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What Is an Associate Degree?

An associate is a two-year college degree offered at most community colleges, technical colleges, vocational schools, and some four-year universities. An associate degree is often a more affordable option than a bachelor’s degree, as it takes less time to complete.

Students can typically transfer credits earned in an associate program towards a bachelor’s degree program, but you can find rewarding associate degree jobs in a wide array of industries. Have you ever thought about being an allergy technician? Architectural technician? How about a crop production specialist?

Many associate degree jobs have a short payback timeframe of only two years due to a high median salary and a substantially lower tuition rate than a bachelor’s degree. You can launch a lucrative career with this two-year college degree, sometimes even making more money than workers with a bachelor’s degree.

Below, we will discuss some of the best associate degrees for high-salary career paths. Some of the jobs in the list don’t require an associate degree, but having one provides an edge on the competition.

List of Associate Degree Jobs

We placed the jobs in alphabetical order.

Based on 2018 salary data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Advertising Sales Agent

The work of advertising sales agents envelopes today’s world. Work in the dynamic media industry, using your communications skills to sell advertising space, time or media in television, radio, publications or on the Internet.

Advertising Sales Agent Education:

Associate in Marketing degree

Associate in Marketing degree Average Advertising Sales Agent Salary:

$45,830

Air Traffic Controller

Most people have the impression a pilot controls the airplane, but air traffic controllers know better. Communicating to pilots from towers on the ground, air traffic controllers provide and relay pivotal information and directions to pilots to ensure a safe and effective flight for hundreds of pilots and thousands of airline passengers each day.

Air Traffic Controller Education:

Associate in Air Traffic Control degree or Bachelor’s in Aeronautics & Aviation

Associate in Air Traffic Control degree or Bachelor’s in Aeronautics & Aviation Average Air Traffic Controller Salary:

$82,713

Allergy Technician

Allergies affect people ranging from mild annoyance to life threatening; allergy technicians are the faces of hope, sympathy, and kindness as they assist patients and doctors through the allergen testing process. Allergy technicians perform tasks ranging from paperwork, to blood draws, to interactions with patients.

Allergy Technician Education:

Associate in Medical Technology degree, Associate in Healthcare Technology degree, or Associate in Medical Assisting

Associate in Medical Technology degree, Associate in Healthcare Technology degree, or Associate in Medical Assisting Average Allergy Technician Salary:

$34,000

Architectural Drafter

Architects are the structural creative visionaries, but it’s the architectural drafters who actually draw the vision’s specifics, so others can bring the vision to fruition. Construction workers use the architectural drafter’s drawings to build the structure, so extreme attention to detail is an absolute must in this profession.

Architectural Drafter Education:

Associate in Architectural Drafting degree

Associate in Architectural Drafting degree Average Architectural Drafter Salary:

$43,236

Architectural Technician

Architects may get all the glory, but they wouldn’t get very far without the architectural technicians. Once an architect creates a design, the architectural technician transforms it into a workable project through developing and drawing up a set of construction drawings.

Architectural Technician Education:

Associate in Architectural Technology degree

Associate in Architectural Technology degree Average Architectural Technician Salary:

$48,990

Audio & Video Equipment Technician

Due to employees working from various locations across the country or the world, businesses often hold meetings via computers. Companies increasingly rely on audio & video equipment technicians to keep meetings and presentations running smoothly. Audio & video equipment technicians provide the necessary technical support to help businesses communicate effectively.

Audio & Video Equipment Technician Education:

Associate degree in Audio Production and Engineering degree

Associate degree in Audio Production and Engineering degree Average Audio & Video Equipment Technician Salary:

$47,332

Avionics Technician

Avionics technicians are the grease keeping aircraft working smoothly and safely. Avionic technicians may specialize in a specific aspect of avionic systems, as these systems run everything from communication, navigations, flight control, and life-support for aircraft.

Avionics Technician Education:

Associate in Aviation Maintenance Technology degree or Bachelor’s in Aeronautics & Aviation

Associate in Aviation Maintenance Technology degree or Bachelor’s in Aeronautics & Aviation Average Avionics Technician Salary:

$47,537

Biomedical Technician

Medical equipment can help save lives, but only if it’s working properly; in this sense, biomedical technicians can help save lives without having to endure years of school and residency. Medical equipment varies vastly in technicality, so biomedical technicians must understand how to use a large range of tools and perform a diverse array of tasks.

Biomedical Technician Education:

Associate degree in Biomedical Technology or an Associate degree in Biomedical Engineering

Associate degree in Biomedical Technology or an Associate degree in Biomedical Engineering Average Biomedical Technician Salary:

$48,792

Broadcast Technician

The work of the broadcast technicians truly brings the evening news to us; they operate the cameras and related equipment during broadcasts. Broadcast technicians plan ahead for all foreseeable issues and react and problem solve quickly, as they often operate live broadcasts.

Broadcast Technician Education:

Associate degree of Applied Science in Broadcast Technology

Associate degree of Applied Science in Broadcast Technology Average Broadcast Technician Salary:

$42,257

CAD Technician

CAD technicians bring architecture and structural projects closer to reality through translating a vision or plan into specific graphical drawings through computer drawing programs. A CAD technician’s drawings bridge the gap between architects, investors, and construction workers all working toward bringing a vision to reality.

