How to Find Easy Jobs that Pay Well

By Martina Mascali, Monster Contributor

Imagine a job where you're not constantly battling stress and yet, at the end of the month, your bank account smiles back at you. Yes, this is possible. Your quest for easy jobs that pay well is not just a dream, but a very achievable reality!

When we talk about "easy jobs”, we're not suggesting a lack of challenge or growth. Instead, we're focusing on roles that generally require less physical strain, offer lower stress levels, or stick to the sweet spot of standard or flexible working hours. This doesn't mean easy high-paying jobs lack excitement or fulfillment; rather, they strike a delightful balance between your professional and personal life.

Across various sectors, there's a diverse array of roles that fit this appealing description. Whether you're drawn to the creative industry, tech world, healthcare sector, or any other field, there's likely an opportunity waiting for you. Get ready to find a job that not only pays the bills but also brings a sense of ease and joy to your professional life.

Understanding “Easy” Jobs: It's All About Perspective

The term “easy” can be pretty subjective when it comes to jobs. What feels like a breeze to one person might be a challenge to another. It's all about aligning a job with your unique skills, interests, and personal strengths.

Think about it – if you're a tech whiz, a job in IT support might seem easy, while someone with a flair for creativity might find graphic design effortlessly enjoyable. It's essential to remember that “easy” doesn't mean the same thing for everyone. It's about finding that sweet spot where your talents and job requirements meet – that’s why our list of easy jobs that pay well includes a little bit of everything.

Easy to Get Into Vs. Easy to Perform

There's a significant distinction between jobs that are “easy to get into” and those that are “easy to perform”. Identify which type of easy jobs that pay well you're aiming for based on your current qualifications and how much effort you're willing to put in.

  • Some jobs have a low barrier to entry, meaning you won’t need extensive training or education to apply. These positions are “easy to get into”. However, they might not always be “easy to perform”.
  • Other jobs require specific qualifications or training but are relatively less demanding or stressful on a day-to-day basis – these are “easy to perform” jobs.

Aligning Jobs with Lifestyle and Aspirations

One of the keys to job satisfaction is finding a role that aligns well with your lifestyle and career aspirations. Easy jobs that sync with your life goals and daily routine can significantly enhance your overall happiness and sense of fulfillment.

For instance, if work-life balance is your top priority, a nine-to-five job with no overtime might be your definition of easy. If you're looking for a laid-back work environment, a job with a relaxed culture and flexible hours might be what you want. It's all about what fits best with your personal and professional goals.

The Role of Job Satisfaction in Defining “Easy”

Job satisfaction plays a huge role in how we perceive the difficulty of our jobs. A job that leaves you feeling accomplished and valued at the end of the day can feel much easier than one that drains your energy, even if the latter pays more or requires less skill.

This is why it's vital to consider your personal values and interests in your search for easy jobs that pay well. A position that aligns with your passions and values can bring a sense of ease and satisfaction, making your daily tasks feel less like work and more like a natural part of your day.

Remember, the journey to finding an easy, well-paying job is as much about understanding yourself as it is about understanding the job market. Reflect on what makes you tick, consider your lifestyle needs, and then dive into the search with a clear vision.

High Paying Low-Stress Jobs

These high-paying, low-stress jobs might just be the career shift you've been dreaming of. And guess what? Some are among the easiest jobs that pay $100k or more. That's right – earning big doesn't always mean living under constant pressure.

It's important to note that most of these jobs are for college graduates or professionals with quite a few years of experience in their field. However, if you're not a college graduate, don't worry. The next list, focusing on entry-level easy jobs that pay well, offers a broader selection, ensuring there's something for everyone.

1. IT Support Specialist

What you’d do: IT support specialists provide technical support and assistance for computer systems and networks. They troubleshoot issues, maintain hardware and software, and assist users with technology problems.

What you’d need: A bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field. However, some positions may accept an associate degree or relevant certifications.

What you’d make: The salary for IT support specialists in the U.S. ranges from $42,440 to $115,220 per year.

Find IT support specialist jobs on Monster.

2. Art Director

What you’d do: Art directors are responsible for the visual style and images in magazines, newspapers, product packaging, and movie and television productions. They create the overall design and direct others who develop artwork or layouts.

