p><h2><strong>Market Salary Research FAQs</strong></h2><h2>What's the difference between market rate and market salary?&nbsp;</h2><p>Nothing. Both terms are interchangeably used to refer to the same thing: what employers currently pay for a given role, not what your current employer is paying you.</p><h2>How do I find my market salary if I work remotely?&nbsp;</h2><p>Benchmark against three locations: your location, the location of the company's headquarters, and the national median. Then find out the company's remote pay policy and if they pay the national rate or a location-adjusted rate based on cost-of-living. Whatever their policy is will be what determines which number you're going to negotiate against.</p><h2>How often should I do market salary research?&nbsp;</h2><p>At minimum, once a year, and always before a performance review, a promotion conversation, or a job interview.&nbsp;</p><h2>Do I have to tell an employer my current salary?&nbsp;</h2><p>No. You aren’t legally required to tell an employer your current salary and over 20 states actually prohibit employers from asking about it. Check your state’s pay transparency laws for more information.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>For more transparent resources:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Want to join the movement? </strong>Explore over 20,000 individually reported salaries nationwide across all industries in the <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/salary-database">Check Salaries Database</a>!</li><li><strong>Do you know if you're being underpaid? </strong>Take our free <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/are-you-underpaid-free-quiz">Are You Underpaid? Quiz</a> to find out!</li><li><strong>Need help negotiating your salary? </strong>Download our free <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/free-salary-negotiation-guide">Salary Negotiation Guide</a>!</li><li><strong>Need better work benefits? </strong>Read our guide for <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/negotiate-benefits">negotiating benefits</a>!</li></ul>

green background with money icons and text that reads free market research guide

How Much Should I Be Making? A Step-by-Step Guide to Finding Your Market Salary 

<p><i>*This article was created in collaboration with the </i><a href="https://www.ada.org/resources/careers/career-pathways?utm_medium=earnedsocial&amp;utm_source=sts-ig&amp;utm_content=dental-careers&amp;utm_campaign=membervalue" rel="sponsored"><i>American Dental Association</i></a><i>.*&nbsp;</i></p><p>If you have a passion for oral health and an obsession with your own pearly whites, a dental career path might be worth exploring, especially if you love helping people and working with your hands.</p><p>The dentist workforce is continually growing and is expected to increase through 2040, according to <a href="https://www.ada.org/resources/research/health-policy-institute/dentist-workforce?utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_source=sts-bl&amp;utm_content=dental-careers&amp;utm_campaign=professional">The U.S. Dental Workforce Report</a> from the American Dental Association (ADA). As we near the end of a baby boomer retirement surge in the field, opportunities are opening up for newer dentists. Meanwhile, hygienists and dental assistants are already in high demand.</p><p>In a world where the media is constantly telling us that <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/will-ai-take-my-job">AI will take our jobs</a>, the dental field (like many healthcare careers) is emerging as a more stable and safe job choice. It’s hard to automate hands-on and highly specialized job skills like the ones we see in dentistry. Plus, teeth are delicate, and I don’t know about you, but I feel more comfortable with a trained person caring for my mouth.</p><p>Dental professionals also have high job-satisfaction rates (<a href="https://academic.oup.com/healthaffairsscholar/article/3/1/qxae147/7951759">80%</a>) with six-figure salaries to match. According to our <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a>, the highest publicly-shared salaries recorded were <strong>$1.5M for oral surgeons, $650,000 for pediatric dentists, and $500,000 for general dentists.</strong> The highest non-dentist role came in at <strong>$150,000 for dental hygienists</strong>. Pretty sweet deal, right? You’ll get to work on smiles while funding your own.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>In this dental career guide, you’ll learn how to plan and prepare for your new career, including what your options are, how to choose a school or program, and where to find jobs.</strong> You’ll also learn about the wealth of resources for dental professionals offered by the ADA, as well as salary data from our database, interviews, and other public data sources like the <a href="https://www.bls.gov/">U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</a> (BLS).</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p><h2>What Types of Dental Career Paths Exist (&amp; What Do They Make)?</h2><p>There are many career paths within dentistry to explore, all of which have positive projected growth rates. Dentists and specialized dentists are projected to grow by 4% by 2034. Dental hygienists are projected to grow by 7%, with dental assistants not far behind at 6%, according to the BLS.</p><p>You don’t have to become a dentist to make good money either. Dentists aren’t the only lucrative dental career path that exists. There are many other roles, both clinical and non-clinical, that can still pull in six-figures.<strong> For example, we interviewed a dental hygienist that makes $55 - $60 an hour and an operations manager for a dental lab and dental practice who makes between $85,000 - $100,000 a year!</strong></p>

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DQEyQKfAFBQ/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DQEyQKfAFBQ/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; 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<p>Let’s break down all of the possible dental professions out there and get to know them a little better 👇</p><p><strong>*The salary data below is sourced from the BLS for median salaries, and our Salary Database and Glassdoor for the salary ranges.*</strong></p><figure class="table"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"><col style="width:20%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Job Title</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Duties</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>BLS Median Salary</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>STS + Glassdoor Salary Range</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Required Education</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td>Dentist (general)</td><td>Provides treatment and diagnosis for teeth and gums.</td><td><a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/dentists.htm#tab-1">$179,210</a></td><td><p>Part-time: <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3Ddentist&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=1&amp;filters=jobType%3DPart-time">$38,000 - $300,000</a></p><p><br>&nbsp;</p><p>Full-time: <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3Ddentist&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=jobType%3DFull-time">$67,000 - $400,000</a></p><p><br>&nbsp;</p><p>Contract:</p><p><a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3Ddentist&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=1&amp;filters=jobType%3DContract">$60,000 - $350,000</a></p></td><td>DDS or DMD</td></tr><tr><td>Pediatric Dentist</td><td>Specialized dentists for infants and minors.</td><td><a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/dentists.htm#tab-5">$225,770</a></td><td><a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3Dpediatric+dentist&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$50,000 (contract) - $650,000 (full-time)</a></td><td>DDS/DMD &amp; 2-3 year pediatric residency</td></tr><tr><td>Prosthodontist</td><td>Works on crowns, dentures, and implants.</td><td><a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/dentists.htm#tab-5">$239,200</a></td><td>Full-time: <a href="https://www.glassdoor.com/Salaries/us-prosthodontist-salary-SRCH_IL.0,2_IN1_KO3,17.htm">$484,000 - $811,000</a></td><td>DDS/DMD &amp; 3 year prosthodontics residency</td></tr><tr><td>Orthodontist</td><td>Focuses on teeth and jaw alignment.&nbsp;</td><td><a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/dentists.htm#tab-5">$239,200</a></td><td>Full-time: <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DOrthodontist&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$120,000 - $350,000</a></td><td>DDS/DMD &amp; 2-3 year orthodontics residency</td></tr><tr><td>Endodontist</td><td>Performs root canal therapy.</td><td><a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/dentists.htm#tab-5">$225,770</a></td><td>Full-time: <a href="https://www.glassdoor.com/Salaries/us-endodontist-salary-SRCH_IL.0,2_IN1_KO3,14.htm">$424,000 - $751,000</a></td><td>DDS/DMD &amp; 2-3 year endodontics residency</td></tr><tr><td>Periodontist</td><td>Treats gum disease &amp; supports structures like the jaw bone.</td><td><a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/dentists.htm#tab-5">$225,770</a></td><td>Full-time: <a href="https://www.glassdoor.com/Salaries/us-periodontist-salary-SRCH_IL.0,2_IN1_KO3,15.htm">$252,000 - $471,000</a></td><td>DDS/DMD &amp; 3 year periodontics residency</td></tr><tr><td>Oral Surgeon&nbsp;</td><td>Performs oral surgeries, such as extractions &amp; reconstructions.</td><td><a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/dentists.htm#tab-5">$239,200</a></td><td>Full-time: <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DOral+Surgeon&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$400,000 - $1.5M</a></td><td>DDS/DMD &amp; 4-6 year surgical residency&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Dental Hygienist</td><td>Cleans teeth while checking for disease and cavities.</td><td><a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/dental-hygienists.htm">$94,260</a></td><td><p>Part-time: <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DDental+Hygienist&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=jobType%3DPart-time">$77,000 - $125,000</a></p><p><br>&nbsp;</p><p>Full-time: <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DDental+Hygienist&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=jobType%3DFull-time">$54,000 - $150,000</a></p></td><td>Associate’s or Bachelor’s in dental hygiene&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Dental Assistant</td><td>Assists dentists during procedures.</td><td><a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/dental-assistants.htm">$47,300</a></td><td><p>Part-time: <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DDental+Assistant&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=jobType%3DPart-time">$29,000 - $61,000</a></p><p><br>&nbsp;</p><p>Full-time: <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DDental+Assistant&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=jobType%3DFull-time">$35,000 - $61,000</a></p></td><td>Certificate/diploma from a CODA program &amp; state-specific requirements</td></tr><tr><td>Lab Technician</td><td>Makes prosthetics like crowns and dentures.</td><td><a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/production/dental-and-ophthalmic-laboratory-technicians-and-medical-appliance-technicians.htm">$45,820</a></td><td>Full-time: <a href="https://www.glassdoor.com/Salaries/us-dental-lab-technician-salary-SRCH_IL.0,2_IN1_KO3,24.htm">$67,000 - $104,000</a></td><td>Associate’s degree or on-the-job training</td></tr><tr><td>Dental Office Manager</td><td>Manage admin and business operations of a dental practice.</td><td><a href="https://www.glassdoor.com/Salaries/us-dental-office-manager-salary-SRCH_IL.0,2_IN1_KO3,24.htm">$66,000</a></td><td>Full-time: <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DDental+Office+Manager&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=industry%3DHospital%2C+Health+Care%2C+Social+Services">$67,000 - $92,000</a></td><td>Bachelor’s degree preferred with some dental office admin experience</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p>Dental salaries are some of the <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-healthcare-jobs">highest-paying healthcare salaries</a> and may differ depending on your location and work environment. Dental healthcare workers with the highest salaries typically reside in Washington, Vermont, Alaska, and Delaware, while states with the lowest are Mississippi, Puerto Rico, Nevada, and Wyoming, according to the BLS <a href="https://data.bls.gov/oesmap/">Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) Map</a> (a great resource to look at earnings across the country for any profession).</p><p><strong>We interviewed a dental assistant that makes $27 an hour in Virginia, which was better pay than what she got in Washington D.C.. </strong>Her next goal is to go back to school to explore dental hygiene.</p>

How much does a #DentalAssistant make in📍Arlington, VA?#salarytransparentstreet #salarytransparency