CAD Technician Education:

Associate degree of Applied Science in Computer-aided Design Technology or Associate degree in Information Technology

Associate degree of Applied Science in Computer-aided Design Technology or Associate degree in Information Technology Average CAD Technician Salary:

$40,095

Cardiac Catheterization Technician

Doctors perform the diagnosing and direct interaction with patients, but the cardiac catheterization technicians test and operate the equipment and systems which test patients for diagnostic purposes.

Cardiac Catheterization Technician Education:

Associate in Invasive Cardiovascular Technology degree

Associate in Invasive Cardiovascular Technology degree Average Cardiac Catheterization Technician Salary:

$62,201

Cardiopulmonary Technologist

A cardiopulmonary technologist, a vital part of any cardiopulmonary team, works directly with patients and doctors to manage or resolve cardiopulmonary irregularities. Cardiopulmonary technologists do everything from collecting patient history and paperwork, to performing cardiopulmonary procedures – both invasive and non-invasive.

Cardiopulmonary Technologist Education:

Associate in Science degree in Cardiopulmonary Technology or Associate in Medical Assisting

Associate in Science degree in Cardiopulmonary Technology or Associate in Medical Assisting Average Cardiopulmonary Technologist Salary:

$52,691

Cardiovascular Physical Therapy Assistant

Just about everyone benefits from an assistant, even physical therapists. Cardiovascular physical therapy assistants work under the direction of cardiovascular physical therapists to help patients recover from or live with respiratory issues such as asthma or infections, or even prepare for respiratory-related surgeries.

Cardiovascular Physical Therapy Assistant Education:

Associate degree in Physical Therapy, Associate degree in Cardiovascular Technology, or Associate in Medical Assisting

Associate degree in Physical Therapy, Associate degree in Cardiovascular Technology, or Associate in Medical Assisting Average Cardiovascular Physical Therapy Assistant Salary:

$48,724

Cardiovascular Technologist

Many professionals work together to help people with heart and other cardiovascular problems, including cardiovascular technologists. Cardiovascular technologists assist physicians and cardiologists in procedures and with analyzing test results related to heart and blood vessels.

Cardiovascular Technologist Education:

Associate in Science in Cardiovascular Technology degree or Associate in Medical Assisting

Associate in Science in Cardiovascular Technology degree or Associate in Medical Assisting Average Cardiovascular Technologist Salary:

$52,691

Chef

Food is the tie that binds all humans together, and chefs wear this understanding and weight on their shoulders every day. This profession is not for the weak-willed, as it requires an ironclad work ethic, long hours, and working holidays; however, it’s also highly rewarding for those who enjoy constant innovation, creativity, and bringing smiles to people’s faces daily.

Chef Education:

Associate degree in Culinary Arts

Associate degree in Culinary Arts Average Chef Salary:

$41,538

Chemical Technician

We are surrounded by chemicals daily, whether it’s our cleaning products, food preservatives, hygiene products, or medicine; they’re everywhere. Chemical technicians assist chemists and chemical engineers in developing, testing, and producing chemicals for a variety of fields. This is a highly transferable skill set.

Chemical Technician Education:

Associate degree in Applied Science or an Associate degree in Chemical Technology

Associate degree in Applied Science or an Associate degree in Chemical Technology Average Chemical Technician Salary:

$44,856

Childcare Center Director

Although their business is the care of children, childcare center directors are often not the primary caretaker for the children; rather, the childcare center director focuses on duties such as recruiting new families, addressing parents' concerns, collecting payments, and managing staff members.

Childcare Center Director Education:

Associate degree in Early Childhood Education

Associate degree in Early Childhood Education Average Childcare Center Director Salary:

$38,995

Civil Drafter

Most people take large-scale projects such as highways, city sewer piping, and oil pipelines for granted, but it’s the work of civil drafters which allows these types of projects to come to fruition. Civil drafters hand-draw and utilize computer-aided design and drafting programs to create drawings, maps, and blueprints for large projects.

Civil Drafter Education:

Associate in Applied Science Drafting degree

Associate in Applied Science Drafting degree Average Civil Drafter Salary:

$46,176

Civil Engineering Technician

The world is in a state of constant demolition and rebuilding, as humans' needs change and evolve. Civil engineering technicians greatly contribute to our success as a society through working with civil engineers in planning and creating necessary structures ranging from buildings, to bridges, to sewage systems.

Civil Engineering Technician Education:

Associate degree in Civil Engineering Technology

Associate degree in Civil Engineering Technology Average Civil Engineering Technician Salary:

$51,398

Clinical Social Work Aide

For some individuals, helping people through the toughest times in their lives is worth much more than a pay check; clinical social work aides work directly with clients, under the supervision of a licensed social worker, to educate them on available options relevant to their unique situation and help clients create plans to get back on their feet.

Clinical Social Work Aide Education:

Associate in Human Service degree

Associate in Human Service degree Average Clinical Social Work Aide Salary:

$32,160

Community Service Specialist

Although community service specialists work in a large variety of organizations, one aspect of the job is always the same – they work directly with people, creating and fostering relationships between their business and others. Community service specialists focus on increasing quality of life for those who may need assistance, such as elderly, disabled, or children.

Community Service Specialist Education:

Associate in Human Services degree

Associate in Human Services degree Average Community Service Specialist Salary:

$32,967

Computer Forensics Specialist

In most of the cop shows, the computer forensics specialist has the most interesting-yet-non-life-threatening job. A computer forensics specialist receives and analyzes evidence of a crime scene, develops an educated hypothesis, and reports back to the investigators or court. Workers in this field can earn an annual average salary that is around $19,000 greater than the national mean wage, making this one of the best associate degrees for professionals seeking immediate entry into a high-paying career.

