New Careers for Seniors That Pay Over $60,000

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11 Second Careers Perfect for People Over 50 That Pay $60,000+ (financebuzz.com)

Second Act, Solid Paycheck: High-Paying Career Shifts That Value Your Experience

Thinking about a career change later in life can feel like a high-stakes gamble. The worries are real: retraining costs, age bias, and the daunting prospect of starting from square one. But here’s a reassuring truth: many fields are eager for the reliability, experience, and adaptable skills that seasoned professionals bring to the table-qualities often prized even more than traditional degrees.

Below, we’ve compiled a list of second-career options that boast annual salaries of $60,000 or more, offering a path to financial stability without having to completely reinvent your professional journey.

1. Bookkeeper

Median Annual Salary: $49,210

Bookkeepers are the unsung heroes of financial organization, meticulously recording transactions, managing invoices, and reconciling accounts. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a healthy demand, with approximately 170,000 annual openings for bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks through 2034.

While the median pay in 2024 was just under $50,000, top-tier bookkeepers can command salaries ranging from $60,000 to $73,500, according to ZipRecruiter. The best part? No degree is typically required, and moderate on-the-job training is the norm.

2. Ophthalmic Medical Technician

Median Annual Salary: $44,290

These specialists are crucial allies to eye doctors, assisting with exams, testing, and direct patient care. While the overall number of ophthalmic tech roles may be experiencing a slight dip, BLS data still points to over 7,700 annual job openings for ophthalmic and dental technicians over the next decade.

Though the median pay is below the $60,000 threshold, top earners in this field can see their salaries climb to between $59,000 and $71,000, as reported by ZipRecruiter. Furthermore, BLS data highlights that ophthalmic medical technicians working in outpatient settings average an impressive $61,570 annually.

3. Medical Records Specialist

Median Annual Salary: $50,250

Medical records specialists are the meticulous guardians of patient information. In May 2024, the median pay for this role was $50,250, with employment projected to grow by 7% from 2024 to 2034.

For those who excel, the BLS indicates that top earners can exceed $80,950. Notably, specialists employed in corporate and hospital environments often earn more than their counterparts in physician offices. Approximately 14,200 openings are anticipated each year, with many positions accessible with just a high school diploma, though professional certificates are frequently preferred.

4. Public Relations Specialist

Median Annual Salary: $69,780

Public relations specialists are the strategic communicators who shape and manage an organization’s public image. In 2024, the median pay reached $69,780, with an estimated 27,600 annual openings projected through 2034.

This field offers substantial potential for salary advancement. According to the BLS, top earners can command salaries upwards of $129,480.

5. Human Resources Specialist

Median Annual Salary: $72,910

HR specialists are the backbone of any thriving organization, handling everything from recruitment and benefits administration to employee relations. The median salary in 2024 stood at $72,910, with a robust 81,800 annual openings projected from 2024 to 2034.

Employment in this sector is expected to grow by 6% over the same period. Most roles typically require a bachelor’s degree.

6. Event Planner

Median Annual Salary: $59,440

Event planners are the orchestrators behind successful meetings, conventions, and special events. In 2024, the median wage for this dynamic role was $59,440, with 15,500 annual openings projected.

While the median salary is just shy of the $60,000 mark, the top 10% of earners in this field average more than $101,310 in wages, demonstrating significant earning potential for experienced professionals.

7. Purchasing Agent

Median Annual Salary: $79,830

Purchasing agents are vital to an organization’s efficiency, responsible for acquiring goods and services. The median pay reached $79,830 in 2024, with employment projected to grow by 5% from 2024 to 2034, leading to 58,700 annual openings.

Delving deeper into salary data, buyers and purchasing agents average $75,650 in median wages. However, purchasing managers command significantly higher salaries, averaging $139,510 overall, with top-earning managers exceeding $219,140.

8. Project Management Specialist

Median Annual Salary: $100,750

Project management specialists are the architects of successful projects, overseeing timelines, managing budgets, and coordinating staffing. The median pay in 2024 was an impressive $100,750, with 78,200 annual openings projected. While a bachelor’s degree is typical, obtaining specific project management certifications can significantly enhance career prospects.

The top earners in this field can bring home more than $165,790 annually.

9. Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Manager

Median Annual Salary: $102,010

These managers are at the helm of logistics, overseeing the intricate movement of goods and people. In 2024, the median pay for this critical role reached $102,010, with 18,500 annual openings projected.

10. Subway or Streetcar Operator

Median Annual Salary: $84,830

For those who prefer a career on the tracks, subway and streetcar operators earned a median of $84,830 in 2024. Entry into this field typically requires only a high school diploma and moderate on-the-job training.

11. Transit Police Officer

Median Annual Salary: $72,250

Transit and railroad police officers play a crucial role in safeguarding transit systems and their passengers. The median wage for these dedicated professionals was $72,250, with top earners commanding salaries exceeding $100,000.

The Bottom Line: Experience Pays Off

Embracing a career change after 50 doesn’t mean resigning yourself to entry-level wages. As this list demonstrates, many fulfilling and well-compensated roles highly value experience and come with manageable training requirements.

Whether your goal is to bolster your retirement savings, alleviate financial stress, or simply remain actively engaged in the workforce, these career paths prove that well-paying opportunities are well within your grasp.

Before you dive into the job boards, consider consulting with a financial planner. They can offer invaluable guidance in defining the salary range you need to target, helping you craft a realistic financial plan. Understanding the long-term implications of different earning thresholds-from how many years you might need to work to potential Social Security and tax effects-is a smart first step towards a financially secure second act.

Smart Money Moves for Everyone

No matter your current financial standing, there’s always room to optimize your finances and grow your wealth. Here’s a quick guide to kickstart your journey today:

Boost Your Income: If your budget feels tight, explore various avenues to supplement your earnings. Consider a side hustle that complements your existing schedule or investigate legitimate ways to increase your bank account balance.

Cultivate Your Wealth: Time and compound interest are powerful allies in wealth creation. Begin by getting a clear picture of your current financial situation to formulate an effective action plan. Partnering with a financial professional can be a wise decision, especially if you’re looking to ensure a comfortable retirement.

Seize Opportunities: Maximizing benefits, discounts, and money-saving opportunities is key. For car owners, regularly comparing auto insurance rates could lead to significant savings. Conversely, be vigilant about avoiding common money traps that can silently erode your financial well-being.