Sam SmithSavannah, Georgia combines Southern charm with one of the nation’s most powerful logistics and manufacturing economies. Driven by the Port of Savannah—one of the busiest container terminals in the U.S.—the region offers high-paying opportunities in maritime logistics, aerospace engineering, healthcare, and executive leadership. With major employers like Gulfstream Aerospace, the Georgia Ports Authority, and world-class medical systems, Savannah attracts top talent across medical, technical, business, and defense sectors. Below is a ranked guide to the highest-paying careers in Savannah today.
Top 100 Highest Paid Jobs in Savannah GA
1. Orthopedic Surgeon
Orthopedic surgeons in Savannah earn top salaries due to high demand for specialists in trauma, sports injuries, and joint reconstruction. Working at major medical systems like St. Joseph’s/Candler and Memorial Health, they perform complex surgeries, manage chronic pain conditions, and oversee rehabilitation plans. The aging population and regional sports activity fuel ongoing patient volume. Extensive schooling—medical degree, residency, and fellowship—combined with years of practice means this role rewards the highest medical skill level in the market.
2. Cardiologist
Cardiologists diagnose and treat heart disease, hypertension, and vascular disorders—conditions prevalent in Georgia’s population. They operate in hospital systems and private clinics, performing heart tests, managing chronic cardiac conditions, and conducting lifesaving interventions. Savannah’s growing senior population ensures consistent demand for cardiac specialists. Extensive medical training and ongoing licensure requirements reflect the complexity of the field. High patient load, emergency availability, and leadership roles in cardiac programs drive earnings well above most other medical roles locally.
3. Anesthesiologist
Anesthesiologists in Savannah support surgical and emergency procedures, delivering anesthesia, monitoring patient vitals, and ensuring safe recovery. With major hospital systems and specialized surgical centers, demand is steady. Long hours and intense responsibility justify compensation. They collaborate with surgeons, nurses, and CRNAs, often supervising anesthetic care teams. Advanced medical training, precision skills, and the high-risk nature of the job keep salaries among the region’s highest. Savannah’s growth in elective and trauma-related surgery supports strong earning potential.
4. Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
CEOs in Savannah lead major companies across aerospace manufacturing, logistics, finance, and hospitality. They set strategy, manage executive teams, and oversee financial performance. High salaries reflect the breadth of responsibility, decision-making power, and extensive experience required. Savannah’s economy includes Fortune-scale employers like Gulfstream Aerospace and major port-driven logistics firms, offering competitive compensation. Strong business acumen, leadership skills, and years of corporate experience distinguish successful CEOs, who guide company growth in a rapidly expanding regional economy.
5. General Surgeon
General surgeons diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions requiring surgical intervention, from abdominal operations to trauma care. They work in major Savannah hospitals, supporting emergency cases and planned procedures. This role demands extensive medical schooling and residency training, along with surgical precision and fast decision-making. Savannah’s population growth and hospital expansion provide consistent caseloads. Surgeons are critical to hospital operations, justifying high compensation and respected status within the region’s healthcare workforce.
6. Psychiatrist
Psychiatrists treat mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, trauma disorders, and addictions—areas seeing significant growth nationwide. Savannah offers opportunities in hospitals, clinics, and private practice settings. The role requires a medical doctorate, psychiatric residency, and ongoing credentials. Georgia has a high need for behavioral health experts, and psychiatrists often lead multidisciplinary care teams. Strong demand, specialized training, and ongoing mental-health focuses contribute to strong salaries and long-term career stability within the region.
7. Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
CFOs oversee financial strategy, budget planning, investment decisions, and regulatory compliance for large Savannah employers. They lead accounting and finance teams and support growth initiatives in sectors such as aerospace, logistics, and healthcare. Advanced degrees like an MBA or CPA credentials are common. High compensation reflects decision-making authority and responsibility over financial health and risk management. Savannah’s corporate expansion and thriving port economy drive strong demand for experienced financial leadership.
8. Port Director / Senior Maritime Executive
Port executives oversee terminal operations, shipping logistics, and cargo flow at the Port of Savannah—one of the fastest-growing ports in the U.S. They coordinate with shipping companies, government agencies, and trucking and rail networks. The role requires deep maritime knowledge, strategic planning, and strong leadership. High pay reflects the scale of economic impact, with billions in commerce moving through the port. Global trade growth and infrastructure expansion keep these positions vital and well-compensated.
