by Mark Garro | Career & Education, Thrifty Tips
As we step into 2024, the career landscape is evolving rapidly, presenting new and exciting opportunities for those aiming to maximize their earning potential. Whether you’re a student planning your future or a professional looking to pivot, this guide will provide valuable insights into each career path.
#1. AI Engineer
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AI Engineers develop artificial intelligence systems, working on algorithms, machine learning models, and deep learning techniques to simulate human cognition.
Getting Started: Gain hands-on experience through internships and projects. Stay updated with the latest AI technologies and trends.
Average Salary: Approximately $136,620.
Upside: Involvement in cutting-edge technology and high demand.
Downside: Rapidly evolving field requiring continual learning.
#2. Air Traffic Controller
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Air Traffic Controllers manage aircraft movements on the ground and in the air, ensuring safe distances between planes.
Getting Started: Develop strong communication and decision-making skills. Physical and mental health is crucial for this high-stress job.
Average Salary: Around $132,250.
Upside: High responsibility and job security.
Downside: Extremely stressful and demanding work environment.
#3. Medical Dosimetrist
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Medical Dosimetrists plan and calculate radiation doses for cancer patients, working closely with oncologists and radiologists.
Getting Started: Gain experience in radiation therapy and a strong background in sciences. Attention to detail is critical.
Average Salary: Approximately $128,970.
Upside: Critical role in cancer treatment with significant impact.
Downside: Emotionally challenging and requires precise attention to detail.
#4. Computer Network Architect
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These professionals design and build data communication networks, including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and intranets.
Getting Started: Acquire certifications like CCNA or CCNP and gain practical experience in networking.
Average Salary: About $126,900.
Upside: Central role in maintaining and upgrading essential network infrastructures.
Downside: Need to be on-call for emergencies or system failures.
#5. Software Developer
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Software Developers create and maintain applications or systems software, often working in teams to solve complex problems.
Getting Started: Build a portfolio of work, contribute to open-source projects, and develop strong problem-solving skills.
Average Salary: Around $124,200.
Upside: Creative and constantly evolving environment.
Downside: Can involve long hours and tight project deadlines.
#6. Actuary
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Actuaries analyze financial risk using mathematics, statistics, and financial theory, primarily in the insurance and finance sectors.
Getting Started: Gain practical experience through internships and work on developing strong analytical skills.
Average Salary: Approximately $113,990.
Upside: Important role in risk assessment and financial planning.
Downside: A demanding field with a rigorous exam process.
#7. Sales Engineer
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Sales Engineers combine technical knowledge with sales skills to provide advice and support on a range of products.
Getting Started: Develop strong technical and interpersonal skills. Understanding customer needs and technical acumen is key.
Average Salary: Median salary around $108,530.
Upside: Opportunities for high commissions in addition to the base salary.
Downside: Performance-based stress and irregular working hours.
#8. Industrial Production Manager
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These managers oversee the production of goods in industries, ensuring efficiency, product quality, and safety.
Getting Started: Gain experience in production or operations management and develop leadership skills.
Average Salary: Around $107,560.
Upside: Central role in production efficiency and management.
Downside: High-pressure environment with responsibility for meeting production targets.
#9. Financial Analyst
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Financial Analysts assess the performance of investments, companies, or industries to guide business decisions.
Getting Started: Networking and internships in finance sectors are crucial. Strong analytical skills and understanding of financial markets are key.
Average Salary: About $96,220.
Upside: In-depth involvement in financial planning and investment strategies.
Downside: Can involve long hours and high stress during financial market volatility.
#10. Management Analyst
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Management Analysts, or consultants, propose ways to improve an organization’s efficiency, advising managers on various strategies.
Getting Started: Gain experience in a related field and strong problem-solving skills. Networking and MBA can be advantageous.
Average Salary: Approximately $95,290.
Upside: Opportunity to influence organizational efficiency and strategy.
