List of Top 10 Highest Paying Jobs in the World

Irrespective of the various factors like the company's location and size, and the employee's experience and level of contribution, some professions consistently rank high across various best paid jobs lists. These professions continue to get paid higher irrespective of the country, city, company size and number of employees which means that these designated positions get the highest salary in the world, wherever offered. This section is dedicated to the list of best-paid jobs in the world. Check the top 10 highest paying jobs in the world below. 

1. Chief Executive officer
2. Anesthesiologist
3. General and Orthopedic Surgeons
4. Psychiatrists
5. Data Scientists
6. Software Engineers
7. Investment Banker
8. Petroleum Engineers
9. Corporate Lawyers
10. Professional Athletes

These jobs above are the top salaried jobs that also have the scope to survive in the future. 

Details on the Top 5 Highest Paying Jobs in the World

Here are the complete details on the highest paying jobs in the world. Read below for the required experience, top employers of the listed highest paying jobs in the world followed by the section containing the average salaries of these jobs across different nations. 

1. Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Topping the list, being a CEO gets you the highest paying job in the world, no matter where you work. A CEO is the highest-ranked position in any organisation’s structure. Irrespective of the company’s size, a CEO handles all its day-to-day corporate affairs, manages resources and handles all managerial processes. A CEO is also responsible for motivating his team of managers and employees to boost their performance without overburdening them. 

What does a CEO do?: The CEO fulfils multiple roles in a company. They are the strategic leader, making long-term plans and goals. They also make important decisions on matters like new initiatives or mergers. While they delegate tasks to other leaders, they oversee the entire business and are accountable for all departments. Lastly, they represent the company and communicate its vision to employees and the community. Regardless of company size, all CEOs have the fundamental duty of guiding the organization to success.

How to become a CEO?: Becoming a CEO requires a long-term commitment, starting with a solid educational background in business or a related field, typically including a bachelor's degree and possibly an MBA. Substantial experience is essential, with many CEOs advancing through various departments to develop their leadership and decision-making abilities. However, establishing a network and a positive reputation in the industry are also key factors.

Experience Required: Minimum 5 years of managerial experience and above.

Skills Required: Excellent Team Leadership and Interpersonal Skills, Decision-making Skills with Good Attention-to-Detail, Negotiation Abilities, Time Management and Organisation Skills.

2. Anesthesiologist

Being the highest paying job in the USA, an Anesthesiologist is among the best-paid jobs in the world. Anesthesiologists work closely with surgeons and the success of almost all operations begins with the success of the anaesthetic operations. Anesthesiologists also help with pain management and function like other primary care physicians and surgeons. 

What does an Anesthesiologist do?: Anesthesiologists play a vital role in ensuring patient safety during surgeries and medical procedures. They are skilled in administering anaesthesia, monitoring vital signs, and managing pain both during and after surgery.

How to become an Anesthesiologist?: Getting one of the highest paying jobs does not come easy and that is the case with becoming an Anesthesiologist. Becoming an Anesthesiologist is a demanding and lengthy process that requires commitment and a solid scientific background. The journey typically includes the following steps:

• Attaining a bachelor's degree: While this degree can be in any field, it is highly recommended to take courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics.
• Passing the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT): This standardised exam evaluates your knowledge and skills necessary for success in medical school.
• Completing medical school: During this phase, you will earn either a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree, gaining a comprehensive understanding of human anatomy, physiology, and diseases.
• Securing a spot in an accredited anesthesiology residency program: This competitive residency program involves four years of intensive supervised training in administering anaesthesia to patients undergoing surgical procedures and other medical interventions.
• Obtaining licensure and board certification: Following the residency, you will need to pass specific examinations to become licensed in your state. Additionally, you may choose to pursue board certification from the American Board of Anesthesiology (ABA).
• Considering fellowship training (optional): If desired, you can pursue a one- or two-year fellowship program to specialise in a particular subfield such as pediatric anaesthesia or pain medicine.

Experience Required: 12-15 years.

Skills Required: Good Accuracy and Precision while Administering the Dose of Anesthesia, Strong Core Knowledge of Pharmacology and Medical Instruments, Ability to Handle Stressful Situations, Good Communication Skills, Critical Thinking and Problem-solving Skills.

Top Companies: Hospitals and Health Consultancies such as Henry Ford Health Systems, Trinity Health, ICON, Kaiser Permanente, etc. 

3. General Surgeons

Surgeons get paid according to the level of their skills and experience. Surgeons are also paid based on their success rates in performing surgeries and treating patients to improve their medical condition. Among surgeons, neurosurgeons, general surgeons and orthopaedic surgeons are paid the highest salary in the medical world.  

What do General Surgeons do?: General surgeons are versatile professionals who diagnose and perform surgeries for a wide range of medical conditions. They handle common ailments like appendicitis and hernias, as well as complex procedures involving the digestive system, skin, breast, and soft tissues. They also provide pre- and post-operative care to ensure a smooth recovery process. In summary, general surgeons are the go-to specialists for various surgical needs, offering comprehensive support throughout the entire surgical experience.