<p><strong>Working in dentistry means dental professionals have many different environments to choose from when deciding where to work:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Private practices: </strong>Small and mid-size practices owned by a dentist or dentists who oversee all parts of the practice.</li><li><strong>Group practices:</strong> Multi-location practices that generally outsources non-clinical duties (like HR, billing, etc.) to an outside or corporate entity. Generally, dentists here are employees and not owners.&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Academic dentistry: </strong>Dental schools, universities and programs.</li><li><strong>Public health dentistry: </strong>Federal, state, and local agencies, like the U.S. Public Health Service, Department of Veteran Affairs (VA), and Indian Health Service (IHS).</li><li><strong>Dental laboratory:</strong> A facility that works with dental practices without a lab on-site to make custom devices like crowns, bridges, dentures, and implants.</li><li><strong>Research: </strong>Research at universities, private industry, and federal facilities, like the National Institute for Dental and Craniofacial Research, and the National Institutes of Health.</li><li><strong>International healthcare: </strong>International agencies, like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).</li><li><strong>Hospital dentistry: </strong>Hospital settings.</li><li><strong>Nonclinical: </strong>Working in dental or other industries but not practicing.&nbsp;</li></ul><h2>How to Choose a School or Program</h2><p><strong>For Dentists:</strong><br>When choosing a dental school, look for schools that are accredited by the <a href="https://coda.ada.org/find-a-program">Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA)</a>. There are more than 60 schools that have this accreditation and you can use the CODA website to search for predoctoral, allied, or advanced dental education programs. To apply, use the central <a href="https://aadsas.cas.myliaison.com/applicant-ux/#/login/#%2Flogin%2F">American Association of Dental Schools Application Service</a>. All dental schools also require applicants to take a <a href="https://www.ada.org/education/testing/exams/dental-admission-test-dat">Dental Admissions Test</a>.&nbsp;</p><p>Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) and Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) degrees typically take four years to complete, plus additional years for dental specialties like oral surgery. Dentists must also be <a href="https://www.ada.org/resources/careers/licensure">licensed</a>. Expect to take courses like anatomy, microbiology, and biochemistry, among many others. The last two years is when the real fun starts and you spend most of your time with clinicals and patient care.</p><p>Average tuition costs vary by program and career path, <strong>but can total up to $400,000 for all four years, according to the </strong><a href="https://www.ada.org/resources/research/health-policy-institute/dental-education"><strong>ADA</strong></a><strong>. </strong>Luckily, there are financial aid options like dental scholarships, grants, fellowships, and assistantship options if you want to try and avoid student loans.&nbsp;</p><p>The <a href="https://www.asdanet.org/index/dental-student-resources/scholarships">American Student Dental Association</a>, <a href="https://www.adea.org/home/education/ADEA-Scholarships-Awards-and-Fellowships/for-students">American Dental Education Association (ADEA)</a>, and <a href="https://ndafoundation.org/">National Dental Association Foundation</a> are all websites that you can use to find available programs. The ADA also offers <a href="https://www.ada.org/resources/students/manage-your-finances">financial resources</a> on their website.</p><p><strong>For Dental Team Members:</strong></p><p>Dental hygienists, assistants, and other dental team roles require less schooling, and can get started with an associate’s degree or other <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-trade-jobs">trade job</a> programs. However, a bachelor’s degree might help you command better pay and flexibility, but equivalent experience is just as valuable.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Learn more about each of these and where to find CODA accredited programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://www.ada.org/resources/careers/career-pathways/dental-hygienist">Dental hygienist resources</a></li><li><a href="https://www.ada.org/resources/careers/career-pathways/dental-assistant">Dental assistant resources</a></li><li><a href="https://www.ada.org/resources/careers/career-pathways/dental-laboratory-technician">Dental lab technician resources</a></li></ul><p>There is no CODA-accredited program for<a href="https://www.ada.org/resources/careers/career-pathways/dental-office-manager"> dental office managers</a>. Typically, dental office managers have a variety of educational backgrounds. Some dental office managers have bachelor’s or associate degrees or some other type of formal education. But there are a variety of other educational opportunities available outside of a college or university setting and many can also learn on the job.</p><p>The <a href="https://www.adha.org/education/">American Dental Hygienist Association</a> (ADHA), <a href="https://adaausa.org/">American Dental Assistants Association</a> (ADAA), <a href="https://www.danb.org/">Dental Assisting National Board (DANB)</a>,&nbsp; <a href="https://www.nadl.org/">National Association of Dental Laboratories</a> (NADL), and <a href="https://www.dentalmanagers.com/">American Association of Dental Office Management</a> (AADOM) can help you find more information on education requirements, any required state licensing, and open job opportunities.</p><h2>Where to Find Dental Jobs</h2><p>The ADA Career Center is the best place to start your job search. Because dentistry is such a specialized area, you should start your job search with dental-specific job boards. The <a href="https://careercenter.ada.org/">ADA Career Center</a> is the perfect example. You can browse jobs in the many areas of dentistry, search for employers, and get career advice.</p><p>Our <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/job-board">Salary Transparent Job Board</a> can be your next stop to find more jobs in dentistry. All job listings have the salary range listed with important points about the job in an easy-to-read format.&nbsp;</p><p>Other helpful job search tools are federal job boards like the <a href="https://vacareers.va.gov/careers/dentist-jobs/">VA </a>and the classifieds in your <a href="https://myaccount.ada.org/s/searchdirectory?id=a2I8V000001yE6O&amp;_gl=1*w2pxiu*_gcl_aw*R0NMLjE3NTk3Njg2NzEuQ2owS0NRancwWTNIQmhDeEFSSXNBTjc5MzFWWC1HMzVBYlljVDdhX3BmZGkybVdVbnVwSU9ZTTBueW16WVVnbkNwdDl2VlpBTDVSNWhYRWFBdVExRUFMd193Y0I.*_gcl_au*NDM5NjQzMTAyLjE3NTQwNTk4NzA.*_ga*MTU3ODc1NTQ3MS4xNzU0MDU5ODcw*_ga_NJ0EYRGSL1*czE3NjAwMzI3MTIkbzE1JGcxJHQxNzYwMDM0MTQwJGoyMyRsMCRoMA..*_ga_X8X57NRJ4D*czE3NjAwMzI3MTIkbzE1JGcxJHQxNzYwMDM0MTQwJGoyMyRsMCRoMA..*_ga_NVSBFQCBYE*czE3NjAwMzI3MTIkbzE1JGcxJHQxNzYwMDM0MTQwJGoyMyRsMCRoMA..*_ga_JDE0LTHGWL*czE3NjAwMzI3MTIkbzE1JGcxJHQxNzYwMDM0MTQwJGoyMyRsMCRoMA..">state’s dental association</a>.</p><h2>Next Steps: Resources for Students &amp; Professionals</h2><p>Other ways to take the next step towards a career in dentistry is to seek out entry-level work at dental offices or shadow other dental workers while you’re finishing your schooling. Reach out to those already in the field building their careers and get their perspective about what they would or wouldn’t do differently.&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/discussing-salary-with-coworkers">Talk to them about their salary</a> too and any <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/negotiate-salary-offer">salary negotiation tips</a> they used when landing their first few dental jobs. Depending on the <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/pay-transparency-laws">pay transparency laws</a> in your state, this information may or may not already be available when looking through current job listings.&nbsp;</p><p>They may also have tips for how they paid for dental school and either joined or started a dental practice. Then apply that advice to your own situation. &nbsp;</p><p>The ADA has a wealth of resources for new students and current dental professionals on their <a href="https://www.ada.org/resources/careers/career-pathways?utm_medium=earnedsocial&amp;utm_source=sts-ig&amp;utm_content=dental-careers&amp;utm_campaign=membervalue" rel="sponsored">Career Hub</a>. Take full advantage of it for guidance and resources straight from dental experts that can help you start from ground zero and grow your career from there.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>If you want to learn more about other careers, check out our other recent free career guides:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/healthcare-careers-guide">Healthcare Career Guide</a></li><li><a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/how-to-get-into-a-trade">How to Get Into a Trade</a></li><li><a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/how-to-break-into-tech">How to Break Into Tech</a></li><li><a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/how-to-start-a-creative-career">How to Start a Creative Career (or Pivot to One)</a></li></ul><p>Until next time, stay awesome, stay strong, and keep advocating for yourself no matter what! I’m Daniella Flores, a former engineer who writes about tech, money, and careers, a current member of the <a href="https://www.cnet.com/personal-finance/financial-review-board/">CNET Money Expert Review Board</a>, and career researcher that’s appeared in TIME, CNBC, and Investopedia (among many others). I’m extremely passionate about workers' rights and financial freedom, so it’s a pleasure to be able to bring you this type of content through the <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub">Resource Hub</a> (thank you for the opportunity, Hannah!) You can also follow me on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellamarquez/">Linkedin</a>. Chat soon!</p><p>If this guide helps you land your dream job, let us know! Send us an email ➡️ hello@checksalaries.com</p><p><strong>For more Salary Transparent Resources:</strong></p><ul><li>Want to join the movement? Explore thousands of individually reported salaries nationwide across all industries in our <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a>!</li><li>Looking for a job? Start your job search on our salary transparent <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/jobs">job board</a>!</li><li>Do you know if you're being underpaid? <a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/p/underpaid-quiz">Take our free quiz</a> to find out!</li><li>Don’t know what you want to do? Take any of our free <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/topic/quizzes">career quizzes</a>!</li><li>Need help determining your market rate? Download our free <a href="https://view.flodesk.com/pages/626ccc8e1e8046b220253e47">Market Research Guide</a> to learn what you should be making.</li><li>Need help negotiating your salary? Download our free <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/free-salary-negotiation-guide">Salary Negotiation Guide</a>!</li><li>Follow us on <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@salarytransparentstreet">TikTok</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/salarytransparentstreet/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salarytransparentstreet">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/salarytransparentstreet">YouTube </a>and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/salarytransparentstreet/">LinkedIn </a>for daily pay transparency interviews and career news you can use!</li><li>Subscribe to our <a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/subscribe">weekly newsletter</a> for news updates, professional deep dives, learning opportunities, and more!<br>&nbsp;</li></ul>

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How to Start a Career in Dentistry (+ Tips From Real Dental Professionals)

<p>Never accept a job offer without negotiating your salary!&nbsp;</p><p>Need help? Download our <strong>FREE Salary Negotiation Guide</strong> to learn how to negotiate your salary in different scenarios for both new and current jobs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>What you’ll learn with your free download:</strong></p><ul><li>Why you should always negotiate</li><li>How to negotiate at both your current job and new job</li><li>When to negotiate</li><li>How to prepare</li><li>What to say</li></ul><p>Plus, you’ll get tons of customizable scripts you can use to tailor to any situation and other free resources towards the end of the guide!</p>

green background with a pile of money and title text that reads free salary negotiation guide

