Ah, the elusive dream of a high-paying job right out of the gate. We’ve all been there, fantasising about earning big bucks straight after graduation or when making a career change in search of pastures new and pay cheques high.
Well, my friends, today is your lucky day! Nope, we’re not about to offer you a position here at IDEAL. But rather, today we’re exploring 15 fantastic UK jobs with impressive entry-level salaries and even more jaw-dropping top salaries. So grab a cuppa, sit back, and let’s dive into the world of high-earning potential in our guide to earning big from the get-go.
Investment Banker
Starting the list with a bang, investment bankers can expect an entry-level salary of around £30,000-£40,000. But hold onto your hats because the top salary can reach a staggering £150,000+ with bonuses! To enter this lucrative field, you’ll need a degree in finance, economics, or a related subject, as well as excellent analytical and communication skills.
Software Engineer
As a software engineer, you can anticipate an entry-level salary of £25,000-£35,000, with top earners raking in £70,000+. A degree in one of the highest paying college majors, such as those in computer science, software engineering or a related field is required, along with strong problem-solving and programming skills.
Read: 7 lucrative programmer and developer jobs in the UK
Mobile Solutions Architect
As a mobile solutions architect, you can expect an entry-level salary of £28,000-£35,000, with top earners making £80,000+. While many start using a no-code app builder, you’ll need a degree in computer science or equivalent experience, along with strong technical skills and an understanding of mobile platforms. The role requires creativity, problem-solving abilities, and keeping up with the latest mobile technology trends.
Pharmacist
With a starting salary of £26,500, pharmacists can eventually earn up to £70,000+ at the top of their game. You’ll need a Master of Pharmacy (MPharm) degree and registration with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) to get started, as well as excellent communication and attention to detail.
Actuary
Actuaries can expect a starting salary of £25,000-£35,000, with top earners bringing home a cool £100,000+. A degree in maths, statistics, or a related subject is required, along with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Dentist
Say “ahh” to an entry-level salary of £31,355 for dentists, with the potential to earn up to £104,000+ as a consultant. You’ll need a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) degree and registration with the General Dental Council (GDC) to enter this field, as well as great manual dexterity and communication skills.
Marketing Manager
Marketing managers can look forward to an average UK salary of £25,000-£30,000 when starting, with top earners making £60,000+. A degree in marketing, business, or a related field is required, along with creativity, communication, and strategic thinking skills.
Architect
Designing your way to success, architects can expect a starting salary of £27,500-£35,000, with top earners making £70,000+. You’ll need a degree in architecture and registration with the Architects Registration Board (ARB), as well as creativity, technical knowledge, and project management skills.
Civil Engineer
As a civil engineer, you can anticipate an entry-level salary of £24,000-£30,000, with top earners bringing in £80,000+. A degree in civil engineering or a related field is required, along with strong problem-solving and communication skills.
Physiotherapist
Helping people move better, physiotherapists can expect a starting salary of £24,907, with the potential to earn up to £60,000+ as a consultant. You’ll need a degree in physiotherapy and registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), as well as excellent communication and empathy skills.
Physician Associate
With a starting salary of £27,000-£35,000, physician associates can eventually earn up to £50,000+. A postgraduate diploma or master’s degree in physician associate studies is required, along with communication, empathy, and attention to detail.
UX Designer
User experience (UX) designers can look forward to a starting salary of £25,000-£35,000, with top earners making £60,000+. If you choose to pursue a career in UX design, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in design, computer science, or a related field is required, along with creativity, problem-solving, and communication skills.
Optometrist
Helping people see clearly, optometrists can expect a starting salary of £25,000-£30,000, with top earners making £60,000+. You’ll need a Bachelor of Optometry (BOptom) degree and registration with the General Optical Council (GOC), as well as attention to detail, communication, and customer service skills.
Read: 6 tips for maintaining good eye health
Solicitor
Starting at £25,000-£40,000, solicitors can earn up to £100,000+ as partners in large firms. To enter this field, you’ll need a law degree (LLB), Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL), or equivalent, followed by the Legal Practice Course (LPC) and a two-year training contract. Communication, analytical thinking, and attention to detail are essential skills.
Air Traffic Controller
Last but not least, air traffic controllers can expect a starting salary of £17,000-£21,000 during training, with top earners making £100,000+ in senior roles. At least five GCSEs at grades 9-4 (A*-C), including English and maths, are required, along with successful completion of the National Air Traffic Services (NATS) training programme. Concentration, decision-making, and communication skills are crucial.
The Bottom Line
And there you have it – 14 UK jobs with fantastic entry-level salaries and even more impressive earning potential as you climb the career ladder. Whether you’re just starting your career journey or considering a switch, there’s something for you out there.
All salary estimates come from information provided by the government’s official career’s advice platform, Prospects.