How to become a General Surgeon?: Becoming a general surgeon is a challenging yet fulfilling journey that requires dedication and perseverance. It starts with a bachelor's degree in a science-related field, followed by medical school to gain a deep understanding of human anatomy and physiology. After graduating, aspiring surgeons undergo a 5-7 year residency program to refine their skills under experienced mentors. They must then obtain a medical license and may choose to specialise further through fellowship programs.

Experience Required: 10-13 years.

Skills Required: In-depth Knowledge of Related Medical Conditions, Excellent Eye-to-Hand Coordination, Accuracy and Precision, Patience, and Good Ability to Recognise Symptoms. 

Top Companies: General and orthopaedic hospitals, speciality hospitals, Fortis Healthcare, Apollo Hospitals, etc.

4. Psychiatrist

Often the most paid profession in various countries, a Psychiatrist helps in dealing with mental health. Psychiatrists charge fees per session of consultation, and depending on the mental condition of the patient, they may prescribe some medicine or work on bringing out the desired result solely by consultation and lifestyle changes. Due to the growing awareness of the impact of mental health disturbance and its consequences, more and more people prefer to take a Psychiatrist’s help to deal with their emotional imbalance. With this, it becomes one of the highest paying jobs in India and the USA.

What does a Psychiatrist do?: A psychiatrist is a doctor who specialises in mental health, evaluating, diagnosing, and treating mental, emotional, and behavioural disorders. They use assessments to diagnose conditions and create treatment plans, which may include therapy and medication to improve mental health and well-being.

How to become a Psychiatrist?: Becoming a psychiatrist requires commitment and a strong science and medicine background. It starts with a bachelor's degree in a science-related field, followed by four years of medical school. After earning your medical degree, you will complete a four-year residency program in psychiatry to gain practical experience. Obtaining a state license are also necessary. Effective communication and interpersonal skills are crucial for building rapport with patients and delivering impactful treatment.

Experience Required: 10-12 years.

Skills Required: Strong Listening Skills, Good Attention to Detail, Good Communication Skills, Empathy towards the Patient, Strong Knowledge of Core Therapeutic Practices and Treatments and Commitment to Maintaining Patient Records in a Confidential manner. 

Top Companies: Kaiser Permanente, US Department of Veterans Affairs, General medical and surgical hospitals, Outpatient care centres, Psychiatric and addiction hospitals, etc.

5. Data Scientists

With the ongoing global recession, the demand for Data Scientists has increased drastically, making it fall into the list of the top 10 highest paying jobs in the world. Data Scientists help the company make critical financial decisions based on the company’s reports collected over the years and market trends. According to some stats, the data scientist jobs are increasing day by day at a rate of 14%. Also, it is believed that there will be 11 million data science jobs (approx.) by the end of 2026. According to a report by Nasscom, the data science jobs recorded in 2018 in India were 2,720 and this number is expected to grow to about 16,500 data science jobs by 2025. 

What does a Data Scientist do?: Data scientists are essential in today's world as they uncover hidden stories in large datasets. They bridge the gap between data and decision-making by utilising their technical skills to gather, clean, and analyse data. By utilising tools such as statistics, machine learning, and programming languages, they identify meaningful patterns and trends. These insights are then translated into actionable recommendations, enabling businesses to make informed decisions that streamline processes, predict future outcomes, and ultimately achieve their objectives.

How to become a Data Scientist?: Due to its high demand, the data scientist is becoming the highest paying job worldwide; which is also the reason that becoming a data scientist requires a mix of education, skill enhancement, and practical experience. While a bachelor's degree in data science, statistics, or computer science is common, it's not always necessary. You can gain expertise through online courses, bootcamps, or self-directed learning. Programming skills in Python, R, SQL, data manipulation, data visualisation, and statistical analysis are crucial. Hands-on experience can be gained through internships, personal projects, or engaging with online data science communities. Remember, becoming a data scientist is a continuous journey of learning and growth.

Experience Required: 1-5 years.

Skills Required: Strong Knowledge of data decluttering, re-structuring and organising tools, Interpretation of Data, Knowledge of Different programming languages such as Python, MySQL, Pandas, Numpy, etc., knowledge of Machine Learning, Big data, and Deep Learning, Decision Making Skills, Data Interpretation, and Good Communication Skills.

Top Companies: IBM, Cloudera, Accenture, Deloitte, Google, Walmart, etc.

Salary Comparison Among the Other Highest Paying Jobs in the World

Below we have shown the average salaries of each of the other highest paying jobs in the world that have been listed above.  

6. Software Engineer/Architect

Being a software engineer has been one of the top highest paying jobs in the world for several decades. Software engineers and architects are highly respected in the field of technology. They are essential in developing the software that drives our daily activities. Software engineers build and code, while architects design the framework and operation of software. Their blend of technical skills and strategic vision allows them to earn competitive salaries. Their contributions greatly impact the effectiveness of applications, websites, and systems, highlighting the value of their expertise in today's technology-focused society.

