text:
Top restaurant groups that dominate the world's dining
Cities with the most adults living with their parents
States with the highest public employment
Most impoverished counties in America
25 oldest colleges in America
50 highest-paying jobs in the federal government
Leah Pace
There are some major pros to snagging a job with the U.S. government. Federal jobs exist all across the country, the benefits tend to be competitive, and the types of jobs cover interests across the spectrum. Sure, the job comes with plenty of bureaucracy. And, yes, during government shutdowns, employees may have to take forced, unpaid leave. However, most of the time, the job is steady and may even come with a large paycheck. But which federal jobs are the best compensated?
Stacker took a look at FederalPay, a public resource website for U.S. employees that is not run by the government. Using information from 2017, FederalPay ranked each job by annual average salaries. Here, Stacker also notes the pay for the highest-paid individual in each particular job.
To find out who's making the most paper while still making a difference for the country, read on. Plus, find out more about what each job entails and what it takes to get the gig.
RELATED: 100 biggest U.S. government contractors and what they do
schriever.af.mil
#50. Fire protection engineering
Average annual salary (2017): $120,676
Salary for highest-paid individual: $172,100
Fire protection engineers investigate the root causes of fires, examining the way architecture and design could prevent or suppress blazes. Day to day, they also may inspect buildings or fire equipment. Most fire protection engineers start by getting a degree in engineering before getting on-the-job experience with a firefighting agency.
Sgt. Andres Alcaraz // U.S. Marine Corps
#49. International cooperation
All 37 international cooperation personnel working for the federal government are employed by the Agency for International Development. This job requires planning, developing, and implementing foreign economic assistance programs. In addition to knowing about foreign policy and finances, these workers must understand the country that the United States is working with on any particular program.
James St. John // Flickr
#48. Metallurgy
The job title says a lot about what it entails—metal. Metallurgists are materials scientists specializing in iron, copper, and other metals, often focusing on extraction and processing. Most metallurgists get degrees in engineering or materials science. Government gigs are known for being the best paying in this field.
agnosticpreacherskid // Wikimedia Commons
#47. Credit union examiner
Credit union examiners travel around the state, or even around the country, examining federally chartered credit unions. They typically work out of the credit unions they're inspecting, or may even work from home. Qualifications for the job require a yearlong program of classes, on-the-job training, and progressive work assignments.
USEPA // Flickr
#46. General physical science
This wide-ranging job category includes physicists, chemists, astronomists, and geologists. Many of these employees work for the Environmental Protection Agency, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and the Department of Energy. Expect most of them to have master's degrees or higher in their fields.
#45. Operations research
If you're a problem-solver by nature, this may be the job for you. Operations research analysts use data mining, mathematical modeling, and statistics to help organizations operate efficiently and cost-effectively. Math, business, or industrial engineering degrees are helpful to enter this field.
Tim Evanson // Flickr
#44. Economist
Economists research and predict trends, analyze data, and examine financial resources. Most of these jobs, which are with departments like the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Internal Revenue Service, require a master's degree in economics.
Lisa Ferdinando // DoD
#43. Employee benefits law
Employee benefits lawyers are experts on everything from health care and 401(k) to paid-time off and welfare benefits. Naturally, a legal degree is essential for this job. The federal government hires these legal minds for the Employee Benefits Security Administration and the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corp.
#42. Plant physiology
Whether studying entire plants or just their genes, plant physiologists are experts about the physical, biological, and chemical functions of flora. Most plant physiologists have a background in botany, chemistry, math, and biology, and most have experience working in labs. The Agricultural Research Service employs the majority of these federal workers.
MBisanz // Wikimedia Commons
#41. Transportation industry analysis
These analysts have a mind for everything having to do with transportation, including air, trucking, freight, and more. They're smart about regulatory controls, customs, and carrier operations, and may work for the Maritime Administration, Federal Aviation Administration, or Federal Railroad Administration, among other departments.
United States Patent Office // Wikimedia Commons
#40. Patent examining
The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office protects inventors and businesses, who file patents and trademarks. Patents protect new designs and trademarks help inform customers about the brands they're buying. Patent examiners tend to be trained scientists and engineers who review patent applications and ensure that patents are, in fact, for new products.
Elizabeth Merriam // U.S. Navy
#39. Geodesy
This job requires monitoring and measuring Earth's shape, geodynamic phenomena, and gravity field, to determine its exact coordinates and how they might change over time. These trained scientists help track the rise of oceans, the change of tides, and more. It may come as no surprise that most geodesists work for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
nrc.gov
#38. Materials engineering
Materials engineers may work in mechanical, chemical, nuclear, aerospace, civil, or electrical engineering, where they study various materials at the atomic level and sometimes even develop new products, such as technological devices or plastics, from their materials of choice. Most engineers employed in this field have at least a bachelor's degree in their area of expertise.
#37. Foreign agricultural affairs
The Foreign Agricultural Service oversees U.S. agricultural programs abroad, from market development to trade agreements. Personnel for the FAS are employed in offices all around the world.
NTSB
#36. Air safety investigating
Working primarily for the National Transportation Safety Board, air safety investigators investigate the causes of aircraft accidents. This life-saving job requires a high-school diploma and, typically, a college degree.
#35. Education research
The Institute of Education Sciences, which helps ground education policy in scientifically based information, employs the majority of the government's education researchers. These individuals analyze and share data about student performance and education policies. An education or analysis background is helpful for this job. The best part? The work can result in real changes for the nation's school systems.
