The Best and Highest-Paying Jobs in Oregon

If you seek a state that fosters career growth and has some of the highest-paid professionals, Oregon is one to consider. Some of the highest-paying jobs in Oregon are in the fields of healthcare, management, and tech. So, as a young professional or an expert, you can access some of the best jobs in Oregon. Some don’t even require a degree yet still offer an above-average salary.

This article will provide more detailed information on the best and highest-paying jobs in Oregon and the state’s economic outlook. Read on to find the best jobs in Oregon to help you enjoy high compensation, especially if you are aiming for a management position.

Oregon Economic Outlook

Oregon’s economic outlook is starting to slowly get back to its pre-pandemic levels in terms of job demands, although the labor market is still trying to recover to pre-pandemic levels. Based on an Oregon Employment Department survey, businesses forecasted to open around 103,000 jobs in 2021. Healthcare and social assistance, construction, and retail trade are the top industries with opportunities for job seekers who are looking for a high weekly salary.

The Highest-Paying Jobs in Oregon

The Best Jobs in Oregon: Explained

This section details the roles and job descriptions of the top 10 highest-paying jobs in Oregon. Most of these roles come from healthcare with a mix of tech and management. After this list, we also share with you the five highest-paying occupations in Oregon that you can have without a professional degree.

1. Anesthesiologist

Anesthesiologists are doctors who administer anesthesia to reduce or eliminate pain during and after surgical operations. They prepare patients and monitor their vital signs during medical procedures and in a variety of settings. Primarily, they provide medical care that deals with pain management and patient recovery. They team up with surgeons and nurses for surgical procedures.

2. Surgeon

Surgeons are medical professionals who treat diseases and injuries through surgery. The surgical procedures they perform include repairing internal organs, removing harmful cells or tissues like tumors, and transplanting organs. Surgeons can specialize in specific types of surgeries. For instance, there are surgeons for the cardiovascular system, and some specialize in treating the nervous system. Surgeons’ field of specialty can influence their annual salary.

3. Psychiatrist

Psychiatrists are healthcare professionals who have attended medical school and focus on improving patients’ mental health. They diagnose, treat, prevent, or manage patients’ emotional and mental disorders. They talk to patients to better understand the state of their mental health. They perform psychological and laboratory tests to determine if patients need psychotherapy and medications to treat their condition. Psychiatrists monitor patient recovery as well.

4. Obstetrician and Gynecologist

Obstetricians are health practitioners who specialize in pregnancy, while gynecologists focus on improving female reproductive health. An obstetrician provides prenatal, antenatal, and postnatal care. They help ensure the mother and baby’s health during pregnancy up to the birthing process.

A gynecologist treats a disease that affects the cervix, uterus, ovaries, and other parts of the reproductive organ. Both obstetricians and gynecologists specialize in giving care to women. Thus, sometimes, a doctor may specialize in both fields as OB/GYNs, as they have some overlapping responsibilities.

5. Physician

Physicians are general practitioner doctors providing diagnosis and nonsurgical treatment for a wide range of diseases, such as influenza and bacterial infections. They examine patients, prescribe medications, and keep a tab on medical histories. They also treat injuries and counsel patients on healthy lifestyle practices. They need effective communication skills, as they frequently interact with patients and other healthcare practitioners.

6. Nurse Anesthetist

Nurse anesthetists help anesthesiologists administer anesthesia to relieve or eliminate patients’ pain before, during, and after surgical procedures. They make physical assessments in preparation for anesthesia and administer the required dosage. A nurse anesthetist also assists in maintaining anesthesia during surgeries and providing analgesics for pain management during recovery.

7. Pediatrician

Those that become a pediatrician specialize in child healthcare. They help children manage emotional, social, and bodily changes from birth until they’re teenagers. They ensure disease prevention, and they also treat common illnesses like smallpox, influenza, and bronchitis. Pediatricians prescribe medications and update patients and family members on their health status.

8. Dentist

People who become a dentist provide dental care and treat oral health issues. They do several dental procedures to treat and repair damaged teeth and dental tissues. They also provide preventive care, regular dental examination, and advice for improving oral health. Dentists also assist with fillings in case of tooth decay and provide dental implants for teeth replacement. They often work with a dental assistant and hygienist to deliver effective outpatient care and dental services.

9. Chief Executive Officer

Chief executive officers lead a company in achieving business goals. They must oversee organizational activities and resource management for a profitable business operation. While they stand at the highest level of management, they also collaborate with other executives and department heads in making crucial decisions for business growth. The board of directors typically appoints the chief executive officer.

10. Database Administrator

Database administrators create and manage databases. From designing to maintenance, they ensure that the databases they create for the company function well. They also ensure the safety and security of the data they store, backup, and restore. You’ll also need some database certifications to perform well in your job in database administration. There is a high demand for professionals in this field.

Highest-Paying Jobs in Oregon Without a Degree

• Radiation Therapist | $114,245. A radiation therapist is the highest-paying occupation on this list of jobs without a college education. They provide radioactive treatment to destroy cancer cells and chronic illnesses. With formal training, they know the region needing treatment and execute it based on the prescription of a radiation oncologist.
• Diagnostic Medical Sonographer | $98,462. A diagnostic medical sonographer uses imaging equipment and ultrasounds to capture images of organs or body parts. With this, they can diagnose damaged tissues and deliver a concise report to the physician for effective treatment. They only need to complete an associate educational program to be in this role.
• Real Estate Agent | $99,160. Real estate agents serve as middlemen between buyers and sellers of a property. They are skilled negotiators that help both parties reach a favorable agreement. Like some sales representatives, they charge a commission, usually a percentage of the property price, for their services. Real estate agents don’t need a college degree, but they need to get licenses and register under a brokerage firm to prove their credibility.
• Elevator Mechanic | $77,979. Elevator mechanics install, maintain, and repair elevators and escalators. Elevator mechanics require at least a high school diploma and formal training and specialization through apprenticeship.
• Electrical Lineworkers | $61,132. Electrical lineworkers install, service, and repair underground and overhead electrical distribution lines. They climb poles and dig trenches to lay power lines supplying electricity needed for powering electrical equipment in homes and offices. Additionally, electrical line workers provide emergency services when power lines get damaged. Electrical line workers do not require a formal college education.

What Is the Cost of Living in Oregon?

Oregon’s cost of living is $1,909, according to Living Cost. This is higher than the national average cost of living. It’s the 13th most expensive state in the US. The average salary after tax though is $3,414, which is enough for almost two months of living expenses.

Is Oregon a Good Place to Work?

Yes, Oregon is a good place to work. With an average annual wage of $56,434, you can get a job with more than enough to cover a month of expenses when you work there. While Oregon might have a higher cost of living compared with some other places like Salt Lake City in Utah or Kansas City in Missouri, the extra cost can be offset by a higher employment rate and high-paying jobs. Additionally, the job market there is on its way to recovery.

Highest-Paying Jobs in Oregon FAQ