What you’d need: A bachelor’s degree in an art or design subject and extensive experience in the field.

What you’d make: The salary for art directors in the U.S. ranges from $55,299 to $144,463 per year.

Find art director jobs on Monster.

3. Technical Writer

What you’d do: Technical writers develop clear and concise documentation for technical products and services. This includes user manuals, how-to guides, white papers, and product descriptions.

What you’d need: A bachelor's degree in English, communications, or a field related to technical subjects, or a specific industry.

What you’d make: The salary for technical writers in the U.S. ranges from $47,460 to $128,110 per year.

Find technical writer jobs on Monster.

4. Landscape Architect

What you’d do: Landscape architects design outdoor spaces such as parks, gardens, residential areas, and public spaces. They create detailed plans and designs, considering both aesthetics and functionality.

What you’d need: A bachelor’s or master’s degree in landscape architecture. Most states also require a license, which involves passing the Landscape Architect Registration Examination (LARE).

What you’d make: The salary for landscape architects in the U.S. ranges from $42,870 to $121,660 per year.

Find landscape architect jobs on Monster.

5. Actuary

What you’d do: Actuaries analyze the financial costs of risk and uncertainty. They use mathematics, statistics, and financial theory to study uncertain future events, especially those concerned with insurance and pension programs.

What you’d need: A bachelor’s degree, usually in actuarial science, mathematics, or a related field. Actuaries must also pass a series of exams to become certified professionals.

What you’d make: The salary for actuaries in the U.S. ranges from $71,800 to $149,512 per year.

Find actuary jobs on Monster.

6. Librarian

What you’d do: Librarians help people find information and conduct research for personal and professional use. Their job duties may change based on the type of library they work in, such as public, school, and medical libraries.

What you’d need: A master's degree in library science (MLS), often accredited by the American Library Association. In some states, you must also obtain a license.

What you’d make: The salary for librarians in the U.S. ranges from $36,260 to $98,650 per year.

Find librarian jobs on Monster.

7. IT Manager

What you’d do: IT managers plan, coordinate, and direct computer-related activities in an organization. They help determine the information technology goals of an organization and are responsible for implementing computer systems to meet those goals.

What you’d need: A bachelor's degree in computer or information science, and often an MBA with a technology focus. Several years of experience in the field is also typical.

What you’d make: The salary for IT managers in the U.S. ranges from $55,863 to $148,515 per year.

Find IT manager jobs on Monster.

8. Accountant

What you’d do: Accountants prepare and examine financial records, ensure accuracy, and assess financial operations. They provide advice on financial strategies and ensure compliance with laws and regulations.

What you’d need: A bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field. Becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) increases job prospects and might be necessary for some positions.

What you’d make: The salary for accountants in the U.S. ranges from $48,560 to $132,690 per year.

Find accountant jobs on Monster.

9. Chiropractor

What you’d do: Chiropractors focus on diagnosing and treating neuromuscular disorders, primarily through manual adjustment and manipulation of the spine. They aim to reduce pain and improve the functionality of patients.

What you’d need: A Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree, along with a state license to practice.

What you’d make: The salary for chiropractors in the U.S. ranges from $38,170 to $132,630 per year.

Find chiropractor jobs on Monster.

10. Speech-Language Pathologist

What you’d do: Speech-language pathologists assess, diagnose, treat, and help to prevent communication and swallowing disorders in children and adults.

What you’d need: A master’s degree in speech-language pathology, along with state licensure or certification.

What you’d make: The salary for speech-language pathologists in the U.S. ranges from $56,370 to $126,680 per year.

Find speech-language pathologist jobs on Monster.

11. Pharmacist

What you’d do: Pharmacists dispense prescription medications to patients and offer expertise in the safe use of prescriptions. They also provide advice on health topics.

What you’d need: A Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree, along with a license obtained after passing two exams.

What you’d make: The salary for pharmacists in the U.S. ranges from $110,145 to $141,332 per year.

Find pharmacist jobs on Monster.

12. Optometrist

What you’d do: Optometrists examine the eyes and other parts of the visual system, diagnose, and treat visual problems, and manage diseases, injuries, and other disorders of the eyes.