#34. Foreign affairs
The duties of foreign affairs personnel are varied. Generally, they represent and support U.S. efforts abroad through foreign assistance programs, working on counter-crime units, enforcing security investigations, aiding military training programs, and more. Education requirements depend on the specialty, but most openings require a college education.
#33. Air traffic control
More than 14,000 air traffic controllers in the United States guide 2.2 million planes from taxi to takeoff every day. It's a demanding job with unusual hours, and one that requires a lot of training. Prospective employees need three years of "progressively responsible" work experience, a bachelor's degree, or a combination of college and work experience. Interestingly, there's also an age limit: Applicants must be under 30.
#32. Cryptanalysis
Cryptanalysts crack secret codes and encrypted messages and, conversely, also work to make sure that messages and data from the U.S. government are kept secure. Only 18 of these workers have been hired by the feds, all working for the FBI. Most of these code-making and code-breaking experts have backgrounds in computer science, math, and computer engineering.
#31. Mediation
Mediators work as middlemen, developing labor–management relationships that work for federal employers and employees. Beyond that, they improve relationships between management and laborers, try to reduce litigation costs, enforce workplace conflict-management training, and help establish workplace rules.
#30. Computer cience
Computer scientists work for tons of governmental agencies, including the Federal Aviation Administration, National Institute of Standards and Technology, National Institutes of Health, and the FBI. Typically, computer scientists need at least a master's degree in computer science, computer engineering, or a similar field.
#29. Computer engineering
Most of the federal government's computer engineers work for the space and air programs. Of the 1,105 federal computer engineering employees, NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center employs over 300 of them, the John F. Kennedy Space Center has 124, the George C. Marshall Space Flight Center has 81, and the Federal Aviation Administration has 78. Computer engineers tend to be experts in hardware, software, or software applications.
#28. Medical officer
Depending on the role, medical officers may be licensed physicians or otherwise be trained in the medical field. Typically, they work for the feds in advisory, consultation, and administrative roles. Medical officers may conduct research, help institutionalize health programs, and more. There's a staggering 33,100 such employees working for the government, many of whom have jobs with the Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Thomas Bresson // Wikimedia Commons
#27. Electronics engineering
Electronics engineers, naturally, design electronics. This includes circuits, devices, and other electrical components. Education requirements vary by the role. NASA's electronics engineers, for example, are required to have at least a bachelor's degree in their fields.
#26. Financial institution examining
Analyzing insurance companies, housing, farming, and other institutions to make sure they're complying with all laws and regulations is the name of the game for financial institution examiners. Legal degrees, auditing experience, and accounting backgrounds all help to land one of these jobs.
#25. Zoology
Zoologists study everything about animals and their behavior. It's a dream job for many but, with just 58 federal slots, there aren't many zoologists working for the government. But the ones who do—often for the Smithsonian Institution, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or the Environmental Protect Agency—make good money doing so.
#24. Actuarial science
Actuaries analyze risks for financial institutions, insurance, and other groups and professions. Because their main tools are math, statistics, and business savvy, it may come as no surprise that a background in these fields helps procure this job. Most of the government's actuaries work for the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corp., Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, Social Security Administration, and the Internal Revenue Service.
#23. Pharmacology
Pharmacologists test and research drugs. It's a serious, tedious job, but one that can help countless patients and even save lives. Most pharmacologists attend medical school. What can they expect for all those years of education? A high salary and rewarding work.
#22. Aerospace engineering
These engineers help planes and rocket ships take flight. Their day-to-day job requires designing all manner of aircraft, including satellites and missiles. At least a bachelor's degree in engineering is required. For those doing national defense-related work, special security clearance is necessary, too.
Coast Guard Compass
#21. General engineering
Falling under the wide umbrella of "general engineering" are folks who work for the Department of Energy, the Veterans Health Administration, the Federal Aviation Administration, NASA, and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. It's also the 34th most popular job in the U.S. government. Most have a bachelor's or master's in engineering, typically with a specific focus depending on their field.
#20. General attorney
A lot of lawyers work for the federal government. Nearly 35,000, to be exact, in every department or agency from customs to immigration to the environment. Like lawyers in private practice, attorneys for the feds need to attend law school and pass the bar exam.
#19. Health system administration
These administrators are typically responsible for managing health care systems, from hospitals to larger networks. Rather than having feet on the ground working directly with patients, they typically take a larger, overview look at the systems. They may work for the federal prison system, the Veterans Health Administration, or even the Indian Health Service. There are degrees for health system management at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.
#18. Fish and wildlife administration
This job combines environmentalism with government action. Fish and wildlife administrators (who typically work for the Fish and Wildlife Service) evaluate conservation efforts, help with budgeting, and may even oversee certain wildlife preserves. Most of the employees in this role began working as scientists before moving into administrative work.
Tech. Sgt. Sean Tobin // U.S. Air Force
#17. Financial management
Financial managers oversee everything to do with the fiscal health of a particular federal department, from the Department of Energy to the Veterans Benefits Administration. Most have a bachelor's degree and then work as auditors, accountants, or analysts before becoming financial managers.