Free Salary Negotiation Guide

<p><i>Heads up: This article may include affiliate links or sponsored content from brands and products we trust or actually use ourselves. Using them doesn’t cost you a thing, but it helps support our mission.&nbsp;</i></p><p><strong>Working a corporate job isn’t the only way to create a stable career. </strong>Learning a skilled trade is an extremely underrated route that offers many <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-trade-jobs">high-paying trade job options</a>.</p><p>Not only that, these jobs are in high demand! There is a growing skills gap in several trades due to many tradespeople aging out of their careers and fewer people choosing to work those jobs. For instance, <a href="https://www2.deloitte.com/us/en/pages/about-deloitte/articles/press-releases/us-manufacturing-could-need-new-employees-by-2033.html">Deloitte </a>reported that 1.9 million skilled trade jobs in manufacturing are expected to go unfilled by 2033, an industry that accounts for <a href="https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/operations/our-insights/delivering-the-us-manufacturing-renaissance">$2.3 trillion of the US’s GDP</a> and supports hundreds of local economies across the U.S.</p><p>Combine that with the growing demand for trade workers in other areas, such as wind turbine technicians (growth rate <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/wind-turbine-technicians.htm">60%</a>), electricians (growth rate <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/construction-and-extraction/electricians.htm">11%</a>), and HVAC technicians (growth rate <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/heating-air-conditioning-and-refrigeration-mechanics-and-installers.htm">9%</a>), and you’ll see a massive opportunity in these <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/top-jobs-of-2025">top jobs of the future</a>.</p><p>What’s great about these roles is that they don’t require a 4-year bachelor's degree or a hefty college bill. Many positions offer the ability to earn while you learn through apprenticeships and other on-the-job training opportunities, and tend to pay well with great benefits due to many being <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/how-to-join-a-union">union jobs</a> (although not all trades have union representation).</p>

How Much Do Trade Workers Really Make? Earnings Revealed at LaborFest

<p><strong>In this guide, you’ll learn what qualifies as a trade job, which one is right for you, and how to enter that trade.</strong></p><p>We also included salary data that we’ve collected from the past 3+ years of interviews, data from over 13,000 salaries that we’ve collected in our online <a href="http://checksalaries.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a> (don’t forget to <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/onboarding">join and add</a> your salary too!), and job data from the <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh">U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook</a>.</p><p>*Keep in mind that our Salary Database currently doesn’t have a way to distinguish between base pay and total compensation. Our salary data may also include other compensation, such as bonuses, commissions, stock options, equity, or other forms of pay in addition to their yearly salary.</p><h2><strong>List of Trades to Explore (and How to Get Into Them)</strong></h2><p>A trade job is a job that requires a specialized skillset and is usually hands-on in industries like construction, manufacturing, and transportation. Training programs and apprenticeships are the common routes to break in since many of the roles <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-jobs-without-a-degree">don't require a degree</a>.</p><p>Beyond the familiar trades, there are also lesser-known paths in fields like healthcare, culinary arts, technology, and cosmetology that offer similar skilled and high-demand roles. For example, just like an electrical line worker is a trade worker, so are tattoo artists and manicurists.&nbsp;</p><p>Let’s explore each industry, the roles available and their expected pay, and how to get into each.<strong> If you don’t know which trade job you want to explore, take our free quiz to help you decide which one suits you best! 👇</strong></p>

<h2>Construction</h2><p>Construction trades are the jobs that make our modern world possible. They involve expertise in areas like building (of course), masonry, plumbing, carpentry, and installing flooring and other building components.&nbsp;</p><p>It's a big deal. Constructing our cities and communities would be impossible without them. The great thing about this trade is that it also has many roles available in <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-government-jobs">high-paying government jobs</a> to fill the demand of ongoing building contracts.</p>

How much does a #constructionworker make in 📍Washington, DC?#salarytransparentstreet

<figure class="table"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:50%;"><col style="width:50%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>No Degree Required (Apprenticeship, On-the-Job Training, or Licensing)</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Certificate or Trade School Preferred</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><ul><li>Construction laborer</li><li>Construction manager</li><li>Electrician (apprenticeship required)</li><li>Plumber, Pipefitter, Steamfitter (apprenticeship required)</li><li>Carpenter (apprenticeship optional, common)</li><li>Ironworker (apprenticeship required)</li><li>Sheet Metal Worker (apprenticeship required)</li><li>Roofer</li><li>Drywall Installer</li><li>Glazier</li><li>Mason (apprenticeship required)</li><li>Flooring Installer</li><li>Concrete Finisher</li><li>Painter</li><li>Elevator Installer &amp; Repairer (apprenticeship required)</li></ul></td><td><ul><li>Heavy Equipment Operator (certifications like National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (<a href="https://www.nccco.org/docs/default-source/osha/crane-operator-certification---employers-guide-112118a.pdf?sfvrsn=7da0fb0e_2">NCCCO</a>) preferred)</li><li>Crane Operator (certifications like NCCCO often preferred)</li></ul><p><br>&nbsp;</p></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>How to get into it:</strong> Start with a high school diploma or GED and an apprenticeship program. These can be found through local trade unions, such as United Association Union of Plumbers, Fitters, Welders and Service Techs (<a href="https://ua.org/">UA</a>), the International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron Workers (<a href="https://www.ironworkers.org/">IW</a>), the International Union of Elevator Constructors (<a href="https://www.iuec.org/">IUEC</a>), and other <a href="https://nabtu.org/affiliates/">North American unions</a>. Opportunities can also be found through construction companies and some send their employees to school for free. If you want to operate heavy machinery, look at <a href="https://www.nccco.org/docs/default-source/osha/crane-operator-certification---employers-guide-112118a.pdf?sfvrsn=7da0fb0e_2">NCCCO </a>certifications as well.</p><p><strong>Potential pay:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Median salary:</strong> <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/construction-and-extraction/home.htm">$58,360</a> a year</li><li><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database:</strong> <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3Dconstruction&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$650,000</a> a year</li></ul><p><strong>Get started with these courses or programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/VxQrd6" rel="sponsored">Construction Techniques and Practices Specialization</a> (use as a way to explore this field, but look for your local construction trades union to get into their apprenticeship program)</li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/6yxazQ" rel="sponsored">Construction Management Specialization</a></li></ul><h2>Manufacturing</h2><p>Manufacturing jobs create the products we know and love, like the cars we drive and the appliances we use. They focus on producing those products, assembling them, and maintaining them.&nbsp;</p><p>These are your welders and machinists, and they utilize skills such as equipment operation and mechanical aptitude to produce these high-quality products.</p><figure class="table"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:50%;"><col style="width:50%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>No Degree Required (Apprenticeship, On-the-Job Training, or Licensing)</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Certificate or Trade School Preferred</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><ul><li>Welder (on-the-job training or apprenticeship)</li><li>Machinist (on-the-job training or apprenticeship)</li><li>Assembler</li><li>Fabricator</li><li>Forklift Operator</li><li>General Laborer / Production Worker</li><li>Packaging Operator</li></ul></td><td><ul><li>CNC (Computer Numerical Control) Operator (National Institute for Metalworking Skills (<a href="https://themanufacturinginstitute.org/workers/skills-certifications/nims/">NIMS</a>) certification available)</li><li>Quality Control Inspector</li><li>Production Technician</li><li>Metal Finisher</li><li>Industrial Maintenance Technician</li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>How to get into it:</strong> Many manufacturing trades offer apprenticeships with the requirement of a high school diploma or GED. You can find these through your local trade unions, such as the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (<a href="https://www.goiam.org/get-organized/#get-organized-tab-0">IAM</a>) and the <a href="https://iuanpw.org/">International Union of Allied, Novelty and Production Workers</a>, and manufacturing companies by applying directly. There are also trade school programs and certifications required, such as <a href="https://themanufacturinginstitute.org/workers/skills-certifications/nims/">NIMS</a>.</p><p><strong>Potential pay:&nbsp;</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Median salary:</strong> <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/industrial-machinery-mechanics-and-maintenance-workers-and-millwrights.htm">$63,510</a> a year</li><li><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database:</strong> <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3Dwelder&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$96,000</a> a year</li></ul><p><strong>Get started with these courses or programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/APAzYa">Manufacturing Industry 101</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/e1QoxQ">Welding Processes in Heavy Manufacturing &amp; Quality Controls</a></li></ul><h2>Automotive and Transportation</h2><p>While manufacturing jobs might help create the car you drive, automotive and transportation jobs make use of those vehicles. These trade jobs involve repairing and maintaining those vehicles and transportation systems.&nbsp;</p><p>This work is extremely important to keeping transportation safe, covering everything from cars and trucks to buses, planes, and even rail equipment.</p>

How Much Do Auto Trades Pay? Insights from the SEMA Trade Show

<figure class="table"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:50%;"><col style="width:50%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>No Degree Required (Apprenticeship, On-the-Job Training, or Licensing)</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Certificate or Trade School Preferred</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><ul><li>Automotive Service Technician &amp; Mechanic (apprenticeship or on-the-job training)</li><li>Diesel Mechanic (apprenticeship or on-the-job training)</li><li>Truck Driver (CDL required)</li><li>Motorcycle Mechanic&nbsp;</li><li>Bus Driver (CDL required)</li></ul></td><td><ul><li>Aircraft &amp; Avionics Mechanic/Technician (completion of FAA-approved aviation maintenance school)</li><li>Auto &amp; Diesel Engine Specialist/Technician (Automotive Service Excellence (<a href="https://ase.com/">ASE</a>) certification often required)</li><li>Ship &amp; Boat Mechanic</li><li>Electric Vehicle (EV) Technician&nbsp;</li><li>Transportation Inspector (DOT or FAA certifications may be required depending on sector)</li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>How to get into it:</strong> A high school diploma or GED is the minimum requirement, but hands-on training through an apprenticeship or program focused on automotive or diesel technology is a recommended next step. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FoSE3CWZTgo&amp;t=105s"><strong>We interviewed a mechanic </strong></a><strong>who went to high school for half the day and trade school the other half, where both counted for high school credit. This helped them start working right away after high school.&nbsp;</strong></p><p>Apprenticeships can be found through dealerships, repair shops, and unions like the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers (<a href="https://www.smart-union.org/">SMART</a>). Certifications like <a href="https://ase.com/">ASE </a>are often required or highly recommended. Your best bet is to reach out to a local union and start there. <strong>We interviewed a union mechanic who makes $80,000 a year!</strong></p>

How much does a #Mechanic make? Filmed at the Union Square @capitalonecafe 📍 #capitalonepartner

<p><strong>Potential pay:&nbsp;</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Median salary:</strong> <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/home.htm">$58,230</a> a year</li><li><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database: </strong><a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3Daircraft+technician&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$220,000</a> a year</li></ul><p><strong>Get started with these courses or programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/QjGqv6" rel="sponsored">Introduction to Mechanics</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/Wy9jPe" rel="sponsored">Flight Mechanics - The Basics</a></li></ul><h2>Energy and Utilities</h2><p>Energy and utilities trade jobs involve essential services like electricity and gas. The most common role you often hear about are electricians (which you’ll also see listed under the ‘Construction’ section above, but it also falls under ‘Energy’), but there are several others that aren't as well-known and still pay well, such as wind turbine technicians.&nbsp;</p><p>These roles have a huge responsibility for ensuring reliable infrastructure and safety, and often require skills in equipment operation and power system monitoring.&nbsp;</p>

