10 ‘Boring’ Jobs That Secretly Pay Over $50 an Hour (And Are Desperate for Workers)

Some of the best-paying jobs aren't those that you typically think of as glamorous or exciting, even while being your path to building wealth. These "boring" roles may not immediately grab your attention, but they can quietly bring in $50 an hour or even more.

Below, we'll examine 10 overlooked careers that combine strong pay with steady demand from employers who need workers now. All positions pay a median hourly wage of over $50 and are projected to have above-average job growth, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

Median hourly wage: $66.38

Sales managers lead teams of sales representatives, set sales goals, and develop sales strategies for delivering products and services to consumers. Responsibilities include analyzing sales data, making sales projections, and coordinating training and education programs for sales reps.

Becoming a sales manager likely requires previous sales experience, as well as at least a bachelor's degree. According to the BLS, jobs for sales managers will grow by 5% through 2034.

Median hourly wage: $82.31

Computer and information systems managers oversee an organization's IT infrastructure, ensuring that computer systems, networks, and software operate correctly. This role involves planning technology strategies, managing IT team members, and coordinating projects to support business and technology goals.

A bachelor's or graduate degree in computer science or IT is useful to become a computer and information systems manager, as well as related work experience. The BLS projects that jobs for computer and information systems managers will grow by 15% through 2034.

Median hourly wage: $66.10

Pharmacists work in drugstores, grocery stores, hospitals, and other health care facilities to dispense prescription medications and advise patients on their use and side effects. Their responsibilities include filling prescriptions, checking patients' medical histories, instructing patients on proper use, and administering vaccines.

State licensure is required for pharmacists, as well as a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree. With an estimated job growth of 5% through 2034, becoming a pharmacist could be a solid career move.

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Median hourly wage: $51.42

Bioengineers, as the job title implies, combine biology and engineering to develop new medical technologies, treatments, and devices. They conduct research, design new systems or products, and collaborate with other engineers, scientists, and health care professionals.

To become a bioengineer, a bachelor's or graduate degree in bioengineering, biology, or a related field is a requirement. The BLS projects that jobs for bioengineers and biomedical engineers through 2034 will grow by 5%.

Median hourly wage: $57.11

Electronics engineers design, develop, and test the components of electronic equipment for applications such as science, medicine, industry, and consumer goods. They combine physics and engineering to create device models and blueprints, test and inspect products, and ensure reliability and safety.

Becoming an electronics engineer typically requires at least a bachelor's degree in electronics engineering or a related field. With electronics a crucial part of the economy, it's no surprise that these jobs will grow by 7% through 2034, according to the BLS.

Median hourly wage: $60.05

Information security analysts protect organizations' computer systems and networks from cyber threats by investigating suspicious activity and implementing security measures. Responsibilities include assessing cyber risks, updating security software and protocols, and ensuring compliance with security standards and regulations.

The role of an information security analyst typically requires a degree in a related field, such as computer science or information technology, and potentially IT security certifications as well. The BLS estimates that information security analyst jobs will grow by a blistering rate of 29% through 2034.

Median hourly wage: $63.88

Public relations managers are responsible for an organization's communications strategy by shaping its public image and managing relationships with the media and public. The role involves writing press releases, overseeing advertising and promotional campaigns, and maintaining a positive image when responding to crises.

A bachelor's or master's degree in communications or business may be useful for public relations managers, as well as related experience. According to the BLS, the job outlook for these roles is strong, with an estimated growth of 5% through 2034.

Median hourly wage: $51.24

Elevator and escalator installers and repairers are responsible for assembling, installing, maintaining, and fixing systems such as elevators, escalators, and moving walkways. Responsibilities include troubleshooting mechanical and electrical issues, testing equipment, and performing regular inspections.

The role of elevator and escalator installer and repairer typically requires a high school diploma, as well as state licensure and previous experience via an apprenticeship. According to the BLS, jobs in this field are projected to grow by 5% through 2034, largely due to workers leaving or retiring.

Median hourly wage: $50.80

Marine engineers design, build, and maintain the equipment and machinery of marine vessels such as ships and submarines. Their responsibilities include preparing detailed schematics and designs, overseeing construction, and ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations.

Becoming a marine engineer will require a degree in marine engineering or a related field; more advanced positions may need a Professional Engineer (PE) license. The BLS estimates that marine engineer jobs will grow by 6% through 2034, faster than the average for all occupations.

Median hourly wage: $77.74

Financial managers oversee the financial health of a business or organization, creating strategies for budgeting, investment, and economic growth. They are tasked with preparing financial statements and reports, analyzing financial data, supervising finance team members, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations.

A degree in business or finance is useful for becoming a financial manager, as well as previous experience as an accountant or financial analyst. With job growth for financial managers estimated at 15% through 2034, this is a wise choice for long-term career stability.

High pay doesn't always come with flashy job titles or work that captures your attention every minute. These jobs might seem "boring" initially, but they're nevertheless appealing thanks to their solid wages and strong future demand, offering long-term stability.

Think about which of these underrated careers best fits your skills and interests, and then make plans for setting out along this path. Who knows, you might even be able to retire early with the right career in place.