You may have heard that \”doing what you love\” is the key to a happy career, but how can you figure out what that is? So many people aren\’t happy with their pay or can\’t stand their job, and we don\’t want that for you! We did a little research and found jobs that leave you feeling fulfilled.
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It’s tough when you don’t know what you want to do with your life and how to make money in a way that makes you happy. You might know what you want to do, but it’s not always clear if that’s the right decision.
We’ve got you covered. Our list of the 37 most satisfying jobs will help point you in the right direction. From doctors to teachers to artists, we’ve got something for everyone.
Table of Contents
Quick Picks
Whether you are looking for a new career, career satisfaction, want to be your own boss, or just curious about what job openings to look for, this list is a great place to start finding fulfilling jobs.
Here are our top picks for the best career you could start:
- Best Career Overall – Blogging
- Most Freedom & Flexibility – Freelance Writing
- Most Fun Career – Dog Walking
Earn Money With Furry Friends!
What Makes A Satisfying Career?
A satisfying job meets your needs in some way, whether providing good pay, exciting work, or a flexible schedule. It should also offer some level of stability and security.
Some people find fulfillment in helping others, while others prefer to work with their hands. Some people need a high degree of excitement and challenge in their work, while others prefer a slower pace.
The important thing is to figure out what you need from your career to be happy. Once you know that, you can search for a job that meets those needs.
Different people have different needs, so there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to what makes a satisfying job.
However, some general requirements are often necessary for job satisfaction:
Purposeful & Engaging
Many people struggle to find a job that is both purposeful and engaging. Finding a career you’re truly passionate about can be challenging, but it’s worth the effort for job satisfaction and growth.
A purposeful job provides a sense of job meaning and fulfillment. You feel like you are making a difference in the world, and you can see the impact of your work.
An engaging job is interesting and stimulating. You never get bored because you always learn new things and explore new possibilities.
A purposeful and engaging job is essential because it makes you happy and fulfilled. These types of jobs are rare, but they are worth searching for. When you find the right career, you’ll know it!
Career Advancement
Career advancement is essential in any job. It’s what keeps us motivated and moving forward in our careers. When we feel like we’re stagnating, career advancement can be the push we need to keep going.
Of course, career advancement looks different for everyone. It might mean job growth and climbing the corporate ladder for some people.
For others, it might mean becoming an expert in their field or making more money with their skills. But no matter what job satisfaction looks like, career advancement is always good.
It allows us to learn new things and grow as professionals. It keeps us challenged and engaged in our work.
Many people think advanced careers or better-paying jobs are a problem because of college degree requirements- but there are easy degrees that pay well.
And many satisfying jobs with career advancement can be started without any degrees!
Work-Life Balance
Work-life balance is essential for a happy and healthy life. No one can work all the time and be productive; eventually, you’ll burn out. It’s essential to have time for yourself outside of work to relax and recharge.
There are a lot of different ways to achieve work-life balance. Some people like to set strict boundaries between their personal and professional lives, while others find that mixing the two works better for them.
The most important thing is to figure out what works best for you and stick to it.
There are plenty of benefits to having a good work-life balance. You’ll be less stressed, which means you’ll be healthier and have more energy. You’ll also be more productive when you’re at work because you’ll have had time to relax and clear your head.
Pros Outweigh Cons
Fulfilling jobs are only satisfying if it offers the right balance of pros and cons. If the pros outweigh the cons, then it is likely that you will enjoy your work and find it fulfilling.
On the other hand, if the cons outweigh the pros, your job is likely to be unfulfilling and may even cause you stress.
Many factors can make a job satisfying. That is a significant pro if you feel like you are making a difference in your work.
That is another plus if you enjoy the crew members you work with and feel you have good camaraderie in a positive work environment.
You may consider the pros that you can make money while you travel and aren’t stuck at home.
Or maybe you enjoy jobs where you work alone, and things like blogging and writing would mean you can- those are easy pros!
Of course, a good salary and benefits are also essential factors in job satisfaction and finding a fulfilling career.
When it comes to the cons of a job, the most important factor is probably stress. If you are constantly feeling stressed at work, then it is likely that you will not find your job satisfying.
Other factors that can make a job unsatisfying include long hours, poor working conditions, and a lack of advancement opportunities.
Ultimately, it is up to each individual to decide what they need from a job to find fulfilling jobs. However, if the pros outweigh the cons, then there is a good chance that you will be happy with your work.
37 Most Satisfying Jobs
We wanted to help you search for a satisfying career, so we compiled a list of the 37 most satisfying jobs that could provide job security and life satisfaction with a mix of different educational degrees.
Many different jobs can be satisfying, but some stand out more than others. Some require a Master’s degree, and others require an Associate’s degree.
