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11 Jobs Employers Can't Fill Fast Enough That Pay Over $60,000

These stable, high-paying roles are in demand now.

By Andrea Basse

Edited by Esther Carlstone

Updated Nov. 20, 2025

As labor shortages continue across several industries, employers are offering higher pay and faster career advancement to attract qualified workers. Many of these open roles don't require a four-year degree, just skill, training, and a willingness to learn.

If you're ready to stop living paycheck to paycheck, below are 11 high-demand careers that can help you build financial stability and achieve long-term career stability — all paying at least $60,000 annually.

Editor's note: All salary data sourced from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

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Physical therapist assistant

Median annual salary: $65,510

Physical therapist assistants help patients recover from injuries and manage mobility issues through targeted exercises and treatments. They work under licensed physical therapists in hospitals, clinics, and rehab centers.

An associate degree from an accredited program and state licensure are required. Employment is projected to grow 16% through 2034, with around 26,000 openings each year as older workers retire or transfer to different occupations.

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Wind turbine service technician

Median annual salary: $62,580

Wind turbine technicians install, inspect, and repair turbine systems that generate renewable energy. The job combines electrical, mechanical, and safety skills.

Most enter the field with a postsecondary certificate in wind energy technology and on-the-job training. Employment is set to rise 50% by 2034, creating roughly 2,300 openings annually as clean energy expands across the U.S.

Occupational therapy assistant

Median annual salary: $68,340

Occupational therapy assistants support patients in regaining everyday living and work skills. They prepare treatment rooms, assist with therapy sessions, and track progress.

An associate degree from an accredited program and state licensure are typically required. Job growth is projected at 18% through 2034, with nearly 8,000 openings each year, far faster than average, as more people seek rehabilitation and support for aging-related conditions.

Hearing aid specialist

Median annual salary: $61,560

Hearing aid specialists fit and test hearing aids, take ear impressions, and help clients adapt to hearing devices. They often work in audiology clinics or private practices.

Requirements vary by state, but most start with a high school diploma and complete certification or on-the-job training. Employment is expected to grow 7% through 2034, with 1,000 annual openings as demand for hearing care rises.

Industrial machinery mechanic

Median annual salary: $63,760

Industrial machinery mechanics keep production equipment running smoothly in manufacturing plants, power facilities, and warehouses. They install, inspect, maintain, and repair complex systems involving hydraulics, conveyors, and robotics.

A high school diploma and one year or more of on-the-job training are standard. The occupation is projected to grow 13% through 2034, adding more than 54,000 openings annually as factories modernize.

Health information technologist and medical registrar

Median annual salary: $67,310

These professionals manage and secure healthcare data, ensuring patient information is accurate and accessible. They also help healthcare providers meet federal data and reporting requirements.

Depending on the role, workers may need an associate or bachelor's degree, and some employers prefer certification. As healthcare systems digitize, employment is expected to increase 15% through 2034, with about 3,200 openings a year.

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Nursing instructor, postsecondary

Median annual salary: $79,940

Nursing instructors train the next generation of nurses in colleges, universities, and teaching hospitals. They design coursework, supervise clinical practice, and guide students entering the nursing profession.

A master's degree in nursing is typically enough at community colleges, though by default, a Ph.D is a must-have for postsecondary teachers. With ongoing nursing shortages and more educators retiring, the field is expected to grow 7% through 2034, with about 114,000 openings yearly.

Electrician

Median annual salary: $62,350

Electricians install and repair electrical systems in homes, businesses, and factories. Their work keeps lights on, machines running, and buildings safe from electrical hazards.

Entry typically requires a high school diploma and an apprenticeship, which combines classroom instruction with paid, hands-on experience. Nearly all states require licensure. Employment is projected to grow 9% through 2034, with roughly 81,000 openings each year.

Aerospace engineering and operations technologist and technician

Median annual salary: $79,830

These specialists assist aerospace engineers in developing and testing aircraft, spacecraft, and defense systems. They operate simulation equipment, build prototypes, and ensure designs meet safety and performance standards.

Most earn an associate degree in engineering technology or complete a certificate program. Employment is projected to grow 8% through 2034, with about 900 openings annually as aerospace innovation continues.

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Electrical and electronic engineering technologist and technician

Median annual salary: $77,180

Electrical and electronic engineering technicians work alongside engineers to design, test, and maintain electrical systems and components used in everything from telecommunications to manufacturing.

An associate degree in electrical or electronic engineering technology is the typical entry requirement, but some employers also consider those with a high school diploma or a certificate program. While overall growth is modest at 1% through 2034, about 8,400 openings are expected each year due to retirements.

Radiologic and MRI technologist

Median annual salary: $78,980

Radiologic technologists use X-rays, while MRI technologists operate magnetic scanners to capture detailed images that help doctors diagnose injuries and diseases with precision.

Most professionals enter the field with an associate degree in radiologic or MRI technology. Many states require a license or certification, and employers often prefer certified MRI technologists. Employment is projected to grow 5% from 2024 to 2034, with about 15,400 openings annually due to rising demand and workforce replacements.

Bottom line

The skilled workforce shortage is creating strong opportunities for professionals who can fill specialized, hands-on roles. Many of these jobs pay more than $60,000 annually and require only two years of schooling or an apprenticeship.

As industries modernize and older workers retire, these positions will remain critical to the economy, offering stability, upward mobility, and solid earning potential for those ready to step in and build wealth.

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