Find the highest paying jobs in Iowa in 2024. From healthcare to trucking, explore diverse careers that offer competitive pay and growth opportunities.
There’s more to downtown Iowa than just rolling cornfields and friendly people. It is also home to a thriving job market with a variety of opportunities for applicants. As the state’s economy continues to evolve, Iowans are finding exciting and lucrative paths in a variety of industries. But which career is really worth it in the Hawkeye State?
To answer this question, we analyzed data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and job sites Zip Recruiter, Indeed, and Zippia to create a comprehensive list of the highest paying jobs in Iowa. Our rankings consider factors such as average annual salary, projected job growth, and the number of open positions across the state. Whether you’re a recent graduate planning your career course or a seasoned professional looking for a change, this guide reveals the most rewarding career paths Iowa has to offer in 2024. Masu.
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High income healthcare workers in Iowa
High-paying jobs in Iowa are mostly in the health care sector. Specialty medical professionals are among the highest paid in the state, led by dermatologists. These dermatologists earn an average of $304,101 annually by diagnosing and treating a variety of skin conditions, performing procedures, and detecting signs of other health problems through skin exams. Besides a great salary, dermatologists enjoy the satisfaction of improving the quality of life of their patients, often increasing their self-esteem along with their physical health.
This is followed by surgeons, who earn an average annual salary of $299,834. These specialists perform life-saving surgeries across a variety of specialties, from general surgery to specialties such as neurosurgery and cardiothoracic surgery. The role of a surgeon is not only financially rewarding, but also offers an unparalleled opportunity to directly impact the lives of patients.
Orthodontists also rank among the highest earners, with an impressive average salary of $268,531 per year. Their work combines medical expertise and aesthetic considerations to improve patients’ oral health and confidence.
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Technology and business leadership: High rewards for expertise
The technology sector and senior management positions offer another path to high-paying opportunities in Iowa. Senior Software Engineers earn an average of $112,221 per year and lead development teams and tackle complex coding challenges. Their expertise is highly valued in an increasingly digital economy. Beyond financial compensation, these roles offer the excitement of leveraging cutting-edge technology and creating solutions that have the potential to impact millions of users.
CEOs at the top of Iowa companies earn an average annual salary of $147,425. These executives direct companies and shape the state’s business environment through strategic decision-making and leadership. A CEO’s role is about more than just a paycheck. It provides an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy, influence industry trends and foster economic growth in local communities.
Chief financial officers (CFOs) also earn high salaries, with an average annual salary of $98,410. They manage a company’s finances, guide financial strategy, and play a critical role in an organization’s success. CFOs have a unique opportunity to see the big picture of a company’s business and make strategic decisions to ensure long-term sustainability and growth.
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Amazing high rollers: trucking and special jobs
Iowa’s economy offers some unexpectedly high-paying career paths, especially in the transportation sector. Operators and truck drivers top Zippia’s list with a staggering average salary of $192,157, highlighting the importance of logistics to Iowa’s economy. This career offers the freedom of the open road, the opportunity to see different parts of the country, and a vital role in keeping the economy moving.
Owner-operators, who are independent truck drivers who own their own fleet, aren’t far behind, earning an impressive average of $160,722 per year. This shows the potential for entrepreneurship in the transport sector. Becoming an owner/operator has the benefit of being your own boss, setting your own schedule, and having direct control over your income potential.
A lucrative opportunity for seasoned professionals
These well-paying jobs not only provide financial security, but also opportunities for personal growth, community impact, and professional satisfaction. This allows individuals to meaningfully contribute to Iowa’s economy while building a rewarding career that aligns with their passions and skills. Whether it’s saving lives in the emergency room, shaping the future of technology, or ensuring the smooth flow of supplies across the state, these roles are essential to Iowa’s continued prosperity, and we’ll invest in the education and training they need. We provide people with a fulfilling path.
This article was created with the help of AI.
This article first appeared on Good Info News Wire and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.
Portions of this story were generated by AI and edited by Iowa Start Line staff.