Read on to find out what your perfect match might be!
1. Blogging
Median Salary: $42,618 per year
Degree Needed: High school
Blogging is one of the most satisfying jobs. You get to write about topics that interest you and have complete control over your work on a self-hosted platform like Bluehost.
You can also make a good income from blogging if you’re willing to put in the effort and use the right blogging resources.
You can make money blogging through advertising, sponsored posts, or selling products and services.
Start a Blog Now
2. Proofreader
Median Salary: $55,259 per year
Degree Needed: Bachelor’s Degree
Online proofreading is a very important job, and it can be pretty meaningful. Proofreaders help to ensure the accuracy of written documents, and they play an essential role in helping to produce high-quality content.
Proofreading is a detail-oriented job requiring a lot of precision and attention to detail. It can be a challenging and rewarding career.
Sign up for the FREE workshop by Proofread Anywhere to learn more about becoming a proofreader.
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3. Bookkeeper
Median Salary: $42,109 per year
Degree Needed: Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree
Being a bookkeeper is an essential job and can be quite meaningful. Bookkeepers are essential in helping keep businesses and organizations financially healthy.
Bookkeeping is a detail-oriented job requiring a lot of precision and attention to detail. They track financial transactions and ensure that all financial records are accurate and up-to-date.
You can enroll in 3 FREE classes by Bookkeeper Launch to see if being a bookkeeper is for you!
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4. Freelance Writer
Median Salary: $66,935 per year
Degree Needed: High school
Freelance writing is a challenging and rewarding career. Being a freelance writer is a meaningful career because it allows you to share your ideas and thoughts with the world.
It also allows you to build a platform for yourself and connect with other writers. And it can be a great way to make money with freelance writing jobs.
You can learn more about freelance writing by reading the Freelance Write From Home eBook.
Download FREE eBook Now
5. Dog Walker
Median Salary: $31,585 per year
Degree Needed: High School diploma
Being a dog walker is a very satisfying career. It’s a great way to get exercise, and it’s also a great way to help animals. Dog walkers provide a vital service for pet owners and play an important role in helping to keep animals healthy and happy.
Dog walking can also be a great way to make money. There are many ways to monetize a dog walking business, such as through advertising, sponsored posts, or selling products and services.
You can also sign up with Rover to find dog-walking clients.
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6. YouTuber
Median Salary: $60,141 per year
Degree Needed: Depends on what you are streaming
Being a YouTuber is a great way to share your ideas and thoughts with the world, and it also allows you to build a platform for yourself and connect with other YouTubers. And it can be a great way to make money. YouTubing is a challenging and rewarding career.
Mastering YouTube is a course that can help you learn about making money on YouTube.
7. Psychologist
Median Salary: $109,385 per year
Degree Needed: Doctoral degree in Psychology
Psychologists play an essential role in helping to improve the lives of others. They help people deal with various psychological issues and provide guidance and support. Psychologists also conduct research and publish their findings.
Psychology is a fascinating field and offers many growth and development opportunities. It can be a challenging and rewarding career.
8. Psychiatrist
Median Salary: $248,988 per year
Degree Needed: Medical degree
Why is being a psychiatrist one of the most satisfying jobs?
There are many reasons why being a psychiatrist can be a meaningful career. One of the biggest reasons is that psychiatrists can help people struggling with mental health issues.
They provide counseling and therapy, which can make a big difference in someone’s life. They also help diagnose and treat mental health conditions, which can be very helpful for those struggling.
9. Elementary School Teachers
Median Salary: $61,507 per year
Degree Needed: Bachelor’s Degree and Master’s degree
Elementary school teachers play a vital role in shaping the young minds of children in kindergarten, elementary, middle, and high school.
They help to develop essential skills and introduce children to new concepts that will be laid the foundation for their future education. Teachers also foster a love of learning in their students, which can carry over into other areas of their lives.
10. Firefighter
Median Salary: $62,081 per year
Degree Needed: Post-secondary certification
Firefighters have the meaningful job of protecting people and property from fires and other dangers. They often risk their own lives to do this and are always there when people need them. They are true heroes!
11. Software Developer
Median Salary: $74,136 per year
Degree Needed: Bachelor’s Degree
Software developers play a vital role in the development of computer software. They work with teams of programmers to create new applications and improve existing ones.
They must have a good understanding of computing principles and the ability to write code and debug programs. This makes their work meaningful, as they can help improve the lives of others through their work.
12. Pediatrician
Median Salary: $213,508 per year
Degree Needed: Doctoral or professional degree
There are many reasons why being a pediatrician can be a meaningful career. One of the biggest reasons is that pediatricians can help children struggling with health issues.
