Sam SmithTennessee’s economy is fueled by a mix of healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, and corporate management, making it a strong and diverse employment hub in the Southeast. With major medical systems, Fortune-listed corporations, and growing tech and finance sectors, the state offers competitive salaries across a range of high-skill professions. This guide highlights the highest-paying careers in Tennessee, helping job seekers, students, and career-changers understand where the best earning opportunities exist in the state’s evolving workforce landscape.
Top 100 Highest-Paying Jobs in Costa Rica (USD)
1. Surgeons
Surgeons in Tennessee are among the highest-earning medical professionals due to the advanced skills and years of training required to perform life-saving procedures. They diagnose and operate on patients to treat injuries, diseases, and deformities, often working long hours in stressful environments. Demand is strong due to Tennessee’s large hospital networks, trauma centers, and aging population, which increases surgical needs. With specialized expertise and high responsibility, surgeons are compensated generously for their precision and ability to make critical decisions quickly.
2. Anesthesiologists
Anesthesiologists provide anesthesia and pain-management care before, during, and after surgical procedures. Their work requires deep medical knowledge, attention to detail, and the ability to respond instantly to complications. Tennessee’s major medical systems and surgical centers rely heavily on anesthesia experts to ensure patient safety and comfort. This role demands long hours, significant responsibility, and years of specialized education, but the high-stakes nature of the work results in exceptional pay and strong job security throughout the state’s growing healthcare sector.
3. Cardiologists
Cardiologists diagnose and treat heart-related diseases and conditions, playing a critical role in Tennessee where cardiovascular issues are common. They conduct tests, perform procedures, prescribe treatments, and manage ongoing patient care to prevent heart attacks, strokes, and chronic heart disease. Their advanced training and life-saving expertise justify high compensation, especially in major metro areas like Nashville and Memphis with robust hospital systems. As heart disease remains a leading health concern, cardiologists enjoy high demand and long-term earning stability.
4. Obstetricians & Gynecologists
Obstetricians and gynecologists provide reproductive health services and care for women before, during, and after childbirth. Their work includes delivering babies, diagnosing hormone-related conditions, and performing reproductive surgeries. With Tennessee’s growing population and strong healthcare infrastructure, OB-GYNs remain essential providers. The role requires years of specialized training, sensitivity, and emergency readiness. High responsibility, unpredictable hours, and expertise in women’s health support strong earning potential in both private practices and hospital settings statewide.
5. Psychiatrists
Psychiatrists diagnose and treat mental health disorders through therapy, medication, and individualized treatment plans. As Tennessee sees growth in mental health awareness and expanded behavioral health services, demand for psychiatrists continues rising. This position requires medical school, residency, and deep understanding of human behavior. The ability to treat complex psychiatric conditions and manage crises makes this role highly valued. Whether working in hospitals, clinics, or private practice, psychiatrists earn strong compensation for their specialized expertise and impact.
6. Chief Executives
Chief executives lead organizations, set long-term strategy, and make high-stakes business decisions. In Tennessee, executives work across healthcare networks, logistics companies, manufacturing plants, and corporate headquarters — especially in Nashville’s fast-growing economy. They oversee operations, financial performance, and organizational growth. The position demands leadership ability, business expertise, and years of experience. With responsibility for guiding large teams and managing multi-million-dollar decisions, executives earn top salaries and often receive bonuses, stock options, and corporate benefits.
7. Family Medicine Physicians
Family medicine physicians provide primary healthcare services, diagnose illnesses, treat injuries, and coordinate preventive care for patients of all ages. In Tennessee, where rural and suburban populations rely heavily on family doctors, this role is essential to community health. They develop long-term patient relationships and manage wide-ranging medical needs. With high patient demand and ongoing physician shortages, family doctors enjoy strong income, especially in underserved areas that offer competitive incentives to attract and retain medical talent.
8. Dentists
Dentists diagnose and treat oral health conditions, perform procedures like fillings, root canals, and extractions, and educate patients on oral hygiene. Tennessee’s expanding population, increasing demand for cosmetic dentistry, and strong private-practice environment support high earnings in this field. Dentists require years of training and hands-on clinical experience, and many run their own practices, which increases income potential. Their ability to prevent health complications and improve patients’ well-being makes dentistry a respected and financially rewarding profession.
9. Pediatricians
Pediatricians specialize in caring for infants, children, and adolescents, treating illnesses, administering vaccines, and supporting healthy development. Tennessee’s family-oriented communities and growing population create steady demand for pediatric care. This role requires medical school, residency, and strong interpersonal skills to treat young patients compassionately. Pediatricians often build long-term family relationships and play a key role in public health. Their expertise and responsibility in safeguarding children’s health support competitive salaries, especially in larger healthcare systems.
10. Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs)
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists administer anesthesia and provide advanced pain-management services. Tennessee relies heavily on CRNAs, particularly in rural hospitals and surgical centers where they may work independently or alongside anesthesiologists. The position requires advanced nursing degrees, clinical training, and the ability to manage high-pressure situations. CRNAs enjoy strong demand, competitive compensation, and respect within the healthcare field due to their specialized skills and vital role in surgical and emergency care environments.
11. General Internal Medicine Physicians
Internal medicine physicians diagnose and treat complex adult illnesses, from chronic disease to acute medical conditions. They often coordinate long-term care and collaborate with specialists. Tennessee’s aging population and rising chronic-disease rates make internal medicine providers essential. This role requires strong diagnostic skills and years of training. Whether in hospitals or private practice, internists earn high salaries due to their broad medical expertise, demanding workload, and central role in the healthcare system.
12. Orthodontists
Orthodontists specialize in correcting misaligned teeth and jaw issues using braces, aligners, and other dental treatments. Cosmetic dentistry demand has grown across Tennessee, especially in metro areas, driving strong income potential for orthodontists. The role requires dental school plus additional specialty training, precision skills, and patient-care expertise. Orthodontists often operate private practices, allowing for higher earnings through business ownership. Their services improve patient confidence, oral function, and long-term dental health, supporting excellent career prospects.
13. Pharmacists
Pharmacists dispense medications, counsel patients on safe medication use, and support doctors in managing treatment plans. Tennessee has strong demand for pharmacists in hospitals, retail pharmacies, and long-term care facilities. The role requires a doctoral degree in pharmacy and extensive clinical knowledge. With responsibility for preventing medication errors and ensuring patient safety, pharmacists earn competitive salaries. Their work is increasingly important as chronic health conditions rise and healthcare delivery expands across the state.
14. Airline Pilots & Flight Engineers
Airline pilots and flight engineers operate commercial aircraft, ensuring safe travel and navigation. Tennessee hosts major transportation hubs, including Memphis — one of the busiest cargo airports in the world — increasing aviation demand. Pilots undergo rigorous training, maintain strict certifications, and work irregular schedules under high safety standards. Their ability to manage complex systems and respond to emergencies results in strong pay, especially for senior pilots working long-haul or cargo routes.
15. Financial Managers
Financial managers oversee budgets, investments, risk management, and financial strategies for businesses. Tennessee’s growth in healthcare, logistics, tech, and manufacturing drives strong need for financial leaders. This role requires accounting, finance, or business expertise and often experience in corporate finance or analysis. Financial managers make decisions affecting company profitability and long-term success, earning high compensation for their strategic insight and ability to manage complex financial operations in dynamic business environments.
16. Marketing Managers
Marketing managers develop branding strategies, lead advertising campaigns, and analyze consumer behavior to drive business growth. Tennessee’s tourism, music, healthcare, and corporate sectors rely heavily on creative marketing talent. Professionals in this field manage teams, coordinate media strategies, and oversee budgets to boost brand visibility and revenue. Strong communication skills, creativity, and market knowledge are essential. Marketing managers earn high salaries as companies compete for brand dominance in Tennessee’s expanding economy.
17. Sales Managers
Sales managers recruit and train sales teams, set targets, develop strategies, and drive revenue growth. Tennessee’s business environment — including healthcare services, manufacturing, tech startups, and logistics — provides strong opportunities for high-performing sales leaders. This role requires excellent communication, leadership, and negotiation skills, along with experience managing client relationships. Sales managers earn strong compensation, often supplemented by bonuses tied to performance, reflecting their direct contribution to business success and revenue expansion.
18. Computer & Information Systems Managers
CIS managers oversee IT departments, cybersecurity, software systems, and technology infrastructure. With Nashville emerging as a tech hub and healthcare systems adopting advanced technologies, Tennessee’s need for skilled IT managers continues rising. This role requires deep technical knowledge, leadership ability, and strategic planning. They ensure data security, manage teams, and implement digital upgrades. Their responsibility in keeping critical systems running securely and efficiently results in high salaries and strong long-term demand.
19. Physician Assistants
Physician assistants diagnose illnesses, assist in surgeries, prescribe medications, and provide comprehensive care under physician supervision. Tennessee relies heavily on PAs, particularly in underserved areas where medical access is limited. PAs must complete advanced medical training and certification, demonstrating strong clinical skills and adaptability. Their role helps expand healthcare delivery, reduce patient wait times, and support physicians across specialties, leading to excellent job security and competitive pay throughout the state.