Downside: Often involves tight deadlines and high expectations from clients.
Embarking on a career journey in 2024 requires more than just academic qualifications; it demands adaptability, continuous learning, and a keen eye for emerging trends.
Remember, each career path has its unique set of challenges and rewards. As you consider these lucrative opportunities, weigh the pros and cons carefully and align them with your personal goals and values. The future is bright for those who are prepared to embrace change and seize the opportunities that lie ahead in these dynamic fields.
The post 2024’s High-Paying Jobs: What They Are and How to Get Them first appeared on Thrifty Guardian.
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The content of this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute or replace professional financial advice. For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
by Sarah Griffin | Career & Education
Searching for a new gig online or in-person can be a wild ride. Imagine you’re on a treasure hunt, but instead of a one-time payoff, you’re after that perfect job that gets you paid for a lifetime (hopefully).
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by Mark Garro | Career & Education, Thrifty Tips
As we step into a new year, many are contemplating career changes, seeking opportunities that not only fulfill their passions but also offer financial stability. In 2023 several jobs witnessed significant salary hikes making them a game-changer for job seekers.
Resilient Job Market Fuels Wage Growth
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The pandemic’s impact on the economy had a silver lining – it led to some of the most substantial pay increases in recent years.
Despite soaring living costs, real weekly earnings for the typical U.S. worker saw just a 1.7% rise from 2019 to 2023. However, this trend was underpinned by a robust job market, with certain roles experiencing notable wage increases.
Survey Shed Light on Soaring Salaries
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A recent survey conducted by compensation data firm Payscale provides valuable insights.
Analyzing responses from over 3,500 workers across 15 job titles, the survey highlights the ten roles that enjoyed the most significant wage growth in 2023.
Customer Service Leaders Lead the Pack
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Assistant managers in customer service roles topped the list with a remarkable 24% wage growth, reaching a median pay of $44,200.
This surge is attributed to labor shortages and high turnover rates in these demanding positions, compelling employers to raise wages to retain talent.
Hairstylists Bounce Back
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Post-pandemic, hairstylists witnessed a 22% wage increase, with a median pay of $34,300.
The bounce back in salon services demand post-pandemic layoffs significantly contributed to this growth.
Plumbers’ Earnings Flow Upwards
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Master plumbers, often more skilled than journeyman plumbers, saw a 21% increase in wages, earning a median of $82,700.
This rise is linked to an uptick in home improvement projects as DIY enthusiasm waned.
Auto Body Repairers in High Gear
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Automotive body repairers enjoyed a 21% wage boost, with a median pay of $52,100.
The retirement and career shifts of many workers, coupled with the increasing need for specialists for older cars, fueled this growth.
Coaching for Career Growth
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The relatively new field of job coaching saw a 21% increase in wages, settling at a median of $46,600.
Growing concerns about labor market changes and the advent of AI technology have driven demand for career coaching services.
Audio/Visual Techs Tune into Higher Pay
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Audio/visual technicians experienced a 20% wage growth, reaching a median pay of $57,100.
The scarcity of skilled workers and a revival in the events industry, along with the popularity of podcasting and vlogging, contributed to this rise.
Animation Industry’s Rising Stars
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Animators enjoyed a 19% salary increase, with a median pay of $71,400.
The scarcity of trained professionals and rapid promotions in this field left many entry-level positions vacant, driving up wages.
Fitness Coaches Flex Earning Muscles
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The fitness industry saw a 19% wage growth for fitness coaches, reaching a median pay of $51,100.
The post-pandemic health consciousness and the desire to lose pandemic weight have spiked the demand for fitness professionals.
Roofers Climb the Wage Ladder
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Roofers’ wages increased by 19%, with median pay hitting $51,700.
Efforts to make this physically demanding job more appealing and the uptick in weather-related damages have pushed up wages.
General Managers Remain in High Demand
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General managers saw an 18% wage increase, with a median salary of $70,700.