9. Vice President (Corporate)
Corporate VPs in Savannah manage high-level operations across major industries including aerospace, logistics, banking, and manufacturing. They supervise department heads, oversee business performance, and drive strategic initiatives. Years of management experience and industry expertise are essential. High compensation is tied to advanced leadership duties, performance goals, and responsibility for organizational success. Savannah’s industrial and commercial growth, especially through Gulfstream and port operations, creates competitive salaries for top-tier corporate executives.
10. Radiologist
Radiologists interpret medical imaging such as MRIs, CT scans, and X-rays, playing a vital role in diagnosing illness and guiding treatment plans. Savannah hospitals and specialty imaging centers rely heavily on radiology services due to increasing patient volume and advanced diagnostic technologies. Radiologists undergo extensive medical training and residency in imaging. The specialized expertise, high demand for diagnostic precision, and growing use of imaging technology ensure strong compensation within Savannah’s healthcare sector.
11. Hospital Administrator
Hospital administrators manage large medical networks, clinical departments, budgets, and staffing for facilities across Savannah. They play critical roles in policy setting, patient experience improvement, and regulatory compliance. With healthcare expansion and aging population needs, leadership positions remain in high demand. Master’s degrees in health administration or business are common. High salaries reflect responsibility for patient outcomes, fiscal performance, and complex healthcare operations in a rapidly growing medical market.
12. Senior Aerospace Engineer (Gulfstream)
Savannah is a global aerospace center, home to Gulfstream Aerospace. Senior aerospace engineers design and test aircraft systems, manage engineering teams, and ensure regulatory and quality compliance. This role demands advanced engineering education, certification, and years of specialized experience. High pay reflects technical expertise, leadership roles, and product complexity. Gulfstream’s international footprint and ongoing aircraft development programs make this one of the most prestigious and lucrative engineering positions in the region.
13. Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
CRNAs administer anesthesia and manage patient sedation for surgical and emergency procedures. They work in hospitals, outpatient surgical centers, and specialized clinics. This role requires advanced nursing degrees and national certification. CRNAs often serve as primary anesthesia providers, especially in rural and mid-sized markets like Savannah. High compensation reflects high responsibility and specialized clinical training. The growth of surgical services supports consistent employment and competitive pay for CRNAs in the region.
14. Senior Military Officer
Savannah’s military community includes Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield, creating opportunities for senior officers with decades of service and leadership responsibility. Compensation includes salary, benefits, housing, and retirement packages. Officers manage troop readiness, logistics, training, and mission planning. Their strategic expertise and national defense contributions justify compensation comparable to top civilian leaders. Savannah’s military infrastructure ensures stable and respected career opportunities for high-ranking service members.
15. Senior Port Engineer / Marine Engineer
Senior port engineers maintain marine equipment, oversee dock and vessel systems, and manage maritime infrastructure projects. Savannah’s booming port requires highly skilled engineering oversight to ensure efficiency and safety. Responsibilities include supervising upgrades, managing contractors, and coordinating with maritime authorities. Advanced engineering degrees and port experience are essential. Strong salaries reflect engineering difficulty, maritime knowledge, and Savannah’s role as a global freight hub supporting continuous port expansion.
16. Senior Software Engineer
Senior software engineers design system architecture, build software applications, and lead development teams for Savannah’s growing tech, aerospace, and logistics firms. Advanced coding skills, cloud computing knowledge, and project leadership experience are required. Savannah’s corporate tech presence has expanded thanks to defense firms, aerospace digital systems, and supply-chain automation. Competitive salaries reflect demand for technical innovation and cross-industry digital transformation.
17. Pharmacist
Pharmacists dispense medications, counsel patients, and manage pharmacy operations across hospitals, clinics, and retail chains. Savannah’s growing population fuels steady need for pharmaceutical professionals. Advanced education, board certification, and clinical knowledge are required. Pharmacists play an essential role in chronic disease management—especially important in regions with high rates of diabetes, hypertension, and aging populations. Their expertise and healthcare responsibilities support strong career stability and competitive earnings.
18. Airport/Aerospace Program Director
Program directors oversee airport or aerospace operations, coordinating engineering teams, safety programs, project budgets, and regulatory compliance. At Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport and Gulfstream facilities, these leaders ensure smooth execution of aviation programs. Extensive aerospace experience, management skill, and technical understanding drive high compensation. As Savannah’s aerospace sector continues expanding, program directors are key to maintaining efficiency, innovation, and safety.
