Can you imagine a job or career that has the potential to make $100,000 or more almost right out of college?

It might be hard to believe, but there are some entry-level jobs that actually do pay up to six figures and above, giving you a good headstart financially and making it easier for you to clear student debts and afford major purchases such as your first home.

You can start building substantial savings, and you’ll even have space to consider funding further education. The industries and roles that pay entry-level workers exceptionally well usually require specialized skills and are in high demand, and this combination of factors gives you as an early-career professional, a distinct advantage.

So, if you’re wondering which entry-level jobs offer pay of $100,000 or more and how you can position yourself to secure one, this article will walk you through what you need to know.

1. Account Executive

One of the most exciting industries to work in, even when you don’t have any prior experience, is sales. Account executives manage client relationships and play a crucial role in driving a company’s revenue, ensuring it remains profitable, and continues to thrive in the market.

To get into a role as account executive you might want to start as an SDR (sales development rep) or BDR (business development rep), in which you would manage the initial aspects of the sales cycle, cold-calling, setting up appointments with account executives, and engaging with potential leads including qualifying and progressing them through the sales funnel.

SDRs and BDRs make around $67,000 annually, and can quickly progress up the ladder to other roles such as account executive, which makes $107,053.

2. Air Traffic Controller

Air traffic controllers ensure the safe movement of aircraft in the air and on the ground. They issue instructions to pilots for take-off and landing, and regulate incoming and outgoing aircraft, as well as monitoring the weather.

To be an air traffic controller, you would typically need to at least complete training at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) academy. An associate degree would also help. You can make up to $75,000 in this role, and progress to air traffic control manager, where you can make as much as up to $181,000.

3. Investment Banking Analyst

As an investment banking analyst, your day-to-day would comprise of analyzing and evaluating extensive financial data, and using this information to help companies and private entities make wise investment decisions. This also helps with major delas such as mergers and acquisitions. You’d also build detailed financial models, deliver presentations and reports, and communicate directly with professionals at the executive level.

This role is a great way to get your foot in the door within the finance industry. To land this job, it would help if you had a finance or business degree (an MBA would be a bonus) and some internship placement experience as well. This role pays $116,000 on average.

From sales, to aviation, to finance, getting an entry-level job in these industries sets you on the right trajectory for career success, not only boosting your finances, but also giving you career resilience, since these fields will always be needed and cannot easily be replaced by AI.