Sam SmithBuffalo, New York, has steadily evolved from an industrial stronghold into a modern economic hub, driven by healthcare, education, technology, and advanced manufacturing. The city’s revitalized economy offers diverse, high-paying career opportunities for professionals across industries. From surgeons and corporate lawyers to software engineers and university administrators, Buffalo’s workforce benefits from strong demand and competitive compensation.
This list highlights the 100 highest-paying jobs in Buffalo, showcasing the careers shaping the region’s economic resurgence.
Highest Paying Jobs In Buffalo, New York
I. Executive Leadership & Senior Management
1. Chief Executive Officer (CEO) – $250,000+
The Chief Executive Officer stands at the pinnacle of corporate leadership, guiding overall vision, strategy, and performance. In Buffalo, CEOs in healthcare, finance, and advanced manufacturing oversee multimillion-dollar operations, balancing innovation with economic sustainability. Their responsibilities span long-term planning, stakeholder engagement, and risk management. Success in this role requires exceptional decision-making, communication, and leadership skills, ensuring growth while maintaining competitiveness in a dynamic regional economy driven by revitalization and investment.
2. Chief Financial Officer (CFO) – $200,000+
CFOs play a critical role in financial governance and strategic planning across Buffalo’s corporate landscape. They manage budgeting, forecasting, and capital investments, ensuring the financial health of organizations in industries such as banking, healthcare, and manufacturing. Their insight drives mergers, acquisitions, and risk management decisions. With Buffalo’s growing economy, CFOs are integral in sustaining profitability, optimizing resources, and navigating complex financial regulations, making them indispensable to both emerging companies and established enterprises.
3. Chief Operating Officer (COO) – $190,000+
The COO manages daily operations and ensures that strategic goals translate into measurable results. In Buffalo, COOs are especially prominent in healthcare networks, manufacturing plants, and logistics firms. They streamline processes, oversee departmental performance, and foster organizational efficiency. Their leadership ensures smooth coordination between teams, promoting growth and innovation. Success in this role requires operational acumen, people management skills, and a strong grasp of financial and technical performance indicators in competitive sectors.
4. Chief Medical Officer – $180,000+
As the top clinical leader, the Chief Medical Officer ensures the highest standards of patient care and medical ethics. In Buffalo’s large healthcare systems like Kaleida Health and Roswell Park, CMOs oversee physicians, develop treatment protocols, and guide quality improvement. They bridge executive strategy with clinical operations, influencing hospital policy and outcomes. This role demands a balance of medical expertise, leadership, and administrative skill to maintain compliance, efficiency, and excellence in patient services.
5. Chief Information Officer (CIO) – $175,000+
The CIO directs all aspects of an organization’s technology strategy, from cybersecurity to system integration. In Buffalo’s growing tech and manufacturing sectors, CIOs play a key role in digital transformation. They oversee IT infrastructure, data governance, and innovation initiatives that drive operational efficiency. With the rise of cloud computing and automation, CIOs ensure that companies remain secure and future-ready, balancing technological advancement with business objectives to strengthen competitiveness and performance.
6. Vice President of Operations – $160,000+
Vice Presidents of Operations oversee large-scale business functions, ensuring that strategic goals are met efficiently. In Buffalo, they are vital in sectors like logistics, healthcare, and manufacturing, managing teams that handle production, supply chains, and service delivery. They evaluate processes, lead optimization projects, and implement performance metrics. Their decisions influence profitability, quality, and customer satisfaction. Strong leadership, data-driven insight, and cross-department coordination are essential for success in this multifaceted executive role.
7. Vice President of Finance – $155,000+
Tasked with managing financial growth and compliance, the Vice President of Finance plays a pivotal role in maintaining corporate fiscal health. In Buffalo, they are key figures in industries such as banking, insurance, and healthcare. They oversee accounting teams, optimize financial systems, and guide investment strategies. Their analysis ensures smart budgeting and cost control, while their insight helps organizations adapt to economic shifts. This role blends strategic foresight with expert-level understanding of finance and governance.
8. Vice President of Sales – $150,000+ (with commission)
VPs of Sales drive revenue generation and business expansion across Buffalo’s competitive markets. They develop regional sales strategies, lead high-performing teams, and build client relationships in sectors like medical devices, technology, and industrial equipment. Their performance directly influences company growth, often with lucrative commission-based incentives. They also monitor market trends, assess competitor performance, and align product positioning to maximize profitability. Strong leadership, negotiation, and analytical skills define success in this executive-level sales role.