They provide counseling and therapy, which can make a big difference in a child’s life. They also help diagnose and treat health conditions, which can be very helpful for those struggling.
13. Nurse Practitioner
Median Salary: $116,558 per year
Degree Needed: Master’s Degree
Nurse practitioners provide a high level of care to their patients and work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices.
They can diagnose and treat illnesses, order and interpret tests, prescribe medication, and provide health education to their patients. This makes nurse practitioners a vital part of the healthcare team.
14. Veterinarian
Median Salary: $102,039
Degree Needed: Doctoral or professional degree
Veterinarians play an essential role in preserving the health and well-being of animals. They work with various animals, from household pets to livestock, llamas, and alpacas. As a veterinarian, you can make a real difference in the lives of people and their beloved furry friends.
15. Career Counselors
Median Salary: $53,056 per year
Degree Needed: Master’s Degree
The career counselor’s role is to help people find their passion in life and guide them toward a fulfilling career. This is undoubtedly an important job, as it can have a profound impact on the lives of others.
Career counselors are essential in today’s society and play a crucial role in helping people find their true calling.
16. Human Resources Manager
Median Salary: $111,648 per year
Degree Needed: Bachelor’s Degree
The human resources manager is responsible for staffing the company with employees that fit the needs of the business and ensuring that all personnel policies are followed.
This position requires strong organization and communication skills and a thorough understanding of labor law. They are responsible for creating a productive and harmonious work environment, which can be very meaningful for employees and the company.
17. Financial Advisor
Median Salary: $60,134 per year
Degree Needed: Bachelor’s Degree
Few things are more gratifying than watching your clients reach their financial goals. As a financial advisor, you’ll help people save for retirement, pay off debt, and make sound investments. Your job is to provide expert advice and put your client’s best interests first.
18. Conservation Scientist
Median Salary: $71,683 per year
Degree Needed: Bachelor’s Degree
Working to protect our natural resources is one of the most important jobs in the world. If you’re passionate about the environment, a career as a conservation scientist might be the perfect fit for you.
Conservation scientists develop plans to use land resources sustainably and work with government officials, landowners, and developers to implement these plans.
19. Health Services Managers
Median Annual Salary: $127,155 per year
Degree Needed: Bachelor’s Degree
Being a health services manager is one of the most fulfilling jobs. A health services manager is responsible for the overall operations of healthcare facilities.
They plan, direct, and coordinate medical and health services. They may also be responsible for financial and budgeting decisions, marketing and public relations, and facility planning.
20. Physician
Physician Median Salary: $219,049 per year
Degree Needed: Doctorate from medical school
The satisfaction of being a physician can be attributed to many factors. It is one of the most fulfilling jobs because they directly help people in need. They provide care and treatment for ill or injured patients, and they work to improve the overall health of their communities.
Physicians also have a unique opportunity to make a difference in the lives of their patients. By working to improve the quality of care and treatment, physicians can help their patients live longer, healthier lives.
21. Physical Therapists
Physical Therapist Median Salary: $95,059 per year
Degree Needed: Doctoral or professional degree from a medical school
A physical therapist helps people regain mobility and function after an injury or illness with physical therapy. Physical therapists work with patients of all ages, from infants to the elderly.
Physical therapy can be a satisfying job as you see your patients progress and improve over time.
22. Surgeon
Average Salary: $415,692 per year
Degree Needed: Doctoral or professional degree from a medical school
Surgeons are responsible for operating on patients to treat various medical conditions. They typically work in hospitals but may also work in private practices or clinics. Surgeons must be able to make quick decisions and have excellent hand-eye coordination.
23. Chiropractor
Median Annual Salary: $158,166 per year
Degree Needed: Doctoral or professional degree
A chiropractor is a health care professional specializing in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal disorders. Chiropractors use various techniques to relieve pain, improve function, and prevent further damage to the body.
24. Speech-Language Pathologists
Median Annual Salary: $87,827 per year
Degree Needed: Master of Science
Speech-language pathologists, also called speech therapists, help patients with speech and language disorders.
They work with patients of all ages, from infants to the elderly. In most cases, they work with patients who have difficulty speaking due to a stroke, brain injury, or other neurological disorder.
25. Dentist
Dentist Median Salary: $176,657 per year
Degree Needed: Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry
Being a dentist is one of the most fulfilling jobs. Dentists help people maintain oral health, which is an important part of overall health. You also can make people feel comfortable and confident in their smiles, which can boost their self-esteem.
26. Chief Executives
Median Annual Salary: $800,635 per year
Degree Needed: Business degree
No question that being a chief executive is a highly demanding and often stressful job. But it can also be advantageous, both financially and emotionally.
