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9 ‘Boring’ Jobs That Secretly Pay $60+ an Hour (And Are Desperate for Workers)

Surprisingly high-paying jobs you probably haven't considered.

By Jamie Johnson

Edited by Esther Carlstone

Updated Nov. 17, 2025

Not every high-paying career comes with excitement or glamour. Some of the best earners work behind the scenes in jobs that rarely make headlines but quietly bring in more than $60 an hour.

If you're looking to build wealth, here are 11 jobs that offer great pay, job security, and plenty of demand, even if they don't sound thrilling at first.

Editor's note: All salary, requirements, and growth figures data are sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

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Actuaries

Median hourly wage: $60.47

Actuaries specialize in analyzing financial risk using statistics, mathematics, and probability theory. They're often employed by government agencies, consulting firms, and insurance companies to predict outcomes related to investments, business operations, or life events.

To become an actuary, you'll need a bachelor's degree in math, statistics, business, or a related field and must pass a series of certification exams. This highly valued role is expected to grow 22% from 2024 to 2034, with 2,400 openings projected each year.

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Information security analyst

Median hourly wage: $60.05

Information security analysts protect an organization's computer systems and networks from cyberattacks. They monitor systems for breaches, implement security measures, and respond to incidents when they occur.

Most analysts hold a bachelor's degree in computer science or cybersecurity, along with certifications like CISSP or CompTIA Security+. Employment is expected to rise 29% by 2034, with a projected 16,000 new openings each year.

Physician assistants

Median hourly wage: $64.07

Physician assistants (PAs) diagnose and treat patients under a doctor's supervision, often serving as primary care providers in clinics and hospitals. While the work can be methodical, it's also stable and well-compensated.

PAs need a master's degree from an accredited program and state licensure. The field is projected to grow 20% through 2034 as healthcare systems expand and physician shortages continue. Around 12,000 openings are expected each year.

Computer and information research scientists

Median hourly wage: $67.74

Computer and information research scientists explore new ways to use technology, develop innovative algorithms, and advance computing efficiency. They often work in research labs, universities, or major tech firms, designing innovative systems.

The role requires a minimum of a master's degree in computer science or a related field. Employment is expected to grow 20% through 2034 as demand for advanced computing expertise rises. About 3,200 openings a year will stem from retirements and career shifts.

Petroleum engineer

Median hourly wage: $67.92

Petroleum engineers design methods to extract oil and gas from underground deposits in an efficient and safe manner. They balance technical calculations with environmental and economic considerations.

A bachelor's degree in petroleum, mechanical, or chemical engineering is typically required, along with internship experience. Employment is projected to grow 1% from 2024 to 2034, adding about 1,200 openings per year.

Medical dosimetrist

Median hourly wage: $66.40

Medical dosimetrists calculate radiation doses for cancer patients and design treatment plans that balance effectiveness with safety. They work closely with radiation oncologists and medical physicists.

The job requires a bachelor's degree and completion of an accredited dosimetry program, plus certification. Employment is expected to grow 3% from 2024 to 2034, with around 200 annual openings.

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Aerospace engineer

Median hourly wage: $64.82

Aerospace engineers specialize in designing, developing, and testing satellites, spacecraft, and aircraft. Their work involves running simulations, reviewing designs, and ensuring safety standards. While the job can feel routine, it's critical for global innovation.

A bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering or a related field is required, and some defense-related roles may need security clearance. With a 6% growth projection through 2034, contributing approximately 4,500 openings annually, aerospace engineering remains a strong and well-paid technical field.

Natural sciences manager

Median hourly wage: $77.49

Natural sciences managers oversee teams of researchers and technicians in fields such as mathematics, statistics, physics, and the life sciences. Their work involves budgets, data reviews, and strategy meetings, which may seem tedious but come with substantial pay.

Most begin as scientists before moving into management, typically holding at least a bachelor's degree in a natural science. The field is projected to grow by 4% through 2034, with approximately 8,500 openings per year.

Bottom line

These jobs prove you don't need a flashy title to secure long-term stability and solid pay. Sometimes, the quiet careers are the smartest move.

As automation and AI reshape industries, steady, high-skill professionals will continue to be essential. In the end, "boring" work might just be the most reliable investment you can make in yourself and a practical way to lower your financial stress while building lasting security.

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