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10 'Boring' Jobs That Secretly Pay $55+ an Hour (And Are Desperate for Workers)

Discover in-demand jobs that pay $55+ hourly and often go unnoticed

By Summer Nevins

Edited by Esther Carlstone

Updated Dec. 17, 2025

For many Americans in their 50s and older, the current job market can feel discouraging. This is especially the case when it seems like the highest-paying opportunities are reserved for younger workers. And let's face it: landing a role that pays $55 an hour would definitely lower your financial stress.

But the truth is, some of today's highest-paying, most stable jobs aren't flashy at all. Many are even considered "boring" — and they're accessible at almost any age. In the sections below, we break down which traditionally unexciting jobs pay surprisingly well and why they're in such high demand.

Editor's note: Salary information comes from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

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Petroleum engineers

Median hourly wage: $67.92

Petroleum engineers design and manage methods for extracting oil and gas safely and efficiently from underground reservoirs, combining engineering, geology, and economics. The role pays well due to its technical demands, safety responsibilities, and direct impact on energy production, with demand supported by global energy needs and a limited talent pool.

A bachelor's degree in petroleum or chemical engineering plus industry experience is normally required for most positions in this field.

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Software developers and quality assurance analysts

Median hourly wage: $63.20

Software developers and quality assurance analysts create, test, and maintain software systems across industries like finance, healthcare, and logistics, ensuring applications are secure, reliable, and scalable. They earn strong salaries because the work demands real technical know-how, quick thinking, and constant learning as technology evolves.

You typically need a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field and practical experience. The BLS projects faster-than-average job growth over the next decade.

Sales manager

Median hourly wage: $66.38

Sales managers lead teams that sell products or services, set revenue goals, and develop strategies to expand market share. Salaries tend to be on the higher end since their decisions directly impact company revenue and require leadership, analytical skills, and industry expertise. Demand remains steady as businesses compete for customers and enter new markets.

Most have a bachelor's degree and several years of experience, with BLS projecting average job growth over the next decade.

Information security analysts

Median hourly wage: $60.45

Information security analysts safeguard organizations' networks and systems from cyberattacks, data breaches, and other digital threats. The role is often well-paid due to its technical complexity, critical responsibilities, and the growing financial and regulatory risks associated with cybersecurity failures.

Most positions require a bachelor's degree in computer science, cybersecurity, or a related field, plus relevant experience. The BLS projects much faster-than-average job growth over the next decade.

Database administrators and architects

Median hourly wage: $59.18

Database administrators and architects design, manage, and secure systems that store and organize critical business data, ensuring information is accurate, accessible, and protected. The necessity for technical expertise and responsibility for data integrity and security in this role allows employees to command a high salary.

A bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field and experience managing databases is usually the first step in this career path. The BLS projects steady demand over the next decade as data reliance grows.

Public relations and fundraising managers

Median hourly wage: $63.88

Public relations and fundraising managers guide an organization's public image and lead campaigns to raise funds or support, influencing reputation, donor trust, and financial stability. They earn high pay due to their mix of strategic communication, leadership, and relationship management skills.

You will likely need a bachelor's degree in public relations, communications, or a related field, plus professional experience. The BLS projects faster-than-average job growth as branding and outreach demand increases.

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Political scientists

Median hourly wage: $67.01

Political scientists research political systems, public policies, and voting behavior to help governments, organizations, and institutions understand how decisions impact society. Their work informs policy design, risk analysis, and strategic planning, requiring advanced analytical skills and deep expertise.

Most well-paying positions require a master's degree or PhD in political science or a related field, so this one will take some time to transition into if you're not already in the field.

Actuaries

Median hourly wage: $60.47

Actuaries evaluate financial risks using mathematics, statistics, and financial theory to guide decisions on insurance, pensions, and investments. Their high pay reflects the technical skills, precision, and responsibility required to protect organizations from costly uncertainties.

To be an actuary, you will need a bachelor's degree in math or actuarial science and pass professional exams. The BLS projects much faster-than-average job growth over the next decade.

Computer hardware engineers

Median hourly wage: $74.53

Computer hardware engineers research, design, and develop computer systems and components, including processors, memory devices, and networks, and are paid well due to the specialized skills required.

Most positions require a bachelor's degree in computer engineering or electrical engineering. The BLS projects average job growth over the next decade.

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Natural sciences managers

Median hourly wage: $77.49

Natural sciences managers oversee research and development projects in fields like biology, chemistry, and environmental science, coordinating scientists and technicians to achieve organizational goals. They're paid well because the work requires real technical skill, strong leadership, and plays a key role in driving new ideas forward.

Most positions require a bachelor's degree in a natural science field plus significant research experience, with the BLS projecting faster-than-average job growth over the next decade.

Bottom line

Many "boring" jobs offer surprisingly high pay, strong demand, and opportunities for mid- to late-career workers seeking stability or supplemental income. While these roles may not make headlines, they provide reliable wages, career growth, and often require skills that are transferable across industries.

A key takeaway: pursuing positions in fields like cybersecurity, engineering, or data management can be quite well-paid, which will help you eliminate money stress. If you have a college education, exploring additional training programs or certifications in these areas can help workers access these high-paying, in-demand jobs.

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