Sam SmithOregon’s job market is one of the most diverse in the Pacific Northwest, driven by a blend of innovation, healthcare excellence, and environmental stewardship. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual wage in Oregon is around $68,000, slightly above the national average. However, top professionals in medicine, technology, and executive management can earn well over $200,000 to $400,000 per year.
This guide lists the top-paying jobs spots in Oregon, highlighting careers that define the state’s economic strength—from Portland’s “Silicon Forest” tech hubs to the specialized healthcare and energy industries shaping its future.
Highest Paying Jobs In Oregon
1. Anesthesiologist
Anesthesiologists in Oregon earn between $320,000 and $420,000 annually, ranking among the state’s highest-paid professionals. They administer anesthesia during surgeries and monitor patients’ vital signs to ensure safety throughout operations. Given Oregon’s advanced healthcare systems, including OHSU and Providence, anesthesiologists are in high demand. Extensive training—typically a medical degree plus four years of residency—makes this a selective, high-responsibility field where precision and calm under pressure directly translate into life-saving outcomes.
2. Surgeon (All Specializations)
Surgeons command salaries averaging $350,000 to $450,000 per year in Oregon, depending on specialization and hospital size. From orthopedic to cardiovascular procedures, they perform complex surgeries requiring years of medical and technical expertise. Major hospitals in Portland and Eugene offer some of the most competitive compensation packages. Surgeons also receive performance-based bonuses, making this one of the most financially rewarding and demanding careers in Oregon’s healthcare landscape.
3. Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OB-GYN)
OB-GYNs in Oregon earn around $280,000 to $360,000 annually, providing care for women through pregnancy, childbirth, and reproductive health. They play an essential role in both hospitals and private practices, particularly in the Portland metropolitan area where birth rates remain high. The position requires exceptional empathy, endurance, and decision-making skills, making it one of the most respected—and well-compensated—medical professions in the state.
4. Psychiatrist
With mental health awareness growing, psychiatrists in Oregon earn between $250,000 and $330,000 per year. They diagnose and treat mental illnesses through therapy and medication management. Oregon’s investment in behavioral healthcare and its shortage of psychiatric professionals make this career both lucrative and vital. Psychiatrists often work in hospitals, private clinics, or telehealth platforms, balancing clinical expertise with a deep understanding of human psychology.
5. Orthodontist
Orthodontists specialize in correcting dental irregularities, earning roughly $250,000 to $340,000 annually in Oregon. Their services—braces, aligners, and jaw corrections—are in strong demand across cities like Portland and Salem. Many operate private practices, combining medical expertise with entrepreneurial management. The path requires dental school plus an orthodontic residency, but the financial and lifestyle rewards are substantial, especially in a state known for its emphasis on wellness and aesthetics.
6. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon
These dental specialists earn around $300,000 to $400,000 per year, performing complex surgeries on the mouth, jaw, and face. Working in both hospitals and private clinics, they handle trauma cases, reconstructive surgery, and dental implant procedures. Oregon’s growing urban centers provide a steady flow of patients, ensuring consistent income. The job demands years of specialized training but offers exceptional professional independence and financial return.
7. Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
CEOs in Oregon, particularly in tech, manufacturing, and healthcare sectors, earn between $250,000 and $500,000+ annually, often supplemented by bonuses and stock options. They steer organizational strategy, manage executive teams, and represent the company’s vision to investors and stakeholders. Successful CEOs in Oregon’s “Silicon Forest” often come from engineering or finance backgrounds, combining leadership acumen with industry expertise in an increasingly competitive economic landscape.
8. Physician (General Practice)
General physicians in Oregon make about $210,000 to $270,000 per year. They provide essential primary care services, diagnosing illnesses, prescribing treatments, and referring patients to specialists when necessary. Oregon’s focus on community health and preventive medicine ensures a stable demand for family doctors statewide. Many physicians choose rural or suburban areas, where salaries are often higher due to shortages in qualified professionals.
