This article will go through the top 10 best STEM careers and why.

Who doesn't want to have a chance to have a job that pays well and feels rewarding to do? I know I want one. The best way to achieve this is to consider taking up at least a bachelor's degree in science or math.

Why? Because some of the best-paying STEM careers need a strong science, math, and technology foundation.

Suppose you are curious about what abilities involve STEM careers. In that case, it can be the right fit for you if you love to apply maths and science like critical thinking and researching and are interested in analytical and technical ideas.

In that case, a job in the STEM sector could be for you.

Similarly, working in a STEM field might help you earn more money. Thus, making these occupations appealing to people with technical skills.

Let's dive in and look at the best-paying STEM occupations in this post to determine which route is correct for you.

STEM Defined

First and foremost, let's first understand what STEM stands for and what it means.

You've probably heard the word STEM, but what exactly does it mean? STEM is an abbreviated form of science, technology, engineering, and math.

These four disciplines all emphasize creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Together, they form a thriving and rapidly expanding industry.

The majority of STEM employees deal with computers and other technology daily. Many people put their ideas and beliefs to the test using the scientific process.

Interesting, right? Now, let’s get into the top 10 STEM careers.

Top 10 STEM Careers

Let me take you to the top 10 best STEM jobs you could consider, what it is about, and how much you could earn once you take it as a career path.

1. Statistician

In this generation, where everything runs through computers and the internet, data is vital for forecasting various things, from weather to predicting diseases and virus growth.

Statistics is a crucial determinant to foresee these things that significantly impact people's lives worldwide. Thus, it is one of the top STEM occupations in the coming years, with a forecasted job increase of 33%, guaranteeing a job offer upon graduation.

The surge in Statistician occupations attributes to the growing reliance on statistical data and the vast amount of data available via the internet. And the median annual salary for this job is around $84,600.

However, businesses prefer master's degrees in mathematics, economics, computer science, or a closely related topic for entry-level roles.

2. Mathematician

The work of a mathematician has a firm spot in our best STEM jobs, thanks to a six-figure median yearly compensation of $103,010 and a staggering 30% growth in new opportunities by 2026.

Why is it that mathematicians are in such high demand? Businesses need mathematicians to evaluate all of the data stored online as it grows.

If you want to work in this number-crunching field, you'll need first to get a master's or possibly a Ph.D. degree.

3. Software Developer

Aside from being an awesomely fantastic job that you can do from the comforts of your home, a software developer's profession is also one of the most promising STEM careers in job development.

Software developer positions will rise by almost 24 percent over the next decade, from 2016 to 2026. This career translates to nearly 300,000 additional employment in an already substantial field, with a median annual benefit of earning $103,560.

The rising demand for software applications, particularly mobile devices, has fueled the industry's growth. Prospective software developers require a bachelor's degree in computer science or software engineering for entry-level roles. However, some organizations prefer a graduate degree.

4. Actuary

Actuaries' occupations are expected to rise considerably more than the national average, making this one of the most outstanding STEM careers.

Actuaries earn $101,560 on average per year, yet entry-level roles require a bachelor's degree. A bachelor's degree in actuarial science, statistics, or a related discipline is required.

Certification from the Casualty Actuarial Society or the Society of Actuaries may also be necessary. Prepare to study health insurance, property insurance, or life insurance if you're considering taking Actuary as a career path.

5. Information Security Analysts

Because of increased worries about hacking, identity theft, and other cybersecurity issues, information security analysts make a stunning $95,510 median annual pay, and jobs are in high demand.

You'll need a bachelor's degree in computer science, information assurance, or programming to enter this rapidly growing sector.

Prior expertise in the field of technology is also advantageous. Some organizations will also need professional certification to qualify for this job, such as the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certificate.

6. IT Manager

Another one from the information technology field that made it into this list is the IT Manager.

IT management is one of the highest-paying STEM careers, with median annual compensation of around $139,220. Also, it is one of the fastest-growing in the industry.

IT managers are in charge of supervising an organization's computer and technology usage. They are also known as computer and information systems managers.

Chief Technology Officers (CTOs), IT directors, chief information officers (CIOs), and IT security managers are a few of the numerous variants of IT managers. To get a job as an IT manager, you'll need a bachelor's degree in computer science or information science. However, you'll also be expected to have a master's degree.

7. Petroleum Engineer

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, petroleum engineers earn well around $132,280 a year, making them one of the highest-paying STEM careers.

These engineers are in charge of devising extracting oil and gas from subsurface rock formations. Petroleum engineering employment has a bright future, but the profession is fragile since its development is primarily reliant on the price of oil, which may vary.

Petroleum engineers usually specialize in one part of the industry; for example, you may work as a completion engineer, drilling engineer, production engineer, or reservoir engineer.

8. Computer and Information Research Scientist

By now, I'm sure you're no longer surprised to see yet another information technology-related job coming at the top 8 - this time, we have Computer and Information Research Scientist.

A computer and information research scientist's work is not just one of the highest-paying STEM careers, with an average annual salary of around $114,520; it's also rapidly rising. These academics develop and apply research on how to operate technology to solve real-world issues in various fields.

To book this job, you'll need a master's degree in computer science or a related discipline for most vacant opportunities, while federal government employment may demand a bachelor's.

9. Cost Estimator

Occupations for cost estimators are expanding faster than usual, with an estimated 217,900 new jobs by 2026, thanks to the construction industry's expansion, making this one of the best STEM jobs for the future.

Cost estimators use numerical data and financial reports to forecast the duration and costs of projects, particularly building projects. You'll earn around $63,110 in a year's average by doing this.

Most entry-level cost estimator roles require a bachelor's degree in engineering, finance, construction management, or a closely related discipline.

10. Biochemist

A biochemist is now one of the most remarkable STEM occupations in the medical industry.

People with this occupation can earn around $91,190 per year on average. Their job security is vital due to an aging population that relies on fresh medical breakthroughs to address their diseases.

What do biochemists do? They are responsible for researching biological processes and applying what they learn to real-world medicine and other professional challenges.

Sounds tough? Yes, because it is challenging.

Want to be a biochemist? Of course, you can! Start with securing a complete Ph.D. degree program then you'll be good to go.

Last Words

If you take the right strategy, you can earn well in a rewarding STEM profession that will improve your life and keep you active for decades.

Don't forget that it is also okay to start small and work your way up. Expect to do a lot of hard work, be patient, and be dedicated to getting to where you want to be. It will definitely be worth the grind.

Top 10 Best STEM Careers to Consider & Why