Pay is one of the biggest factors when you’re thinking about a career. Whether you’re a student looking for a job or a parent considering your child’s future, the money factor will steer you in the right direction.

Fortunately, there are many high-paying jobs that don’t require a college degree. But these careers will usually involve a lot of hard work, so it’s important to choose the right one for you.

Physicians and Surgeons

Doctors and surgeons are some of the highest-paid medical professionals in the world. Their generous incomes help them to repay their medical school debt and provide a comfortable life for themselves and their families.

Specialties also have a big impact on their income. Surgical specialties like orthopedics, radiology and cardiology are some of the highest-paying professions in medicine.

However, money should not be your only consideration when choosing a medical specialty or state to practice in. You should also consider your passion, areas of interest and comfort in the job.

Surgeons can work in hospitals, private practices or universities. They diagnose and treat medical conditions by conducting surgery with specialized tools and equipment. They perform a variety of procedures, including hip replacement, knee replacement and ACL repairs.

Lawyers

Lawyers are in high demand and can offer a lucrative career. However, the average salary varies based on education level, practice area, and where you live.

The best lawyers are highly specialized, with deep knowledge of their field. They also have a strong reputation and are recognized by clients.

One of the highest-paying legal careers is that of a trial lawyer. These lawyers are responsible for representing their clients in cases involving a variety of subjects, including criminal and civil law.

Research and Development Managers

If you want to become a research and development manager, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in a related field plus at least 5 years of experience. Your employer may require additional qualifications, such as a master’s degree or professional certification.

Your salary can increase based on the level of education and years of experience you have. Changing employers can also be a way to improve your pay.

Research and development managers discover and develop new products, services, or ideas for organizations. They may work for government agencies, research institutes, universities, hospitals, or manufacturing firms.

The average base salary for a research and development manager in the United States ranges from $134,768 to $165,688 with an average total cash compensation of $165,080. These figures include base and annual incentive pay.

General and Operations Managers

General and operations managers direct the overall operations of multiple departments or locations within a company or business. They plan how resources and materials are distributed and used, manage budgets and negotiate contracts. They also work with other areas of the business, such as marketing and human resources.

Many general and operations managers have bachelor’s degrees, but some pursue advanced degree programs such as an MBA. This can help them advance their careers and qualify for higher-level positions, as well as increase their salary.

As a general and operations manager, you can expect to earn a high average salary. However, it’s important to remember that your earnings will vary based on your skills, experience and your employer.