How much do union #electricians make? #paytransparency #electricianjobs #trades

<figure class="table"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:50%;"><col style="width:50%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>No Degree Required (Apprenticeship, On-the-Job Training, or Licensing)</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Certificate or Trade School Preferred</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><ul><li>Power Plant Operator (on-the-job training and licensing may be required)</li><li>Water/Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator (on-the-job training and state license required)</li><li>Electrician (apprenticeship required)</li><li>Line worker / Powerline Technician (apprenticeship required)</li><li>Gas Utility Technician (on-the-job training and operator qualification required)</li><li>Wind Turbine Technician&nbsp;</li><li>Hydroelectric Plant Technician&nbsp;</li><li>Meter Installer &amp; Repairer</li></ul></td><td><ul><li>Solar PV Installer (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (<a href="https://www.nabcep.org/certifications/nabcep-board-certifications/">NABCEP</a>) certification preferred but not always required)</li><li>HVAC Technician (certificate programs commonly preferred)</li><li>Energy Systems Technician</li><li>Substation Technician&nbsp;</li><li>Utility Locator (certificate programs preferred; National Utility Locating Contractors Association (<a href="https://nulca.org/">NULCA</a>) certification available)</li><li>Geothermal Technician&nbsp;</li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>How to get into it: </strong>A high school diploma or GED is a great starting point, then look for specialized training through apprenticeships, technical schools, or utility-sponsored programs. Licensing and education requirements vary by role and state.&nbsp;</p><p>For example, electricians can find apprenticeships through their local International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (<a href="https://ibew.org/">IBEW</a>) union and typically need a state electrician license. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lx84Xrav_b0">An electrician apprentice we interviewed</a> <strong>is making $74 an hour! </strong>Look for your state’s requirements and opportunities through your state’s Labor and Industries website, local union hall (or website), utility companies, and workforce development centers.</p><p><strong>Potential pay:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Median salary:</strong> <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/production/power-plant-operators-distributors-and-dispatchers.htm">$103,600</a> a year</li><li><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database:</strong> <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DPower+Plant+Operator&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$100,000</a> a year</li></ul><p><strong>Get started with these courses or programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/QjGqEa" rel="sponsored">Introduction to Electronics</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/ra0vWj" rel="sponsored">Electric Power Systems</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/55qeB1" rel="sponsored">Solar Energy for Engineers, Architects and Code Inspectors Specialization</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/EEGKz2" rel="sponsored">Renewable Energy Specialization</a></li></ul><h2>Technology and IT Infrastructure</h2><p>Our technology infrastructure highly depends on trade workers to install and maintain hardware and networks. Tech trade workers often possess <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/high-income-skills">high-income skills,</a> such as troubleshooting and reverse engineering, which they can learn through technical schools or programs. And they can still find <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-tech-jobs">high-paying tech roles</a>, even without a fancy Bachelor's degree in computer science.</p><p>Thanks to them, company networks stay secure, public networks are accessible, and our personal devices can safely exist on both of them.</p>

How much does a #SystemsAdministrator make?📍Detroit, MI #salarytransparentstreet

<figure class="table"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:50%;"><col style="width:50%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>No Degree Required (Apprenticeship, On-the-Job Training, or Licensing)</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Certificate, Trade School, or Associate Degree Preferred</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><ul><li>Cable Technician / Installer</li><li>Data Center Technician</li><li>Network Cabling Installer</li><li>Telecom Tower Technician</li><li>Field Service Technician</li><li>Audio-Visual (AV) Technician</li></ul></td><td><ul><li>System Administrator (associate degree recommended or CompTIA cert required)</li><li>Network Technician (associate degree recommended or CompTIA cert required)</li><li>Security Systems Technician</li><li>Fiber Optic Technician</li><li>Structured Cabling Technician</li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>How to get into it: </strong>A high school diploma or GED, then gain skills through trade schools, community colleges, or certification programs. Also, look for opportunities through technical trade unions, such as the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (<a href="https://www.ifpte.org/">IFPTE</a>). Entry-level roles in IT support, networking, or cybersecurity often require certifications like <a href="https://imp.i384100.net/Vx2DnE">CompTIA A+</a>, <a href="https://imp.i384100.net/LK5eVa">Network+</a>, or <a href="https://imp.i384100.net/xLmAWk">Cisco’s CCNA</a>, which can be earned through online learning.</p><p><strong>🎓 Need help paying for school? </strong>Check out our <a href="https://secure.money.com/pr/r8fc8db4eb91" rel="sponsored">top student loan picks</a> to compare options and find what best fits your future.</p><p><strong>Potential pay:&nbsp;</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Median salary: </strong><a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/telecommunications-equipment-installers-and-repairers-except-line-installers.htm">$64,310</a> a year</li><li><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database: </strong><a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DTechnician&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$126,000</a> a year</li></ul><p><strong>Get started with these courses or programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/9Lydm3" rel="sponsored">Computer Networks and Network Security</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/Vx2DnE" rel="sponsored">Preparation for CompTIA A+ Certification Specialization</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/BnRDEW" rel="sponsored">Bachelor of Information Technology</a></li></ul>

<p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Healthcare</h2><p>Healthcare trades encompass many different roles, such as pharmacy techs, dental assistants, nurses, and several others. Several of these roles don't require a 4-year college degree and focus on training through certifications and associate degree programs.&nbsp;</p>

How much do #EMTs make? #salarytransparency #salarytransparentstreet #paytransparency

<figure class="table" style="width:99.1%;"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:36.75%;"><col style="width:63.25%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>No Degree Required (Apprenticeship, On-the-Job Training, or Licensing)</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Certificate, Trade School, or Associate Degree Preferred</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><ul><li>Home Health Aide (on-the-job training)</li></ul></td><td><ul><li>Pharmacy Technician (certifications like Certified Pharmacy Technician (<a href="https://www.ptcb.org/credentials/certified-pharmacy-technician">CPhT</a>) preferred)</li><li>Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT) (<a href="https://www.nremt.org/EMT/Certification">EMT certification</a> required)</li><li>Dental Assistant (on-the-job training and certifications like Certified Dental Technicians (<a href="https://nbccert.org/certificants/certified-dental-technician/">CDTs</a>) preferred)</li><li>Radiologic Technician (American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (<a href="https://www.arrt.org/">ARRT</a>) certification preferred and licensing required in most states)</li><li>Surgical Technologist (certifications like Certified Surgical Technologist (<a href="https://www.nbstsa.org/cst-certification">CST</a>) preferred)</li><li>Respiratory Therapist (Certified Respiratory Therapist (<a href="https://www.nbrc.org/examinations/crt/">CRT</a>) certification preferred and licensing required in most states)</li><li>Medical Laboratory Technician (certification from the American Society for Clinical Pathology (<a href="https://www.ascp.org/content/board-of-certification?utm_source=chatgpt.com">ASCP</a>) preferred)</li><li>Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) (completion of an accredited LPN program and licensing required in all states)</li><li>Dental Hygienist (certificate programs preferred and state license required)</li><li>Physical Therapy Assistant (certificate programs preferred and license required in most states)</li><li>Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (associate degree required and American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (<a href="https://www.ardms.org/">ARDMS</a>) certification preferred)</li><li>Occupational Therapy Assistant (associate degree required and license required in most states)</li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>How to get into it:</strong> After getting a high school diploma or GED, pursue training based on your specific healthcare trade. Options range from on-the-job training for roles like Home Health Aide to formal certificate or associate degree programs for more advanced positions. Many roles require or prefer certifications or licenses, such as <a href="https://www.ptcb.org/credentials/certified-pharmacy-technician">CPhT </a>for Pharmacy Technicians, <a href="https://www.arrt.org/">ARRT </a>for Radiologic Technicians, or state licenses for LPNs, dental hygienists, and other allied health professionals.</p><p><strong>Potential pay:&nbsp;</strong></p><ul><li>Median salary: <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/home.htm">$83,090</a> a year</li><li>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database: <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DRadiologic+Technologist&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$131,000</a> a year</li></ul><p><strong>Get started with these courses or programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/BnGWr9" rel="sponsored">Foundation for Assisting in Home Care</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/JKj3GQ" rel="sponsored">Pharmacy Technician Fundamentals Specialization</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/Wy9jn3" rel="sponsored">Visualizing the Living Body: Diagnostic Imaging</a></li></ul><h2>Personal Services (Cosmetology, Lifestyle, and Culinary)</h2><p>Personal service trades focus on making us feel good through skills in areas like cosmetology and hair, baking and cooking, and fitness training (to name a few). Many of these would also be considered <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-creative-jobs">creative jobs</a>, but also require some technical expertise with certification or licensing to provide quality services to clients.</p>

How much does a #TattooArtist make? Eugene, OR📍#salarytransparentstreet

<figure class="table"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:50%;"><col style="width:50%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>No Degree Required (Apprenticeship, On-the-Job Training, or Licensing)</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Certificate or Trade School Preferred</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><ul><li>Hair Stylist (state license required)</li><li>Nail Technician (state license required)</li><li>Makeup Artist</li><li>Esthetician (state license required)</li><li>Waxing Specialist (state license or certification often required)</li><li>Eyelash Technician (state license or certification may be required)</li><li>Tattoo Artist (apprenticeship or formal training, and state or local license required)</li><li>Chef (culinary school optional)</li><li>Butcher</li><li>Baker</li><li>Bartender</li></ul></td><td><ul><li>Personal Trainer (certification from programs like the National Academy of Sports Medicine (<a href="https://www.nasm.org/">NASM</a>) or the National Council on Strength and Fitness (<a href="https://www.ncsf.org/">NCSF</a>) preferred)</li><li>Massage Therapist (state license required and certification from accredited program preferred)</li><li>Nutritionist (certificate programs preferred)</li><li>Graphic Artist/Designer (certificate programs and trade school programs available)</li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>How to get into it: </strong>A high school diploma or GED, then enroll in a state-approved training program or trade school for your chosen field. Most personal service careers require certification or licenses, such as a state cosmetology license. The American Association of Career Schools has a great resource that shows<a href="https://myaacs.org/licensing/"> license requirements by state</a> for many of these trades.</p><p><strong>Potential pay:&nbsp;</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Median salary:</strong> <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/personal-care-and-service/home.htm">$35,110</a> a year</li><li><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database:</strong> <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DHair+Stylist&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$96,000</a> a year</li></ul><p><strong>Get started with these courses or programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/nXAOGx" rel="sponsored">Introduction to Cosmetic and Skincare Science</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/4GLkb1" rel="sponsored">Equitable Stage Makeup and Hair</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/6yxaON" rel="sponsored">Getting Started as a Personal Fitness Trainer</a></li></ul><h2>Public Safety and Infrastructure</h2><p>Public safety and infrastructure trades work on keeping communities safe and running smoothly. For example, they may work on maintaining systems, like a waste management system.&nbsp;</p><p>While many of these roles have entry-level work available with little requirements, there are many that also require certifications and specialized training programs.</p>