What you’d need: A Doctor of Optometry (O.D.) degree and a state license to practice, which requires passing national and state exams.

What you’d make: The salary for optometrists in the U.S. ranges from $86,663 to $133,239 per year.

Find optometrist jobs on Monster.

13. Political Scientist

What you’d do: Political scientists study the origin, development, and operation of political systems. They research political ideas and analyze governments, policies, political trends, and related issues.

What you’d need: A master’s degree or Ph.D. in political science, public administration, or a related field.

What you’d make: The salary for political scientists in the U.S. ranges from $65,200 to $176,280 per year.

Find political scientist jobs on Monster.

14. Park Ranger

What you’d do: Park rangers protect and manage state and national parks. Their duties include conserving wildlife, enforcing laws, educating the public about natural resources, and conducting search and rescue operations.

What you’d need: A bachelor’s degree in a field such as environmental science, biology, or forestry. Additional training may be needed, depending on the position.

What you’d make: The salary for park rangers in the U.S. ranges from $34,922 to $68,324 per year.

Find park ranger jobs on Monster.

15. Data Scientist

What you’d do: Data scientists analyze and interpret complex digital data to help companies make more informed business decisions. They utilize skills in computer science, statistics, and mathematics to process and analyze data.

What you’d need: A bachelor’s degree in data science, computer science, or a related field. Employers often prefer candidates with advanced degrees.

What you’d make: The salary for data scientists in the U.S. ranges from $96,534 to $162,075 per year.

Find data scientist jobs on Monster.

16. Software Developer

What you’d do: Software developers design, create, and modify computer applications. They analyze user needs and develop software solutions, often improving existing systems to increase efficiency or performance.

What you’d need: A bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field.

What you’d make: The salary for software developers in the U.S. ranges from $90,331 to $147,615 per year.

Find software developer jobs on Monster.

17. Dietitian

What you’d do: Dietitians plan and conduct food service or nutritional programs to assist in the promotion of health and control of diseases. They advise individuals on dietary practices, nutrition, and the relationship between good eating habits and preventing or managing specific diseases.

What you’d need: A bachelor's degree in dietetics, foods and nutrition, clinical nutrition, or a related area. Licensure, certification, or registration requirements vary by state.

What you’d make: The salary for dietitians in the U.S. ranges from $52,617 to $96,072 per year.

Find dietitian jobs on Monster.

18. Mathematician

What you’d do: Mathematicians conduct research to develop and understand mathematical principles. They also analyze data and apply mathematical techniques to solve real-world problems in business, engineering, healthcare, or other fields.

What you’d need: A master's degree in mathematics or statistics is typically the minimum requirement, although some positions are available with a bachelor's degree.

What you’d make: The salary for mathematicians in the U.S. ranges from $81,873 to $131,183 per year.

Find mathematician jobs on Monster.

19. Petroleum Engineer

What you’d do: Petroleum engineers design and develop methods for extracting oil and gas from deposits below the Earth’s surface. They also find new ways to extract oil and gas from older wells.

What you’d need: A bachelor’s degree in petroleum engineering or a related field. Employers also value work experience, so co-op or internship programs in this field are beneficial.

What you’d make: The salary for petroleum engineers in the U.S. ranges from $41,013 to $122,863 per year.

Find petroleum engineer jobs on Monster.

20. Orthodontist

What you’d do: Orthodontists help to correct the alignment of a person's teeth and jaws through prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.

What you’d need: In addition to a bachelor’s degree, you’ll need a dental degree (DDS or DMD) and a certificate of orthodontics obtained through residency.

What you’d make: The salary for orthodontists in the U.S. ranges from $41,532 to $292,887 per year.

Find orthodontist jobs on Monster.

21. Occupational Therapist

What you’d do: Occupational therapists treat injured, ill, or disabled patients through the therapeutic use of everyday activities. They help these patients develop, recover, improve, as well as maintain the skills needed for daily living and working.

What you’d need: A master's degree in occupational therapy and a license, which requires passing the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy exam.

What you’d make: The salary for occupational therapists in the U.S. ranges from $63,320 to $123,870 per year.

Find occupational therapist jobs on Monster.

