Sam SmithBrisbane stands at the heart of Queensland’s economic transformation, evolving from a regional capital into a national powerhouse for energy, infrastructure, technology, and finance. Its diverse economy blends traditional strengths in mining and resources with rapid growth in tech innovation and professional services. With new infrastructure projects, international investments, and a rising population, high-paying opportunities are abundant across industries. This guide presents the top 100 highest-paying jobs in Brisbane, showcasing the city’s thriving and competitive professional landscape.
Highest-paying Jobs In Brisbane
1. Chief Executive Officer (CEO) – $300,000+
The CEO is the top executive responsible for guiding a company’s vision, financial performance, and long-term growth. In Brisbane, CEOs are in high demand across sectors like mining, healthcare, and technology. Their role requires strong strategic leadership, decision-making under pressure, and the ability to manage diverse teams. Compensation reflects the complexity of steering multimillion-dollar organisations and maintaining investor confidence in a rapidly growing economic hub.
2. Chief Financial Officer (CFO) – $280,000+
CFOs manage a company’s financial operations, including budgeting, risk management, and reporting. In Brisbane, they are vital in industries such as resources, real estate, and logistics. Their expertise ensures financial stability, investor trust, and regulatory compliance. With economic expansion and infrastructure growth, CFOs command high salaries for balancing cost control with strategic investment. Many also play a key role in mergers, acquisitions, and corporate restructures, making them indispensable to business success.
3. Chief Operating Officer (COO) – $260,000+
The COO oversees daily business operations, ensuring strategic goals are efficiently executed. In Brisbane, COOs thrive in construction, energy, and manufacturing sectors, where operational coordination is complex and large-scale. They streamline productivity, manage resources, and drive company growth. Their salary reflects their broad accountability—balancing logistics, human resources, and technology systems to ensure the company runs smoothly and profitably in a competitive business landscape.
4. Chief Technology Officer (CTO) – $240,000+
CTOs lead innovation by managing a company’s technological direction. Brisbane’s tech sector—especially FinTech, MedTech, and clean energy—creates strong demand for skilled CTOs. They guide software development, cybersecurity, and digital transformation projects that enhance efficiency and competitiveness. Their compensation reflects both technical mastery and strategic leadership, as they bridge the gap between business goals and cutting-edge innovation in one of Australia’s fastest-growing digital economies.
5. Chief Information Officer (CIO) – $230,000+
CIOs oversee information systems and digital infrastructure. In Brisbane, they’re critical in finance, healthcare, and government sectors that depend on secure, efficient data management. Their role involves integrating new technologies, ensuring cybersecurity, and aligning IT strategy with business objectives. With organisations undergoing rapid digital transformation, CIOs command top salaries for their ability to deliver stable, scalable technology solutions that enhance productivity and long-term competitiveness.
6. Chief Medical Officer (Health Service) – $220,000+
The Chief Medical Officer leads clinical governance and medical strategy within hospitals or health networks. In Brisbane, CMOs ensure patient safety, quality assurance, and policy compliance across large healthcare organisations. Their responsibilities bridge medicine and executive leadership, influencing recruitment, research, and operational outcomes. Given Brisbane’s rapidly expanding hospital infrastructure and high healthcare standards, these professionals earn exceptional salaries for combining medical expertise with strategic management acumen.
7. Managing Director – $220,000+
A Managing Director oversees overall business operations, representing the company to stakeholders, clients, and investors. In Brisbane, they are particularly prominent in the resources, real estate, and professional services sectors. Their job involves shaping company strategy, ensuring profitability, and driving expansion. High earnings reflect their pivotal role in steering corporate vision, managing large teams, and sustaining growth in an increasingly global and competitive Queensland business environment.
8. Vice President of Operations – $200,000+
VPs of Operations oversee company performance across divisions, ensuring production, logistics, and financial targets are met. In Brisbane, they play a major role in industries like mining, manufacturing, and transport. They develop process efficiencies, lead operational teams, and manage multimillion-dollar budgets. Their pay reflects accountability for organisational success—balancing cost control, safety, and innovation in sectors vital to Queensland’s economy and export infrastructure.