How much does a #MaintenanceWorker make in📍Boston, MA? #salarytransparentstreet #salarytransparency

<figure class="table"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:50%;"><col style="width:50%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;">No Degree Required (Apprenticeship, On-the-Job Training, or Licensing)</p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;">Certificate or Trade School Preferred</p></td></tr><tr><td><ul><li>Public Works Laborer&nbsp;</li><li>Sanitation Worker&nbsp;</li><li>Waste Management Worker&nbsp;</li><li>Street Maintenance Worker&nbsp;</li><li>Sewer Maintenance Worker</li><li>Solid Waste Collection Worker&nbsp;</li><li>Landfill Technician&nbsp;</li></ul></td><td><ul><li>Firefighter (EMT certification and trade school often required)</li><li>Recycling Technician or Coordinator (may require certification depending on locality)</li><li>Environmental Technician (certificate programs in environmental science or management preferred)</li><li>Solid Waste Manager (Certified Professional in Waste Management (<a href="https://www.nrep.org/certifications/certified-professional-waste-management-cpwm">CPWM</a>) preferred)</li><li>Public Works Inspector (American Public Works Association (<a href="https://www.apwa.org/education-careers/certification/">APWA</a>) and state-specific certifications preferred)</li><li>Hazardous Materials Removal Worker (Occupational Safety and Health Administration (<a href="https://www.osha.gov/training/certificate">OSHA</a>) certifications and specialized training preferred)</li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>How to get into it: </strong>A high school diploma or GED is enough to get started, as many entry-level positions don’t require a degree. However, you might need to complete any required training or certifications depending on the role. For example, a sanitation worker may not need a certification, but an environmental technician may need to be a <a href="https://www.osha.com/courses/certified-environmental-specialist.html">certified environmental specialist</a>.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Potential pay:&nbsp;</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Median salary:</strong> <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/general-maintenance-and-repair-workers.htm">$48,620</a> a year</li><li><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database:</strong> <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DSolid+Waste+%26+Recycling+Specialist&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$63,000</a> a year</li></ul><p><strong>Get started with these courses or programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/yqOD0D" rel="sponsored">Introduction to Sustainability</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/mOa6AD" rel="sponsored">Utilities, Safety &amp; Environmental Care in Oil &amp; Gas Industry</a></li></ul><h2>How to Pick The Right Trade Job for You</h2><p>Before you rush into the trade that you think pays the most, take some time to think about which one you would enjoy the most and best fits your work style (like your skills and preferences).</p><p>Matching your strengths to the skills required in the different trades can help you find a path that feels natural and still pays well. <strong>To get started, you can take our free 1-minute trade jobs quiz to discover which roles align with your personality and abilities! </strong>👇</p>

<p><strong>Don’t stop there. </strong>Explore different trades you’re interested in through job fairs (like the<a href="https://www.wawomenintrades.com/trades-fair"> Washington Women in Trades Fair</a>), free or low-cost short courses through course providers like <a href="https://imp.i384100.net/BnR05W" rel="sponsored">Coursera</a>, informational interviews with real-world insights on platforms like YouTube and Instagram, volunteering, or shadowing professionals on the job. Any of these steps will help get a better feel for what to expect in your chosen area.</p><h2>Starting a Career in Skilled Trades</h2><p>I don't care how qualified or unqualified you are right now. We all have somewhere we have start from.&nbsp;</p><p>If you’re still in high school, you can actually start there, <i>seriously</i>! As we learned from some of our past interviews, many trade workers actually started trade programs while in high school through half-day technical and trade schools that also accounted for high school credit.</p><p>If you’re out of high school, no worries. You can start from here too. Use resources available to you, such as the guide you’re reading now and the <a href="https://explorethetrades.org/what-we-do/trainingjobs/licensing-information/">Explore The Trades</a> website, to find apprenticeships, programs, and license requirements for the trade job you’re interested in.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Browse these union directories for more information and details on how to apply for an apprenticeship:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://aflcio.org/about-us/our-unions-and-allies/our-affiliated-unions">AFL-CIO Union Directory</a></li><li><a href="https://nabtu.org/affiliates/">North America’s Building Trade Unions</a></li><li><a href="http://apprenticeship.gov">Apprenticeship.gov</a></li></ul><p>These same union directories can also help you find trade jobs available through your local union, along with our very own <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/job-board">Salary Transparent Job Board</a>, <a href="https://www.unionhiringhall.org/">Union Hiring Hall</a>, <a href="http://usajobs.gov">USAJobs.gov</a>, and <a href="https://fbijobs.gov/skilled-trades">FBIJobs.gov</a> job boards.</p><p>All you need to do is take that first step, use these resources we’ve gathered for you, and start reaching out to local unions, schools, or companies. We’re here in your corner cheering you on, as always!</p><p><strong>We also have a wealth of resources available to you as you navigate your career, including:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/free-market-research-guide">How to Find Your Market Rate</a></li><li><a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/job-interview-questions-and-answers">Most Common Interview Questions and Answers</a></li><li><a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/salary-negotiation-scripts">Salary Negotiation Scripts</a></li><li><a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/how-to-ask-for-a-raise">How to Ask for a Raise</a></li></ul><p>Until next time, stay awesome, stay strong, and keep advocating for yourself no matter what! I’m Daniella Flores, a former engineer who writes about tech, money, and careers, and current member of the <a href="https://www.cnet.com/personal-finance/financial-review-board/">CNET Money Expert Review Board</a>. I’m extremely passionate about workers' rights and financial freedom, so it’s a pleasure to be able to bring you this type of content through the <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub">Resource Hub</a> (thank you for the opportunity, Hannah!) You can also follow me on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellamarquez/">Linkedin</a>. Chat soon!</p><p>If this guide helps you land a higher-paying job, let us know! Send us an email ➡️ hello@checksalaries.com</p><p><strong>For more Salary Transparent Street resources:</strong></p><ul><li>Want to join the movement? Explore thousands of individually reported salaries nationwide across all industries in our <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a>!</li><li>Looking for a job? Start your job search on our salary transparent <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/jobs">job board</a>!</li><li>Do you know if you're being underpaid? <a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/p/underpaid-quiz">Take our free quiz</a> to find out!</li><li>Need help determining your market rate? Download our free <a href="https://view.flodesk.com/pages/626ccc8e1e8046b220253e47">Market Research Guide</a> to learn what you should be making.</li><li>Need help negotiating your salary? Download our free <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/free-salary-negotiation-guide">Salary Negotiation Guide</a>!</li><li>Follow us on <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@salarytransparentstreet">TikTok</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/salarytransparentstreet/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salarytransparentstreet">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/salarytransparentstreet">YouTube </a>and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/salarytransparentstreet/">LinkedIn </a>for daily pay transparency interviews and career news you can use!</li><li>Subscribe to our <a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/subscribe">weekly newsletter</a> for news updates, professional deep dives, learning opportunities, and more!</li></ul>

Article cover image for desktop with green background and skilled trades illustrations and title text overlay that reads "skilled trades career guide"

Article cover image with green background and skilled trades illustrations and title text overlay that reads "skilled trades career guide"

How to Get Into a Trade (+ Advice From Real Trade Workers)

<p><i>Heads up: This article may include affiliate links or sponsored content from brands we trust. Using them doesn’t cost you anything and helps support our mission.</i></p><p>Tech jobs are in a massive growth period as IT spending from companies has quadrupled from 2023, with an expected spending amount of 5.7 trillion in 2025, according to a recent report by <a href="https://www2.deloitte.com/us/en/insights/industry/technology/technology-media-telecom-outlooks/technology-industry-outlook.html">Deloitte</a>.</p><p>The<a href="https://www.weforum.org/publications/the-future-of-jobs-report-2025/digest/"> projected technological change</a> that will occur over the next 5 years will add a whopping 78 million jobs to the labor market across industries. That means <i>more chances than ever</i> to break into tech, whether you’re into AI, design, marketing, data, or just want a stable remote job with real money potential.</p><p>Before you get stuck in the cycle of thinking, “but I don’t know how to code,” <strong>stop right there.</strong> 🫵</p><p>There are tons of jobs in tech that don’t require coding skills, but they do require digital skills. Tech and IT jobs offer both technical and non-technical opportunities, and there are many ways to get started with a career in tech and learn these <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/high-income-skills">high-income skills</a> with or without a degree.</p><p><strong>In this guide, you’ll learn which tech path is right for you, how to build the skills you need to get your foot in the door, and how to network and best position yourself to land the job — no matter your background or experience level.&nbsp;</strong></p><p>We also included salary data for each area of tech that we’ve collected from the past 3+ years of interviews, data we’ve collected in our online <a href="http://checksalaries.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a> (don’t forget to <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/onboarding">join and add</a> your salary too!), and job data from the <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh">U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook</a>.</p><p>*Keep in mind that our Salary Database currently doesn’t have a way to distinguish between base pay and total compensation. Our salary data may also include other compensation, such as bonuses, commissions, stock options, equity, or other forms of pay in addition to their yearly salary.</p>

<h2>Different Career Paths to Break Into Tech</h2><p>Working in tech means one of two things: working at a tech company or working on a technical team at a non-tech company.&nbsp;</p><p>A marketing role at a tech company may qualify as “working in tech” just as much as an IT support person working for a healthcare services company does. One works in the tech industry while the other is a technical professional in a different industry. They both work in tech. For example, many <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-government-jobs">high-paying government jobs</a> and <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-creative-jobs">creative jobs</a> are tech roles.</p><p>There are also many companies that you may overlook as not being tech companies when thinking about pivoting into the space. For example, Mastercard is a financial tech company and Canva is a visual communication and design tech company. <strong>Keep this in mind as you work to build skills and look at the different tech career paths available.</strong></p>

Tech Jobs & Paychecks: Uncovering the Truth at RenderATL | Salary Transparent Street

<h2>Engineering and Development</h2><p>When thinking of what a tech job looks like, people typically think of coders in hoodies working around the clock. The truth is, not all engineers even write code. For example, while software engineers need to have some knowledge of certain programming languages, such as Python, C, or Java, there are some software engineers that spend the majority of their role in design, planning, or support and incident response.&nbsp;</p>

