An hourly wage of $35 is a significant financial benchmark. Earning at this level translates to an annual income of approximately $72,800 before taxes, assuming a standard 40-hour work week. This level of pay can provide financial stability and open up greater opportunities for saving and investing. This article explores several jobs that meet this pay grade, spanning different industries and requiring various levels of education and training.
High-Paying Jobs That Require a Degree
Many professional roles that pay above the $35-per-hour mark are built on a foundation of higher education. A bachelor’s degree or more advanced credential serves as the entry point, equipping individuals with the specialized knowledge needed to perform complex tasks. The investment in a degree can directly correlate with higher earning potential.
Software Developer
Software developers design, develop, and test computer programs and applications to meet user needs. Most employers require a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field, which provides a strong base in programming languages and software engineering principles. The median pay for software developers is well above the $35 threshold, reflecting the high demand for their technical skills.
Registered Nurse
Registered nurses (RNs) provide and coordinate patient care, educate patients about various health conditions, and offer emotional support. To become an RN requires either an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). With a median hourly wage over $35, nursing offers a stable career path. The role’s responsibilities and pay can increase with specializations in areas like critical care or oncology.
Financial Analyst
Financial analysts guide businesses and individuals in making investment decisions. They assess the performance of stocks, bonds, and other investments, providing insights based on financial data and economic trends. A bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, or a related field is the standard entry requirement. Their compensation reflects the high-stakes nature of financial management.
Construction Manager
Construction managers plan, coordinate, budget, and supervise construction projects from start to finish. This role requires a deep understanding of the building process, from legal requirements to material management. While some gain entry through extensive experience, a bachelor’s degree in construction management or a related field is increasingly common. They command high hourly wages for ensuring projects are completed safely, on time, and within budget.
Marketing Manager
Marketing managers plan and execute strategies to generate interest and sales for a company’s products or services. They oversee teams that handle advertising, branding, and market research. A bachelor’s degree in marketing or business administration is necessary for this role. The ability to analyze market trends and lead creative campaigns allows these professionals to earn a high hourly wage.
High-Paying Jobs You Can Get Without a Four-Year Degree
A four-year college degree is not the only pathway to a high-paying job. Many rewarding careers are accessible through apprenticeships, associate’s degrees, or specialized certifications. These routes emphasize hands-on, practical skills that are in high demand across various industries.
Electrician
Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in homes, businesses, and factories. The path to becoming a licensed electrician involves a multi-year apprenticeship that combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction. This ensures they develop a deep understanding of safety protocols and electrical codes. Skilled electricians are in high demand, allowing experienced professionals to earn well over $35 per hour.
Plumber
Plumbers design, install, and repair piping systems in residential, commercial, and industrial structures. Plumbers enter the trade through an apprenticeship, learning to work with various tools and materials while mastering plumbing codes. The technical expertise required, coupled with a consistent need for their services, ensures a stable career. Experienced plumbers who run their own businesses can command significant hourly rates.
Web Developer
Web developers build and maintain websites, focusing on either the user-facing design or the server-side infrastructure. While some have computer science degrees, many enter the field after completing coding bootcamps or earning certifications. These programs provide focused learning on current programming languages and technologies. The tech industry’s growth fuels a constant demand for skilled developers, enabling those with a strong portfolio to secure high-paying roles.
Dental Hygienist
Dental hygienists are licensed healthcare professionals who provide preventive oral care under a dentist’s supervision. Their duties include cleaning teeth, examining patients for signs of oral diseases, and providing education on oral hygiene. The educational path is an associate’s degree in dental hygiene, which includes rigorous clinical training. The combination of specialized medical knowledge and patient care leads to an average wage above the $35-per-hour mark.
Commercial Truck Driver
Commercial truck drivers transport goods over long distances. To qualify, a driver must obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) from a training program that can be completed in weeks or months. While the job requires long hours, experienced long-haul drivers, especially those who own their rig or specialize in transporting hazardous materials, can earn substantial incomes. The ongoing driver shortage has also helped to increase wages.
Essential Skills for Earning a High Hourly Wage
Beyond specific job qualifications, a set of transferable skills distinguishes individuals in high-paying roles. These abilities are applicable across many industries and can directly influence earning potential. Cultivating these competencies enables individuals to perform more effectively and handle greater responsibilities.
Technical proficiency within a chosen field is fundamental. This means mastering the specific tools, software, and methodologies that are standard in the profession. This depth of knowledge allows for more efficient work and the ability to tackle more complex and higher-value tasks.
Problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities are also highly compensated. High-wage jobs involve navigating complex, unstructured challenges that do not have straightforward answers. The capacity to analyze a situation, identify core issues, and implement an effective plan is a skill that employers prize.
Communication and collaboration skills are also important. The ability to clearly articulate ideas, listen to others, and work productively as part of a team is a requirement in well-paid positions. Professionals must coordinate with colleagues, explain technical concepts to clients, or lead teams.
How to Find High-Paying Hourly Positions
Securing a position that pays over $35 per hour requires a strategic job search. The first step is to look beyond general job boards and focus on platforms specific to your industry. Niche job sites for technology, healthcare, or skilled trades list higher-quality positions and connect you with employers seeking your expertise.
Leveraging professional networks is another powerful strategy. Platforms like LinkedIn allow you to connect with recruiters and hiring managers directly, showcasing your experience and skills. Personal referrals remain one of the most effective ways to get an interview, so cultivating your network is time well spent.
A tailored resume is necessary when applying for these competitive positions. Customize your resume for each application to highlight the specific skills and achievements that match the job description. Use quantifiable metrics to demonstrate your impact, such as projects completed or efficiencies gained, to show an employer you have a proven track record.