9. Vice President of Engineering – $190,000+
This senior role supervises large-scale engineering teams and projects, ensuring technical excellence and safety compliance. In Brisbane, VPs of Engineering are essential in mining, construction, and energy. They design strategic frameworks for infrastructure and technological development. Their high salary stems from their responsibility for major assets, workforce safety, and innovation in delivering complex projects that underpin Queensland’s industrial and resource-driven growth.
10. Vice President of Sales – $180,000+ (with significant commission)
VPs of Sales lead national or regional sales strategies, overseeing revenue growth and client acquisition. In Brisbane, they are especially sought after in technology, healthcare, and B2B industries. Their role requires strong leadership, negotiation skills, and market insight. Compensation includes large base pay and commissions, reflecting performance-driven results that directly impact profitability. They play a key role in expanding market share and maintaining client relationships.
11. Surgeon – $400,000+
Surgeons perform complex medical operations requiring exceptional skill and precision. In Brisbane’s advanced healthcare system, surgeons are among the highest-paid professionals due to their critical role in patient outcomes and the years of education and training required. Specialties like neurosurgery, cardiac, and orthopedic surgery are particularly lucrative. High demand in both public and private hospitals ensures strong earning potential and professional prestige.
12. Anaesthetist – $380,000+
Anaesthetists are medical specialists responsible for patient sedation and pain control during surgery. Their expertise ensures safety throughout complex procedures, making them indispensable in hospitals across Brisbane. This role requires extensive training, vigilance, and a deep understanding of pharmacology and physiology. The high salary reflects both the technical difficulty and responsibility of the position, as anaesthetists play a vital role in surgical success and emergency medicine.
13. Psychiatrist – $250,000+
Psychiatrists diagnose and treat mental health disorders using therapy, medication, and holistic care. In Brisbane, demand is high due to growing awareness of mental health and limited specialist availability. They work in hospitals, clinics, or private practice, often handling complex cases involving anxiety, depression, and trauma. The salary reflects their extensive medical education and the increasing societal emphasis on mental health care and wellbeing.
14. Physician (Specialist) – $230,000–$350,000
Specialist physicians provide expert medical care in specific areas such as cardiology, oncology, or endocrinology. In Brisbane, their expertise supports a strong network of tertiary hospitals and private practices. They conduct diagnoses, manage treatment plans, and perform clinical research. High remuneration is justified by their years of specialist training, critical decision-making, and the growing demand for advanced medical services within Queensland’s expanding population.
15. General Practitioner (GP) – $150,000–$250,000
General Practitioners serve as the first point of medical contact for patients, diagnosing a wide range of conditions and coordinating referrals. Brisbane’s growing suburbs and aging population make GPs essential to the local health system. Many operate private practices or work in clinics offering flexible hours. Their earnings reflect the central role they play in preventive care and the ongoing need for experienced family physicians.
16. Dental Specialist (Orthodontist, Oral Surgeon, etc.) – $180,000–$300,000
Dental specialists in Brisbane earn high incomes through expertise in orthodontics, prosthodontics, and oral surgery. Their work requires advanced qualifications and precision techniques to treat complex dental and facial conditions. The salary reflects both their specialist training and the increasing demand for cosmetic and corrective dental procedures. Brisbane’s affluent suburbs and private dental clinics provide lucrative opportunities for skilled practitioners.
17. Director of Nursing/Midwifery – $160,000–$200,000
This senior healthcare role oversees clinical governance, staff leadership, and patient safety within hospitals or health networks. In Brisbane, Directors of Nursing ensure high standards of care across large teams. Their responsibilities include workforce planning, compliance, and strategic improvement initiatives. The high salary recognises their essential contribution to healthcare quality, as well as the managerial and operational expertise needed to coordinate complex medical environments.
18. Nurse Practitioner – $120,000–$150,000
Nurse Practitioners are advanced clinicians authorised to diagnose, prescribe, and manage patient care independently. In Brisbane, they often specialise in areas like emergency medicine, aged care, or chronic disease management. Their autonomy reduces pressure on hospitals and doctors, making them vital to Queensland’s healthcare system. High pay reflects their advanced qualifications, clinical leadership, and ability to deliver holistic care in community and hospital settings.