20. Physical Therapists
Physical therapists help patients recover mobility, manage pain, and improve physical function after injuries, surgeries, or health conditions. Tennessee’s aging population and active workforce drive consistent demand for PT services across hospitals, rehab centers, and private clinics. PTs complete doctoral-level training and hands-on clinical experience. Their work requires empathy, physical stamina, and tailored treatment planning. With growing emphasis on non-surgical recovery and long-term wellness, physical therapists enjoy strong earnings and job stability statewide.
Below is a more extensive presentation of the highest earning jobs in Costa Rica; and their sectors, showing the value they bring to the economy.
| Rank | Job Title | Industry | Salary (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | CEO – Multinational | Executive | $180,000+ |
| 2 | Country Manager / General Manager – Multinational | Executive | $120,000 – $200,000 |
| 3 | CFO | Executive | $100,000 – $160,000 |
| 4 | CTO | Executive | $110,000 – $170,000 |
| 5 | VP of Operations | Executive | $100,000 – $150,000 |
| 6 | VP of Sales – Americas | Executive | $130,000+ |
| 7 | VP of Marketing | Executive | $95,000 – $140,000 |
| 8 | Legal Director / Head of Legal | Executive | $90,000 – $130,000 |
| 9 | HR Director – Multinational | Executive | $85,000 – $120,000 |
| 10 | Director of Software Engineering | Technology | $100,000 – $150,000 |
| 11 | Principal Software Engineer / Architect | Technology | $90,000 – $130,000 |
| 12 | Engineering Manager | Technology | $85,000 – $120,000 |
| 13 | DevOps Manager | Technology | $80,000 – $115,000 |
| 14 | Cloud Architect | Technology | $75,000 – $110,000 |
| 15 | Cybersecurity Director / CISO | Technology | $95,000 – $140,000 |
| 16 | Information Security Manager | Technology | $70,000 – $100,000 |
| 17 | Senior Data Scientist | Technology | $70,000 – $105,000 |
| 18 | Data Engineering Manager | Technology | $75,000 – $110,000 |
| 19 | IT Director | Technology | $80,000 – $120,000 |
| 20 | Senior Solutions Architect | Technology | $70,000 – $100,000 |
| 21 | Lead Mobile Developer | Technology | $65,000 – $95,000 |
| 22 | Senior Full-Stack Developer | Technology | $60,000 – $90,000 |
| 23 | QA Automation Manager | Technology | $65,000 – $95,000 |
| 24 | Scrum Master / Agile Coach | Technology | $55,000 – $85,000 |
| 25 | ERP Director (SAP, Oracle) | Technology | $90,000 – $130,000 |
| 26 | Senior SAP Consultant | Technology | $65,000 – $95,000 |
| 27 | Network Architect | Technology | $65,000 – $95,000 |
| 28 | UX/UI Director | Technology | $70,000 – $100,000 |
| 29 | Product Management Director | Technology | $85,000 – $120,000 |
| 30 | Senior Product Manager | Technology | $65,000 – $95,000 |
| 31 | Technical Program Manager | Technology | $70,000 – $100,000 |
| 32 | Shared Services Center Director | Shared Services | $100,000 – $140,000 |
| 33 | Finance Director – Multinational | Finance | $90,000 – $130,000 |
| 34 | Tax Director | Finance | $85,000 – $120,000 |
| 35 | Treasury Director | Finance | $85,000 – $120,000 |
| 36 | Internal Audit Director | Finance | $80,000 – $115,000 |
| 37 | Continuous Improvement Director | Shared Services | $85,000 – $120,000 |
| 38 | Global Service Desk Manager | Shared Services | $60,000 – $90,000 |
| 39 | Director of Customer Success | Shared Services | $75,000 – $110,000 |
| 40 | Regional Sales Director | Sales | $110,000+ |
| 41 | Enterprise Account Executive (Tech) | Sales | $90,000 – $150,000+ |
| 42 | Channel Sales Director | Sales | $85,000 – $125,000 |
| 43 | Head of Digital Marketing | Marketing | $70,000 – $100,000 |
| 44 | Marketing Director | Marketing | $80,000 – $115,000 |
| 45 | Demand Generation Manager | Marketing | $60,000 – $85,000 |
| 46 | Plant Director / Site Lead | Manufacturing | $110,000 – $160,000 |
| 47 | Engineering Director – Manufacturing | Manufacturing | $95,000 – $135,000 |
| 48 | R&D Director | Manufacturing | $90,000 – $130,000 |
| 49 | QA/Compliance Director – Med Devices | Manufacturing | $95,000 – $140,000 |
