8 High-Demand Jobs That Pay More Than $30 an Hour

Are you looking to make a career switch? Maybe you're worried about having to lower your salary expectations while you make the leap. But no need to fret. We've put together a list of job titles that will still pay at least $30 per hour. And while some desire a bachelor's degree, others have less strict requirements.

In addition to a high salary, another factor to consider for long-term financial success is job security. The following jobs are also projected to be in high demand, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). And landing a role that will continue growing for years to come is a smart move, especially in today's economy.

Median hourly wage: $30.04

If you want to work in health care, specifically in an operating room, but don't have a bachelor's degree, you should consider a surgical assistant role. You will typically need a certificate, associate's degree, or completion of a surgical assistance program, and you'd be working in health care facilities like hospitals.

Employment in the field is expected to grow by 6% through 2033, which is faster than average.

Median hourly wage: $33.55

If you have an interest in media or public relations, then a PR specialist could be the path for you. This role involves shaping and maintaining clients' image, organizing events, and promoting their brands. Most hiring managers will be looking for candidates with a bachelor's degree.

According to the BLS, the projected job growth for PR specialists is 6%, meaning the availability of types of roles will increase by 27,100 each year over the next eight to 10 years.

Median hourly wage: $36.29

Are you interested in hands-on work? The role of a fire inspector usually includes technical instruction and training, as well as helping to detect fire hazards and complete inspections. You are ensuring sites are in compliance with state and local fire regulations.

To be hired as a fire inspector, you typically need at least a high school diploma. The field is expected to grow by 6% through 2033.

Median hourly wage: $37.03

Are you passionate about working with people and data? This might be the role for you. Compensation, benefits, and job analysis specialists evaluate their organization's policies to ensure that employees receive competitive salaries, benefits, and more.

These specialist roles are expected to grow by 7% over the next decade, meaning there will be around 8,200 more roles each year by 2033.

Median hourly wage: $37.97

If the world of X-rays and CT scans intrigues you, then you might want to look into radiology as a career switch. These roles involve performing diagnostic imaging examinations on patients, typically in health care settings. An associate's degree is usually required, as well as a license or certification in some states.

As of 2023, there were 271,200 radiologic technologist positions. By 2033, there are expected to be 16,000 more every year, as employment is expected to grow by 6%.

Median hourly wage: $45

While this role does require a bachelor's degree, individuals who opt for the registered nurse path can make an average income of $93,600 a year. RNs provide care and health education for their patients. They work in hospitals, nursing homes, and more.

Employment for nurses is expected to grow by 6% over the next decade, which is faster than average.

Median hourly wage: $48.44

While the title of a project manager may seem pretty ambiguous, this role can be found in virtually every field.

From business and marketing to health care and customer service, project management positions involve overseeing resources, timelines, products, and more. Since this role typically involves coordination, you should be an excellent communicator for this type of job.

Project management roles are expected to have a 7% growth rate in the next decade, which is faster than average.

Median hourly wage: $66.38

Take your retail experience and transfer to a management position as a sales manager. If you have a bachelor's degree and a background in sales, you should consider this role. Often working in either an office or retail setting, sales managers plan and direct product and service delivery to customers.

With a 6% growth rate, sales manager roles are expected to increase by 48,600 openings each year over the next decade.

According to the World Economic Forum, Americans work an average of 12 jobs by the time they reach age 55. So, whether you're starting a new career or you're just thinking about making the switch, pivoting to one of these roles could ensure you can pay your bills while still living comfortably.

And you're looking to eliminate some money stress at your current job, it never hurts to start researching elsewhere.