9. Pediatrician (General)
Pediatricians care for infants and children, earning between $190,000 and $250,000 annually in Oregon. They diagnose childhood illnesses, administer vaccines, and guide parents on healthy development. Pediatricians are especially valued in family-oriented regions like Eugene and Beaverton, where demand for compassionate, family-centered healthcare continues to rise. This profession combines stable income, meaningful impact, and excellent long-term job security.
10. Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists earn roughly $200,000 to $250,000 per year in Oregon, working closely with surgeons and anesthesiologists to manage anesthesia during operations. Their advanced nursing expertise and critical-care training make them indispensable in hospitals and surgical centers. With healthcare expansion and flexible work schedules, CRNAs enjoy one of the best salary-to-training ratios in the medical field.
11. Family Medicine Physician
Family medicine physicians earn between $190,000 and $240,000 annually, providing comprehensive healthcare across all age groups. They’re the cornerstone of Oregon’s community health network, especially in smaller towns where medical resources are limited. Their broad expertise covers everything from chronic illness management to preventive care. This role offers long-term stability and opportunities for private practice growth.
12. Dentist (General)
General dentists in Oregon earn about $180,000 to $230,000 per year, depending on experience and patient volume. They diagnose and treat dental conditions, perform cleanings, and educate patients on oral hygiene. Many dentists operate their own clinics, giving them flexibility and strong income potential. Oregon’s growing population ensures continued demand for high-quality dental services statewide.
13. Podiatrist
Podiatrists, who specialize in diagnosing and treating foot and ankle conditions, earn between $170,000 and $220,000 annually in Oregon. They work in hospitals, clinics, or private practices and often assist athletes or elderly patients. The profession offers strong work-life balance, autonomy, and consistent demand, given Oregon’s active outdoor culture and aging population.
14. Pharmacist
Pharmacists earn around $140,000 to $160,000 per year in Oregon, playing a vital role in dispensing medications, advising patients, and ensuring drug safety. Many work in retail chains, hospitals, or research institutions. With telehealth expansion and growing emphasis on pharmaceutical care, pharmacists maintain steady job security and competitive pay across the state.
15. Optometrist
Optometrists earn between $130,000 and $170,000 annually and provide vision care, prescribe corrective lenses, and diagnose eye diseases. Oregon’s aging population and increased screen time among younger residents keep optometrists in demand. Many professionals operate independent practices, offering strong earning potential with flexible hours.
16. Veterinarian
Veterinarians in Oregon earn about $120,000 to $160,000 per year, caring for pets, livestock, and wildlife. The state’s outdoor and agricultural culture drives consistent demand for animal healthcare. Many veterinarians operate rural clinics or join animal hospitals in urban centers. This career offers emotional rewards alongside stable financial prospects.
17. Nurse Practitioner (NP)
Nurse Practitioners earn between $120,000 and $150,000 annually, often serving as primary care providers, especially in underserved areas. They diagnose, prescribe, and manage patient care independently under Oregon’s full practice authority laws. The profession combines medical expertise with flexibility and rising demand, making it one of Oregon’s fastest-growing healthcare careers.
18. Physician Assistant (PA)
Physician Assistants earn approximately $115,000 to $145,000 per year in Oregon. Working under physicians, they provide diagnosis, treatment, and surgical assistance. With growing healthcare needs and an expanding scope of practice, PAs enjoy strong job growth, especially in Oregon’s suburban and rural hospitals.
19. Health Services Manager
Health services managers oversee hospital operations, budgets, and staff, earning between $120,000 and $160,000 annually. They ensure medical facilities run efficiently while maintaining compliance with healthcare regulations. Oregon’s hospital networks and expanding outpatient care sector create steady demand for skilled administrators who can balance patient care with financial sustainability.
20. Software Development Manager
Software development managers in Oregon’s “Silicon Forest” earn around $150,000 to $200,000 per year, leading teams that design and build software systems. With major employers like Intel, Nike Tech, and Amazon Web Services operating in Portland and Hillsboro, demand for technical leadership is high. The role combines programming expertise with project management and innovation, offering excellent pay and career longevity.