What do the Software Engineer/Architect do?: Software engineers and architects play a pivotal role in shaping our world through their expertise in developing software. Software engineers bring designs to fruition by writing the necessary code that enables applications, websites, and systems to operate seamlessly. On the other hand, software architects serve as visionary leaders, meticulously crafting the blueprint of the software and ensuring its overall structure and functionality. By combining their skills, these professionals create powerful tools that drive the digital age forward.

How to become a Software Engineer/Architect?: To establish a successful career as a software engineer or architect, a combination of academic excellence and practical experience is essential. A bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field provides a solid foundation in programming languages such as Java or Python, data structures, algorithms, and key software development methodologies such as Agile or Waterfall. Additionally, enhancing your expertise by actively participating in online courses or bootcamps that focus on specific technologies like web development frameworks (e.g., Spring, Django) or cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure) and contributing to open-source projects can help to build a strong portfolio. Seek internship opportunities to apply your knowledge in a professional setting and consider specializing in areas like system design or cybersecurity.

Experience Required: 1-5 years.

Skills Required: Technical expertise in programming languages (e.g., Java, Python), data structures, algorithms, and software development methodologies along with effective communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and critical thinking.

Top Companies: Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Apple, IBM, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Oracle, Amazon, Bosch Group, Capgemini, Meta and many more.

How to Earn the Highest Paying Jobs in the World?

There is no guaranteed path to earning the "highest paying jobs in the world" as it depends on several factors and personal preferences. However, below are some strategies to increase your chances of landing a well-paying and fulfilling career:

1. Focus on in-demand skills: Without some relevant skills, you cannot get one of the highest paying jobs in the world. Even after you learn those skills, you will have to practice regularly to be proficient in those skills. Research fields like technology, healthcare, renewable energy, and AI are experiencing high demand and projecting job growth. Learn skills relevant to these sectors, focusing on areas like data analysis, cybersecurity, coding, renewable energy engineering, or healthcare specialisations.
2. Stay updated: Continuously learn and upskill yourself to stay relevant in the dynamic job market. Take online courses, attend workshops, and stay informed about industry trends.
3. Connect with professionals: Build relationships with people in your desired field through professional networking events, online communities, or your current network.
4. Seek mentors: Find mentors who can guide you, share their experience, and offer career advice.
5. Utilise online platforms: Use professional networking platforms like LinkedIn to connect with recruiters and showcase your skills.

Highest Paying Jobs in India 

While below we have given the top 5 highest paying jobs in India, you may also be interested in knowing about other jobs that pay well with or without a degree. The highest paying jobs in India without a degree include jobs like that of a pilot (you don’t need a college degree to be a pilot), digital marketer, real estate agent, sales manager, and stockbroker. While the other best jobs in India with a degree include medical professionals, lawyers, chartered accountants, software engineers, and architects. These jobs above form the list of the top 10 highest salary jobs in India. 

Highest Paying Jobs in UK

While aiming for the highest paying jobs might be tempting, the path doesn't solely rely on education or origin. In the UK, diverse job options exist. Without a degree, roles like Real Estate Agent, Life Coach, and Train Driver offer strong earning potential. A degree opens doors to specialities like Medicine and IT, while fields like Investment Banking and Engineering beckon international students too. Remember, research individual roles that suit your ambitions, regardless of labels like the "highest paying jobs."

Highest Paying Jobs in USA

Below listed are the top 5 highest paying jobs in the USA for international students. One can get these jobs only upon completion of certain degrees. However, there are other jobs as well that do not require a degree at all. These jobs pay one a handsome amount of money per month however they cannot compete with the top-paying jobs that require a degree. These high-paying jobs in the USA that do not require a degree are commercial airline pilots, real estate brokers, sales managers, truck drivers, and construction managers.

Which Career Has More Scope in Future?

Predicting the future of job markets is complex, but using data and trends from trusted sources can offer valuable insights in determining which careers might survive with the ever-changing global trends. So, below is the list of some careers and jobs that have more scope in the future. 

1. Data Science: The demand for data scientists is expected to grow at a whopping 27% by 2026. 
2. AI and ML Engineers and Specialists: According to trends, it can be predicted that expertise in AI and ML development will be valuable across diverse fields, from healthcare to finance in the future. The McKinsey Global Institute Report estimates that AI could create up to 375 million new jobs by 2030. 
3. Environmental Engineer: Addressing climate change demands innovative solutions. Environmental engineers with expertise in sustainability and clean technologies will be highly sought after. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 8% job growth in this field by 2030.
4. Healthcare: An ageing population and advancements in medical technology are increasing the demand for healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, medical technicians, and therapists. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) in the US projects 16% job growth in the healthcare sector by 2030.

Highest Paying Jobs in the World in the Future

Even though predicting the "highest paying jobs of the future" remains impossible due to rapid advancements and evolving economies, focusing on in-demand skills and emerging fields can offer valuable insights to create a list of the highest paying jobs in future. 

Additional Information on the Highest Paying Jobs

While it is crucial to be informed about the highest salaries in the world and the jobs awarding them, you must also be aware of some additional information that may serve as a ladder or a limitation while deciding on which one to choose from the highest paying jobs in the world.