19. Director of Supply Chain / Logistics
Logistics leaders in Savannah manage global freight movement, warehousing, trucking coordination, and supply-chain optimization. With the Port of Savannah as a major U.S. trade hub, these roles are critical to economic growth. Directors oversee teams, negotiate contracts, and develop shipping strategies for corporate and port-related operations. Advanced supply-chain knowledge and leadership experience drive earnings. Strong demand comes from ongoing port expansion and Savannah’s booming import/export infrastructure.
20. Corporate Controller
Corporate controllers direct accounting operations, ensure financial accuracy, and oversee regulatory compliance for large employers. They manage financial reporting, budgeting, audits, and internal controls. Controllers in Savannah benefit from major industrial players and expanding logistics companies. CPA credentials and extensive accounting experience are common requirements. Strong salaries reflect responsibility for organizational financial health and operations integrity, particularly in highly regulated industries.
Top 100 Highest-Paying Jobs — Savannah, GA
| Rank | Job Title | Typical Salary (Savannah) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Surgeon (Orthopedic / Cardio) | $350,000 – $520,000 |
| 2 | Chief Executive Officer (CEO) | $250,000 – $450,000+ |
| 3 | Anesthesiologist | $300,000 – $440,000 |
| 4 | Chief Financial Officer (CFO) | $200,000 – $350,000+ |
| 5 | Psychiatrist | $230,000 – $330,000 |
| 6 | Port Director / Maritime Executive | $200,000 – $325,000 |
| 7 | Aerospace Engineering Director (Gulfstream) | $180,000 – $300,000 |
| 8 | Hospital Administrator / System VP | $180,000 – $290,000 |
| 9 | Cardiologist | $300,000 – $420,000 |
| 10 | VP of Logistics / Supply Chain | $165,000 – $260,000 |
| 11 | Military Colonel / Senior Officer | $160,000 – $230,000 (incl. benefits) |
| 12 | Senior Corporate Attorney | $160,000 – $250,000 |
| 13 | CRNA (Nurse Anesthetist) | $170,000 – $220,000 |
| 14 | Senior Aerospace Engineer | $130,000 – $200,000 |
| 15 | Port Engineering & Operations Director | $145,000 – $210,000 |
| 16 | VP of Manufacturing (Aerospace) | $160,000 – $240,000 |
| 17 | Dermatologist | $300,000 – $400,000 |
| 18 | Dentist / Oral Surgeon | $200,000 – $350,000 |
| 19 | General Physician | $180,000 – $280,000 |
| 20 | Construction Executive / PM Director | $150,000 – $210,000 |
| 21 | Data Architect / Lead Engineer | $130,000 – $185,000 |
| 22 | Pilot (Commercial / Cargo) | $120,000 – $210,000 |
| 23 | Engineering Manager (Gulfstream / Ports) | $130,000 – $190,000 |
| 24 | Information Systems Director | $130,000 – $180,000 |
| 25 | Real Estate Development Executive | $120,000 – $200,000 |
| 26 | Pharmacist | $120,000 – $160,000 |
| 27 | Marketing VP | $130,000 – $180,000 |
| 28 | Cybersecurity Manager | $120,000 – $165,000 |
| 29 | Aviation Program Manager | $125,000 – $185,000 |
| 30 | Naval Architect / Marine Engineer | $115,000 – $165,000 |
| 31 | Professor (Senior / Tenured) | $110,000 – $170,000 |
| 32 | Sales Director (Corporate / Industrial) | $120,000 – $220,000 w/ bonus |
| 33 | Finance Director / Controller | $115,000 – $160,000 |
| 34 | Software Engineering Manager | $120,000 – $175,000 |
| 35 | Hotel General Manager (Large Resort) | $110,000 – $180,000 |
| 36 | Port Operations Manager | $115,000 – $160,000 |
| 37 | Supply Chain Manager | $105,000 – $155,000 |
| 38 | HR Director | $110,000 – $160,000 |
| 39 | Enterprise Sales Executive | $100,000 – $190,000+ |
| 40 | Civil Engineering Manager | $105,000 – $145,000 |
| 41 | Nurse Practitioner (Specialty) | $110,000 – $145,000 |
| 42 | Physician Assistant | $105,000 – $140,000 |
| 43 | IT Project Manager | $100,000 – $140,000 |