Navsea.navy.mil
#16. Naval architecture
Only seven people are employed by the feds as naval architects. Those lucky enough to snag one of these high-paying gigs, where they design vessels and other water-based devices, find themselves working for the Maritime Administration and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. A specific set of skills is needed for this job, so most have undergraduate or graduate degrees in naval architecture.
reynermedia // Flickr
#15. Financial analysis
Financial analysts look at how each department is functioning from a cost level. They need to know about accounting, law, and how their department is organized. Accounting, business, and math degrees are useful for this job, which is known as one of the most desirable in the financial services industry.
Pxhere
#14. Patent adviser
Patent advisers work within the Agricultural Research Service and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention when patents are needed for new innovations. The CDC also employs in-house experts who can help review patents when outside scientists file claims related to their scientific discoveries. These advisers tend to have legal degrees.
#13. Physics
Physicists working for the government usually find themselves in labs and conducting research. It's an intensive job, but one that can result in incredible, world-changing discoveries. Most have a doctorate or master's degrees in physics.
Peter Rosbjerg // Flickr
#12. Mathematics
Working primarily for the National Institute of Standards and Technology, Federal Aviation Administration, National Science Foundation, and National Institutes of Health, federal mathematicians' duties are varied. They may help research groups process data, analyze statistics, or create models for analysis, among many other things.
U.S. Nat'l Archives
#11. Patent classifying
Patent classifiers examine patents that come through the Patent and Trademark Office. Not only do they have to be able to review the applications per rules and regulations, but they often need niche technical experience to understand specific types of innovations, from feats of mechanical engineering to medical discoveries.
#10. Program management
These federal workers oversee an array of departmental projects and programs. They also direct teams and help boost their departments through marketing and other means. This is no small task: Poor program management was largely to blame for issues with HealthCare.gov during its 2013 rollout. Most program managers have some business and budgeting experience, plus expertise in the area their department covers.
Bill Hrybyk // NASA Goddard
#9. Astronomy and space science
The majority of the government's astronomists and space scientists work for NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center. It takes a lot of skills and training to be paid to discover new parts of the universe; most of these roles require doctorate degrees. Some background in computer science is also helpful.
#8. Chief engineer
Not only do chief engineers carry out feats of electrical and electronic engineering, but they also plan and direct projects as managers. Since most of these engineers work for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, that typically means repairing ship systems. A background in engineering is required, as is knowledge of marine systems and machine repair.
DARPA // Wikimedia Commons
#7. General mathematics and statistics
Mathematicians appear on the list again alongside statisticians. Both types of experts crunch data to help solve issues related to engineering, health care, the environment, or even FBI investigations. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, most mathematicians and statisticians have master's degrees and have taken significant math courses, though some of these federal jobs only require bachelor's degrees.
F Delventhal // Flickr
#6. Technical systems program manager
There are 551 technical systems program managers, all employed by the Federal Aviation Administration. They're responsible for a variety of jobs, such as completing and overseeing research on electrical power systems in planes. This typically requires engineering expertise, plus plenty of training on the job and some managerial experience.
Alan Kotok // Flickr
#5. Patent administration
Working for the Patent and Trademark Office, these administrators help support patent attorneys. This may mean drafting patent forms, maintaining electronic filing systems, managing attorney prosecution dockets, providing legal advice, and more. This job requires business and organizational smarts, as well as some legal knowledge.
#4. Administrative law judge
These judges oversee cases involving the operations and procedures of various government agencies. Though the vast majority of administrative law judges work for the Social Security Administration, they may also work for the Office of the Secretary of Labor, the National Labor Relations Board, or the Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission. As with any judicial appointment, this job requires a law degree and many years of experience in the field.
#3. Nurse anesthetist
Perhaps it's surprising to see a medical job toward the top of this list. These nurses administer anesthesia during surgery, which is known to be a particularly tricky task. Because of this, nurse anesthetists require special training and accreditation in nursing school. All of the nurse anesthetists employed by the federal government work for the Veterans Health Administration.
#2. Patent attorney
For lawyers who know a ton about intellectual property, filing patent applications and defending patents in court may be their dream job. Not only do patent attorneys have to attend law school and pass the bar exam, they also must pass a federal "patent bar exam." What's more, they may be an expert in a specific topic, such as chemistry or computer science.
Scott S // Flickr
#1. Securities compliance examining
The highest-paying government job is with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which works to protect investors and enforce regulations for companies. It's the job of examiners to take on Wall Street and ensure that companies follow the law. According to the SEC, examiners conduct inspections, review portfolios, look at sales activities, and perform interviews and on-site examinations. The SEC usually looks for hires with a law or business degree, and their pay is high to compete with the private sector.