Software Engineers Make How Much? 🤯 Salary Transparent Street™️ Compilation 💵

<p><strong>Other areas of engineering and development to explore include:</strong></p><figure class="table"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:33.33%;"><col style="width:33.33%;"><col style="width:33.34%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Area</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>What They Do</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>What They Need to Know</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Systems Engineering</strong></td><td>Ensures hardware and software systems work together</td><td>Systems design, scripting, operating systems (OS) basics</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Hardware Engineering</strong></td><td>Builds and tests physical tech like circuits and processors</td><td>PCB design, C/C++, embedded systems</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Frontend Development</strong></td><td>Codes the visual parts of websites and apps</td><td>HTML, CSS, JavaScript, frameworks like React</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Backend Development</strong></td><td>Handles server logic, databases, and APIs</td><td>Python/Java, SQL, API design, security basics</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Full Stack Development</strong></td><td>Works on both frontend and backend</td><td>Web dev stack, Git, debugging</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Website Development</strong></td><td>Builds and updates websites</td><td>HTML, CSS, JavaScript, CMS tools</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Mobile App Development</strong></td><td>Creates apps for iOS and Android</td><td>Swift, Kotlin, mobile UI, app deployment</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Game Development</strong></td><td>Develops video games and interactive experiences</td><td>Unity/Unreal, C#, game logic, asset integration</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>Potential pay:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Median salary:</strong> <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm">$130,160</a> per year</li><li><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database:</strong> <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3Dsoftware+engineer&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$450,000</a> per year</li></ul><p><strong>How to get into it: </strong>Start looking at available degree programs in computer science, software engineering, information technology, or a similar area. Not all companies require a bachelor’s degree, and many also accept associate’s degrees, bootcamps, certifications, and/or coding samples demonstrating your knowledge as alternatives, especially if you have any experience from personal projects, freelancing, or entry-level tech roles.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>🎓 Need help paying for school? </strong>Check out our <a href="https://secure.money.com/pr/r8fc8db4eb91" rel="sponsored">top student loan picks</a> to compare options and find what fits your future.</p><p><strong>Get started with these courses and programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/LKRdQj" rel="sponsored">Programming for Everybody (Getting Started with Python)</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/dO5J1K" rel="sponsored">IBM Full Stack Software Developer Professional Certificate</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/qzO6by" rel="sponsored">Amazon Junior Software Developer Professional Certificate</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/RG2dvg" rel="sponsored">Introduction to Systems Engineering</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/aOrGJM" rel="sponsored">Bachelor of Computer Science</a></li></ul><h2>Operations and Infrastructure</h2><p>The operations and infrastructure side of <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-tech-jobs">tech jobs</a> are the folks who keep systems running smoothly. They manage servers, networks, systems (including cloud systems), deployments, and uptime so developers can ship code and provide a good user experience for customers.&nbsp;</p>

#CloudEngineers in Atlanta, GA📍#salarytransparentstreet #salarytransparency #howmuchdoyoumake

<p>For example, a DevOps engineer may be tasked with setting up an automated deployment pipeline, so that every time a developer pushes code, it automatically runs tests and deploys to the production environment. At the other end of that deployment, site reliability engineers are responsible for monitoring system performance and may respond to outages by rolling back the failed deployment and updating their incident response documentation and processes.</p><p><strong>Other areas of operations and infrastructure to explore include:</strong></p><figure class="table"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:33.33%;"><col style="width:33.33%;"><col style="width:33.34%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Area</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>What They Do</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>What They Need to Know</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><strong>System Administration</strong></td><td>Manages servers, updates, backups, and user access</td><td>OS basics, scripting, networking, troubleshooting</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Database Administration</strong></td><td>Maintains secure and high-performing databases</td><td>SQL, backup strategies, performance tuning, DB tools</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Cloud Engineering &amp; Infrastructure</strong></td><td>Builds and manages cloud systems</td><td>AWS/Azure/GCP, IaC tools (e.g., Terraform), networking</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Platform Engineering</strong></td><td>Supports tools and systems for software deployment</td><td>CI/CD, scripting, containers (Docker, Kubernetes)</td></tr><tr><td><strong>IT Support and Helpdesk</strong></td><td>Solves user tech issues</td><td>Troubleshooting, customer service, basic IT knowledge</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Service Event Management</strong></td><td>Handles incidents and restores services quickly</td><td>Monitoring tools, incident response, escalation procedures</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Technical Program Management</strong></td><td>Coordinates technical projects across teams</td><td>Agile/Scrum, cross-team communication, planning tools</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Project Management</strong></td><td>Plans and tracks project timelines and goals</td><td>Budgeting, timelines, task tracking, stakeholder management</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Program Management</strong></td><td>Oversees multiple related projects to align with business goals</td><td>Strategy, portfolio management, stakeholder alignment</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>Potential pay:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Median salary:</strong> <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/database-administrators.htm">$117,450</a> per year</li><li><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database:</strong> <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DDatabase+Administrator&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$115,000</a> per year</li></ul><p><strong>How to get into it:</strong> There are degree programs available in information systems, computer science, information technology, or related fields, but they aren’t always required for these roles. Trade schools/programs, certifications (like CompTIA), and hands-on experience in entry-level tech roles that don’t require degrees (such as helpdesk and customer support) can often be just as valuable.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Get started with these courses and programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/DyRdY2" rel="sponsored">System Administration and IT Infrastructure Services</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/YR2mOj" rel="sponsored">Introduction to Cloud Computing</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/nXW6aX" rel="sponsored">Google IT Support Professional Certificate</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/Vx2DnE" rel="sponsored">Preparation for CompTIA A+ Certification Specialization</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/BnRDEW" rel="sponsored">Bachelor of Information Technology</a></li></ul><h2>Networking and Security</h2><p>The networking and security departments handle network connectivity for companies, including what can and can’t pass through their network. They make sure devices are connected, systems can talk to each other <i>securely</i>, and that only authorized users have access to the right resources.&nbsp;</p><p>A big part of a company's reputation is its level of security and if they've had data leaks in the past. If they're seen as insecure, they could also be seen as unstable and people may not want to give that company money.&nbsp;</p>

🔒Cybersecurity Pay Compilation!#salarytransparentstreet #salarytransparency

<p>Even though certain roles may seem like they should be specific to either networking or security, you can’t really have one without the other. That’s why it seems that many of these roles may overlap, or at least require similar skill sets, so they can efficiently work together.</p><p><strong>Different areas of networking and security to explore include:</strong></p><figure class="table"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:33.33%;"><col style="width:33.33%;"><col style="width:33.34%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Area</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>What They Do</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>What They Need to Know</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Network Engineering</strong></td><td>Designs and builds secure, scalable networks</td><td>Routing, switching, firewalls, network protocols</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Network Administration</strong></td><td>Maintains network performance and user access</td><td>Monitoring tools, troubleshooting, permissions</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Security Engineering</strong></td><td>Builds systems to protect against cyber threats</td><td>Firewalls, intrusion detection, encryption, security tools</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Cloud Network Engineering</strong></td><td>Manages cloud-based network infrastructure</td><td>AWS/Azure networking, VPCs, load balancers, cloud security</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Cybersecurity</strong></td><td>Defends systems and data through testing and threat monitoring</td><td>Threat detection, pen testing, SIEM tools</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Cyber Incident Response</strong></td><td>Investigates and responds to security breaches</td><td>Forensics, threat containment, incident handling</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Identity &amp; Access Management</strong></td><td>Controls who can access systems and data</td><td>Authentication, authorization, IAM tools</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Information Security Management</strong></td><td>Sets policies to protect data and systems</td><td>Risk analysis, compliance standards, policy frameworks</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Governance, Risk &amp; Compliance (GRC)</strong></td><td>Ensures security and legal standards are met</td><td>Regulatory knowledge, audits, risk management</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>Potential pay:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Median salary:</strong> <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/information-security-analysts.htm">$120,360</a> per year</li><li><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database:</strong> <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DInformation+Security+Engineer&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$760,000</a> per year</li></ul><p><strong>How to get into it</strong>: You can explore degree programs in information technology, network engineering, cybersecurity, or related fields, but they aren’t always required for these roles. CompTIA certifications are also popular in this field. Hands-on experience is also desired, and can be fulfilled with personal projects (like if you set up an impressive network with security in your own home or for a small business).</p><p><strong>Get started with these courses and programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/9Lydm3" rel="sponsored">Computer Networks and Network Security</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/3Jm0nB" rel="sponsored">Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/Vx2DnE" rel="sponsored">Preparation for CompTIA A+ Certification Specialization</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/BnRDEW" rel="sponsored">Bachelor of Information Technology</a></li></ul><h2>Data and Artificial Intelligence (AI)</h2><p>Everything is data: what we buy, eat, and drink, what we watch online, our Instagram activity, where we live, what we do for work, and anything else we’ve ever done that is digitally available in the form of data. That may all seem like meaningless information, but for tech companies (or any company, for that matter), it’s gold.</p>

Data Scientists Make How Much? 🤯 Data Scientist Salary Compilation 💚 Salary Transparent Street

<p>Companies want to understand their customers’ and users’ data and use it in a way that improves products, and creates more personalized experiences. This is why they need skilled data and AI professionals to collect, clean, and analyze that data, so they can turn it into actionable insights and train AI with it.</p><p><strong>Different areas of data and AI to explore include:</strong></p><figure class="table"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:33.33%;"><col style="width:33.33%;"><col style="width:33.34%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Area</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>What They Do</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>What They Need to Know</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Data Analytics</strong></td><td>Analyzes and visualizes data to support decisions and track performance</td><td>Excel, SQL, BI tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI)</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Data Science</strong></td><td>Builds models to predict outcomes and reveal insights</td><td>Python/R, statistics, machine learning</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Data Engineering</strong></td><td>Builds systems to collect, clean, and store data</td><td>ETL tools, databases, cloud platforms, Python/SQL</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Machine Learning Engineering</strong></td><td>Deploys and scales machine learning models</td><td>Python, ML frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow), APIs, DevOps basics</td></tr><tr><td><strong>AI Research &amp; Development</strong></td><td>Researches and builds cutting-edge AI technologies</td><td>Deep learning, NLP, computer vision, academic research methods</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Business Intelligence (BI)</strong></td><td>Creates reports and dashboards for business insights</td><td>SQL, BI platforms, data visualization, metrics tracking</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Data Governance</strong></td><td>Manages data quality, privacy, and compliance</td><td>Data policies, security, regulations (GDPR, HIPAA)</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>Potential pay:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Median salary:</strong> <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/math/data-scientists.htm">$108,020</a> per year</li><li><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database: </strong><a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DData+Scientist&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$260,000</a> per year</li></ul><p><strong>How to get into it:</strong> Being some of the <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-tech-jobs">most in-demand jobs for the future</a>, data science, AI, and machine learning are fields that are growing so fast that many educational programs and courses can barely keep up with them. The best way to get into this field is to explore foundational courses (like those mentioned below) and to jump in and start trying tools out on your own. You can also explore degree programs and certificates in areas such as computer science, data science, and AI.</p><p><strong>Get started with these courses and programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="http://imp.i384100.net/K0ydoa" rel="sponsored">Introduction to Data Analytics</a></li><li><a href="http://imp.i384100.net/5510O2" rel="sponsored">Fundamentals of Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/N92yAV" rel="sponsored">Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate</a></li><li><a href="http://imp.i384100.net/qzO6rY" rel="sponsored">IBM Data Science Professional Certificate</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/aOrGJM" rel="sponsored">Bachelor of Computer Science</a></li></ul><h2>Product and Business</h2><p>The product and business area of tech are the folks that shape what gets built, why it matters, and how it reaches the right people. They visualize and plan what building the product will look like and how it meets user needs. working closely with cross-functional teams throughout the software development lifecycle.</p><p>For example, a product manager might work with users to identify pain points, then collaborate with designers and engineers to define features and prioritize a roadmap.</p>