9. Managing Director – $145,000+
Managing Directors oversee overall operations, ensuring business units meet performance and profitability goals. In Buffalo, they often lead firms in finance, real estate, or advanced manufacturing, guiding strategy, compliance, and stakeholder relations. Their duties include budgeting, contract negotiation, and risk assessment. They act as a link between corporate leadership and ground-level teams, ensuring alignment with company objectives. Effective communication, financial insight, and organizational leadership are critical for success in this high-impact role.
10. Plant Manager (Large Manufacturing) – $130,000–$165,000
Plant Managers are responsible for overseeing large-scale production operations in Buffalo’s manufacturing facilities. They ensure efficiency, safety, and quality across production lines while maintaining cost control. With Buffalo’s strong manufacturing heritage, these professionals manage staff, coordinate supply chains, and implement lean processes. Their work directly influences output and profitability. Success requires deep technical knowledge, leadership capability, and a commitment to workplace safety and innovation, especially in the region’s evolving advanced manufacturing industries.
II. Healthcare (Providers & Administration)
11. Physician (Various Specialties) – $200,000–$500,000+
Physicians form the foundation of Buffalo’s healthcare system, delivering expert care in specialties like cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics. They diagnose, treat, and manage patient conditions across hospitals and private clinics. Buffalo’s medical professionals often collaborate with top-tier research institutions like Roswell Park, advancing medical innovation. Their expertise commands high salaries reflecting years of education and experience. Beyond clinical care, many also contribute to teaching, research, and healthcare leadership throughout the region.
12. Surgeon – $300,000+
Surgeons in Buffalo perform complex procedures that save and enhance lives, from general operations to specialized surgeries in orthopedics, neurology, and cardiovascular medicine. Working within renowned medical centers, they require precision, endurance, and leadership. Their responsibilities extend beyond the operating room, including patient consultations, postoperative care, and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams. With Buffalo’s investment in advanced medical facilities, surgeons enjoy both professional prestige and high earning potential in a vital, demanding field.
13. Psychiatrist – $220,000+
Psychiatrists in Buffalo play a crucial role in mental health, diagnosing and treating conditions such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. Working in hospitals, private practices, or mental health centers, they integrate therapy, medication management, and patient counseling. As awareness of mental health grows, demand for psychiatrists continues to rise. Their expertise requires deep empathy, clinical knowledge, and the ability to tailor treatments to individuals, improving community well-being and contributing to holistic healthcare outcomes.
14. Anesthesiologist – $300,000+
Anesthesiologists ensure patient safety and comfort during surgical and medical procedures. In Buffalo’s advanced hospitals and surgical centers, they monitor vital signs, administer anesthesia, and manage pain before and after operations. Their role is critical to successful outcomes in surgery and emergency care. Highly trained in physiology and pharmacology, they collaborate closely with surgeons and nurses to mitigate risk. Their precision and vigilance make them among the most respected and well-compensated medical specialists.
15. Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) – $150,000–$190,000
The Chief Nursing Officer oversees all nursing operations, ensuring the highest standards of patient care across hospitals and clinics. In Buffalo, CNOs are key leaders at institutions like Kaleida Health and Catholic Health. They develop policies, supervise nursing staff, and promote quality improvement initiatives. Their leadership directly impacts patient satisfaction and clinical outcomes. Balancing compassion with administration, CNOs combine clinical experience with strategic management, driving excellence in healthcare delivery and professional nursing development.
16. Pharmacist (Hospital/Manager) – $120,000–$145,000
Pharmacists in Buffalo play a vital role in patient care, managing medication safety, efficacy, and distribution. In hospital settings, they collaborate with physicians to design effective treatment plans and prevent adverse drug interactions. As pharmacy managers, they oversee staff, budgets, and compliance with healthcare regulations. Their precision and attention to detail ensure positive patient outcomes. With Buffalo’s growing medical infrastructure, pharmacists enjoy steady demand, competitive pay, and key influence within interdisciplinary healthcare teams.
17. Nurse Practitioner (NP) – $110,000–$135,000
Nurse Practitioners provide advanced clinical care across Buffalo’s hospitals, clinics, and private practices. They diagnose illnesses, prescribe medications, and manage long-term patient treatment plans. With physician shortages nationwide, NPs fill critical gaps in healthcare access, particularly in primary and family care. Their blend of clinical skill, patient education, and empathetic communication enhances community health. The role’s autonomy and high earning potential make it one of the most rewarding careers in modern healthcare.