High Paying Entry-Level Jobs

Easy jobs that pay well are not just for college graduates or professionals with many years of experience. Here is a selection of easy high-paying jobs that typically only require a high school diploma or equivalent, along with your dedication to undergo training and acquire skills through on-the-job learning.

1. Data Entry Clerk

What you’d do: Data entry clerks input information into databases and maintain accurate records. Their responsibilities include typing, proofreading, and editing data, as well as organizing files and collecting data for entry.

What you’d need: A high school diploma or equivalent. Key skills include fast typing, attention to detail, and familiarity with data entry software.

What you’d make: The salary for data entry clerks in the U.S. ranges from $15.05 to $20.26 per hour.

Find data entry clerk jobs on Monster.

2. Babysitter/Nanny

What you’d do: Babysitters and nannies provide childcare in the absence of parents or guardians. This includes feeding, bathing, and supervising children, as well as creating activities and routines.

What you’d need: No formal education is required, but employers often prefer candidates with CPR and first aid certification. Experience with children is also a key factor.

What you’d make: The salary for babysitters and nannies in the U.S. ranges from $12.16 to $22.32 per hour.

Find nanny jobs and babysitter jobs on Monster.

3. Virtual Assistant

What you’d do: Virtual assistants provide administrative support to businesses from a remote location. This can include responding to emails, managing calendars, entering data, and assisting with a variety of administrative tasks.

What you’d need: A high school diploma or equivalent; additional qualifications such as a bachelor's degree can be beneficial. Key skills include proficiency in various office software, communication skills, and organizational abilities.

What you’d make: The salary for virtual assistants in the U.S. ranges from $32,585 to $50,253 per year.

Find virtual assistant jobs on Monster.

4. Pet sitter

What you’d do: Pet sitters take care of animals while their owners are away. Duties include feeding, walking, administering medication, and providing companionship.

What you’d need: No formal education is required, but a love for animals and experience in pet care are essential. CPR and first aid for pets can also be beneficial.

What you’d make: The salary for pet sitters in the U.S. ranges from $24,320 to $47,895 per year.

Find pet sitter jobs on Monster.

5. Massage Therapist

What you’d do: Massage therapists treat clients by using touch to manipulate the muscles and other soft tissues of the body. They relieve pain, help heal injuries, improve circulation, relieve stress, increase relaxation, and aid in the general wellness of clients.

What you’d need: A postsecondary non-degree award. States have varying licensure or certification requirements.

What you’d make: The salary for massage therapists in the U.S. ranges from $13.96 to $43.52 per hour.

Find massage therapist jobs on Monster.

6. Customer Service Representative

What you’d do: Customer service representatives interact with customers to handle complaints, process orders, and provide information about an organization’s products and services.

What you’d need: A high school diploma or equivalent. Good communication and problem-solving skills are essential.

What you’d make: The salary for customer service representatives in the U.S. ranges from $28,420 to $58,155 per year.

Find customer service representative jobs on Monster.

7. Health Coach

What you’d do: Health coaches help clients make positive and lasting changes to their health. They guide clients through the process of creating a vision for their health and well-being, developing a healthy mindset and habits, and encouraging them every step of the way.

What you’d need: A high school diploma or equivalent; employers often prefer candidates with additional certification from health coaching programs.

What you’d make: The salary for health coaches in the U.S. ranges from $29,295 to $71,946 per year.

Find health coach jobs on Monster.

8. Truck Driver

What you’d do: Truck drivers transport goods from one location to another. They are responsible for driving long distances, ensuring cargo safety, maintaining logs of their travel, and complying with traffic laws.

What you’d need: A high school diploma or equivalent, along with a commercial driver's license (CDL). Specialized training is also required for different types of cargo.

What you’d make: The salary for truck drivers in the U.S. ranges from $46,652 to $72,278 per year.

Find truck driver jobs on Monster.

9. Landscape worker

What you’d do: Landscape workers or laborers are responsible for the installation and maintenance of gardens, lawns, shrubs, plants, and trees. They typically work for landscape design companies, public parks, and private clients.

What you’d need: No formal education is required, but experience in landscaping and knowledge of plants can be beneficial.

What you’d make: The salary for landscape workers in the U.S. ranges from $14.57 to $20.56 per hour.