A chief executive is responsible for the company’s overall success and typically enjoys high salaries and extensive benefits.
They also have a lot of influence over the workforce, which can be empowering. And finally, CEOs are often directly responsible for creating jobs and helping grow their community or industry.
27. Paramedic
Median Annual Salary: $46,100 per year
Degree Needed: Post-secondary degree
Being a paramedic is one of the most fulfilling jobs. They help people who are in need and provide medical care and transportation for people who are injured or ill.
They help people in their time of need. They are an important part of the healthcare system and make a difference in the lives of those they help.
28. Chef
Median Salary: $50,208 per year
Degree Needed: Associate’s Degree
Being a chef allows you to share your passion for food with others. You have the opportunity to create beautiful and delicious dishes that will not only satisfy people’s appetites but also make them happy.
Cooking is an art form; chefs can express their creativity through their cuisine. Plus, it’s always satisfying to see people enjoying the food that you’ve made with your own hands.
29. Anesthesiologist
Median Salary: $410,300 per year
Degree Needed: Doctoral or professional degree
Anesthesiologists are responsible for putting patients to sleep before surgery and monitoring their vitals during the procedure. They work closely with surgeons and nurses to ensure that patients remain safe and comfortable throughout the surgery. T
Thanks to advances in medical technology, anesthesiologists can perform more complex procedures than ever before, which means they can help more people get the care they need.
30. Pilot
Median Salary: $144,501 per year
Degree Needed: Bachelor’s Degree
Being a pilot comes with a lot of responsibility. Pilots are in charge of their passengers’ safety and must ensure they arrive at their destination safely. Additionally, pilots often get to fly to some pretty unique places.
31. Optometrist
Median Salary: $134,245 per year
Degree Needed: Doctoral or professional degree
Optometrists are vital because they help people maintain their vision and keep their eyes healthy. They work with patients to diagnose and treat various eye conditions and can also prescribe glasses and contact lenses. This career is meaningful because it helps people stay healthy and see the world clearly.
32. Emergency Medical Technician
Median Salary: $35,830 per year
Degree Needed: Post-secondary nondegree award
Emergency medical technicians (EMTs) work in an essential and often lifesaving role. They provide pre-hospital emergency care to patients with illnesses or injuries ranging from minor to life-threatening.
EMTs are often the first responders on an accident or health emergency scene. Their skills can be critical in helping stabilize patients until they reach the medical professionals at a hospital.
33. Clergy Leaders
Median Salary: $102, 763 per year
Degree Needed: Depends on the church
Clergy leaders have the critical task of guiding and supporting their congregations through tough times and providing spiritual and moral guidance.
They also work to build a sense of community within their congregation and often help members connect with other support systems when needed. This can be meaningful work and a significant career for those who feel called to it.
34. Police Officer
Median Salary: $61,100 per year
Degree Needed: High School to Associate’s Degree
Police officers play a vital role in our society by enforcing the law and protecting citizens. They risk their lives every day to keep us safe. Police officers also provide a valuable service by assisting people in need and responding to emergency calls.
35. Cartographer
Median Salary: $63,443 per year
Degree Needed: Bachelor’s Degree
A cartographer helps people understand their world and their place in it. Cartographers use their skills to create maps from data gathered from satellite images and land surveys. The maps depict everything from geographical features to traffic patterns and help with navigation, urban planning, and environmental management.
Governments, businesses can use this information, and individuals to make better decisions about where to live, work, and travel.
36. Makeup Artist
Median Salary: $22,232 per year
Degree Needed: High school diploma
A makeup artist helps people feel more confident about themselves. A good makeup artist can make someone look younger, more beautiful, and even more professional.
They can also help hide blemishes and skin problems. Makeup artists are vitally crucial in the film and television industries, as they can completely transform an actor or actress into a role.
37. Mechanical Engineer
Median Salary: $72,640 per year
Degree Needed: Bachelor’s Degree
Being a mechanical engineer is a satisfying career because you can use your creativity and engineering skills to solve problems and create things that improve people’s lives.
You also have the satisfaction of knowing that your work is helping to keep people safe and making them more productive. Plus, it’s always interesting to see what new challenges come up in the ever-changing field of mechanical engineering!
Our Thoughts
This list has a lot of variety, which is good if you’re looking to transition into a new industry, skill set, or money-making job. No matter your education level, there’s something on this list of fulfilling careers for you.
With this list in hand, you’ll be ready to tackle whatever comes your way. And, if you’re ever feeling stuck in a career rut, remember that there are plenty of other options to explore to find a fulfilling and enjoyable job.
Who knows, one of these may just be the perfect fit!