Top 100 Highest-Paying Jobs in Oregon (Full List)
| Rank | Job Title | Industry | Estimated Annual Salary (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Anesthesiologist | Healthcare | $320,000 – $420,000 | Critical care during surgeries; among the state’s highest paid |
| 2 | Surgeon (All Specializations) | Healthcare | $350,000 – $450,000 | Performs complex operations; includes cardiovascular and neuro |
| 3 | Obstetrician & Gynecologist (OB-GYN) | Healthcare | $280,000 – $360,000 | Pregnancy and reproductive health specialist |
| 4 | Psychiatrist | Healthcare | $250,000 – $330,000 | Growing need for mental health professionals |
| 5 | Orthodontist | Dentistry | $250,000 – $340,000 | Private practice specialists in teeth alignment |
| 6 | Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon | Dentistry | $300,000 – $400,000 | Performs facial/jaw surgeries; requires dual dental-medical training |
| 7 | Chief Executive Officer (CEO) | Executive Management | $250,000 – $500,000+ | Top corporate decision-maker; often stock-option compensated |
| 8 | Physician (General Practice) | Healthcare | $210,000 – $270,000 | Primary care doctor; steady demand in rural Oregon |
| 9 | Pediatrician (General) | Healthcare | $190,000 – $250,000 | Provides medical care to children |
| 10 | Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) | Healthcare | $200,000 – $250,000 | Performs anesthesia in hospitals and clinics |
| 11 | Family Medicine Physician | Healthcare | $190,000 – $240,000 | Broad-scope care; strong demand statewide |
| 12 | Dentist (General) | Dentistry | $180,000 – $230,000 | Preventive and restorative dental care |
| 13 | Podiatrist | Healthcare | $170,000 – $220,000 | Treats foot and ankle disorders |
| 14 | Pharmacist | Healthcare | $140,000 – $160,000 | Dispenses and manages medications |
| 15 | Optometrist | Healthcare | $130,000 – $170,000 | Eye health specialist; prescribes corrective lenses |
| 16 | Veterinarian | Veterinary Medicine | $120,000 – $160,000 | Animal healthcare professional |
| 17 | Nurse Practitioner (NP) | Healthcare | $120,000 – $150,000 | Independent medical practitioners in Oregon |
| 18 | Physician Assistant (PA) | Healthcare | $115,000 – $145,000 | Supports physicians; prescribes medication |
| 19 | Health Services Manager | Healthcare Management | $120,000 – $160,000 | Oversees healthcare facility operations |
| 20 | Software Development Manager | Technology | $150,000 – $200,000 | Leads development teams in Oregon’s tech sector |
| 21 | IT Manager | Technology | $140,000 – $190,000 | Oversees IT systems and networks |
| 22 | Data Scientist | Technology | $130,000 – $180,000 | Analyzes large data sets for business strategy |
| 23 | DevOps Engineer | Technology | $120,000 – $170,000 | Combines coding and system management |
| 24 | Cloud Architect | Technology | $130,000 – $190,000 | Designs scalable cloud infrastructure |
| 25 | Security Engineer (Cybersecurity) | Technology | $125,000 – $175,000 | Protects organizations from cyber threats |
| 26 | Principal Software Engineer | Technology | $130,000 – $180,000 | Senior development leadership role |
| 27 | Machine Learning Engineer | Technology | $140,000 – $190,000 | Specializes in AI-driven systems |
| 28 | Hardware Engineer | Technology | $120,000 – $180,000 | Oregon-based Intel employs thousands in this field |
| 29 | Network Architect | Technology | $115,000 – $160,000 | Designs complex IT networks |
| 30 | Software Engineer | Technology | $110,000 – $160,000 | Builds and maintains software systems |
| 31 | Site Reliability Engineer (SRE) | Technology | $120,000 – $170,000 | Ensures uptime of large-scale systems |
| 32 | Data Architect | Technology | $125,000 – $175,000 | Designs enterprise data systems |
| 33 | Mobile Applications Developer | Technology | $110,000 – $160,000 | Builds Android/iOS apps |
| 34 | UX Design Manager | Technology | $115,000 – $155,000 | Leads digital product design teams |