19. Pharmacist (Hospital Manager) – $110,000–$140,000
Hospital Pharmacist Managers oversee pharmaceutical operations, ensuring safe medication distribution and compliance with therapeutic guidelines. In Brisbane, they play a crucial role in public and private hospitals, managing budgets, staff, and regulatory requirements. Their expertise in pharmacology and healthcare management ensures quality patient outcomes. High earnings reflect their dual clinical and administrative responsibilities, alongside the growing complexity of modern drug treatments and supply systems.
20. Sonographer (Senior) – $100,000–$130,000
Senior Sonographers use ultrasound technology to diagnose and monitor medical conditions, working closely with radiologists and doctors. In Brisbane, they are in high demand across hospitals and private imaging clinics due to population growth and advanced medical infrastructure. Their role combines technical precision with patient care. Salaries are high because of the specialised training required and the critical role ultrasound plays in early disease detection and prenatal health.
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Job Title | Estimated Salary Range (AUD) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chief Executive Officer (CEO) | $300,000+ |
| 2 | Chief Financial Officer (CFO) | $280,000+ |
| 3 | Chief Operating Officer (COO) | $260,000+ |
| 4 | Chief Technology Officer (CTO) | $240,000+ |
| 5 | Chief Information Officer (CIO) | $230,000+ |
| 6 | Chief Medical Officer (Health Service) | $220,000+ |
| 7 | Managing Director | $220,000+ |
| 8 | Vice President of Operations | $200,000+ |
| 9 | Vice President of Engineering | $190,000+ |
| 10 | Vice President of Sales | $180,000+ (with significant commission) |
| 11 | Surgeon | $400,000+ |
| 12 | Anaesthetist | $380,000+ |
| 13 | Psychiatrist | $250,000+ |
| 14 | Physician (Specialist) | $230,000 – $350,000 |
| 15 | General Practitioner (GP) | $150,000 – $250,000 |
| 16 | Dental Specialist (e.g., Orthodontist, Oral Surgeon) | $180,000 – $300,000 |
| 17 | Director of Nursing/Midwifery | $160,000 – $200,000 |
| 18 | Nurse Practitioner | $120,000 – $150,000 |
| 19 | Pharmacist (Hospital Manager) | $110,000 – $140,000 |
| 20 | Sonographer (Senior) | $100,000 – $130,000 |
| 21 | Mining Director / Site Manager | $250,000 – $400,000+ |
| 22 | Head of Projects (Mining) | $220,000 – $350,000 |
| 23 | VP of Operations (Resources) | $220,000 – $320,000 |
| 24 | Mining Engineer (Senior/Manager) | $150,000 – $220,000 |
| 25 | Petroleum Engineer | $140,000 – $200,000 |
| 26 | Geotechnical Engineer (Senior) | $130,000 – $180,000 |
| 27 | Metallurgist (Manager) | $130,000 – $170,000 |
| 28 | Senior Geologist | $120,000 – $180,000 |
| 29 | Construction Director | $180,000 – $250,000 |
| 30 | Engineering Manager (Civil/Structural) | $150,000 – $200,000 |
| 31 | Project Director (Infrastructure) | $160,000 – $220,000 |
| 32 | Principal Structural Engineer | $140,000 – $190,000 |
| 33 | Principal Electrical Engineer | $140,000 – $185,000 |
| 34 | Head of Technology / IT Director | $180,000 – $240,000 |
| 35 | Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) | $180,000 – $230,000 |
| 36 | Software Engineering Manager | $160,000 – $210,000 |
| 37 | Principal Software Architect | $150,000 – $190,000 |
| 38 | Cloud Architect | $140,000 – $180,000 |
| 39 | Cybersecurity Architect | $140,000 – $175,000 |
| 40 | Data Science Manager | $135,000 – $170,000 |
| 41 | DevOps Manager | $130,000 – $170,000 |
| 42 | Product Manager (Tech) | $120,000 – $160,000 |
| 43 | Senior Data Scientist | $115,000 – $155,000 |
| 44 | Security Engineer (Senior) | $110,000 – $150,000 |
| 45 | Partner (Law Firm) | $300,000+ |
| 46 | Investment Director / Fund Manager | $200,000 – $300,000+ |
