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15 High-Demand Jobs That Pay More Than $45 an Hour

If you’re looking for a new career, consider one of these high-hourly-wage jobs.

By Jenny Cohen

Edited by Chris Kissell

Updated Dec. 17, 2024

If you’re bored with your career — or it's just not working out — there are plenty of other high-paying career paths you can explore.

The good news is that there are some great, in-demand jobs that can help you build wealth by paying a decent hourly wage. Check out these careers that pay more than $45 an hour and are in high demand.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), except where noted, all of them are expected to grow faster than the 4% average for most jobs during the 10 years ending in 2033.

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Chemical engineer

Hourly wage: $53.90
Job outlook: 10%

Chemical engineers design equipment and processes for manufacturing products such as gasoline and paper.

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Veterinarian

Hourly wage: $57.26
Job outlook: 19%

Veterinarians care for animals' health and can work in an office or in the field at places such as farms or zoos.

Actuary

Hourly wage: $57.69
Job outlook: 22%

Actuaries analyze and calculate the economic risk and costs of events. They typically have a background in mathematics or business, and most actuaries work for insurance companies.

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Physicist

Hourly wage: $71.89
Job outlook: 7%

Physicists study the interactions of matter and energy and work in research laboratories and offices. Most positions require advanced education.

Public relations manager

Hourly wage: $62.73
Job outlook: 7%

Public relations managers help boost clients' public image. You may develop an image strategy or create materials such as press releases and advertisements to promote a client’s standing in the public eye.

Sales manager

Hourly wage: $64.98
Job outlook: 6%

A sales manager develops a plan to sell a product or service to customers. To get ahead financially in a managerial role, you usually need experience as a sales representative.

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Optometrist

Hourly wage: $63.39
Job outlook: 9%

Optometrists are doctors who treat the eyes and vision of patients. You might perform routine exams to check out patients’ eyesight or diagnose and treat more specific vision issues.

Pharmacist

Hourly wage: $65.40
Job outlook: 5%

Pharmacists dispense prescription medication to patients or advise customers on drugs they may be taking. You usually need a doctor of pharmacy degree, and every state requires pharmacists to be licensed.

According to the BLS, this is one of two jobs on this list that is supposed to grow “as fast as the average. "

Genetic counselor

Hourly wage: $46.05
Job outlook: 16%

Genetic counselors assess potential health risk factors based on a patient’s genes. Most states require genetic counselors to be licensed.

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Project management specialist

Hourly wage: $47.39
Job outlook: 7%

Project management specialists coordinate the schedule, budget, staffing, and other issues related to working with a team trying to complete a project.

Occupational therapist

Hourly wage: $46.33
Job outlook: 11%

Occupational therapists work with patients who need help with tasks of daily living due to injuries, illnesses, or disabilities. Patients learn skills that can make them more independent.

Personal financial advisor

Hourly wage: $47.88
Job outlook: 17%

Personal financial advisors work with clients to develop financial plans that can help them succeed based on their particular financial needs. They often help clients develop a plan to save for retirement.

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Software developer

Hourly wage: $62.58
Job outlook: 17%

Software developers design computer programs and applications. Some employers may require a graduate degree to be considered for a software developer position.

Construction manager

Hourly wage: $50.43
Job outlook: 9%

Construction managers oversee aspects of a construction project, including the budget and coordinating personnel and materials for a project site. Previous construction experience is helpful.

Lawyer

Hourly wage: $70.08
Job outlook: 5%

Lawyers represent clients in legal transactions or proceedings. You usually need a law degree to practice, and states require you to have a license, which includes passing a bar exam.

This is the second job on this list expected to grow as fast as average.

Bottom line

There are many career paths you can try if you’re looking for something new professionally that also pays well. Many of the jobs on this list have the potential to help you boost your bank account.

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