Empire State Flash - Highest Paying Jobs in New York State

© Copyright 2011 by Aurelio Locsin.

The third most populous state in the U.S. has a working population of about 8.3 million people, earning a mean $24.86 per hour or $51,700 per year. This is over 15 percent more than the average for all workers in the country, which runs $21.35 per hour or $44,410 per year. All information comes from the U.S. Department of Labor.

The top two jobs belong to two types of dental specialists. The 230 orthodontists in the first type make a mean $111.14 per hour or $231,160 per year. They prevent and treat problems with malformed teeth. They are primarily known for creating braces and other dental appliances. The 760 oral and maxillofacial surgeons earn an average $110.35 per hour or $229,530 per year. They are medical doctors who specialize in operating on the teeth, jaws, mouth, gums, neck and head. Most dentists work by themselves in their own businesses, assisted by a small staff.

Ranking number three for pay are anesthesiologists who focus on pain management and relief, particularly during operations. They apply anesthesia, and monitor the patient’s vital signs such as heart rate, respiration and body temperature during medical procedures. They often discuss treatment options with surgeons and physicians before, during and after procedures. The 3,390 in New York State make a mean $103.95 per hour or $216,210 per year.

The first of non-medical professionals earning the highest salaries goes to chief executive officers, who guide the success of their establishments. In small private firms, they may make all decisions by themselves. In larger public corporations, they are assisted by a staff of department heads, and are ultimately accountable to a board of directors and to stockholders. Their total compensation can include salaries, stocks, options, bonuses and incentives. The 19,230 in the state make an average $91.91 per hour or $191,180 per year.

Two more types of doctors occupy the next ranks. The 1,160 obstetricians and gynecologists specialize in women’s conditions such as breast cancer, hormonal disorders and reproductive concerns. However, they can also deal with general medicine. The 1,160 in this field make a mean $90.95 per hour or $189,170 per year. The 2,050 surgeons use invasive procedures and manual manipulation to treat medical problems inside the body. They work in teams that include medical specialists to ensure the best survival odds for patients. They average $86.99 per hour or $180,930 per year.

Sales managers coordinate the activities of salespeople to distribute product and services to customers at the highest profit levels for their companies. They hire and fire staff, set their goals, assign territories, establish training programs and determine compensation. They often reach their positions after several years of experience as salespeople. Their compensation also includes commissions and bonuses. The 14,860 sales managers earn a mean $78.97 per hour or $164,250 per year.

The last of the top ten highest wages go to more medical professionals. The 240 other specialist dentists are those who are not general dentists, prosthodontists, orthodontists or oral surgeons. They earn a mean $78.55 per hour or $163,380 per year. The 3,440 psychiatrists specialize in treating mental conditions through a mix of psychotherapy and medications. They average $77.72 per hour or $161,660 per year. Finally, pediatricians focus on children from birth until their late teens. They make a mean $76.26 per hour or $158,630 per year.