45 of the best college movies
<section> <header> <ul> <li>Story name: 50 highest-paying jobs in the federal government</li> <li>Canonical URL: https://stacker.com/careers/50-highest-paying-jobs-federal-government</li> <li>Written by: Leah Pace</li> <li>Description: <p>Stacker looks at the 50 highest-paying jobs in the federal government.</p></li> </ul> </header> <article> <h2>50 highest-paying jobs in the federal government</h2> <p dir="ltr">There are some major pros to snagging a job with the U.S. government. Federal jobs exist all across the country, the <a href="https://gogovernment.org/government_101/pros_and_cons_of_working_in_government.php">benefits tend to be competitive</a>, and the types of jobs cover interests across the spectrum. Sure, the job comes with plenty of bureaucracy. And, yes, during government shutdowns, employees may have to take forced, unpaid leave. However, most of the time, the job is steady and may even come with a large paycheck. But which federal jobs are the best compensated?</p> <p dir="ltr">Stacker took a look at<a href="https://www.federalpay.org/employees/occupations/top-100"> FederalPay</a>, a public resource website for U.S. employees that is not run by the government. Using information from 2017, FederalPay ranked each job by annual average salaries. Here, Stacker also notes the pay for the highest-paid individual in each particular job.</p> <p dir="ltr">To find out who's making the most paper while still making a difference for the country, read on. Plus, find out more about what each job entails and what it takes to get the gig.</p> <p dir="ltr">RELATED: <a href="https://thestacker.com/stories/2064/100-biggest-us-government-contractors-and-what-they-do">100 biggest U.S. government contractors and what they do</a></p> <h2>#50. Fire protection engineering</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $120,676<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $172,100</p> <p><a href="https://www.firescience.org/how-to-become-a-fire-protection-engineer/">Fire protection engineers</a> investigate the root causes of fires, examining the way architecture and design could prevent or suppress blazes. Day to day, they also may inspect buildings or fire equipment. Most fire protection engineers start by getting a degree in engineering before getting on-the-job experience with a firefighting agency.</p> <h2>#49. International cooperation</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $120,921<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $161,900</p> <p>All 37 international cooperation personnel working for the federal government are employed by the<a href="https://www.federalpay.org/employees/occupations/international-cooperation"> Agency for International Development</a>. This job requires planning, developing, and implementing foreign economic assistance programs. In addition to knowing about foreign policy and finances, these workers must understand the country that the United States is working with on any particular program.</p> <p><br> </p> <h2>#48. Metallurgy</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $121,071<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $187,000</p> <p>The job title says a lot about what it entails—metal. Metallurgists are materials scientists specializing in iron, copper, and other metals, often<a href="https://www.environmentalscience.org/career/metallurgist"> focusing on extraction and processing</a>. Most metallurgists get degrees in engineering or materials science. Government gigs are known for being the best paying in this field.</p> <h2>#47. Credit union examiner</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $121,197<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $279,000</p> <p>Credit union examiners travel around the state, or even around the country,<a href="https://www.ncua.gov/files/publications/ncua-day-life-credit-union-examiner.pdf"> examining federally chartered credit unions</a>. They typically work out of the credit unions they're inspecting, or may even work from home. Qualifications for the job require a yearlong program of classes, on-the-job training, and progressive work assignments.</p> <h2>#46. General physical science</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $121,243<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $245,670</p> <p>This<a href="https://work.chron.com/physical-scientist-job-description-14294.html"> wide-ranging job category</a> includes physicists, chemists, astronomists, and geologists. Many of these employees work for the Environmental Protection Agency, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and the Department of Energy. Expect most of them to have master's degrees or higher in their fields.</p> <h2>#45. Operations research</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $121,371<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $192,522</p> <p>If you're a<a href="https://money.usnews.com/careers/best-jobs/operations-research-analyst"> problem-solver</a> by nature, this may be the job for you. Operations research analysts use data mining, mathematical modeling, and statistics to help organizations operate efficiently and cost-effectively. Math, business, or industrial engineering degrees are helpful to enter this field.</p> <h2>#44. Economist</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $121,424<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $268,000</p> <p>Economists research and predict trends, analyze data, and examine financial resources. Most of these jobs, which are with departments like the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Internal Revenue Service, require a master's degree in economics.</p> <h2>#43. Employee benefits law</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $121,515<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $187,000</p> <p>Employee benefits lawyers are<a href="https://www.ebglaw.com/employee-benefits-and-executive-compensation/"> experts on everything from health care and 401(k) to paid-time off and welfare benefits</a>. Naturally, a legal degree is essential for this job. The federal government hires these legal minds for the Employee Benefits Security Administration and the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corp.</p> <h2>#42. Plant physiology</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $121,662<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $207,800</p> <p>Whether studying<a href="https://www.agriculture.purdue.edu/usda/careers/plantphysiologist.html"> entire plants or just their genes</a>, plant physiologists are experts about the physical, biological, and chemical functions of flora. Most plant physiologists have a background in botany, chemistry, math, and biology, and most have experience working in labs. The<a href="https://www.federalpay.org/employees/occupations/plant-physiology"> Agricultural Research Service</a> employs the majority of these federal workers.</p> <h2>#41. Transportation industry analysis</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $122,121<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $161,900</p> <p>These analysts have a mind for<a href="https://www.selectusa.gov/logistics-and-transportation-industry-united-states"> everything having to do with transportation</a>, including air, trucking, freight, and more. They're smart about regulatory controls, customs, and carrier operations, and may work for the Maritime Administration, Federal Aviation Administration, or Federal Railroad Administration, among other departments.