Top Paying Jobs in Business

The top paying business jobs usually require extensive work experience and education.

 As lower level positions are outsourced or become obsolete, the business field holds out a few less job openings than it used to. However, there are still top paying jobs available in the business sector for employees with the experience, the education and the drive to advance up the corporate ladder. While the majority of the lucrative positions require extensive training, some are open to college graduates with a four-year degree.

 

 

Chief Executive Officer

The highest-paid business employee in a company is usually running the company. Chief Executive Officers, or CEOs, average a salary of $116,000 a year and may earn as much as $296,000 annually. Since these positions are typically performance-based, CEOs generally receive annual bonuses in addition to their salaries. Depending on how well the company did during the year, executives may receive bonuses of five or six figures. Along with the high pay, though, come an enormous degree of responsibility and a relatively low level of job security.

 

Corporate Lawyer

Lawyers who work in corporate firms are some of the highest-paid attorneys in the U.S. Some in-house corporate lawyers earn as much as $184,000 annually. These positions also carry a large amount of responsibility and long workdays as corporate lawyers advise their businesses on legal matters involving lawsuits, business dealings and liability. Corporate lawyers may also be called on to defend the company during a trial.

 

Certified Public Accountant

Certified Public Accountants are another group of highly paid business employees. Experienced CPAs can earn up to $90,000 a year and even more as they gain experience in the field. CPAs who want to pursue executive positions may eventually qualify to apply for the position of Chief Financial Officer, or CFO. CFOs earn as much as $200,000 annually. To become a CPA, however, takes a considerable amount of work. These accountants must complete their four-year degree and then work in their fields for at least two years before applying to sit for the intensive CPA exam.

 

Management Consultant

Corporate management consulting is a growing business career field with a high salary. Management consultants earn up to $139,000 annually and generally receive performance-based bonuses each year as well. In order to qualify for this position, though, workers need a four-year degree as well as several years of industry experience. This education is critical for the position, since management consultants are often hired to help direct a company during a particularly difficult economic period. They may also assist companies to expand their influence into international markets.
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