Computer Forensics Specialist Education:

Associate in Computer Forensics degree

Associate in Computer Forensics degree Average Computer Forensics Specialist Salary:

$70,035

Computer Network Technician

Modern businesses run on computer networks, so someone has to have the responsibility for building, testing, and trouble-shooting them. Computer network technicians do all this for any kind of network, ranging from local area network (LANs) to Wide Area Networks (WANs), and Intranets.

Computer Network Technician Education:

Associate in Computer Science degree, an Associate in Computer Information Science degree, an Associate of Computer Engineering Technology degree, an Associate in Information Technology, or an Associate in Network Security degree

Associate in Computer Science degree, an Associate in Computer Information Science degree, an Associate of Computer Engineering Technology degree, an Associate in Information Technology, or an Associate in Network Security degree Average Computer Network Technician Salary:

$44,567

Computer Maintenance Technician

Being an IT guy has become a lot cooler over the past decade. Computer maintenance technicians are the individuals business employees turn to help with computer-related problems, as computer network technicians build, trouble-shoot, and maintain computer and hardware systems.

Computer Maintenance Technician Education:

Associate degree in Computer Maintenance and Networking, an Associate in Information Technology, or an Associate in Network Security degree

Associate degree in Computer Maintenance and Networking, an Associate in Information Technology, or an Associate in Network Security degree Average Computer Maintenance Technician Salary:

$42,629

Computer Support Specialist

Anyone who has ever experienced computer trouble at some point can speak of the importance and appreciation of the computer support specialist. Computer support specialists work directly with people to find a fast and efficient solution to a computer problem.

Computer Support Specialist Education:

Associate in Computer Science degree or Associate in Information Technology degree

Associate in Computer Science degree or Associate in Information Technology degree Average Computer Support Specialist Salary:

$43,921

Court Reporter

Court reporters aren’t allowed to have an ‘off' day; what they record in courtrooms and legal meetings become ‘the record' and could affect the future of the trial. Court reporters are responsible for accurately documents everything said in a trial or legal meeting.

Court Reporter Education:

Associate degree in Court Reporting

Associate degree in Court Reporting Average Court Reporter Salary:

$49,194

Crop Production Specialist

The world always need food, so a crop production specialists will always be important contributing members of society. Crop production specialists may specialize in specific crops and they’re expected to understand all aspects of producing successful outcomes for a crop or crops.

Crop Production Specialist Education:

Agriscience Technician Associate degree

Agriscience Technician Associate degree Average Crop Production Specialist Salary:

$53,000

Customer Service Supervisor

Good customer service requires the patience of a loving parent, a thick skin, and genuine care for others. A customer service supervisor oversees customer service representatives as well as works with upper management to help set and reach company goals.

Customer Service Supervisor Education:

Associate degree in Business or an Associate in degree in Business Administration

Associate degree in Business or an Associate in degree in Business Administration Average Customer Service Supervisor Salary:

$48,420

Dental Hygienist

It’s possible to make a significant difference in someone’s life via their teeth and mouth without having to endure eight years of dental school. Dental hygienists clean teeth, educate people on oral care, and search for signs of oral diseases such as gingivitis. Often times, they spend more time directly with the patients than the dentist.

Dental Hygienist Education:

Associate in Dental Hygienist degree

Associate in Dental Hygienist degree Average Dental Hygienist Salary:

$54,243

Desktop Publisher

A skilled desktop publisher can draw people into a specific company through clever and appealing design and information. Desktop publishers create page layouts and written content for print and computers.

Desktop Publisher Education:

Associate in Graphic Arts degree, an Associate in Graphic Communications degree or an Associate in Graphic Design degree

Associate in Graphic Arts degree, an Associate in Graphic Communications degree or an Associate in Graphic Design degree Average Desktop Publisher Salary:

$48,979

Diagnostic Medical Sonographer

Diagnostic medical sonographers work directly with patients as well as senior medical staff. Utilizing sonography equipment, diagnostic medical sonographers find and capture images which help doctors make diagnoses.

Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Education:

Associate of Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (Ultrasound) degree

Associate of Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (Ultrasound) degree Average Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Salary:

$52,567

Dietetic Technician

While working alongside a dietician, a dietetic technician works with clients on a variety of dietary issues and may create meal plans to accommodate specific dietary goals or restrictions. Dietetic technicians help turn a client’s life around and increase quality of life through changes in food.

Dietetic Technician Education:

Associate of Applied Science Dietetic Technician degree or an Associate of Science in Dietetic Technology degree

Associate of Applied Science Dietetic Technician degree or an Associate of Science in Dietetic Technology degree Average Dietetic Technician Salary:

$37,302

Electrical Drafter

People living in first world countries often take electricity for granted, but it takes a significant amount of work and planning to get electricity to rooms and machines in businesses at the flick of a switch. Electrical drafters, a primary reason electrical issues run smoothly for businesses, develop diagrams for wiring, circuit boards, and electrical equipment.

Electrical Drafter Education:

Associate in Design and Drafting Engineering Technology degree or Associate in Computer-Aided Drafting & Design degree

Associate in Design and Drafting Engineering Technology degree or Associate in Computer-Aided Drafting & Design degree Average Electrical Drafter Salary:

$48,027

Electrical Engineering Technician

Electrical engineering technicians have the ‘power' of many companies in their hands. Electrical engineering technicians assist electrical engineers in installing, testing, and monitoring all things electrical for a variety of businesses.