The long-standing shortage of individuals with comprehensive management skills continues to make this role highly sought after.
Reflecting on Wage Increases
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These wage hikes reflect a dynamic job market where certain skills are increasingly valued.
For those contemplating a career switch or just starting their professional journey, these insights can be pivotal in making informed decisions.
Understanding the Market Dynamics
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It’s essential to comprehend the forces driving these wage increases.
From labor shortages to evolving industry demands, various factors contribute to the fluctuating salary scales in different sectors.
Strategies for Job Seekers
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For those eyeing these lucrative roles, it’s vital to equip themselves with the necessary skills and understand the industry trends.
Networking, upskilling, and staying informed can significantly enhance one’s chances of landing these high-paying jobs.
The Future of Work
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Understanding where the opportunities lie can be the key to not just a successful career but also a fulfilling one.
These top-paying roles offer a glimpse into the sectors where demand is surging, paving the way for those ready to embrace new challenges in the job market.
The post Where to Find Careers with Soaring Paychecks first appeared on Thrifty Guardian.
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Bojan Milinkov.
The content of this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute or replace professional financial advice.
by Mark Garro | Career & Education
In a striking demonstration, women across Iceland momentarily stepped away from their roles, both in offices and at homes, to bring attention to the persistent gender pay gap and the issue of gender-based violence. This silent yet resonant protest not only underscores the critical role of women but also offers the United States an opportunity to reflect and learn.
A Day Without Women
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On the day coined “kvennafrí,” or women’s day off, women across Iceland ceased their work, highlighting the significant impact of women’s contributions in various sectors.
The Unseen Impact of Absence
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The strike made visible the often undervalued and unseen labor women contribute, emphasizing how society tends to take women’s work for granted.
Iceland’s Commendable Track Record
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Iceland, with its small population of 380,000, has consistently led in gender parity, successfully closing over 90% of its gender gap for 14 consecutive years.
U.S. Trails in Gender Equality
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Contrastingly, the United States ranks 43rd in gender parity, lagging behind countries like Iceland in implementing supportive policies such as paid family leave and fair wages.
Diverse Challenges in the U.S.
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The path to gender equality in the U.S. is complex due to its large, racially and economically diverse population, making the issue more multifaceted.
A Global Leader’s Call For Progress
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Iceland’s Prime Minister, Katrin Jakobsdóttir, joined the strike, emphasizing that despite being a global leader in gender equality, there is still much to be achieved.
Historical Precedent of Striking
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This isn’t the first time Icelandic women have taken such a stance. A similar strike in 1975 brought attention to workplace discrimination.
No Quick Fixes
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Addressing the gender pay gap in the U.S. is intricate, with no single solution due to existing economic disparities.
The Role of Education and Employment
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While higher education and salaried positions are steps forward, they do not fully address the gender pay gap issue.
Understanding the Motherhood Penalty
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Research indicates that even women in high-paying jobs face the gender pay gap, exacerbated by long and inflexible working hours.
Undervaluing Care Work
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Care work, often undertaken by marginalized women, continues to be undervalued, perpetuating the cycle of low wages and limited options.
Post-pandemic Workforce Participation
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While U.S. women’s workforce participation has returned to pre-pandemic levels, gender gap issues remain prevalent.
Importance of Pay Transparency
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Advocating for pay transparency is a step towards eliminating pay disparities between genders.
Need for Women in Leadership
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Boosting the number of women in leadership roles can ensure a diverse range of voices in decision-making processes.
Striking a Powerful Chord
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Iceland’s large-scale strike demonstrates vividly how society depends on both paid and unpaid labor of women.
A Potent Lesson for the U.S.
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Such impactful demonstrations serve as a potent lesson and an inspiration for the U.S. to advance towards gender equality. The United States can draw valuable lessons from Iceland’s proactive stance and apply them constructively to foster a more equitable and inclusive future.