18. Physician Assistant (PA) – $105,000–$130,000
Physician Assistants support doctors in delivering high-quality care across various specialties, from surgery to emergency medicine. In Buffalo, they are key members of collaborative medical teams, performing examinations, interpreting tests, and managing treatment plans. Their broad training allows flexibility across healthcare settings. PAs are especially valued for their efficiency and adaptability, helping reduce patient wait times and improving overall care delivery. This rewarding profession combines strong job security with competitive pay and work-life balance.
19. Dentist – $120,000–$200,000+
Dentists in Buffalo provide comprehensive oral care, diagnosing and treating issues related to teeth, gums, and overall dental health. Many operate private practices or work in group settings, offering preventive and restorative services. The field offers financial stability, flexibility, and consistent demand. As oral health awareness grows, dentists play a vital role in public wellness. Their expertise in cosmetic and surgical procedures further boosts earning potential and community reputation within the healthcare landscape.
20. Optometrist – $110,000–$140,000
Optometrists diagnose and treat vision problems, helping maintain eye health for patients of all ages. In Buffalo, they work in clinics, hospitals, and private practices, performing eye exams, prescribing corrective lenses, and detecting ocular diseases. Their role supports both preventive care and early intervention in conditions like glaucoma and diabetes-related vision loss. With growing demand for specialized eye care, optometrists enjoy professional autonomy, community trust, and competitive earnings within the region’s expanding healthcare sector.
Top 20 Highest-Paying Jobs in Buffalo, NY
| No. | Job Title | Average Salary | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chief Executive Officer (CEO) | $250,000+ | Leads company strategy, operations, and growth; ultimate decision-maker ensuring profitability and sustainability. |
| 2 | Chief Financial Officer (CFO) | $200,000+ | Oversees company finances, investments, budgeting, and long-term fiscal health. |
| 3 | Chief Operating Officer (COO) | $190,000+ | Manages daily operations, ensuring efficiency and alignment with organizational goals. |
| 4 | Chief Medical Officer | $180,000+ | Directs healthcare strategy, patient safety, and medical team performance across systems. |
| 5 | Chief Information Officer (CIO) | $175,000+ | Oversees IT systems, data strategy, and digital transformation initiatives. |
| 6 | Vice President of Operations | $160,000+ | Manages logistics, performance, and strategic implementation across departments. |
| 7 | Vice President of Finance | $155,000+ | Directs financial reporting, investments, and long-term fiscal planning. |
| 8 | Vice President of Sales | $150,000+ | Leads sales growth, market expansion, and key account development strategies. |
| 9 | Managing Director | $145,000+ | Oversees division performance, team leadership, and business development. |
| 10 | Plant Manager (Large Manufacturing) | $130,000–$165,000 | Directs large-scale production, safety, and manufacturing efficiency. |
| 11 | Physician (Various Specialties) | $200,000–$500,000+ | Diagnoses, treats, and manages patient care across medical specialties. |
| 12 | Surgeon | $300,000+ | Performs complex surgical operations to treat injuries and diseases. |
| 13 | Psychiatrist | $220,000+ | Treats mental health disorders using therapy and medication management. |
| 14 | Anesthesiologist | $300,000+ | Administers anesthesia and monitors patients during surgical procedures. |
| 15 | Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) | $150,000–$190,000 | Oversees nursing operations, patient care standards, and staff management. |
| 16 | Pharmacist (Hospital/Manager) | $120,000–$145,000 | Dispenses medications and manages pharmaceutical services within hospitals. |
| 17 | Nurse Practitioner (NP) | $110,000–$135,000 | Provides primary and specialized healthcare independently or collaboratively. |
| 18 | Physician Assistant (PA) | $105,000–$130,000 | Assists physicians in patient diagnosis, treatment, and care management. |
| 19 | Dentist | $120,000–$200,000+ | Diagnoses and treats oral conditions to maintain dental health. |
| 20 | Optometrist | $110,000–$140,000 | Examines eyes, diagnoses vision problems, and prescribes corrective lenses. |
Highest-Paying Jobs in Buffalo, NY (21–50)
| No. | Job Title | Average Salary | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 21 | Podiatrist | $120,000–$160,000 | Diagnoses and treats foot and ankle disorders and injuries. |
| 22 | Engineering Manager | $130,000–$160,000 | Oversees engineering projects, design processes, and technical teams. |