| 35 | Solutions Architect | Technology | $120,000 – $180,000 | Integrates software and business systems |
| 36 | Database Architect | Technology | $115,000 – $160,000 | Manages and optimizes databases |
| 37 | Information Systems Security Manager | Technology | $130,000 – $180,000 | Oversees company-wide data security |
| 38 | Blockchain Engineer | Technology | $125,000 – $175,000 | Develops decentralized systems and smart contracts |
| 39 | AI Research Scientist | Technology | $140,000 – $200,000 | Innovates in artificial intelligence systems |
| 40 | Chief Financial Officer (CFO) | Executive | $200,000 – $350,000 | Corporate financial strategist |
| 41 | Chief Operating Officer (COO) | Executive | $180,000 – $320,000 | Oversees day-to-day operations |
| 42 | Chief Technology Officer (CTO) | Executive | $180,000 – $300,000 | Directs technology strategy |
| 43 | Judge / Magistrate | Legal | $180,000 – $230,000 | Presides over state or federal court cases |
| 44 | Lawyer | Legal | $150,000 – $250,000 | Especially corporate, energy, and environmental law |
| 45 | Marketing Director | Management | $140,000 – $210,000 | Manages corporate marketing strategy |
| 46 | Sales Director | Management | $130,000 – $200,000 | Oversees regional or national sales teams |
| 47 | Finance Manager | Finance | $130,000 – $190,000 | Financial analysis and planning lead |
| 48 | Compensation & Benefits Manager | HR | $120,000 – $160,000 | Designs pay and incentive structures |
| 49 | Human Resources Manager | HR | $110,000 – $160,000 | Oversees HR operations and recruitment |
| 50 | Public Relations Manager | Communications | $110,000 – $150,000 | Manages corporate image and media relations |
| 51 | Supply Chain Manager | Logistics | $120,000 – $160,000 | Oversees product flow and procurement |
| 52 | Construction Manager | Construction | $110,000 – $150,000 | Supervises large-scale construction projects |
| 53 | Architectural Manager | Engineering | $120,000 – $170,000 | Oversees design and building teams |
| 54 | Natural Sciences Manager | Science | $115,000 – $160,000 | Manages scientific research teams |
| 55 | Investment Banker | Finance | $150,000 – $250,000 | Advises corporations on financial strategy |
| 56 | Actuary | Finance/Insurance | $130,000 – $180,000 | Analyzes risk in insurance and finance |
| 57 | Financial Manager | Finance | $130,000 – $190,000 | Oversees financial reporting and planning |
| 58 | Economist | Finance | $120,000 – $170,000 | Researches economic trends and models |
| 59 | Management Analyst | Consulting | $110,000 – $160,000 | Improves business efficiency and structure |
| 60 | Statistician | Research | $100,000 – $140,000 | Applies data analysis to real-world problems |
| 61 | Business Intelligence Analyst | Data/Finance | $105,000 – $145,000 | Interprets data for business insight |
| 62 | Financial Analyst | Finance | $100,000 – $140,000 | Supports investment and budgeting decisions |
| 63 | Personal Financial Advisor | Finance | $90,000 – $160,000 | Provides private wealth management services |
| 64 | Accountant (CPA) | Finance | $90,000 – $130,000 | Certified professionals in accounting/finance |
| 65 | Auditor | Finance | $85,000 – $130,000 | Ensures financial accuracy and compliance |
| 66 | Petroleum Engineer | Engineering | $130,000 – $180,000 | Designs and optimizes oil and gas extraction |
| 67 | Nuclear Engineer | Engineering | $120,000 – $170,000 | Works in nuclear power and safety |
| 68 | Electrical Engineer | Engineering | $110,000 – $160,000 | Designs electrical systems and grids |
| 69 | Chemical Engineer | Engineering | $110,000 – $150,000 | Develops materials and processes |
| 70 | Aerospace Engineer | Engineering | $115,000 – $170,000 | Designs aircraft and spacecraft |
| 71 | Materials Engineer | Engineering | $105,000 – $150,000 | Creates and tests manufacturing materials |