</p> <h2>#40. Patent examining</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $122,477<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $170,388</p> <p>The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office protects inventors and businesses, who file patents and trademarks. Patents protect new designs and trademarks help inform customers about the brands they're buying. Patent examiners tend to be trained scientists and engineers who<a href="https://www.uspto.gov/sites/default/files/documents/Examiner%20brochure%202018%20downloadable.pdf"> review patent applications</a> and ensure that patents are, in fact, for new products.</p> <h2>#39. Geodesy</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $122,558<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $163,817</p> <p>This job requires monitoring and measuring Earth's shape, geodynamic phenomena, and gravity field, to determine its exact coordinates and how they might change over time. These trained scientists help track the rise of oceans, the change of tides, and more. It may come as no surprise that most geodesists work for the<a href="https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/geodesist.html"> National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration</a>.</p> <h2>#38. Materials engineering</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $122,619<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $172,100</p> <p>Materials engineers may work in<a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/materials-engineers.htm"> mechanical, chemical, nuclear, aerospace, civil, or electrical engineering</a>, where they study various materials at the atomic level and sometimes even develop new products, such as technological devices or plastics, from their materials of choice. Most engineers employed in this field have at least a bachelor's degree in their area of expertise. </p> <h2>#37. Foreign agricultural affairs</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $122,989<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $187,000</p> <p>The Foreign Agricultural Service oversees U.S. agricultural programs abroad, from market development to trade agreements. Personnel for the FAS are<a href="https://apps.fas.usda.gov/overseas_post_directory/foreign_service_personnel.asp"> employed in offices all around the world</a>.</p> <h2>#36. Air safety investigating</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $123,653<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $163,400</p> <p>Working primarily for the National Transportation Safety Board, air safety investigators<a href="https://www.isasi.org/"> investigate the causes of aircraft accidents</a>. This life-saving job requires a high-school diploma and,<a href="https://www.avjobs.com/careers/detail.asp?Job_Title=Aircraft+Accident+Investigator&Category=Federal+Government&Related=National+Transportation+Safety+Board+%28NTSB%29&RecID=123"> typically, a college degree</a>.</p> <h2>#35. Education research</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $124,507<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $187,000</p> <p>The<a href="https://ies.ed.gov/"> Institute of Education Sciences</a>, which helps ground education policy in scientifically based information, employs the majority of the government's education researchers. These individuals analyze and share data about student performance and education policies. An education or analysis background is helpful for this job. The best part? The work can result in real changes for the nation's school systems.</p> <h2>#34. Foreign affairs</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $125,055<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $207,800</p> <p>The duties of foreign affairs personnel are varied. Generally, they<a href="https://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/rls/dos/436.htm"> represent and support U.S. efforts abroad</a> through foreign assistance programs, working on counter-crime units, enforcing security investigations, aiding military training programs, and more. Education requirements depend on the specialty, but most openings require a college education.</p> <h2>#33. Air traffic control</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $125,112<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $202,285</p> <p>More than<a href="https://www.faa.gov/jobs/career_fields/aviation_careers/"> 14,000 air traffic controllers</a> in the United States guide 2.2 million planes from taxi to takeoff every day. It's a demanding job with unusual hours, and one that requires a lot of training. Prospective employees need three years of "progressively responsible" work experience, a bachelor's degree, or a combination of college and work experience. Interestingly, there's also an age limit: Applicants must be under 30.</p> <h2>#32. Cryptanalysis</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $125,325<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $163,900</p> <p>Cryptanalysts<a href="https://www.cyberdegrees.org/jobs/cryptographer/"> crack secret codes and encrypted messages</a> and, conversely, also work to make sure that messages and data from the U.S. government are kept secure. Only 18 of these workers have been hired by the feds, all working for the FBI. Most of these code-making and code-breaking experts have backgrounds in computer science, math, and computer engineering.</p> <h2>#31. Mediation</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $125,411<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $172,100</p> <p>Mediators work as middlemen,<a href="https://www.fmcs.gov/careers/"> developing labor–management relationships</a> that work for federal employers and employees. Beyond that, they improve relationships between management and laborers, try to reduce litigation costs, enforce workplace conflict-management training, and help establish workplace rules.</p> <h2>#30. Computer cience</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $125,751<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $220,000</p> <p>Computer scientists work for tons of governmental agencies, including the Federal Aviation Administration, National Institute of Standards and Technology, National Institutes of Health, and the FBI. Typically,<a href="https://www.careergirls.org/career/computer-scientist/"> computer scientists need at least a master's degree</a> in computer science, computer engineering, or a similar field.</p> <p><br> </p> <h2>#29. Computer engineering</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $126,361<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $199,869</p> <p>Most of the federal government's computer engineers work for the space and air programs. Of the<a href="https://www.federalpay.org/employees/occupations/computer-engineering"> 1,105 federal computer engineering employees</a>, NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center employs over 300 of them, the John F. Kennedy Space Center has 124, the George C. Marshall Space Flight Center has 81, and the Federal Aviation Administration has 78. Computer engineers tend to be<a href="https://work.chron.com/qualifications-need-become-computer-engineer-6815.html"> experts in hardware, software, or software applications</a>.</p> <h2>#28. Medical officer</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $126,492<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $390,000</p> <p>Depending on the role, medical officers may be licensed physicians or otherwise be trained in the medical field. Typically, they work for the feds in<a href="https://jobs.cdc.gov/medical-officers"> advisory, consultation, and administrative roles</a>. Medical officers may conduct research, help institutionalize health programs, and more. There's a staggering 33,100 such employees working for the government, many of whom have jobs with the Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.