Electrical engineering technician education:

Associate degree in Electrical Engineering Technology or consider a Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering degree

Average electrical engineering technician salary: $56,000

Electro-mechanical Technician

Electro-mechanical technicians, the Ironmen of the electrical and mechanical fields, regularly work with a variety of tools on large electrical and hydraulic machines on vessels such as oil rigs and submarines. This is one technician you don’t want to mess with!

Electro-mechanical Technician Education:

Associate degree in Electronic Technology or Associate degree in Mechanical Technology

Associate degree in Electronic Technology or Associate degree in Mechanical Technology Average Electro-mechanical Technician Salary:

$51,696

Environmental Engineering Technician

The environment has one more reason to hope for a cleaner and healthier future with each new environmental engineering technician who enters the field. These individuals carry out plans developed by environmental engineers with the intention of bettering the environment.

Environmental Engineering Technician Education:

Associate degree in Environmental Engineering Technology

Associate degree in Environmental Engineering Technology Average Environmental Engineering Technician Salary:

$49,723

Environmental Science and Protection Technician

Environmental science and protection technicians aren’t afraid to get their hands and knees dirty to perform field and laboratory tests. They know someone has to do it, and the health of the environment and how it affects public health gives them motivation.

Environmental Science and Protection Technician Education:

Associate degree in Environmental Science or Associate degree in Environmental Health

Associate degree in Environmental Science or Associate degree in Environmental Health Average Environmental Science and Protection Technician Salary:

$45,000

Executive Administrative Assistant

Not your average assistant, an executive administrative assistant works for the top-tier executives. They’re expected to provide input, creativity, and problem-solving skills in addition to traditional clerical work.

Executive Administrative Assistant Education:

Associate in Administrative Technology degree or an Associate in Office Technology degree or an Associate in Administrative Assisting degree

Associate in Administrative Technology degree or an Associate in Office Technology degree or an Associate in Administrative Assisting degree Average Executive Administrative Assistant Salary:

$49,256

Family Service Assistant

Every parent probably wishes they had a family service assistant at some point. A family service assistant performs nanny-like duties by helping with childcare as well as pitching in heavily with the housecleaning. They’re likely a lot of bonus hugs of gratitude – from the parents and children alike – in this position.

Family Service Assistant Education Requirements:

Associate in Human Services degree

Associate in Human Services degree Average Family Service Assistant Salary:

$32,109

Fashion Buyer

A savvy store fashion buyer can place an imminent hole in your wallet. Fashion buyers study sales reports and fashion trends to determine what clothing to carry, the sales price, when to mark merchandise down, and when to make new inventory orders. Workers in this field can earn an annual average salary that is almost $20,000 greater than the national mean wage, giving this two-year college degree an especially high ROI.

Fashion Buyer Education:

Associate degree in Fashion Merchandising

Associate degree in Fashion Merchandising Average Fashion Buyer Salary:

$67,407

Fashion Designer

It’s easy to have an opinion about fashions and trends, but it’s entirely different to be the person creating them. Fashion designers channel their creativity into designing clothing, shoes, and accessories.

Fashion Designer Education Requirements:

Associate degree in Fashion Design

Associate degree in Fashion Design Average Fashion Designer Salary:

$62,635

Fitness Instructor

Motivating and educating people on personal fitness is no easy task; this job sees plenty of failure, but fitness instructors also reap the unique benefits of watching people transform attitudes, bodies, and lives for the better. Fitness instructors may lead group fitness activities or work with individuals on reaching specific health goals.

Fitness Instructor Education:

Associate degree in Exercise Science or an Associate degree in Kinesiology or an Associate degree in Physical Education

Associate degree in Exercise Science or an Associate degree in Kinesiology or an Associate degree in Physical Education Average Fitness Instructor Salary:

$36,079

Food Science Technician

Food and agriculture is arguably one of the most important industries on earth; food science technicians play an important role in it. Food science technicians constantly measure, test, and analyze food and agriculture to help keep our food safe and healthy.

Food Science Technician Education:

Associate in Food Safety degree or an Associate in Biology degree

Associate in Food Safety degree or an Associate in Biology degree Average Food Science Technician Salary:

N/A

Food Service Manager

Food service is a highly competitive field, with customers having more options than they know what to do with; this makes the food service manager’s dedication to and skill at their job vital to the success of the business as a whole. Food service managers deal with everything from customer relations, to food quality, to staff management.

Food Service Manager Education:

Associate in Science in Foodservice Management degree or an Associate in Science in Restaurant & Food Services Management degree

Associate in Science in Foodservice Management degree or an Associate in Science in Restaurant & Food Services Management degree Average Food Service Manager Salary:

$43,297

Forest Technician

Forestland is not only vital to keeping earth’s environment healthy and viable, forestland is an ideal location for relaxation and fun. Forest technicians work tirelessly to improve the quality of forestland.

Forest Technician Education:

Associate in Forestry Technology degree

Associate in Forestry Technology degree Average Forest Technician Salary:

$34,910

Greenhouse Manager

A greenhouse manager must perform the tricky balancing act between thousands of different plant species' specific growing needs and what the general public is looking to buy at any given season. Greenhouse managers also oversee the greenhouse staff and regularly interact with customers to answer specific questions and accommodate requests.

Greenhouse Manager Education:

Associate in Landscape and Ornamental Horticulture degree

Associate in Landscape and Ornamental Horticulture degree Average Greenhouse Manager Salary:

$36,283

Health Information Technician

Most people take for granted their health information is organized, accurate, and up-to-date; but this doesn’t happen without health information technicians. Increasingly, health information technicians deal with electronic records. They also focus on security of records.

