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$31

How much do highest paid associate degree jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for highest paid associate degree in the United States is $19.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the highest paid associate degree jobs?

The highest paid associate degree jobs typically include roles such as radiation therapists, nuclear medicine technologists, dental hygienists, air traffic controllers, and MRI technologists. These careers often offer high salaries due to specialized technical skills and high demand in the healthcare and aviation industries. Most of these roles require completion of a two-year associate degree program and, in some cases, certification or licensure. Salaries can vary by location and experience, but many of these positions offer median annual wages well above the national average for associate degree holders.

What are common pathways for career advancement after starting in one of the highest paid associate degree roles?

Many professionals who begin their careers in high-paying associate degree roles, such as radiation therapists or dental hygienists, find opportunities for advancement through additional certifications, specialized training, or pursuing a bachelor's degree. Career growth can include moving into supervisory or management positions, specializing in emerging technologies, or transitioning to related fields with higher responsibility. Employers often support continuing education, and networking with colleagues can help identify advancement opportunities. Taking initiative in professional development is key to climbing the career ladder in these fields.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Radiation Therapist, one of the highest paid associate degree careers, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Radiation Therapist, you need a solid background in anatomy, radiation safety, and patient care, typically obtained through an accredited associate degree program and ARRT certification. Familiarity with linear accelerators, treatment planning systems, and electronic medical records is essential for daily tasks. Excellent interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and emotional resilience help you support patients undergoing cancer treatment. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, precise treatments and providing compassionate care during challenging times.

What is the difference between Highest Paid Associate Degree vs Dental Hygienist?

AspectHighest Paid Associate DegreeDental Hygienist
Required CredentialsAssociate degree in various fields (e.g., healthcare, technology)Associate degree in Dental Hygiene, licensure required
Work EnvironmentVaries by field; healthcare, technology, business settingsDental offices, clinics, healthcare facilities
Industry UsageWidely used across multiple industriesPrimarily in dental and healthcare industry
Average SalaryVaries significantly by field; some high-paying roles over $70,000Average around $77,000 annually

The Highest Paid Associate Degree encompasses various fields with high earning potential, while Dental Hygienist is a specific healthcare role with a high salary for an associate degree. The main difference lies in the scope of careers and industries involved, with the Highest Paid Associate Degree offering broader options and Dental Hygienist focusing on dental health services.

More about Highest Paid Associate Degree jobs

What cities are hiring for Highest Paid Associate Degree jobs?

Cities with the most Highest Paid Associate Degree job openings:

What states have the most Highest Paid Associate Degree jobs?

States with the most job openings for Highest Paid Associate Degree jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Highest Paid Associate Degree jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Highest Paid Associate Degree jobs are:

Highest Paid Associate Degree jobs near you
Infographic showing various Highest Paid Associate Degree job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,549 per year, or $19 per hour.

Associate Degree Nursing Instructor

Clarendon College

Childress, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance

Location: Childress
Job Summary:
The nursing instructor prepares, teaches, and evaluates the assigned courses and participates in the development, implementation, and evaluation of the Associate Degree Nursing Program.
Qualifications:
  • Must hold a Master's Degree in Nursing
  • Have worked in the clinical setting for a minimum of three years
  • Hold a current license or privilege to practice as a registered nurse in the State of Texas
  • Show evidence of teaching abilities and maintaining current knowledge, clinical expertise, and safety in subject area of teaching responsibilities

Responsibilities:
  • Develops, implements, and evaluates curriculum [Board of Nursing (2011) Rules and Regulations §215.7(i)(3)], and course in conjunction with the Allied Health Program Director.
  • Participate in the development, implementation, and enforcement of standards/policies for admission, progression, academic guidance and counseling, probation, and dismissal of students [Board of Nursing (2011) Rules and Regulations §215.7(i)(4)].
  • Teaches assigned number of classes using the prescribed courses of study with established texts and/or prescribed instructional materials.
  • Prepare the attendance record and keep the Allied Health Program Director informed of absences in the course.
  • Evaluate student progress in achieving course objectives.
  • Seek opportunities to maintain and improve professional competence.
  • Performs other assignments as designated by the Allied Health Program Director.
  • Must hold a Master's degree in Nursing and have worked in the clinical setting for a minimum of three years.
  • Must hold a current license or privilege to practice as a registered nurse in the State of Texas and show evidence of teaching abilities and maintaining current knowledge in the subject area of teaching responsibilities.

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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