10 Jobs Employers Can't Fill Fast Enough That Pay Over $70,000

Sure, there have been major job cuts and layoffs in recent years, especially in the government and retail sectors. However, many industries are facing significant shortages, so they're offering exceptional growth opportunities for those interested. Of those, information technology, health care, and skilled trades are at the top of the list as industries to help you get ahead financially.

Many employers are seeking skilled workers in these industries and others, offering competitive pay and opportunities to advance. If you're interested in making a career change or have prior experience in one of these industries, now is the time to take action. These 10 high-demand jobs are paying $70,000+ a year.

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

Median annual salary: $72,120

With your high school diploma and some industry experience, you could be making over $6,000 a month as a construction and building inspector. From 2024 to 2034, there will be around 14,800 openings each year, as retirees will need to be replaced.

If you're interested, complete a short community college program, study local building codes, and become licensed or certified based on what's required in your state.

Median annual salary: $73,340

As a boilermaker, you'll assemble, install, maintain, and repair boilers, closed vats, and other large liquid or gas-containing vessels. You can enter this field with a high school diploma and jump into an apprenticeship program.

In response to rising energy consumption, there are many opportunities for boilermakers, especially among those interested in union work. If you have experience working as a boilermaker or welder, demand is high due to growth in energy, oil and gas, and marine and shipbuilding.

Median annual salary: $80,450

Respiratory therapists care for patients who struggle with breathing, often due to chronic illnesses like asthma. You can kickstart this career with an associate's degree, and if you reside in any state other than Alaska, you'll need to be licensed.

On average, there will be 8,800 openings for this job each year for the next decade.

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Median annual salary: $90,400

Financial examiners ensure compliance with laws, evaluate loan risk, review balance sheets, and prepare reports. If you have a background in business and accounting, you can transition into this role. However, as an entry-level examiner, you can be trained on the job without prior work experience in a related occupation.

The job outlook is great for this career, with projected employment growth of 19% through to 2034.

Median annual salary: $91,290

Do you love using math and logic to solve complex issues? Do you already have a degree in engineering, computer science, mathematics, or a related quantitative field? Then you may want to pursue a career as an operations research analyst.

With employment expected to grow by 21% until 2034, it's worth taking the leap. Become proficient in computer programming and seek certification in areas like data analytics to enhance your skill set.

Median annual salary: $101,020

If you already have some background education, holding a bachelor's degree in any relevant science subject, you can kickstart your career toward becoming a licensed physical therapist.

Even if you need to acquire additional education and become licensed, job growth for physical therapists equates to an average of 13,200 opportunities each year.

Median annual salary: $105,650

If you can see yourself teaching courses in specialities such as dentistry, veterinary medicine, laboratory technology, pharmacology, or therapy, you may want to become a health specialities teacher.

While there is a high demand for all postsecondary teachers (7% employment growth), those in health specialties will see 17% job growth from 2024 to 2034.

Median annual salary: $117,960

As a medical and health services manager, you will plan, direct, and coordinate business activities for health care providers. While many managers in this field have a bachelor's degree, education requirements vary. Many begin in an entry-level role, seeking opportunities as an administrative assistant, coordinator, or registered nurse.

If you're on the fence about taking the next step, know that employment for this job is projected to grow 23% from 2024 to 2034.

Median annual salary: $131,450

Software developers design computer applications and programs, write code, test for bugs, and deploy finished products. In this role, you'll need solid analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills. You'll also need to be creative and detail-oriented.

This career offers two paths: a degree in a field like computer science or a non-traditional path driven by self-study and certification courses.

Median annual salary: $132,050

Nurses provide advanced health care, working in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, schools, private homes, and other work environments. To become a nurse, you'll need to earn a master's degree in one of the advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) roles.

Doing so would be a wise move given that 32,700 openings are expected each year over the next decade. That outlook represents a 35% job growth through to 2034.

Whether you are seeking something new in your industry or are open to an entirely new career, it is never too late to make a switch. The skills and experience you have accumulated over the years are often transferable to new roles, especially when focusing on in-demand career fields.

To make the best move from living paycheck to paycheck, focus on jobs that align your interests, skills, and knowledge with market needs. Pursue any additional education while gaining practical experience, and be sure to leverage your network.