Best Paying Jobs that Require an Associate’s Degree

For some of those without the money or time to earn a bachelor’s degree, associate degrees offer good returns on investment and may prove to be a much better and rewarding option. Based on data obtained from the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the following are some of the best paying jobs in the U.S. that only require an associate’s degree. The majority of these jobs are the areas of skilled labor, technology and healthcare.The median wages of the following jobs are tallied to include weekly, hourly and annual wages, as well as production bonuses and sales commissions. Overtime wages are however not included.

Mechanical Engineering Technicians

Mechanical engineering technicians are tasked with the design, development, testing and manufacturing of consumer products, machinery and other equipment. As at 2013, the median annual salary was just over $52,000 and job growth is expected to continue up to at least 2022. No work experience is required to start practicing in this trade.

Cardiovascular Technicians and Technologists

Cardiovascular Technicians and Technologists utilize imaging technology to assist physicians in properly diagnosing cardiac and peripheral vascular ailments among patients. Job openings growth is expected to continue up to at least 2022 and no experience is required to enter this profession. As at 2013, the average annual wage stood at $53,070.

Physical Therapy Assistant

Physical Therapy Assistants help patients recovering from surgeries, illnesses and injuries regain muscle movement and manage their pain. Median annual salaries as at 2013 ranged at $53,160 and no previous experience is required for this field. Projected job growth is expected to continue up to at least 2022.

Petroleum and Geological Technicians

Petroleum and Geological Technicians support to engineers and scientists in extracting and exploring natural resources like oil, natural gas and minerals. No previous work experience is required for this field and job growth is expected to continue up to at least 2022. Median annual wages at 2013 was at $52,800.

Occupational Therapy Assistants

Occupational Therapy Assistant roles and responsibilities involve working under the direction and supervision of occupational therapists in treating patients with disabilities, injuries and illnesses through daily therapeutic exercises. Median annual wages are $53,240 and no experience and on the job training is required.

Radiologic Technologists

Their job description entails performing diagnostic imaging exams like x-rays on patients. Median annual wages are $54,620 and job growth is expected to continue up to at least 2022. No experience is required to enter this profession.

Avionics Technicians

These inspect, install, adjust, repair and test avionics equipment like radars, navigation, radios and missile controls in airplanes and space shuttles. They have a median wage of $55,350 and no experience or is required to enter the profession. Job openings are expected to run through to 2022.