How much does a #DataScience #ProductManager make? Atlanta, GA📍#salarytransparentstreet

<p><strong>Other areas of product and business to explore include:</strong></p><figure class="table"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:33.33%;"><col style="width:33.33%;"><col style="width:33.34%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Area</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>What They Do</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>What They Need to Know</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Product Marketing</strong></td><td>Crafts messaging, drives adoption, and positions product in the market</td><td>Market research, copywriting, analytics, go-to-market strategy</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Solutions Architecture</strong></td><td>Designs tech solutions that meet business needs</td><td>Cloud platforms, system design, pre-sales knowledge</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Sales Engineering / Technical Sales</strong></td><td>Supports sales with product demos and technical expertise</td><td>Communication, product knowledge, light coding or system setup</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Technical Account Management</strong></td><td>Advises clients post-sale to ensure success</td><td>Customer service, technical knowledge, project coordination</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Customer Success</strong></td><td>Onboards and supports users to ensure long-term satisfaction</td><td>Product expertise, communication, training, retention strategies</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>Potential pay:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Median salary:</strong> <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/sales/sales-engineers.htm">$116,950</a> per year</li><li><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database: </strong><a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3Dproduct+manager&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$750,000</a> per year (total compensation)</li></ul><p><strong>How to get into it: </strong>Get started with exploring business and product management courses and certifications, such as the ones mentioned below. Degree programs are also available in business administration, information systems, and other related areas. Hands-on experience, such as creating and managing your own product (as many online creators do), impresses employers and could be your ticket to getting your foot in the door.</p><p><strong>Get started with these courses and programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="http://imp.i384100.net/9LyagQ" rel="sponsored">Business Foundations Specialization</a></li><li><a href="http://imp.i384100.net/4Ggj51" rel="sponsored">Product Management Essentials</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/LKRzPL" rel="sponsored">Digital Product Management Specialization</a></li><li><a href="http://imp.i384100.net/YR23DO" rel="sponsored">IBM Product Manager Professional Certificate</a></li><li><a href="http://imp.i384100.net/APRXWD" rel="sponsored">Bachelor of Science in Business Administration</a></li></ul><h2>Content, Marketing, and Design</h2><p>Any application or system is useless without a designed user flow and content for users to engage with. Why use an application if it’s all code and barely operable? Technical products also need documentation for users to refer to. This is all made possible by content writers, marketers, and designers.</p><p>For example, a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/shorts/bEBKGrEZHjI">UX (User Experience) designer</a> maps out how users will navigate a product to make sure it’s intuitive and accessible, while a UI (User Interface) designer creates the visual elements – like buttons, colors, and typography – that bring that experience to life.</p><p><strong>Other areas of content, marketing, and design to explore include:</strong></p><figure class="table"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:33.33%;"><col style="width:33.33%;"><col style="width:33.34%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Area</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>What They Do</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>What They Need to Know</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Content Strategy &amp; Content Writing</strong></td><td>Plans and writes content to support brand, marketing, and user engagement</td><td>Writing, content planning, search engine optimization (SEO), brand voice</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Technical Writing &amp; Documentation</strong></td><td>Creates manuals, guides, and technical docs for users and developers</td><td>Technical knowledge, clear writing, tools like Markdown, Confluence</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Marketing (Digital, SEO, Growth, etc.)</strong></td><td>Promotes products online and drives traffic, signups, and sales</td><td>SEO, analytics, ad platforms, growth strategies</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Product Design, UX/UI</strong></td><td>Designs user-focused interfaces and experiences</td><td>UX/UI design, Figma, prototyping, design systems</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Instructional Design &amp; E-learning</strong></td><td>Develops training content and digital learning programs</td><td>Curriculum design, e-learning tools, adult learning principles</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>Potential pay:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Median salary:</strong> <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/advertising-promotions-and-marketing-managers.htm">$156,580 per year</a></li><li><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database:</strong> <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3Dmarketing+manager&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$155,000</a> per year</li></ul><p><strong>How to get into it: </strong>You can explore degree programs available in marketing, communications, design, information technology, and other areas to break in, but courses and certifications may also be acceptable to employers. Hands-on experience, such as personal or freelance projects, can also help you break in. Some ideas include writing your own documents for apps you use, sharing designs you’ve created on social media, or showing how you use your social media account that proves your ability to market your skills.</p><p><strong>Get started with these courses and programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="http://imp.i384100.net/MAR3AN" rel="sponsored">Content Strategy</a></li><li><a href="http://imp.i384100.net/nXWJLa" rel="sponsored">Design Fundamentals</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/mOoye1" rel="sponsored">Google UX Design Professional Certificate</a></li><li><a href="http://imp.i384100.net/kOJGOv" rel="sponsored">Google Digital Marketing &amp; E-commerce Professional Certificate</a></li><li><a href="http://imp.i384100.net/gOak10" rel="sponsored">Bachelor of Science in Marketing</a></li></ul>

<h2>Quality Assurance (QA) and Testing</h2><p>QA and testing is the last stop before a technical product reaches the outside world. This is a critical stage in the development lifecycle to make sure no defects make it to the public and hurt users’ or customers’ trust in a company’s products.</p><p>There are several types of testing roles that fall within this area. For example, a QA tester may manually test a new feature to make sure it works as expected across different devices and browsers, while an automation tester writes scripts that automatically run tests every time code is updated.</p><p><strong>Other areas of QA and testing to explore include:</strong></p><figure class="table"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:33.33%;"><col style="width:33.33%;"><col style="width:33.34%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Area</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>What They Do</strong></p></td><td><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>What They Need to Know</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Automation Testing</strong></td><td>Uses tools/scripts to run repeatable software tests automatically</td><td>Selenium, Python/Java, CI tools</td></tr><tr><td><strong>SDET (Software Dev Engineer in Test)</strong></td><td>Builds test automation frameworks and writes test code</td><td>Programming, testing frameworks, software dev principles</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Performance Testing</strong></td><td>Checks how software performs under load or stress</td><td>JMeter, LoadRunner, system monitoring</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Security Testing</strong></td><td>Finds vulnerabilities and tests defenses against attacks</td><td>OWASP, ethical hacking, security tools</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Manual Testing</strong></td><td>Tests software manually from a user’s point of view</td><td>Attention to detail, test cases, UI/UX awareness</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Regression Testing</strong></td><td>Re-tests features after updates to catch new bugs</td><td>Test planning, version control, automation tools</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Usability Testing</strong></td><td>Evaluates ease of use and overall user experience</td><td>UX principles, user research, feedback tools</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>Potential pay:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Median salary:</strong> <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm#tab-5">$101,800</a> per year</li><li><strong>Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database:</strong> <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/salary-database?query=job_title%3DQuality+Assurance+Tester&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=">$154,000</a> per year</li></ul><p><strong>How to get into it: </strong>You have the option to explore degree programs in areas such as computer science and information systems, but they aren’t always required. Many QA roles also welcome candidates with bootcamp experience, certifications, or hands-on testing projects (especially automation testing).&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Get started with these courses and programs:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="http://imp.i384100.net/Qj23j9" rel="sponsored">Introduction to Software Testing</a></li><li><a href="http://imp.i384100.net/Oey3YK" rel="sponsored">Software Testing and Automation Specialization</a></li><li><a href="http://imp.i384100.net/BnRo50" rel="sponsored">Google IT Automation with Python Professional Certificate</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/09RDGY" rel="sponsored">IBM DevOps and Software Engineering Professional Certificate</a></li><li><a href="https://imp.i384100.net/aOrGJM" rel="sponsored">Bachelor of Computer Science</a></li></ul><h2>How to Gain Experience and Build a Portfolio</h2><p>As you explore different educational programs, think of ways to gain experience and show your work. There are many different ways to do this.</p><p><strong>Freelance and Side Projects</strong>: Start working on freelance gigs or side projects that focus on solving real-world problems and can yield results to build a portfolio and share on your resume. Websites like LinkedIn, Upwork, Fiverr, and GitHub are great for showcasing your work.</p><p><strong>Open Source Contributions:</strong> Contribute to open-source projects on GitHub to gain real-world coding experience and collaborate with professionals in the field.</p><p><strong>Build a Personal Brand</strong>: Create content, such as blogs, newsletters, YouTube tutorials, or podcasts, where you demonstrate your tech knowledge and build your online presence. LinkedIn is a great place to do this, especially for folks new to the space that want to stand out to recruiters and employers.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Take on Entry-Level Gigs:</strong> Offer your tech skills to non-profits, local businesses, online small businesses and creators in exchange for an entry-level salary or freelance rate, experience, testimonials, and portfolio pieces.</p><p><strong>Internships and Apprenticeships:</strong> Look for internships (<a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/are-unpaid-internships-worth-it">paid ones!</a>) or apprenticeships that offer mentorship and practical experience in real-world tech environments.&nbsp;</p><h2>Putting Together a Resume</h2><p>You'll need a resume when applying to jobs. Start out with pulling a simple resume template/format from tools like <a href="https://resumegenius.com/resume-templates/basic-templates">ResumeGenuis</a> or using a resume builder, such as <a href="https://www.tealhq.com/tools/ats-resume">Teal’s ATS friendly resume builder</a>. Then fill it in with your relevant information and experience.</p><p><strong>Highlight Transferable Skills:</strong> Emphasize skills like troubleshooting and problem-solving, project management, communication, and analytical thinking that are relevant across industries. For example, if you've managed teams or handled customer support, those organizational and communication skills are valuable in tech roles like project management or customer success. Be sure to pair these with results you were able to drive using these skills.</p><p><strong>Showcase Relevant Tech Experience:</strong> Even if you haven't worked in tech, include any personal projects, freelance gigs, or coursework that involved tech skills like coding, data analysis, or design. Mention tools or platforms you’ve used, such as GitHub for code or <a href="https://marketingplatform.google.com/about/analytics/">Google Analytics</a> for data. Include links to your LinkedIn and portfolio on your resume.</p><p><strong>Certifications and Learning: </strong>List any tech-related certifications or online courses you've completed (refer to affiliate links for courses, certs, and bootcamps that were mentioned above in each career path).</p><p><strong>Add a Cover Letter:</strong> <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/how-to-write-a-cover-letter">Cover letters</a> are perfect for situations when folks want to pivot into a new space. This is where you can explain your work experience and how it lines up with the role you’ve applied for, even when your experience isn’t a perfect match. You can explain your unique situation of wanting to pivot to this new area, what you’re doing to make it happen, and how you have the transferable skills, experience, credentials, and past results to back up why you’re perfect for the job. Show them what you can do for them and how you plan to do it.</p><h2>Connecting With Your Community</h2><p>Have you ever heard the phrase, “it’s not what you know, but who you know,”? Well, it’s partially true. You still need to know what you’re doing but you also need personal and professional connections who will champion you and your experience when referring or recommending you for positions.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Attend Tech Meetups and Conferences:</strong> Participate in local or virtual <a href="https://www.meetup.com/lp/tech-activities-and-groups/">tech events</a>, conferences, meetups, or hackathons to connect with professionals in the industry. Networking at these events can lead to job referrals and mentorship opportunities.</p><p><strong>Engage on LinkedIn: </strong>Connect with people in roles you're interested in, join relevant LinkedIn groups, and actively comment on industry-related posts. Share your own insights and projects to establish your personal brand and demonstrate your knowledge. Don’t forget to engage with the people at your current job too, even if it isn’t tech related.</p><p><strong>Find a Mentor: </strong>Reach out to experienced professionals in your desired tech field for advice and guidance. Having a mentor can provide valuable career insights, help you navigate challenges, and open up connection opportunities.</p><p><strong>Contribute to Open Source or Tech Communities:</strong> Get involved in online forums or contribute to open-source projects on platforms like <a href="https://github.com/">GitHub</a> or <a href="https://stackoverflow.com/">Stack Overflow</a>. These communities allow you to build relationships while demonstrating your skills.</p><h2>Staying On Track In Your Job Search&nbsp;</h2><p>There may be times during your job search and career path that you’ll feel discouraged. Breaking into a new career can be tough, and you may experience more rejections and crickets than you may get call backs. But everything you’re doing eventually pays off.&nbsp;</p><p>Not every opportunity is the right opportunity for you. Keep going, learning, and honing your job search skills, tapping into your network and using alternative job search methods along the way (and don’t forget to utilize our very own <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/jobs">transparent job board</a>!).</p><p><strong>Author note: </strong>I’m Daniella Flores, a writer, engineer, member of the <a href="https://www.cnet.com/personal-finance/financial-review-board/">CNET Money Expert Review Board</a>, and career researcher that’s appeared in TIME, <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2023/04/25/33-year-old-increased-salary-by-80000-in-just-5-years-shares-negotiation-and-raise-tips.html">CNBC</a>, and Investopedia (among many others). I’m extremely passionate about workers' rights and financial freedom, so it’s a pleasure to be able to bring you this type of content through the <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub">Resource Hub</a> (thank you for the opportunity, Hannah!) You can also follow me on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellamarquez/">Linkedin</a>. Chat soon!</p><p>If this guide helps you land a higher-paying job, let us know! Send us an email ➡️ hello@checksalaries.com</p><p><strong>For more Salary Transparent Street resources:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Want to join the movement?</strong> Explore thousands of individually reported salaries nationwide across all industries in our <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a>!</li><li><strong>Looking for a job? </strong>Start your job search on our salary transparent <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/jobs">job board</a>!</li><li><strong>Do you know if you're being underpaid? </strong><a href="https://https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/are-you-underpaid-free-quiz.beehiiv.com/p/underpaid-quiz">Take our free quiz</a> to find out!</li><li><strong>Need help determining your market rate? </strong>Download our free <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/free-market-research-guide">Market Research Guide</a> to learn what you should be making.</li><li><strong>Need help negotiating your salary?</strong> Download our free <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/free-salary-negotiation-guide">Salary Negotiation Guide</a>!</li><li><strong>Want to save more of what you earn?</strong> Get transparent savings with our partner, the <a href="https://secure.money.com/pr/h5b4cb990813">Capital One Shopping App</a>.💸Automatically apply coupons, get alerts on price drops, earn shopping rewards, and more <i>for free!</i></li><li><strong>Follow us on</strong> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@salarytransparentstreet">TikTok</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/salarytransparentstreet/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salarytransparentstreet">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/salarytransparentstreet">YouTube </a>and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/salarytransparentstreet/">LinkedIn </a>for daily pay transparency interviews and career news you can use!</li><li><strong>Subscribe to our</strong> <a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/subscribe">weekly newsletter</a> for news updates, professional deep dives, learning opportunities, and more!</li></ul>

