If you’re wondering what types of full-time jobs are available and how much they pay, the answer depends on industry, skills, and career level. Full-time jobs typically offer steady hours, benefits, and a fixed monthly salary, making them more stable than part-time or freelance work. Salaries range widely—from entry-level roles that pay around $25,000 per year to professional and specialized jobs that exceed $100,000 annually.
Below, we’ll look at the most common types of full-time jobs and their salary ranges so you know exactly what to expect when planning your career.
1. Administrative and Office Support Jobs
Administrative roles such as office assistants, receptionists, and clerks are some of the most common full-time jobs. These positions usually require organizational skills, basic computer knowledge, and strong communication. Responsibilities often include scheduling meetings, managing files, and providing support to managers or teams.
Salaries for administrative jobs are generally on the lower end but still provide a steady income. On average, administrative assistants earn between $28,000 and $45,000 per year. Entry-level clerical jobs may start closer to $25,000 annually, while experienced office managers can make closer to $50,000.
These roles often serve as stepping stones into higher-paying fields because they help workers gain experience in corporate environments. The skills learned—organization, multitasking, and time management—are transferable across industries.
Administrative jobs also provide opportunities for promotions. Employees may advance into executive assistant positions or transition into human resources, operations, or project coordination roles, which pay higher salaries.
Overall, office support roles are among the best options for those starting out in the workforce. They may not have the highest salaries, but they offer valuable experience, steady employment, and room for growth.
2. Retail and Customer Service Jobs
Another large category of full-time employment comes from retail and customer service. These include cashiers, sales associates, call center agents, and store managers. The main responsibility is assisting customers, handling transactions, and solving problems.
Salaries in retail and customer service are typically modest but vary by position. Entry-level customer service representatives earn around $27,000 to $35,000 per year, while store supervisors and managers can earn between $40,000 and $55,000. Those in commission-based sales roles may earn significantly more depending on performance.
These jobs don’t always require advanced qualifications, making them accessible to many. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and problem-solving are more important than degrees. Workers who excel in customer relations often rise to management roles quickly.
Customer service also builds experience that is highly transferable. Many professionals transition from retail into marketing, sales, or human resources because the skills overlap. This makes retail and customer service jobs a reliable entry into higher-paying career paths.
While the salary range isn’t the highest, these jobs offer stability, growth potential, and the chance to build communication skills that remain valuable throughout your career.
3. Skilled Trades and Technical Jobs
Skilled trades such as electricians, plumbers, mechanics, and HVAC technicians represent another strong category of full-time work. These roles often require vocational training or apprenticeships but not necessarily a four-year degree.
The salary range for skilled trade jobs is generally higher than entry-level office or retail roles. Most skilled trades earn between $45,000 and $65,000 annually, with specialized technicians and experienced workers making upwards of $70,000 to $80,000 per year.
These jobs are in demand worldwide because skilled trades are essential to daily life and business operations. Workers who complete certifications or specialize in areas like renewable energy or advanced machinery can command even higher salaries.
Skilled trade jobs also offer stability because they are less likely to be outsourced. Communities everywhere need electricians, plumbers, and mechanics, ensuring a steady supply of work.
For individuals looking for financial security and hands-on careers, skilled trades are an excellent full-time option with higher-than-average salaries and strong long-term prospects.
4. Healthcare and Medical Jobs
Healthcare is one of the most reliable fields for full-time jobs, offering a wide range of opportunities from nurses and medical assistants to doctors and pharmacists. These roles require varying levels of education, from certifications to advanced degrees.
The salary range is broad. Entry-level healthcare jobs like certified nursing assistants earn around $30,000 to $40,000 per year, while registered nurses average $70,000 to $90,000. Physicians, surgeons, and specialists are at the top end, often making over $150,000 annually.
Demand for healthcare workers continues to grow worldwide, making it one of the most stable industries for employment. An aging population and advances in medicine ensure long-term job opportunities across different specialties.
These jobs also provide strong benefits packages, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid leave. For many, the benefits add significant value to the overall compensation.
Healthcare is not only financially rewarding but also personally fulfilling. Working in this field allows employees to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives while earning competitive salaries.
5. Professional and Technology Jobs
Professional careers in fields like technology, finance, law, and engineering round out the highest-paying full-time jobs. These roles typically require a college degree, certifications, or specialized training.
The salary range is among the highest across all industries. For example, software developers earn around $80,000 to $110,000 per year, while financial analysts average $65,000 to $90,000. Lawyers, engineers, and IT managers often exceed $100,000 annually, with senior professionals earning significantly more.
These jobs are attractive because they combine high salaries with strong career growth. Technology, in particular, continues to expand, creating demand for coders, cybersecurity experts, and data scientists.
Professional jobs also offer opportunities for global careers. Many industries allow remote or hybrid work, which adds flexibility alongside financial stability.
For those with higher education and specialized skills, professional and technology careers provide some of the most lucrative full-time salaries available today.
Salary Comparison Table for Full-Time Jobs
| Full-Time Job Type | Average Annual Salary (USD) | Average Hourly Rate (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Administrative & Office Support | $28,000 – $45,000 | $13 – $22 |
| Retail & Customer Service | $27,000 – $55,000 | $13 – $26 |
| Skilled Trades & Technical Jobs | $45,000 – $80,000 | $22 – $38 |
| Healthcare & Medical Jobs | $30,000 – $150,000+ | $15 – $75+ |
| Professional & Technology Jobs | $65,000 – $120,000+ | $31 – $58+ |