Health Information Technician Education:

Associate degree in Health Information Technology

Associate degree in Health Information Technology Average Health Information Salary:

$51,000

Horticulture Salesperson

In order to sell food and plants, a person must be extraordinarily knowledgeable about it himself. Horticulture salespersons obtain and manage sales agreements for large-scale orders of fruit, vegetables, flowers, and ornamental plants.

Horticulture Salesperson Education:

Associate degree in Landscape and Ornamental Horticulture

Associate degree in Landscape and Ornamental Horticulture Average Horticulture Salesperson Salary:

N/A

Human Resources Assistant

One of the most important resources in a business is the human resource assistant; they’re the friendly face employees turn to with a variety of questions and requests. A human resources assistant must communicate effectively with people.

Human Resource Assistant Education:

Associate degree in Human Resource Management

Associate degree in Human Resource Management Average Human Resource Assistant Salary:

$39,143

Human Service Assistant

Human service assistants are some of the good people in this world who help revive hope in humanity. They offer genuine care, assistance, and education of available community services and benefits for people truly in a time of need.

Human Service Assistant Education:

Associate in Human Services degree or consider a Bachelor’s in Human Services degree

Associate in Human Services degree or consider a Bachelor’s in Human Services degree Average Human Service Assistant Salary:

32,379

Hydroelectric Plant Technician

Hydroelectricity is a luxury we often take for granted, and hydroelectric plant technicians doing their job to keep the plant working smoothly is a large reason we don’t have to think about it daily. Hydroelectric plant technicians perform regular maintenance and trouble-shooting on the machines and systems at a hydroelectric plant to ensure everything continues in working order.

Hydroelectric Plant Technician Education:

Associate in Engineering Technology degree or an Industrial Engineering Technician degree, or an Associate of Industrial Engineering Technology degree

Associate in Engineering Technology degree or an Industrial Engineering Technician degree, or an Associate of Industrial Engineering Technology degree Average Hydroelectric Plant Technician Salary:

$59,515

Information Systems Security Technician

As the world becomes increasingly electronic, people want to know their information is secure. Information systems security technicians utilize security practices and principles in creating, testing, and analyzing information systems to ensure their safety and security to everyone affected.

Information Systems Security Technician Education:

Associate in Applied Science in Information Systems Security degree or an Associate in Network Security degree

Associate in Applied Science in Information Systems Security degree or an Associate in Network Security degree Average Information Systems Security Technician Salary:

N/A

Landscape Technician

Landscape technicians make areas more appealing through the introduction of more nature. Landscape technicians use their extensive knowledge about plants, soils, and growth patterns to design and implement plants, trees, shrubs, and other foliage in areas ranging from personal gardens to the land surrounding office buildings.

Landscape Technician Education:

Associate in Landscape and Ornamental Horticulture degree

Associate in Landscape and Ornamental Horticulture degree Average Landscape Technician Education Salary:

$54,000

Library Technician

Books are one of the longest enduring human art forms. Library technicians get to work with books daily, organizing, shelving, and even recommending books to library visitors.

Library Technician Education:

Associate degree in Library Technology

Associate degree in Library Technology Average Library Technician Salary:

$35,154

Livestock Technician

Imagine wrangling, keeping track of, and caring for hundreds of animals every day. No, this isn’t a metaphor for a day care center, we’re talking about what livestock technicians do every day. These individuals are responsible for either administering, organizing, or monitoring all aspects of daily care for livestock.

Livestock Management Technician Education:

Agriscience Technician Associate degree

Agriscience Technician Associate degree Average Livestock Management Technician Salary:

N/A

Lodging Manager

Being responsible for someone’s home-away-from-home, whether they are traveling for pleasure or business, is a large responsibility, but it’s essentially the job of a lodging manager. Lodging managers often go above and beyond the everyday expectations of people in order to ensure they have an enjoyable time.

Lodging Manager Education:

Associate in Hospitality Management degree

Associate in Hospitality Management degree Average Lodging Manager Salary:

$47,192

Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist

It’s intimidating enough just being the patient who must get into the MRI machine, but then someone needs to know how to actually run it! The magnetic resonance imaging technologist, the professional behind the MRI controls, guides patients along through the process, controlling the machine, and recording the results for a physician to analyze and interpret.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Education:

Associate of Applied Science in Magnetic Resonance Imaging degree

Associate of Applied Science in Magnetic Resonance Imaging degree Average Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary:

$63,305

Manufacturing Production Technician

If Santa’s elves wanted jobs in the real world, they would make excellent manufacturing production technicians. Millions of today’s goods, from toys to electronics, are manufactured through machines run by manufacturing production technicians. A manufacturing production technician must learn to operate, troubleshoot, and maintain their machine.

Manufacturing Production Technician Education:

An Associate in Manufacturing Technology degree or an Associate of Applied Science in Manufacturing, Production and Operations degree

An Associate in Manufacturing Technology degree or an Associate of Applied Science in Manufacturing, Production and Operations degree Average Manufacturing Production Technician Salary:

$51,175

Mapping Technician

Although we all use maps, it’s not often we consider the work and experience that went into creating them. Mapping technicians work in all types of weather and environments to assist surveyors and cartographers to collect data used for creating maps.