</p> <h2>#27. Electronics engineering</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $126,746<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $192,879</p> <p>Electronics engineers, naturally, design electronics. This includes circuits, devices, and other electrical components. Education requirements vary by the role.<a href="https://nasajobs.nasa.gov/jobs/civil_service_jobs/career/page10.htm"> NASA's electronics engineers</a>, for example, are required to have at least a bachelor's degree in their fields.</p> <h2>#26. Financial institution examining</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $127,731<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $288,524</p> <p>Analyzing insurance companies, housing, farming, and other institutions to make sure they're complying with all laws and regulations is the name of the game for financial institution examiners.<a href="https://www.calhr.ca.gov/state-hr-professionals/pages/4101.aspx"> Legal degrees, auditing experience, and accounting backgrounds</a> all help to land one of these jobs.</p> <h2>#25. Zoology</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $127,875<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $173,417</p> <p>Zoologists study everything about<a href="https://www.environmentalscience.org/career/zoologist"> animals and their behavior</a>. It's a dream job for many but, with<a href="https://www.federalpay.org/employees/occupations/zoology"> just 58 federal slots</a>, there aren't many zoologists working for the government. But the ones who do—often for the Smithsonian Institution, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or the Environmental Protect Agency—make good money doing so.</p> <h2>#24. Actuarial science</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $128,524<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $187,000</p> <p>Actuaries<a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/a/actuarial-science.asp"> analyze risks</a> for financial institutions, insurance, and other groups and professions. Because their main tools are math, statistics, and business savvy, it may come as no surprise that a background in these fields helps procure this job. Most of the government's actuaries work for the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corp., Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, Social Security Administration, and the Internal Revenue Service.</p> <h2>#23. Pharmacology</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $128,533<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $248,699</p> <p>Pharmacologists test and research drugs. It's a serious, tedious job, but one that can help countless patients and even save lives. Most<a href="https://work.chron.com/long-pharmacologist-23300.html"> pharmacologists attend medical school</a>. What can they expect for all those years of education? A high salary and rewarding work.</p> <h2>#22. Aerospace engineering</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $128,757<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $193,840</p> <p>These engineers<a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/aerospace-engineers.htm"> help planes and rocket ships take flight</a>. Their day-to-day job requires designing all manner of aircraft, including satellites and missiles. At least a bachelor's degree in engineering is required. For those doing national defense-related work, special security clearance is necessary, too.</p> <p><br> </p> <h2>#21. General engineering</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $129,820<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $240,100</p> <p>Falling under the wide umbrella of "<a href="https://engineeringonline.ucr.edu/blog/what-is-general-engineering/">general engineering</a>" are folks who work for the Department of Energy, the Veterans Health Administration, the Federal Aviation Administration, NASA, and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. It's also the 34th most popular job in the U.S. government. Most have a bachelor's or master's in engineering, typically with a specific focus depending on their field.</p> <h2>#20. General attorney</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $130,515<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $287,774</p> <p>A lot of lawyers work for the federal government. Nearly 35,000, to be exact, in every department or agency from customs to immigration to the environment. Like lawyers in private practice, attorneys for the feds need to attend law school and<a href="https://www.americanbar.org/"> pass the bar exam</a>.</p> <h2>#19. Health system administration</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $130,791<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $225,398</p> <p>These administrators are typically responsible for managing health care systems, from hospitals to larger networks. Rather than having feet on the ground working directly with patients, they typically take a larger, overview look at the systems. They may work for the federal prison system, the Veterans Health Administration, or even the Indian Health Service. There are degrees for health system management at both the<a href="https://explorehealthcareers.org/career/health-administration-management/health-administrator/"> undergraduate and graduate levels</a>.</p> <h2>#18. Fish and wildlife administration</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $134,259<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $187,000</p> <p>This job combines environmentalism with government action. Fish and wildlife administrators (who typically work for the Fish and Wildlife Service) evaluate conservation efforts, help with budgeting, and may even oversee certain wildlife preserves. Most of the employees in this role<a href="https://www.environmentalscience.org/career/wildlife-administrator"> began working as scientists</a> before moving into administrative work.</p> <h2>#17. Financial management</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $134,671<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $280,500</p> <p>Financial managers oversee everything to do with the fiscal health of a particular federal department, from the Department of Energy to the Veterans Benefits Administration.<a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/financial-managers.htm"> Most have a bachelor's degree</a> and then work as auditors, accountants, or analysts before becoming financial managers.</p> <h2>#16. Naval architecture</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $135,553<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $161,900</p> <p>Only seven people are employed by the feds as naval architects. Those lucky enough to snag one of these high-paying gigs, where they<a href="https://www.webb.edu/about-webb-institute/what-is-a-naval-architect/"> design vessels and other water-based devices</a>, find themselves working for the Maritime Administration and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. A specific set of skills is needed for this job, so most have undergraduate or graduate degrees in naval architecture.</p> <h2>#15. Financial analysis</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $135,750<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $286,345</p> <p>Financial analysts look at how each department is functioning from a cost level. They need to know about accounting, law, and how their department is organized. Accounting, business, and math degrees are useful for this job, which is known as one of the<a href="https://www.investopedia.com/articles/financialcareers/06/financialanalyst.asp"> most desirable in the financial services industry</a>.