| 47 | Director of Finance / CFO (Mid-size) | $180,000 – $250,000 |
| 48 | Tax Director | $170,000 – $220,000 |
| 49 | Corporate Lawyer (Senior Associate/Partner) | $130,000 – $250,000+ |
| 50 | Banking & Finance Lawyer | $120,000 – $220,000+ |
| 51 | Actuary (Senior Manager) | $150,000 – $190,000 |
| 52 | Corporate Treasurer | $130,000 – $170,000 |
| 53 | Financial Controller | $120,000 – $160,000 |
| 54 | Internal Audit Manager | $110,000 – $150,000 |
| 55 | Airline Pilot (Captain, Long-Haul) | $200,000 – $300,000+ |
| 56 | Captain (Harbour/Docking Master) | $150,000 – $220,000 |
| 57 | Marine Pilot (Berthing) | $180,000 – $250,000+ |
| 58 | Head of Supply Chain & Logistics | $140,000 – $190,000 |
| 59 | Air Traffic Controller | $110,000 – $150,000 |
| 60 | Marine Chief Engineer | $120,000 – $160,000 |
| 61 | Sales Director (Enterprise Software) | $180,000+ (with commission) |
| 62 | Regional Sales Director | $160,000+ (with commission) |
| 63 | National Account Director | $150,000+ (with commission) |
| 64 | Vice President of Marketing | $180,000 – $230,000 |
| 65 | Medical Device Sales Director | $140,000 – $200,000 |
| 66 | Head of Digital Marketing | $130,000 – $170,000 |
| 67 | Oil & Gas Production Manager | $150,000 – $200,000 |
| 68 | Underground Mine Manager | $180,000 – $250,000 |
| 69 | Electrical Powerline Technician (Senior) | $110,000 – $150,000 |
| 70 | Construction Manager (Major Projects) | $120,000 – $180,000 |
| 71 | HVAC Manager (Commercial) | $100,000 – $140,000 |
| 72 | Elevator Mechanic (Certified) | $90,000 – $120,000 |
| 73 | University Vice-Chancellor | $500,000+ |
| 74 | Deputy Vice-Chancellor (University) | $300,000 – $400,000 |
| 75 | Executive Dean (University) | $200,000 – $280,000 |
| 76 | Assistant Commissioner (State Government) | $200,000 – $280,000 |
| 77 | School Principal (Large Private/State) | $150,000 – $190,000 |
| 78 | Police Superintendent | $180,000 – $220,000 |
| 79 | Fire Service Chief Officer | $170,000 – $210,000 |
| 80 | Management Consultant (Principal) | $150,000 – $200,000 |
| 81 | User Experience (UX) Director | $140,000 – $180,000 |
| 82 | Real Estate Development Manager | $120,000 – $160,000 |
| 83 | Veterinarian (Specialist) | $120,000 – $180,000 |
| 84 | Clinical Psychologist (Director) | $110,000 – $150,000 |
| 85 | Commercial Pilot (FIFO/Offshore) | $100,000 – $150,000 |
| 86 | Data Engineering Manager | $140,000 – $180,000 |
| 87 | Solutions Architect Manager | $135,000 – $175,000 |
| 88 | Head of People & Culture (HR) | $130,000 – $170,000 |
| 89 | Recruitment Director (Executive Search) | $120,000 – $180,000+ |
| 90 | Cyber Security Manager | $130,000 – $170,000 |
| 91 | IT Programme Manager | $140,000 – $180,000 |
| 92 | Senior Project Manager (Agile/IT) | $130,000 – $165,000 |
| 93 | Business Development Director | $140,000 – $190,000+ |
| 94 | Risk and Compliance Director | $150,000 – $200,000 |
| 95 | Environmental Manager (Senior) | $120,000 – $160,000 |
| 96 | Urban Planner (Executive) | $110,000 – $150,000 |
| 97 | Architect (Principal) | $130,000 – $170,000 |
| 98 | Quantity Surveyor (Senior Director) | $140,000 – $190,000 |
| 99 | Oil & Gas Drilling Engineer | $130,000 – $180,000 |
| 100 | Mine Deputy | $120,000 – $160,000 |
Closing
Brisbane’s rise as a global city continues to create exceptional opportunities for skilled professionals. From resource-sector executives and healthcare specialists to tech innovators and financial leaders, the demand for top talent has never been stronger. The roles featured in this list reflect not only the city’s robust economy but also its strategic importance to Australia’s future. For those seeking career advancement, stability, and strong earning potential, Brisbane offers a compelling destination where innovation and opportunity meet.