| 50 | Regulatory Affairs Director | Manufacturing | $90,000 – $130,000 |
| 51 | Supply Chain Director | Manufacturing | $90,000 – $130,000 |
| 52 | Senior Process Development Engineer | Manufacturing | $65,000 – $95,000 |
| 53 | Automation Engineering Manager | Manufacturing | $75,000 – $105,000 |
| 54 | Validation Engineer – Senior | Manufacturing | $60,000 – $85,000 |
| 55 | Principal Mechanical Engineer | Manufacturing | $70,000 – $100,000 |
| 56 | Electrical Engineering Manager | Manufacturing | $75,000 – $105,000 |
| 57 | Senior Financial Analyst | Finance | $55,000 – $80,000 |
| 58 | Finance Manager | Finance | $70,000 – $100,000 |
| 59 | Accounting Manager | Finance | $60,000 – $85,000 |
| 60 | Controller | Finance | $65,000 – $95,000 |
| 61 | Risk Management Director | Finance | $85,000 – $120,000 |
| 62 | Actuary (Fellow) | Finance | $80,000 – $115,000 |
| 63 | Management Consultant – Senior | Consulting | $70,000 – $110,000 |
| 64 | External Auditor – Big 4 Senior | Consulting | $75,000 – $105,000 |
| 65 | Medical Director – Pharma | Healthcare | $120,000 – $180,000 |
| 66 | Clinical Research Manager | Healthcare | $70,000 – $100,000 |
| 67 | Specialist Physician (Private) | Healthcare | $80,000 – $150,000+ |
| 68 | Biotech R&D Manager | Healthcare | $75,000 – $110,000 |
| 69 | Pharmacist – Manager | Healthcare | $50,000 – $75,000 |
| 70 | Senior Corporate Counsel | Legal | $80,000 – $120,000 |
| 71 | Compliance Director | Legal | $85,000 – $125,000 |
| 72 | Data Privacy Manager | Legal | $65,000 – $95,000 |
| 73 | IP Manager | Legal | $70,000 – $100,000 |
| 74 | Global Supply Chain Director | Logistics | $95,000 – $140,000 |
| 75 | Procurement Director | Logistics | $85,000 – $125,000 |
| 76 | Logistics & Distribution Director | Logistics | $80,000 – $115,000 |
| 77 | Demand Planning Manager | Logistics | $65,000 – $90,000 |
| 78 | Real Estate Development Director | Real Estate | $90,000 – $130,000 |
| 79 | Senior CRE Broker | Real Estate | $70,000+ |
| 80 | Project Director – Construction | Construction | $80,000 – $115,000 |
| 81 | Airline Captain – Intl Carrier | Aviation | $90,000 – $150,000 |
| 82 | Hotel GM – 5-Star Resort | Tourism | $80,000 – $120,000 |
| 83 | Tourism Board Executive Director | Tourism | $70,000 – $100,000 |
| 84 | Senior Environmental Manager | Environment | $70,000 – $100,000 |
| 85 | HSE Director | Environmental / Safety | $80,000 – $115,000 |
| 86 | Corporate Affairs Director | Communications | $75,000 – $110,000 |
| 87 | University Dean / Senior Professor | Education | $60,000 – $90,000 |
| 88 | M&A Specialist | Finance / Corporate | $85,000 – $120,000 |
| 89 | Business Development Director | Business | $80,000 – $120,000 |
| 90 | Digital Transformation Lead | Technology | $75,000 – $110,000 |
| 91 | AI / Machine Learning Specialist | Technology | $70,000 – $105,000 |
| 92 | Senior Technical Writer | Technology | $55,000 – $80,000 |
| 93 | Recruitment Director – MNC | HR | $70,000 – $100,000 |
| 94 | Compensation & Benefits Director | HR | $80,000 – $115,000 |
| 95 | Learning & Development Director | HR | $75,000 – $105,000 |
| 96 | Offshore Services Director | BPO | $90,000 – $130,000 |
| 97 | Senior Statistician | Data / Analytics | $65,000 – $95,000 |
| 98 | Renewable Energy Project Manager | Energy | $60,000 – $90,000 |
| 99 | Offshore Services Director (duplicate in source) | BPO | $90,000 – $130,000 |
| 100 | Senior Geophysicist | Energy / Mining | $85,000 – $120,000 |
Closing
Tennessee’s highest-paying careers reflect the strength of its medical, business, and technical industries, each offering rewarding paths for qualified professionals. Whether you’re planning your education, considering a career move, or exploring opportunities in the state, these roles demonstrate where long-term growth and financial security are most achievable. With continuous investment in healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and technology, Tennessee’s job market is positioned to remain a competitive and promising environment for high-earning professionals.