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The post Gender Equality Strikes in Iceland: A Wake-up Call for the U.S. To Close the Gender Pay Gap first appeared on Thrifty Guardian.
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by Keegan Leighty | Career & Education
In Portland, Oregon, teachers went on a strike, causing schools to close their doors for approximately 45,000 students. The strike was driven by concerns regarding large class sizes, stagnant salaries, and inadequate resources, taking part in a broader trend of organized labor movements gaining momentum across the United States.
The Kids Deserve More
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“Our kids deserve more than teachers that are absolutely exhausted and at the end of their ropes,” emphasized Sarah Trapido, a special education teacher at Kellogg Middle School, expressing the sentiments of many educators on strike.
Advocating for Better Conditions
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The Portland Association of Teachers, representing over 4,000 educators, initiated the strike after months of negotiations with the district for a new contract.
Their previous contract expired in June, and the union has been advocating for better conditions.
10.2 Billion and Falling Short
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Portland Public Schools, however, stated that they lack the funds to meet the union’s demands.
While Oregon’s lawmakers approved a record $10.2 billion K-12 budget for the next two years in June, school district representatives argued that it falls short of meeting the needs of students and educators.
Keeping Pace
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According to Superintendent Guadalupe Guerrero, the district aims to provide competitive compensation but doesn’t have access to the record profits of a private organization because “Funding has not kept pace with the needs of our students, nor our educators.”
Finding a Solution
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During the strike, schools remain closed, with no in-person or online instruction taking place.
The district is scheduled to meet with the union and a state mediator in the coming days to address the impasse.
Honking in Solidarity
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Teachers participating in the strike rallied outside schools, holding signs, chanting, and rallying with bullhorns, receiving support from passing cars honking in solidarity.
A Common Problem
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Similarly, in Oakland, California, teachers, counselors, librarians, and other workers went on strike for over a week in May, advocating for higher salaries and “common good” changes like reparations for Black students and resources for homeless students.
Relying on Volunteers
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Portland educators expressed feeling overwhelmed by their workload and a lack of support in the classroom.
Many work long hours, often taking work home. Some rely on volunteers to assist with students’ needs.
Failing the Students
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Katarina Juarez, an eighth-grade language arts teacher, described working until 7 p.m. and the toll it has taken on her physical health.
She says, “I feel like I’m failing them if I’m not putting that time in, but I’m really harming myself and my family in the process.”
The Reason Behind Demands
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Smaller class sizes are a key demand for teachers, as they believe it would reduce their workload and allow them to provide more individualized attention to struggling students.
Questions about pay, especially for new teachers, have also arisen due to the rising cost of living in Portland. The starting annual base salary in the district is around $50,000.
Further Demands
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The union has proposed a 20% salary increase over three years, while the district has proposed about half of that. The union’s demands also include more planning time for teachers and class size limits lower than the district’s proposals.
Losing StudentsThe district expressed concerns that the union’s demands would lead to significant additional spending and potential staffing cuts. They also cited declining enrollment as a financial challenge, with nearly 3,000 students lost since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in the 2019-20 school year.
99% of Teachers
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Notably, 99% of teachers voted in favor of the strike, with 93% participating in the ballot.
Despite the strike authorization, the district expressed its desire for a fair settlement.
Underpaid and Overstressed
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Oregon Governor Tina Kotek and US Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden urged both the union and the school district to reach a mutually agreeable solution.
In a joint statement, Merkley and Wyden said, “They have been underpaid and overstressed, and we strongly affirm our support for Portland’s educators exercising their right to strike for an equitable collective bargaining agreement.”
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Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / DGLimages
by Mark Garro | Make Money, Career & Education, Thrifty Home & Family
Medicine is one of the most challenging areas of study young learners can choose. The reason is that students are expected to compose countless academic papers, learn loads of critical medical data, and successfully pass numerous exams. As a result, many students face significant difficulties in earning money. However, you might still get excellent jobs as a medical student.
Please note this is a sponsored post.
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