</p> <h2>#14. Patent adviser</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $136,011<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $161,900</p> <p>Patent advisers work within the Agricultural Research Service and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention when patents are needed for new innovations. The<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/od/science/technology/techtransfer/faq.htm#%23h"> CDC also employs in-house experts</a> who can help review patents when outside scientists file claims related to their scientific discoveries. These advisers tend to have legal degrees.</p> <p><br> </p> <h2>#13. Physics</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $136,591<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $270,400</p> <p>Physicists working for the government usually find themselves in<a href="https://www.aps.org/careers/physicists/physicistgov.cfm"> labs and conducting research</a>. It's an intensive job, but one that can result in incredible, world-changing discoveries. Most have a doctorate or master's degrees in physics.</p> <p><br> </p> <h2>#12. Mathematics</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $136,934<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $258,616</p> <p>Working primarily for the National Institute of Standards and Technology, Federal Aviation Administration, National Science Foundation, and National Institutes of Health, federal mathematicians'<a href="https://www.ams.org/profession/career-info/math-work/math-work"> duties are varied</a>. They may help research groups process data, analyze statistics, or create models for analysis, among many other things.</p> <h2>#11. Patent classifying</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $137,809<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $161,900</p> <p>Patent classifiers examine patents that come through the Patent and Trademark Office. Not only do they have to be able to review the applications per rules and regulations, but they often need<a href="https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/classifying-general-schedule-positions/standards/1200/gs1223.pdf"> niche technical experience to understand specific types of innovations</a>, from feats of mechanical engineering to medical discoveries.</p> <h2>#10. Program management</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $141,595<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $325,000</p> <p>These federal workers<a href="https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Government_Program_Manager/Salary"> oversee an array of departmental projects and programs</a>. They also direct teams and help boost their departments through marketing and other means. This is no small task: Poor program management was largely to blame for issues with<a href="https://fcw.com/articles/2015/04/15/what-program-management-really-means.aspx"> HealthCare.gov during its 2013 rollout</a>. Most program managers have some business and budgeting experience, plus expertise in the area their department covers.</p> <p><br> </p> <h2>#9. Astronomy and space science</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $141,981<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $181,562</p> <p>The majority of the government's astronomists and space scientists work for NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center. It takes a lot of skills and training to be paid to discover new parts of the universe; most of these roles<a href="https://aas.org/learn/planning-your-education#graduate"> require doctorate degrees</a>. Some background in computer science is also helpful.</p> <h2>#8. Chief engineer</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $150,803<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $165,164</p> <p>Not only do chief engineers carry out feats of electrical and electronic engineering, but they also plan and direct projects as managers. Since most of these engineers work for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, that typically means<a href="https://web.archive.org/web/20180413013551/http:/www.omao.noaa.gov:80/find/careers/chief-engineer"> repairing ship systems</a>. A background in engineering is required, as is knowledge of marine systems and machine repair.</p> <h2>#7. General mathematics and statistics</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $153,214<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $241,600</p> <p>Mathematicians appear on the list again alongside statisticians. Both types of experts crunch data to help solve issues related to engineering, health care, the environment, or even FBI investigations. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, most mathematicians and statisticians have master's degrees and have taken significant math courses, though some of these federal jobs<a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/math/mathematicians-and-statisticians.htm#tab-4"> only require bachelor's degrees</a>.</p> <p><br> </p> <h2>#6. Technical systems program manager</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $153,430<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $199,548</p> <p>There are 551 technical systems program managers, all employed by the Federal Aviation Administration. They're responsible for a variety of jobs, such as completing and overseeing research on<a href="https://www.facebook.com/FAA/videos/mike-walz-the-aircraft-electrical-systems-research-program-manager-at-the-faa-te/1799442633517697/"> electrical power systems in planes</a>. This typically requires engineering expertise, plus plenty of training on the job and some managerial experience.</p> <h2>#5. Patent administration</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $161,308<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $187,148</p> <p>Working for the Patent and Trademark Office, these administrators<a href="https://www.americasjobexchange.com/patent-administrator-job-description"> help support patent attorneys</a>. This may mean drafting patent forms, maintaining electronic filing systems, managing attorney prosecution dockets, providing legal advice, and more. This job requires business and organizational smarts, as well as some legal knowledge.</p> <p><br> </p> <h2>#4. Administrative law judge</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $163,113<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $183,425</p> <p>These judges oversee<a href="https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/29/102.35"> cases involving the operations and procedures</a> of various government agencies. Though the vast majority of administrative law judges work for the Social Security Administration, they may also work for the Office of the Secretary of Labor, the National Labor Relations Board, or the Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission. As with any judicial appointment, this job requires a law degree and many years of experience in the field.</p> <h2>#3. Nurse anesthetist</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $167,818<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $207,800</p> <p>Perhaps it's surprising to see a medical job toward the top of this list. These nurses<a href="https://www.bls.gov/oes/2017/may/oes291151.htm"> administer anesthesia during surgery</a>, which is known to be a particularly tricky task. Because of this, nurse anesthetists require special training and accreditation in nursing school. All of the nurse anesthetists employed by the federal government work for the Veterans Health Administration.