Find landscape worker jobs on Monster.

10. Orthodontist Assistant

What you’d do: Orthodontic assistants prepare and organize dental instruments, assist during procedures, provide patient care, and maintain records.

What you’d need: A high school diploma or equivalent. Some states require certification or registration, which involves completing an accredited program and passing an exam.

What you’d make: The salary for orthodontist assistants in the U.S. ranges from $15.12 to $28.46 per hour.

Find orthodontic assistant jobs on Monster.

11. Medical Coder

What you’d do: Medical coders convert healthcare diagnoses, procedures, medical services, and equipment into universal medical alphanumeric codes.

What you’d need: A high school diploma or equivalent, along with a professional certification in medical coding from organizations such as AAPC or AHIMA.

What you’d make: The salary for medical coders in the U.S. ranges from $19.83 to $32.69 per hour.

Find medical coder jobs on Monster.

12. Electrician

What you’d do: Electricians are experts in wiring homes, businesses, and other buildings. They ensure that electricity flows safely and efficiently. Their work includes installing new electrical systems, troubleshooting issues, and updating old wiring.

What you’d need: A high school diploma or equivalent, followed by an apprenticeship program. In most states, you must also obtain a license.

What you’d make: The salary for electricians in the U.S. ranges from $37,440 to $102,300 per year.

Find electrician jobs on Monster.

13. Plumber

What you’d do: Plumbers are the go-to professionals for any water, drainage, or piping issues. They install and repair pipes, fixtures, and other plumbing equipment in buildings and homes, ensuring that water flows smoothly and efficiently.

What you’d need: Most plumbers learn their trade through a four- to five-year apprenticeship. However, you need a high school diploma or equivalent to enter an apprenticeship program.

What you’d make: The salary for plumbers in the U.S. ranges from $37,250 to $101,190 per year.

Find plumber jobs on Monster.

14. Real Estate Agent

What you’d do: Real estate agents are the matchmakers of the property world, connecting buyers with their dream homes and helping sellers find the right buyers. They guide clients through the complexities of real estate transactions, from showing properties to negotiating deals.

What you’d need: A high school diploma or equivalent and real estate courses. Real estate agents must obtain a license in the state they work in.

What you’d make: The salary for real estate agents in the U.S. ranges from $29,130 to $113,320 per year.

Find real estate agent jobs on Monster.

15. Railroad Conductor

What you’d do: Railroad conductors are the orchestrators of the railway, ensuring that freight and passenger trains operate safely and punctually. They oversee the train crew, manage cargo, and maintain communication with dispatch and control centers.

What you’d need: A high school diploma or equivalent, along with several months of on-the-job training.

What you’d make: The salary for railroad conductors in the U.S. ranges from $49,630 to $76,717 per year.

Find railroad conductor jobs on Monster.

16. Flight Attendant

What you’d do: Flight attendants are the face of the airline in the skies, providing hospitality and ensuring passenger safety. They assist with boarding, explain safety procedures, and offer food and beverages, all while ensuring a comfortable flying experience.

What you’d need: A high school diploma is typically sufficient; however, some employers prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree. Flight attendants receive training from their employers.

What you’d make: The salary for flight attendants in the U.S. ranges from $37,690 to $97,170 per year.

Find flight attendant jobs on Monster.

17. Postal Service Mail Carrier

What you’d do: Postal service mail carriers are the reliable links in the chain of communication. They diligently deliver letters and packages to residences and businesses, braving various weather conditions and ensuring timely delivery.

What you’d need: A high school diploma or equivalent. Postal service workers must pass a written exam and meet physical and background check requirements.

What you’d make: The salary for postal service workers in the U.S. ranges from $19.06 to $34.30 per hour.

Find post office jobs on Monster.

18. Wind Turbine Technician

What you’d do: Wind turbine technicians are the caretakers of renewable energy, maintaining and repairing wind turbines. They work on these towering structures, ensuring they operate efficiently to harness wind power for energy production.

What you’d need: Most wind turbine technicians complete a technical training program, which typically lasts two years.

What you’d make: The salary for wind turbine technicians in the U.S. ranges from $20.99 to $33.11 per hour.

Find wind turbine technician jobs on Monster.

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