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How to Break Into Tech and IT (With Tips From Real Tech Workers)

<p><i>Heads up: This article may include affiliate links or sponsored content from brands and products we trust or actually use ourselves. Using them doesn’t cost you a thing, but it helps support our mission.&nbsp;</i></p><p>So many of us have been told the lie that says you can’t make money in the arts. That couldn’t be more wrong. Starting a creative career can actually be quite lucrative and emotionally rewarding.&nbsp;</p><p>According to our <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/salary-database?query=&amp;page=1&amp;sortByField=calculated_annual_salary&amp;sortOrder=-1&amp;filters=industry%3DCreative%2C+Animation%2C+Design">Salary Database</a> of thousands of publicly shared salaries, <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-creative-jobs">top creative roles</a> like creative directors, studio photographers, illustrators, product designers, and architects are<strong> making over $200,000 a year.</strong>&nbsp;</p><p><i><strong>We found an architect making $1M in our database!</strong></i></p><p>Driven by technological advancement, many salaries could also increase for certain roles due to fast-growing skills like design and user experience (UX), according to the<a href="https://www.weforum.org/publications/the-future-of-jobs-report-2025/"> Future of Jobs Report </a>by the World Economic Forum.</p><p>Even with AI changing some aspects of the industry, there is still a ton of opportunity for newbies entering the field. The hype around AI misses the fact that AI will never have a human perspective. <strong>Art and creativity require</strong> <strong>human experience, something AI will never live or feel.</strong> Just remember that when everyone else is screaming that <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/will-ai-take-my-job">AI might take their jobs</a>.</p><p><strong>In this career guide, we’ll be breaking down different creative careers, including what they do, skills required, and where to start with online courses or art school programs.</strong> You’ll also learn the different salary expectations for each role using salary data recorded from real creative industry professionals in our Salary Database, our <a href="https://www.instagram.com/salarytransparentstreet">interviews</a>, and other data sources like <a href="https://www.glassdoor.com/Community/profile/hannah-williams-ygsa">Glassdoor</a> and the <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/">U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)</a>.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p><h2>What is a Creative Career?</h2><p>A creative career is any profession that requires expertise in the arts, media, design, or crafting areas. Jobs in the creative field emphasize creativity as a core value and not just a side skill. The value you bring to your role lies in your ideas, style, and taste.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>To get a sneak peak into the different creative careers available, check out these recent video interviews we did with fellow creatives!</strong></p>

🎨 How much do creative jobs pay? #salarytransparentstreet #paytransparency #howmuchdoyoumake

<h2>How to Choose Your Creative Career Path</h2><p>As a creative person, you probably have several creative strengths and artistic paths you want to explore. To find the best fit, take into account your talents, lifestyle goals, and earning potential.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Start with these three questions:</strong></p><ul><li>What is something that you <i>want to </i>do for 40 hours a week to express your unique talents and still make a comfortable living?</li><li>What are your lifestyle goals?</li><li>How much money do you want to make?</li></ul><p>From there, experiment with a few ideas before you commit. Look up introduction-type <a href="https://imp.i384100.net/aOQN9b" rel="sponsored">online courses</a> for fields you’re interested in and challenge yourself to try a side project or two. While you’re learning about different roles, also research their salaries and growth potential.</p><p>Also look for experts on LinkedIn that are already doing what you want to do. Follow them and get more of a feel for different roles and the current state of the industry. I also love this route because it shows you all of the different ways creative people structure their careers. Some work at a company or agency, others have their own businesses, and many do a combination of the two. There is no limit to what you can do.</p><p><strong>Pro tip: </strong>Use our <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/job-board">Salary Transparent Job Board</a> as a tool to learn more about different roles and help make your decision. Reading about what’s required in current jobs hiring will give you a better understanding of what to expect and prepare for as you navigate your own career.</p>

<h2>Breaking Down The Different Areas of The Creative Industry (&amp; The Roles In Them)</h2><p><strong>The creative industry is a broad sector with two main types of roles: those that help to produce a creative product and those who help support it.</strong> For example, a fashion designer helps create a piece of clothing or accessory while the marketing and branding teams at that same company work to market and drive the success of the finished product.&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DIZEH9ZxJXi/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DIZEH9ZxJXi/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; 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<p>&nbsp;</p><p>There are also many sub-areas of the industry, such as digital media and audio that can also crossover into <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/how-to-break-into-tech">the tech world</a>, and beauty that consists of independent creative <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-trade-jobs">trade jobs</a> like nail and makeup artists.&nbsp;</p>

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<h2>More Career Resources</h2><p>If you leave this career guide with anything, I hope it’s this: The biggest factors that will help you start your creative career more than anything else are 1) self-starting with artistic experimentation and learning opportunities, 2) building a strong portfolio, and 3) talking to other people in the industry.&nbsp;</p><p>People are the most overlooked resource we have in our career. They’re the ones that may vouch for you behind closed doors and be there to confide in when times get rough. Many will also share their story about how they got to where they are and can have some hidden gems for tips to break into the industry.&nbsp;</p><p>Extrovert or introvert, do your best to put yourself out there and start connecting with other creatives. If you start anywhere, start there.</p><p><strong>If you want to learn more about other careers, check out our other recent career guides:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/how-to-get-into-a-trade">How to Get Into a Trade</a></li><li><a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/how-to-break-into-tech">How to Break Into Tech</a></li><li><a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/healthcare-careers-guide">Healthcare Career Guide</a></li></ul><p>Until next time, stay awesome, stay strong, and keep advocating for yourself no matter what! I’m Daniella, a former engineer who writes about tech, money, and careers, and a current member of the <a href="https://www.cnet.com/personal-finance/financial-review-board/">CNET Money Expert Review Board</a>. I’m extremely passionate about workers' rights and financial freedom, so it’s a pleasure to be able to bring you this type of content through the <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub">Resource Hub</a> (thank you for the opportunity, Hannah!) You can also follow me on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellamarquez/">Linkedin</a>. Chat soon!</p><p>If this guide helps you land a higher-paying job, let us know! Send us an email ➡️ hello@checksalaries.com</p><p><strong>For more Salary Transparent Resources:</strong></p><ul><li>Want to join the movement? Explore thousands of individually reported salaries nationwide across all industries in our <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a>!</li><li>Looking for a job? Start your job search on our salary transparent <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/jobs">job board</a>!</li><li>Do you know if you're being underpaid? <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/are-you-underpaid-free-quiz">Take our free quiz</a> to find out!</li><li>Need help determining your market rate? Download our free <a href="https://view.flodesk.com/pages/626ccc8e1e8046b220253e47">Market Research Guide</a> to learn what you should be making.</li><li>Need help negotiating your salary? Download our free <a href="https://www.checksalaries.com/resource-hub/free-salary-negotiation-guide">Salary Negotiation Guide</a>!</li><li>Follow us on <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@salarytransparentstreet">TikTok</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/salarytransparentstreet/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salarytransparentstreet">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/salarytransparentstreet">YouTube </a>and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/salarytransparentstreet/">LinkedIn </a>for daily pay transparency interviews and career news you can use!</li><li>Subscribe to our <a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/subscribe">weekly newsletter</a> for news updates, professional deep dives, learning opportunities, and more!</li></ul>

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