| 44 | Senior Mechanical Engineer (Aerospace) | $100,000 – $150,000 |
| 45 | UX / Systems Architect | $105,000 – $155,000 |
| 46 | Financial Advisor (Top Performers) | $90,000 – $220,000 |
| 47 | Chemical Engineer | $95,000 – $140,000 |
| 48 | Real Estate Broker (Top) | $85,000 – $200,000+ |
| 49 | Industrial Production Manager | $95,000 – $135,000 |
| 50 | Port Security / Federal Agency Lead | $95,000 – $150,000 |
| 51 | Logistics Analyst Lead | $85,000 – $120,000 |
| 52 | Senior Accountant / CPA | $85,000 – $120,000 |
| 53 | Nurse Manager | $95,000 – $130,000 |
| 54 | Electrical Engineer | $85,000 – $130,000 |
| 55 | Mechanical Engineer | $85,000 – $125,000 |
| 56 | Civil Engineer | $80,000 – $120,000 |
| 57 | Digital Marketing Director | $90,000 – $135,000 |
| 58 | University Department Chair | $95,000 – $145,000 |
| 59 | Hospitality Director (Major Brands) | $90,000 – $150,000 |
| 60 | Airfield Operations Supervisor | $80,000 – $120,000 |
| 61 | Occupational Therapist | $85,000 – $120,000 |
| 62 | Physical Therapist | $80,000 – $115,000 |
| 63 | Radiation Therapist | $85,000 – $125,000 |
| 64 | Transportation Planner / Port Analyst | $80,000 – $120,000 |
| 65 | Elevator Mechanic | $85,000 – $125,000 |
| 66 | Senior Graphic Designer (SCAD Corporate) | $70,000 – $120,000 |
| 67 | Marine Surveyor | $80,000 – $120,000 |
| 68 | Dental Hygienist | $80,000 – $110,000 |
| 69 | Public Relations Director | $85,000 – $130,000 |
| 70 | Senior Paralegal | $75,000 – $105,000 |
| 71 | Port Customs Specialist | $75,000 – $110,000 |
| 72 | Police Captain | $80,000 – $120,000 |
| 73 | Fire Captain | $80,000 – $115,000 |
| 74 | Registered Nurse (RN Senior) | $75,000 – $115,000 |
| 75 | Commercial Construction Superintendent | $80,000 – $125,000 |
| 76 | Social Work Director | $75,000 – $110,000 |
| 77 | Marine Cargo Coordinator | $70,000 – $105,000 |
| 78 | Biomedical Engineer | $75,000 – $115,000 |
| 79 | Naval Logistics Specialist | $70,000 – $110,000 |
| 80 | Secondary School Principal | $80,000 – $115,000 |
| 81 | Air Traffic Controller (Regional) | $80,000 – $130,000 |
| 82 | Chemist / Lab Manager | $75,000 – $110,000 |
| 83 | Claims Manager | $75,000 – $110,000 |
| 84 | Loan Officer (Top Producers) | $70,000 – $140,000 |
| 85 | Logistics Coordinator | $65,000 – $90,000 |
| 86 | Court Administrator | $70,000 – $105,000 |
| 87 | Port Forklift / Heavy Equipment Supervisor | $65,000 – $95,000 |
| 88 | Quality Control Manager | $70,000 – $105,000 |
| 89 | SCAD Instructor | $60,000 – $95,000 |
| 90 | Executive Chef (Luxury Hotel) | $70,000 – $120,000 |
| 91 | Police Officer (Experienced) | $55,000 – $90,000 |
| 92 | Firefighter (Experienced) | $55,000 – $90,000 |
| 93 | Port Crane Operator (Union) | $55,000 – $95,000 |
| 94 | Marine Mechanic | $55,000 – $85,000 |
| 95 | HVAC Contractor / Tech | $55,000 – $100,000 |
| 96 | Diesel Mechanic | $50,000 – $85,000 |
| 97 | Realtor | $45,000 – $130,000 commission-based |
| 98 | Electrician | $55,000 – $95,000 |
| 99 | Plumber | $55,000 – $95,000 |
| 100 | Hotel Manager (Mid-Tier) | $55,000 – $90,000 |
Closing
Savannah continues to evolve from a historic coastal city into a high-performance economic engine powered by aerospace, global logistics, specialized healthcare, and military operations. High-earning careers here reward advanced education, leadership, and technical expertise—particularly in port operations and aviation. With affordable living, expanding corporate investment, and stable career pathways, Savannah offers strong long-term earning potential across diverse sectors. Whether advancing in healthcare, engineering, business, or defense, professionals can build lasting, high-income careers in this thriving Southern hub.