| 72 | Electronics Engineer | Engineering | $100,000 – $145,000 | Works on semiconductors and devices |
| 73 | Civil Engineer (Senior) | Engineering | $100,000 – $145,000 | Designs and manages infrastructure projects |
| 74 | Mechanical Engineer (Senior) | Engineering | $100,000 – $145,000 | Oversees mechanical systems and design |
| 75 | Industrial Engineer | Manufacturing | $95,000 – $140,000 | Streamlines production and systems |
| 76 | Environmental Engineer | Environmental Science | $95,000 – $135,000 | Manages sustainability and eco-projects |
| 77 | Mining & Geological Engineer | Natural Resources | $95,000 – $135,000 | Works in mineral extraction and surveying |
| 78 | Marine Engineer / Naval Architect | Marine | $95,000 – $140,000 | Designs ships and marine systems |
| 79 | Airline Pilot / Flight Engineer | Aviation | $140,000 – $210,000 | Pilots for passenger or freight airlines |
| 80 | Air Traffic Controller | Aviation | $130,000 – $180,000 | Manages flight safety and routing |
| 81 | Computer Network Architect | Technology | $110,000 – $160,000 | Builds enterprise-level IT networks |
| 82 | Mathematician | Science | $110,000 – $150,000 | Applies advanced math in research and modeling |
| 83 | Physicist | Science | $120,000 – $170,000 | Researches physics and applied sciences |
| 84 | Political Scientist | Government | $110,000 – $150,000 | Studies and advises on policy and governance |
| 85 | Physical Therapist | Healthcare | $100,000 – $130,000 | Restores mobility and function for patients |
| 86 | Occupational Therapist | Healthcare | $95,000 – $125,000 | Helps patients recover functional abilities |
| 87 | Speech-Language Pathologist | Healthcare | $90,000 – $120,000 | Specializes in communication disorders |
| 88 | Radiation Therapist | Healthcare | $95,000 – $130,000 | Treats cancer with radiation equipment |
| 89 | Diagnostic Medical Sonographer | Healthcare | $90,000 – $120,000 | Performs ultrasound imaging |
| 90 | Commercial Pilot | Aviation | $110,000 – $160,000 | Flies charter or cargo aircraft |
| 91 | Power Plant Operator | Utilities | $100,000 – $130,000 | Controls power generation systems |
| 92 | Transportation & Distribution Manager | Logistics | $95,000 – $125,000 | Oversees freight and warehouse operations |
| 93 | Sales Engineer | Tech/Industrial | $95,000 – $130,000 | Combines technical and sales expertise |
| 94 | Technical Product Manager | Technology | $100,000 – $140,000 | Manages product life cycle and design |
| 95 | Real Estate Broker | Real Estate | $90,000 – $160,000 | High earners in Portland’s market |
| 96 | Construction Superintendent | Construction | $90,000 – $130,000 | Oversees field operations on major projects |
| 97 | Elevator & Escalator Installer / Repairer | Skilled Trades | $95,000 – $130,000 | Specialized, unionized trade |
| 98 | First-Line Supervisor of Police & Detectives | Law Enforcement | $95,000 – $125,000 | Manages policing and investigative teams |
| 99 | Radiation Therapist | Healthcare | $95,000 – $130,000 | (Duplicate) Highly specialized radiation role |
| 100 | Forest Fire Prevention & Protection Specialist | Environmental | $85,000 – $120,000 | Vital for wildfire management and safety |
Closing Insights
Oregon stands out as a state where innovation and sustainability intersect. Tech giants like Intel, HP, and Daimler Trucks North America anchor high-paying opportunities in engineering and IT, while the healthcare sector—led by OHSU, Providence Health, and Legacy Health—offers some of the most secure and lucrative positions in the region.
Even beyond Portland, smaller cities like Eugene, Bend, and Medford are seeing rising wages in renewable energy, environmental science, and advanced manufacturing. With strong growth in tech, healthcare, and natural resource management, Oregon’s economy continues to deliver some of the best-paying and most future-proof careers in the western United States.