Mapping Technician Education:

Associate degree in Geomatics

Associate degree in Geomatics Average Mapping Technician Salary:

$41,172

Mechanical Drafter

The more technical and involved a machine is, the more vital a mechanical drafter’s work is. Mechanical drafters create diagrams of machines showing how they are built, where moving parts are located and the measurements and dimensions of all pieces. Their work is necessary for machine maintenance, repair, and replacement.

Mechanical Drafter Education:

Associate of Science in Mechanical Drafting and Design Technology degree or an Associate of Science in Drafting degree

Associate of Science in Mechanical Drafting and Design Technology degree or an Associate of Science in Drafting degree Average Mechanical Drafter Salary:

$45,437

Mechanical Engineering Technician

To a mechanically-inclined individual, a job as a mechanical engineering technician is similar to going to work to play every day. Mechanical engineering technicians work alongside mechanical engineers to design, build, and test mechanical devices of all sizes and purposes.

Mechanical Engineering Technician Education:

Associate degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology

Associate degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology Average Mechanical Engineering Technician Salary:

$51,154

Medical Assistant

Jobs in the medical field may vary drastically, but most of them require a medical assistant. Medical assistants may select a speciality to work in. Common duties of a medical assistant range from paperwork, to collecting medical history from patients, to helping with some medical procedures.

Medical assistant education: Associate in Science in Medical Assisting degree

Average medical assistant salary:

$30,683

Medical Equipment Repairer

They’re often overlooked, but they’re essential workers in the healthcare industry. Medical equipment repairers keep diagnostic equipment, patient monitors, wheelchairs and other equipment functioning. These individuals install, inspect, maintain, and fix the equipment used to help improve health and save lives.

Medical Equipment Repairer Education:

Associate degree in Biomedical Equipment Technology or an Associate degree in Engineering

Associate degree in Biomedical Equipment Technology or an Associate degree in Engineering Average Medical Equipment Repairer Salary:

$50,146

Medical Laboratory Technician

The human body is one of the most studied things on earth, yet it still holds numerous mysteries. Medical laboratory technicians are some of the individuals seeking answers and explanations for those mysteries through collecting, studying, and analyzing bodily fluids in a scientific matter.

Medical Laboratory Technician Education:

Associate in Applied Science in Medical Laboratory Science degree

Associate in Applied Science in Medical Laboratory Science degree Average Medical Laboratory Technician Salary:

$40,001

Neurodiagnostic Technologist

The human brain is simultaneously the most powerful, most fragile, and least understood matter on this planet. Neurodiagnostic technologists take this challenge head on and diagnose and study neurological disorders through the use of science and technology.

Neurodiagnostic Technologist Education:

Associate degree in Neurodiagnostic Technology

Associate degree in Neurodiagnostic Technology Average Neurodiagnostic Technologist Salary:

$46,842

Occupational Health and Safety Technician

Has the rewarding job of protecting workers and the general public. They work to ensure employees of any business are safe from all foreseeable hazards.

Occupational Health and Safety Technician Education:

Associate in Applied Science in Occupational Safety and Health Technology degree

Associate in Applied Science in Occupational Safety and Health Technology degree Average Occupational Health and Safety Technician Salary:

$53,722

Occupational Therapy Assistant

Helping someone get back to living their life the way they want to live it is a priceless reward of being an occupational therapy assistant. These individuals provide physical therapy for people in need of developing, improving, or recovering specific skills in order to improve their quality of life and ability to work.

Occupational Therapy Assistant Education:

Occupational Therapy Assistant Associate degree

Occupational Therapy Assistant Associate degree Average Occupational Therapy Assistant Salary:

$46,576

Office Supervisor

An office environment is a constant juggling act to keep employees happy and productive, communication flowing openly, and goals achieved. The office supervisor must find a way to keep the office running smoothly at all times.

Office Supervisor Education:

Associate in Office Supervision and Management degree

Associate in Office Supervision and Management degree Average Office Supervisor Salary:

$46,979

Ophthalmology Technician

Eye health is something most people take for granted, but it immediately becomes a priority when something is wrong. An ophthalmology technician is the friendly face and the person who collects relevant medical history, answers questions, or performs an initial eye exam at an ophthalmologist’s office.

Ophthalmology Technician Education:

Ophthalmology Technician Associate degree

Ophthalmology Technician Associate degree Average Ophthalmology Technician Salary:

$40,813

Ornamental Plant Producer

You can find ornamental plants in an array of environments such as homes, businesses, and stores, but few people stop to consider someone grows these plants. Ornamental plant producers grow the plants sold in greenhouses and plant nurseries.

Ornamental Plant Producer Education:

Associate degree in Landscape and Ornamental Horticulture

Associate degree in Landscape and Ornamental Horticulture Average Ornamental Plant Producer Salary:

N/A

Orthopedic Technician

If you have a broken bone, an orthopedic technician can be your best friend. Orthopedic technicians are experts at putting on and removing plaster and synthetic casts.

Orthopedic Technician Education:

Associate in Applied Science in Orthopedic Technology degree

Associate in Applied Science in Orthopedic Technology degree Average Orthopedic Technician Salary:

$40,660

Paralegal

Many lawyers wouldn’t want their job without the assistance of a paralegal. Paralegals assist lawyers in everything from general filing and organization to legal research and writing documents.

Paralegal Education:

Associate degree in Paralegal Studies

Associate degree in Paralegal Studies Average Paralegal Salary:

$46,467

Pastry Chef

Everyone knows dessert is the best part of the meal. Pastry chefs are responsible for this culinary highlight, they turn a pile of raw ingredients into a beautiful tasty treat.