| 23 | Process Engineering Manager | $120,000–$150,000 | Improves production efficiency and oversees process design optimization. |
| 24 | Senior Mechanical Engineer | $95,000–$120,000 | Designs, tests, and improves mechanical systems and components. |
| 25 | Senior Electrical Engineer | $95,000–$120,000 | Develops electrical systems, circuitry, and power distribution solutions. |
| 26 | Chemical Engineer (Senior) | $100,000–$130,000 | Designs and optimizes chemical production processes for efficiency and safety. |
| 27 | Project Engineering Manager | $110,000–$140,000 | Leads engineering teams, schedules, and budgets for major projects. |
| 28 | Quality Assurance Manager | $90,000–$115,000 | Ensures product quality, compliance, and continuous improvement. |
| 29 | Supply Chain Director | $120,000–$150,000 | Manages logistics, procurement, and supplier relationships company-wide. |
| 30 | Operations Director | $115,000–$145,000 | Directs operations, production, and resource allocation for efficiency. |
| 31 | Maintenance Manager | $85,000–$110,000 | Oversees equipment upkeep, repairs, and maintenance schedules. |
| 32 | Continuous Improvement Manager | $90,000–$115,000 | Implements process improvements to boost productivity and reduce costs. |
| 33 | Software Development Manager | $130,000–$160,000 | Leads software teams developing enterprise or custom applications. |
| 34 | IT Director | $120,000–$150,000 | Oversees technology infrastructure, IT staff, and system upgrades. |
| 35 | Principal Software Engineer | $115,000–$145,000 | Designs complex software systems and mentors development teams. |
| 36 | Data Science Manager | $110,000–$140,000 | Leads data analytics projects to drive business insights and innovation. |
| 37 | Cloud Architect | $105,000–$135,000 | Designs scalable cloud infrastructure and deployment strategies. |
| 38 | Cybersecurity Manager | $105,000–$135,000 | Protects organizational networks, systems, and data from cyber threats. |
| 39 | DevOps Manager | $100,000–$130,000 | Integrates development and operations to enhance software delivery efficiency. |
| 40 | Product Manager (Tech) | $95,000–$125,000 | Oversees software product strategy, lifecycle, and cross-team coordination. |
| 41 | Senior Data Scientist | $95,000–$120,000 | Analyzes data trends and builds predictive machine learning models. |
| 42 | Network Architect | $90,000–$115,000 | Designs and maintains high-performance enterprise network infrastructure. |
| 43 | Finance Director | $140,000–$170,000 | Directs corporate financial strategy, budgeting, and performance reporting. |
| 44 | Corporate Controller | $110,000–$140,000 | Oversees accounting operations and ensures financial accuracy. |
| 45 | Tax Director | $120,000–$150,000 | Manages company tax compliance, planning, and reporting. |
| 46 | Attorney (Partner) | $150,000–$250,000+ | Leads high-value cases and firm business operations. |
| 47 | Attorney (Associate, 5+ years) | $100,000–$150,000 | Handles complex legal cases under senior supervision. |
| 48 | Treasury Manager | $100,000–$125,000 | Manages cash flow, investments, and liquidity strategies. |
| 49 | Financial Planning & Analysis Manager | $95,000–$120,000 | Prepares budgets and financial forecasts for strategic decisions. |
| 50 | Internal Audit Director | $110,000–$140,000 | Ensures internal controls, risk management, and compliance standards. |
Desk Jobs – Professional In Nature
| No. | Job Title | Average Salary | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 51 | Certified Public Accountant (Senior Manager) | $90,000–$120,000 | Oversees audits, tax filings, and financial reporting accuracy. |
| 52 | Sales Director | $120,000+ | Leads sales teams to achieve revenue and growth targets. |
| 53 | Regional Sales Manager | $100,000+ | Manages sales operations and teams across multiple regions. |
| 54 | Key Account Director | $110,000+ | Builds relationships with top clients to maximize long-term revenue. |
| 55 | Pharmaceutical Sales Representative (Senior) | $90,000–$120,000 | Promotes and sells pharmaceutical products to healthcare providers. |
| 56 | Medical Device Sales Representative | $85,000–$115,000 | Sells advanced medical equipment and ensures client satisfaction. |
| 57 | Director of Marketing | $100,000–$130,000 | Oversees brand strategy, campaigns, and market positioning. |
| 58 | Marketing Manager (Senior) | $85,000–$110,000 | Plans and manages marketing initiatives to increase visibility. |
| 59 | University President | $300,000+ | Leads university operations, strategy, and academic growth. |
| 60 | Superintendent of Schools | $150,000–$220,000 | Manages district-wide education administration and leadership. |
| 61 | Dean (University) | $120,000–$180,000 | Oversees academic departments and faculty performance. |
| 62 | College Professor (Senior, Tenured) | $90,000–$130,000 | Conducts research and teaches university-level courses. |
