Job-seeking can be a challenging process that significantly impacts mental health. According to an August 2024 survey by Resume Genius, 72% of job seekers reported that job hunting has negatively affected their mental well-being.
This is partly due to increased competition in the labor market. In September, there was one job opening per unemployed person, as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is a stark contrast to the two jobs per unemployed person ratio seen in March 2022. Additionally, the economy added only 12,000 jobs in October.
Among the industries that have seen the largest job growth in 2024 are food services, hospitality, and government. While these sectors are not typically known for high-paying jobs, they do offer six-figure positions, according to John Mullinix, head of growth marketing at Ladders.
High-Paying Roles to Consider
Director of Supply Chain
In the food services industry, the chain of command is extensive. "You’ve got the store manager who works inside the actual store and has employees," says Mullinix. "But then it goes up a level, and there’s a regional level," which might oversee numerous locations, and so on.
At higher levels, such as the director of supply chain in fast food chains, you can find six-figure jobs. This role involves ensuring that all stores and franchises receive their supplies, merchandise, and other necessities.
Requirements:
- At least a bachelor’s degree (according to ZipRecruiter)
- Industry-specific experience
Average Salary: \$187,000 per year
Hotel Manager
Managerial positions at hotel chains often involve leading teams at individual locations. A hotel manager oversees hotel operations, trains staff, and ensures guest satisfaction.
Requirements:
- Prior experience in hospitality (a bachelor’s degree is not always required)
Salary: One position on Indeed offers up to \$180,000 per year.
Cybersecurity Specialist
Government jobs cover a wide range of fields, with cybersecurity being a key area of focus. "They’re really trying to hire faster and they can’t keep up with countries like China," says Mullinix.
Requirements:
- Experience in IT (a bachelor’s degree is not always required)
- U.S. citizenship and security clearance (background checks are often necessary)
Average Salary: \$124,000 per year (according to Glassdoor)
Finding These Jobs
To find these high-paying roles, consider visiting government websites and agencies. For roles in the private sector, job boards like Indeed, ZipRecruiter, and FlexJobs can be valuable resources.
By exploring these opportunities, job seekers can find well-paying positions that may help alleviate some of the stress associated with job hunting.