Pastry Chef Education:

Associate in Culinary Arts degree

Associate in Culinary Arts degree Average Pastry Chef Salary:

$42,690

Petroleum Technician

Petroleum technicians aren’t afraid of getting their hands dirty – literally. While assisting in the monitoring of current resources, petroleum technicians also aid in search for new petroleum resources.

Petroleum Technician Education:

Associate degree in Petroleum Technology

Associate degree in Petroleum Technology Average Petroleum Technician Salary:

$61,311

Photographic Equipment Repairer

Photographs are arguably the most personal and telling way to preserve history; you don’t want a broken camera. Photographic equipment repairers work on a variety of camera styles and sizes, doing their part to help the world preserve memories and history.

Photographic Equipment Repairer Education:

Associate degree in Electronics

Associate degree in Electronics Average Photographic Equipment Repairer Salary:

N/A

Photonics Technician

You can actually grow up and get paid to play with lasers. Photonic technicians install, maintain, and troubleshoot devices which use fiber optics and lasers.

Photonics Technician Education:

Associate degree in Electronics or an Associate of Science degree in Physics

Associate degree in Electronics or an Associate of Science degree in Physics Average Photonics Technician Salary:

$45,000

Photovoltaic Technical Salesperson

Think you have the skills to sell the sun? Well, it’s energy at least. Photovoltaic technical salespersons sell solar powered devices, such as solar panels.

Photovoltaic Technical Salesperson Education:

Associate in Renewable Energy Solar degree

Associate in Renewable Energy Solar degree Average Photovoltaic Technical Salesperson Salary:

N/A

Physical Therapist Assistant

Not everyone gets to help people directly and drastically improve the quality of their lives, but physical therapist assistants can claim this every day. Physical therapist assistants work with patients on exercise plans physical therapists design for each patient.

Physical Therapist Assistant Education:

Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant degree

Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant degree Average Physical Therapist Assistant Salary:

$48,724

Preschool Teacher

Have you hugged a preschool teacher today? Teaching very young children the fundamentals they take through their entire education process is a tremendous responsibility. Preschool teachers focus on teaching children, generally ages three through five, reading, writing, science, art, and social skills.

Preschool Teacher Education:

Associate degree in Early Childhood Education

Associate degree in Early Childhood Education Average Preschool Teacher Salary:

$29,971

Production Agriculture Salesperson

Farming comes with a lot of equipment, but where does someone go to buy such a large-scale tractor or other farming-specific supplies? A production agriculture salesperson sells all-things related to agriculture.

Production Agriculture Salesperson Education:

Associate in Production Agriculture degree

Associate in Production Agriculture degree Average Production Agriculture Salesperson Salary:

N/A

Radiation Therapist

Has the rewarding opportunity to fight cancer. Radiation therapists provide radiation treatments for patients with cancer with the aim of diminishing cancer cells and eliminating cancerous tumors.

Radiation Therapist Education:

Associate degree in Radiation Therapy

Associate degree in Radiation Therapy Average Radiation Therapist Salary:

$69,081

Radiologic Technologist

Getting an x-ray can be scary for some people, as it’s usually not for a positive reason. Radiologic technologists are the individuals who walk patients through the x-ray process and who run the x-ray machines.

Radiologic Technologist Education:

Associate of Applied Science in Radiography degree

Associate of Applied Science in Radiography degree Average Radiologic Technologist Salary:

$48,580

Registered Nurse

A lot of people have a memory of a nice nurse who comforted them when they were scared, took their pain away, held their hand during a shot, or simply offered an empathetic ear or hand pat when it was needed most. Nurses work directly with people, educating, scheduling, and generally caring for them. Registered nurses can earn an annual average salary that is around $20,000 greater than the national mean wage, making this one of the best associate degrees for professionals seeking immediate entry into a high-paying career.

Registered Nurse Education:

Associate degree in Nursing

Associate degree in Nursing Average Registered Nurse Salary:

$62,531

Respiratory Therapist

Has a vital role in the healthcare field. Respiratory therapists helps patients who experience restricted airflow from allergies, respiratory disease, asthma, or other causes.

Respiratory Therapist Education:

Associate of Science degree in Respiratory Therapy

Associate of Science degree in Respiratory Therapy Average Respiratory Therapist Salary:

$51,435

Retail Sales Supervisor

Keeping a store running smoothly requires near-constant multi-tasking every day. Retail sales supervisors oversee all aspects of running a retail store, including staffing issues, customer relations, finances, and scheduling.

Retail Sales Supervisor Education:

Associate of Applied Science in Retail Management degree

Associate of Applied Science in Retail Management degree Average Retail Sales Supervisor Salary:

$43,255

Robotics Technician

Although not all robots are similar to the Jetson’s maid or the cyborgs we see in movies, they’re impressive machines designed to perform tasks better or at least more precise and dependably than humans. Robotic technicians are the masterminds behind the construction, maintenance, and trouble-shooting of robots.

Robotics Technician Education:

Associate in Electrical Engineering Technology or an Associate in Mechanical Engineering Technology

Associate in Electrical Engineering Technology or an Associate in Mechanical Engineering Technology Average Robotics Technician Salary:

$54,379

Social Service Assistant

Social service assistants reach out directly to people and offer the helping hand a lot of people hope to get. Social service assistants work with other professionals, such as psychologists and social workers, to help counsel clients, locate relevant local services, and maintain a client’s record, regularly checking in with them.