| 63 | Police Chief | $120,000–$150,000 | Oversees law enforcement operations and public safety initiatives. |
| 64 | Fire Chief | $110,000–$140,000 | Directs firefighting, rescue, and emergency response operations. |
| 65 | Power Plant Manager | $100,000–$130,000 | Oversees power generation operations and maintenance. |
| 66 | Electrical Powerline Technician | $80,000–$100,000 | Installs and repairs electrical transmission and distribution systems. |
| 67 | Construction Project Manager | $85,000–$110,000 | Manages large-scale building projects and contractor coordination. |
| 68 | HVAC Manager | $75,000–$95,000 | Oversees heating, ventilation, and air conditioning operations. |
| 69 | Elevator Mechanic | $70,000–$90,000 | Installs, maintains, and repairs elevators and lifts. |
| 70 | Master Plumber | $65,000–$85,000 | Installs and repairs plumbing systems for commercial and residential projects. |
| 71 | Master Electrician | $65,000–$85,000 | Designs, installs, and maintains complex electrical systems. |
| 72 | Welder (Certified, High-Skill) | $55,000–$75,000 | Performs precision welding for industrial and structural projects. |
| 73 | Industrial Machinery Mechanic | $60,000–$75,000 | Repairs and maintains factory production machinery. |
| 74 | Management Consultant | $95,000–$125,000 | Advises organizations on strategy, efficiency, and profitability. |
| 75 | Human Resources Director | $110,000–$140,000 | Leads HR operations, policies, and talent strategy. |
| 76 | Compensation & Benefits Manager | $95,000–$120,000 | Designs employee compensation and benefits programs. |
| 77 | Architect (Project Manager) | $85,000–$110,000 | Oversees architectural design and project execution. |
| 78 | Civil Engineer (Senior) | $85,000–$105,000 | Designs and supervises infrastructure and construction projects. |
| 79 | Physicist (Research & Development) | $90,000–$120,000 | Conducts experiments to advance scientific understanding and technology. |
| 80 | Biomedical Engineer | $80,000–$105,000 | Designs medical devices and healthcare technologies. |
| 81 | Veterinarian | $90,000–$120,000 | Provides medical care for animals in clinics or hospitals. |
| 82 | Commercial Pilot | $80,000–$110,000 | Operates aircraft for airlines or charter services. |
| 83 | Air Traffic Controller | $100,000–$130,000 | Directs aircraft movements to ensure safe, efficient air travel. |
| 84 | Real Estate Development Manager | $90,000–$115,000 | Manages property development projects from planning to completion. |
| 85 | Urban Planner (Senior) | $75,000–$95,000 | Designs urban layouts for sustainable community development. |
| 86 | Technical Program Manager | $100,000–$130,000 | Oversees technical projects aligning with company objectives. |
| 87 | IT Project Manager (Senior) | $95,000–$120,000 | Manages software development or IT system implementation. |
| 88 | Public Relations Director | $90,000–$115,000 | Manages media relations and company public image. |
| 89 | Training and Development Manager | $95,000–$120,000 | Designs and oversees employee skill development programs. |
| 90 | Actuary | $100,000–$130,000 | Analyzes financial risk using mathematics and statistics. |
| 91 | Economist (Senior) | $95,000–$120,000 | Studies market trends and advises on economic policy. |
| 92 | Environmental Engineer (Manager) | $90,000–$115,000 | Develops environmental protection and sustainability solutions. |
| 93 | Speech Language Pathologist (Director) | $85,000–$105,000 | Oversees speech therapy programs and clinical staff. |
| 94 | Occupational Therapist (Director) | $90,000–$110,000 | Leads therapy programs aiding patient recovery and independence. |
| 95 | Physical Therapist (Director) | $95,000–$115,000 | Manages physical rehabilitation and therapy operations. |
| 96 | Curator (Senior, Major Museum) | $70,000–$95,000 | Manages museum collections, exhibitions, and research. |
| 97 | Commercial Loan Officer (Senior) | $85,000–$115,000 | Approves and manages loans for business clients. |
| 98 | Insurance Actuary | $95,000–$125,000 | Calculates insurance risks and premium pricing models. |
| 99 | Pharmaceutical Research Scientist | $90,000–$120,000 | Develops and tests new drugs and medical treatments. |
| 100 | Data Engineer | $90,000–$115,000 | Builds and maintains data pipelines and databases. |
Closing
Buffalo’s employment landscape reflects a dynamic balance of traditional expertise and modern innovation. Professionals in medicine, technology, business leadership, and engineering enjoy rewarding career paths with strong earning potential and room for advancement. As the city continues investing in infrastructure, research, and technology, these top-paying roles will remain vital to Buffalo’s growth and prosperity—proving that this historic city is also a forward-looking center for professional success.