In today’s job market, professionals are searching for more than just a paycheck—they’re looking for careers with long-term growth, stability and the potential to thrive. Northeast Florida is home to a diverse and expanding economy, and across six key industries, there are standout roles that lead the way in both earnings and demand.
From high-powered leadership positions to essential front-line roles, here’s a look at the highest-paying and highest-demand jobs in the region’s key industries—and why they matter right here in Northeast Florida.
Advanced Manufacturing
In Northeast Florida, the advanced manufacturing industry includes everything from medical device production to aerospace components. The highest-paid role in this sector is the industrial production manager, who oversees daily plant operations and manages teams to keep production running efficiently. These professionals typically hold a bachelor’s degree and have several years of experience, earning a median salary of $121,440 per year. Job growth for this role is steady, with demand expected to remain consistent.
Meanwhile, the most in-demand position in manufacturing is an assembler or production worker. These are the hands-on team members who put products together on the production line. The projected annual demand in Northeast Florida nearly 300 each year. In Northeast Florida’s manufacturing hubs, these roles are essential to keeping operations on track.
Transportation & Logistics
With assets like JAXPORT and three major interstates converging in the region, transportation and logistics is a powerhouse industry in Northeast Florida. The top-paying role here is transportation, storage and distribution manager. These professionals coordinate how goods move from one place to another, manage warehousing and shipping strategies and oversee teams. They can earn around $102,010 annually, often with a high school diploma and several years of industry experience. As e-commerce continues to expand, this role is projected to grow 9% by 2033.
At the same time, the industry’s highest-demand job is office clerk, who supports daily logistics operations with data entry, shipment tracking and scheduling. Regionally, there are expected to be almost 2,000 openings per year for this role in the transportation & logistics industry.
Financial Services
Jacksonville has become a major financial services hub, and roles in this industry offer both competitive pay and strong hiring. At the top of the salary scale is the financial manager, a strategic position responsible for overseeing investments, budgeting and financial planning. These professionals typically hold a bachelor’s degree and earn a median salary of $161,700 per year, with projected job growth of 17% over the next decade—much faster than average.
On the other end, customer service representatives are in highest demand. They form the front line of communication in banks, credit unions and insurance agencies, and they offer accessible entry into the field and opportunities for advancement. There is an estimated 842 annual demand of financial customer service representatives in Northeast Florida each year.
Life Sciences
Healthcare and life sciences are deeply rooted in the region’s economy. The highest-paid professionals in this space are physicians, who diagnose, treat and care for patients across a range of specialties. With a median annual salary of $239,200 and a steady job outlook, this role remains one of the most respected and well-compensated in the region. While it requires a doctoral degree and years of training, physicians are central to both care delivery and public health outcomes in Northeast Florida.
The most in-demand job in healthcare is registered nurse (RN)—a profession that blends clinical skill with compassion. RNs earn a solid income while meeting one of the most critical healthcare needs. Demand in Northeast Florida remains high due to population growth and aging demographics, with a projected annual demand of nearly 1,200.
Technology Services
Northeast Florida’s technology services industry is on the rise with growth in cybersecurity, software development and IT infrastructure. Leading the pack in salary is the computer and information systems (CIS) manager, who plans and oversees a company’s technology strategy and systems. With a median salary of $171,200 and an expected growth rate of 17%, this role offers significant earning potential for those with technical skills and leadership experience.
At the same time, software developers are among the most sought-after professionals in the tech world. These coders and problem-solvers create everything from apps to enterprise systems, and the rapidly evolving nature of technology makes this a smart long-term career path. Regionally, the demand for software developers is projected to be around 350 job openings each year.
Corporate Operations
Corporate operations roles exist across industries, supporting functions like administration, HR, marketing and customer experience. The highest-paid role in this category is that of chief executive, who sets the strategic direction for an organization. These top-tier professionals typically have years of experience and earn a median salary of $206,680 annually, making it one of the most financially rewarding paths—though highly competitive.
The most in-demand job is again the customer service representative, which plays a foundational role in many companies. Whether in healthcare, tech or retail, these positions are consistently available. With an annual demand of 568, regional employers are regularly looking for individuals with great communication skills and a customer-first mindset.
Northeast Florida’s economy is full of momentum—and whether you’re aiming for a high-paying leadership role or exploring a reliable and accessible job in a growing field, there’s a path forward.
Not sure where to start? Earn Up is here to help. Explore resources, career pathways and internships that make your next move easier and more rewarding.