Social Service Assistant Education:

Associate in Human Services degree

Associate in Human Services degree Average Social Service Assistant Salary:

$32,463

Soil and Water Technician

A soil and water technician is an important member to any land conservation team. They devise irrigation and farming techniques to help reduce erosion.

Soil and Water Technician Education:

Natural Resources Technician Associate degree

Natural Resources Technician Associate degree Average Soil and Water Technician Salary:

N/A

Solar Thermal Technician

Solar power is certainly going to be a part of our future, so we need solar thermal technicians to install, maintain, and repair solar powered systems. They also often design the systems, so they know the systems inside and out.

Solar Thermal Technician Education:

Associate degree in Renewable Energy Solar

Associate degree in Renewable Energy Solar Average Solar Thermal Technician Salary:

N/A

Solar Photovoltaic Installer

Having solar panels is pretty cool, but how do you install them? No worries, that’s where a solar thermal technician comes in. Solar thermal technicians install and maintain solar panel systems on houses and other buildings.

Solar Photovoltaic Installer Education:

Associate in Arts degree in Solar Photovoltaic Installation

Associate in Arts degree in Solar Photovoltaic Installation Average Solar Photovoltaic Salary:

N/A

Special Education Assistant

Working with children of special needs is a highly challenging, yet highly rewarding career. Special education assistants work directly with the students with everything from schoolwork to daily living skills and exercises.

Special Education Assistant Education:

Associate of General Studies Special Needs Educational Assistant degree

Associate of General Studies Special Needs Educational Assistant degree Average Special Education Assistant Salary:

$20,624

Surgical Technologist

Surgical technologists are involved before, during and after surgeries. During surgeries surgical technologists assist surgeons performing tasks such as sterilizing materials, handing instruments to the surgeon, and suturing incisions.

Surgical Technologist Education:

Associate in Science degree in Surgical Technology

Associate in Science degree in Surgical Technology Average Surgical Technologist Salary:

$41,397

Surveying Technician

Many people consider construction the beginning of a project, but long before a construction team can start building, a surveying technician must perform his job helping licensed surveyors collect data. Surveying technicians gather data used in construction, engineering and environmental industries.

Surveying Technician Education:

Associate in Applied Science in Surveying Technology degree or an Associate of Applied Science in Geomatics Technology degree

Associate in Applied Science in Surveying Technology degree or an Associate of Applied Science in Geomatics Technology degree Average Surveying Technician Salary:

$45,335

Teacher Assistant

Sometimes a teacher just can’t be everywhere, and help everyone, all at once, that’s where teacher assistants come in. Teacher assistants provide the extra set of eyes, hands, and general attention a class may require to optimally function.

Teacher Assistant Education:

Associate of Applied Science degree in Educational Assistance

Associate of Applied Science degree in Educational Assistance Average Teacher Assistant Salary:

$22,913

Textile Designer

So long as they’re fashion trends in clothing and homes, textile designers remain in demand. A textile designer develops new, creative, and fashionable designs for printed or knitted materials, ranging from clothes to bed linens. Workers in this field can earn an annual average salary that is around $18,000 greater than the national mean wage, making this another two-year college degree with a high ROI.

Textile Designer Education:

Associate of Arts Textile Design degree

Associate of Arts Textile Design degree Average Textile Designer Salary:

$45,354

Turf Management Technician

Football, soccer, golf and other sports require an expertly maintained turf and it sure doesn’t maintain itself. A turf management technician knows his soil and crop management inside and out and exhibits an extreme attention to detail.

Turf Management Technician Education:

Associate degree in Landscape and Ornamental Horticulture

Associate degree in Landscape and Ornamental Horticulture Average Turf Management Technician Salary:

N/A

Veterinary Technician

When people bring their pet into a veterinary office, they’re usually seeking someone to offer them comfort, educate them about their pet’s ailment, and provide information on how to provide their pet with a high quality of life. Veterinary technicians do all of this, as they assist veterinarians perform medical tests and diagnose injuries or illnesses.

Veterinary Technician Education:

Associate degree in Veterinary Technology

Associate degree in Veterinary Technology Average Veterinary Technician Salary:

$30,887

Web Designer

Having an attractive, functional, and memorable website is increasingly necessary for businesses to succeed today. Web designers are responsible for developing the look of a website, which could make or break a company’s success.

Web Designer Education:

Associate degree in Web Design or consider a Bachelor’s in Web Development degree

Associate degree in Web Design or consider a Bachelor’s in Web Development degree Average Web Designer Salary:

$48,990

Wildlife Technician

The best way to preserve an environment is to learn as much as possible about it. Wildlife technicians are charged with understanding as much as possible about an assigned area’s wildlife and natural resources with the intention of working with other professionals to preserve the land and environment.

Wildlife Technician Education:

Associate in Wildlife Biology degree or an Associate in Wildlife Technology degree, or an Associate in Wildlife Management degree

Associate in Wildlife Biology degree or an Associate in Wildlife Technology degree, or an Associate in Wildlife Management degree Average Wildlife Technician Salary:

N/A

Wind Turbine Service Technician

Wind power, an alternative energy source, may become a major energy source in the future. Wind turbine service technicians perform preventative maintenance and trouble-shooting on wind turbines to keep them in working order.

Wind Turbine Service Technician Education:

Associate degree in Wind Energy Technology

Associate degree in Wind Energy Technology Average Wind Turbine Service Technician Salary:

$48,977

Our list provides plenty of rewarding associate degree jobs to choose from.





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Last Updated: March 24, 2020