Many people are unaware of how many high-paying jobs are available with an associate degree. Many jobs pay over $60K per year and some jobs earn over six figures.
The following list reveals the top 20 highest-paying associate degree jobs for 2024 from lowest to highest.
20. Paralegal Studies
Salary: $60,970 > projected job growth rate: 4%
Paralegals assist attorneys by conducting legal research, drafting documents, organizing files, and preparing for trials. They manage case details, communicate with clients, and ensure legal proceedings run smoothly. Paralegals also handle administrative tasks such as maintaining client files and managing deadlines.
19. Industrial Engineering Technology
Salary: $62,610 > projected job growth rate: 3%
Industrial engineering technologists and technicians focus on improving efficiency in manufacturing and production processes. Responsibilities include analyzing production processes, developing management control systems, and ensuring quality control.
18. Telecommunication
Salary: $62,350 > projected job growth rate: 6%
Telecommunications technicians install, maintain, and repair communication systems including telephone lines, internet networks, antennas, transmitters, receivers, and cable television. They are responsible for setting up and testing equipment, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring optimal performance of communication networks.
17. Computer-Aided Drafting and Design
Salary: $62,530 > projected job growth rate: 2%
CAD technicians use software to convert designs and concepts into detailed technical drawings and plans for buildings, machinery, and other products. Mechanical drafters create engineering blueprints. CAD technicians work with engineers and architects to develop designs that meet specifications and industry standards. Responsibilities include creating 2D and 3D models.
16. Mechanical Engineering Technology
Salary: $64,020 > projected job growth rate: 1%
Mechanical engineering technicians assist engineers in designing, developing, and testing mechanical devices, systems, and products. They prepare layouts, sketches, and drawings of parts and assemblies, conduct tests, and record data. They may also be involved in troubleshooting and repairing equipment.
15. Occupational Therapy Assistant
Salary: $65,450 > projected job growth rate: 23%
Occupational therapy assistants (OTAs) work under the supervision of occupational therapists to help patients develop, recover, and improve the skills needed for daily living and working. They assist patients with therapeutic activities to improve their physical and cognitive functions. OTAs work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and schools.
14. Cardiovascular Technology
Salary: $66,170 > projected job growth rate: 10%
Cardiovascular technologists assist cardiologists in diagnosing and treating heart and blood vessel conditions. They perform tests such as echocardiograms, stress tests, and EKGs. Their responsibilities include preparing patients for procedures, operating diagnostic equipment, and recording the results for physician analysis.
13. Computer Science
Salary: $71,530 > projected job growth rate: 5%
Computer science technicians provide technical assistance to support the development, maintenance, and troubleshooting of computer systems and networks. They test software applications, code, manage databases, and provide technical support. They ensure that computer systems run efficiently and securely.
12. Engineering Technology
Salary: $72,800 > projected job growth rate: 1%
Engineering technologists assist engineers with project planning, design, and implementation. They help with testing and conducting experiments, manufacturing, and product development. They also assist with preparing reports, collecting data, and ensuring compliance with industry standards.
11. Electrical Engineering Technology
Salary: $72,800 > projected job growth rate: 1%
Electrical engineering technicians assist electrical engineers with electrical systems and equipment. They work on projects involving electrical wiring, circuitry, and control systems. Their duties include assembling and testing electrical components, troubleshooting problems, and ensuring systems meet safety and performance standards.
10. Aviation Maintenance Technology
Salary: $75,400 > projected job growth rate: 4%
Aviation maintenance technicians and mechanics inspect, repair, and maintain aircraft to ensure they are safe and operational. They troubleshoot mechanical issues, perform routine maintenance, and replace faulty parts. Their responsibilities include keeping detailed records of maintenance activities and ensuring compliance with aviation safety standards.
9. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technology
Salary: $76,020 > projected job growth rate: 7%
MRI and radiologic technologists operate MRI scanners to create detailed images of patients’ internal structures. They prepare patients for scans and ensure their safety and comfort. Responsibilities also include maintaining equipment, recording patient information, and assisting radiologists in analyzing the images.
8. Aerospace Engineering
Salary: $77,830 > projected job growth rate: 8%
Aerospace engineering technicians assist engineers with the development of aerospace technologies by designing, building, and testing aircraft, spacecraft, and missile systems. They prepare technical drawings, conduct tests, and collect data to ensure that designs meet specifications and safety standards.
7. Respiratory Therapy
Salary: $77,960 > projected job growth rate: 13%.
Respiratory therapists (RTs) provide care for patients with breathing or cardiopulmonary disorders. They perform diagnostic tests, administer treatments, and monitor patients’ progress. They also manage ventilators, provide oxygen therapy, and educate patients on managing their conditions. RTs work in hospitals, clinics, and home healthcare settings.
6. Diagnostic Medical Sonography
Salary: $84,470 > projected job growth rate: 10%
Sonographers use ultrasound equipment to create images of the body’s internal structures to assist physicians in diagnosing medical conditions. Sonographers prepare patients for procedures, operate the equipment, and analyze the images for abnormalities. Responsibilities also include record keeping and maintaining equipment.
5. Dental Hygiene
Salary: $87,530 > projected job growth rate: 7%
Dental hygienists assist dentists by cleaning teeth, examining patients for signs of oral diseases, and providing preventative dental care. Duties include removing plaque and tartar, applying sealants and fluoride treatments, taking dental X-rays, and educating patients on oral hygiene practices.
4. Nuclear Medicine Technology
Salary: $92,500 > projected job growth rate: 0%
Using radioactive materials, nuclear medicine technologists prepare and administer radioactive drugs to patients for imaging or therapeutic purposes. They operate imaging equipment, such as PET and gamma cameras. Responsibilities include maintaining safety protocols to protect patients and themselves and analyzing the imaging results.
3. Radiation Therapy Technology
Salary: $98,300 > projected job growth rate: 2%
Working closely with oncologists and other healthcare professionals, radiation therapists administer radiation treatments to patients with cancer and other diseases. They operate radiation equipment, ensure precise delivery of radiation doses, and monitor patients for side effects. Responsibilities include preparing patients for treatment and record-keeping.
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2. Nuclear Technology
Salary: $101,740 > projected job growth rate: 1%
Nuclear technicians support nuclear engineers by assisting in the operation and maintenance of nuclear power plants, nuclear reactors, nuclear research facilities, or medical imaging equipment. They monitor radiation levels, conduct tests, maintain equipment, and ensure compliance with safety protocols.
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1. Air Traffic Control/Management
Salary: $137,380 > projected job growth rate: 1%
Air traffic controllers are crucial to ensuring the safety and efficiency of air traffic within controlled airspace and on the ground at airports. Generally speaking, air traffic controllers monitor and direct aircraft. They also provide instructions to pilots and coordinate takeoffs and landings.
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