</p> <h2>#2. Patent attorney</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $170,079<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $190,444</p> <p>For lawyers who know a ton about intellectual property, filing patent applications and defending patents in court may be their dream job. Not only do patent attorneys have to attend law school and pass the bar exam, they also must pass a federal "<a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/p/patent-attorney.asp">patent bar exam</a>." What's more, they may be an expert in a specific topic, such as chemistry or computer science.</p> <h2>#1. Securities compliance examining</h2> <p>Average annual salary (2017): $181,013<br> Salary for highest-paid individual: $244,184</p> <p>The highest-paying government job is with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which works to protect investors and enforce regulations for companies. It's the job of examiners to take on Wall Street and ensure that companies follow the law. According to the SEC,<a href="https://www.sec.gov/ohr/Article/invest-in-your-career-at-the-sec.html"> examiners conduct inspections, review portfolios</a>, look at sales activities, and perform interviews and on-site examinations. The SEC usually looks for hires with a<a href="https://www.investopedia.com/articles/professionals/053113/how-get-job-sec.asp"> law or business degree</a>, and their pay is high to compete with the private sector.</p> <p> </p> </article> </section> <script src="https://analytics.stacker.com/tracking/fd6ef328-96e4-459f-bafe-57d062ed3af4/script.js?source=republish"></script>
Story name: 50 highest-paying jobs in the federal government Canonical URL: https://stacker.com/careers/50-highest-paying-jobs-federal-government Written by: Leah Pace Description: Stacker looks at the 50 highest-paying jobs in the federal government. 50 highest-paying jobs in the federal government There are some major pros to snagging a job with the U.S. government. Federal jobs exist all across the country, the benefits tend to be competitive, and the types of jobs cover interests across the spectrum. Sure, the job comes with plenty of bureaucracy. And, yes, during government shutdowns, employees may have to take forced, unpaid leave. However, most of the time, the job is steady and may even come with a large paycheck. But which federal jobs are the best compensated? Stacker took a look at FederalPay, a public resource website for U.S. employees that is not run by the government. Using information from 2017, FederalPay ranked each job by annual average salaries. Here, Stacker also notes the pay for the highest-paid individual in each particular job. To find out who's making the most paper while still making a difference for the country, read on. Plus, find out more about what each job entails and what it takes to get the gig. RELATED: 100 biggest U.S. government contractors and what they do #50. Fire protection engineering Average annual salary (2017): $120,676 Salary for highest-paid individual: $172,100 Fire protection engineers investigate the root causes of fires, examining the way architecture and design could prevent or suppress blazes. Day to day, they also may inspect buildings or fire equipment. Most fire protection engineers start by getting a degree in engineering before getting on-the-job experience with a firefighting agency. #49. International cooperation Average annual salary (2017): $120,921 Salary for highest-paid individual: $161,900 All 37 international cooperation personnel working for the federal government are employed by the Agency for International Development. This job requires planning, developing, and implementing foreign economic assistance programs. In addition to knowing about foreign policy and finances, these workers must understand the country that the United States is working with on any particular program. #48. Metallurgy Average annual salary (2017): $121,071 Salary for highest-paid individual: $187,000 The job title says a lot about what it entails—metal. Metallurgists are materials scientists specializing in iron, copper, and other metals, often focusing on extraction and processing. Most metallurgists get degrees in engineering or materials science. Government gigs are known for being the best paying in this field. #47. Credit union examiner Average annual salary (2017): $121,197 Salary for highest-paid individual: $279,000 Credit union examiners travel around the state, or even around the country, examining federally chartered credit unions. They typically work out of the credit unions they're inspecting, or may even work from home. Qualifications for the job require a yearlong program of classes, on-the-job training, and progressive work assignments. #46. General physical science Average annual salary (2017): $121,243 Salary for highest-paid individual: $245,670 This wide-ranging job category includes physicists, chemists, astronomists, and geologists. Many of these employees work for the Environmental Protection Agency, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and the Department of Energy. Expect most of them to have master's degrees or higher in their fields. #45. Operations research Average annual salary (2017): $121,371 Salary for highest-paid individual: $192,522 If you're a problem-solver by nature, this may be the job for you. Operations research analysts use data mining, mathematical modeling, and statistics to help organizations operate efficiently and cost-effectively. Math, business, or industrial engineering degrees are helpful to enter this field. #44. Economist Average annual salary (2017): $121,424 Salary for highest-paid individual: $268,000 Economists research and predict trends, analyze data, and examine financial resources. Most of these jobs, which are with departments like the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Internal Revenue Service, require a master's degree in economics. #43. Employee benefits law Average annual salary (2017): $121,515 Salary for highest-paid individual: $187,000 Employee benefits lawyers are experts on everything from health care and 401(k) to paid-time off and welfare benefits. Naturally, a legal degree is essential for this job. The federal government hires these legal minds for the Employee Benefits Security Administration and the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corp. #42. Plant physiology Average annual salary (2017): $121,662 Salary for highest-paid individual: $207,800 Whether studying entire plants or just their genes, plant physiologists are experts about the physical, biological, and chemical functions of flora. Most plant physiologists have a background in botany, chemistry, math, and biology, and most have experience working in labs. The Agricultural Research Service employs the majority of these federal workers. #41. Transportation industry analysis Average annual salary (2017): $122,121 Salary for highest-paid individual: $161,900 These analysts have a mind for everything having to do with transportation, including air, trucking, freight, and more. They're smart about regulatory controls, customs, and carrier operations, and may work for the Maritime Administration, Federal Aviation Administration, or Federal Railroad Administration, among other departments. #40. Patent examining Average annual salary (2017): $122,477 Salary for highest-paid individual: $170,388 The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office protects inventors and businesses, who file patents and trademarks. Patents protect new designs and trademarks help inform customers about the brands they're buying. Patent examiners tend to be trained scientists and engineers who review patent applications and ensure that patents are, in fact, for new products. #39. Geodesy Average annual salary (2017): $122,558 Salary for highest-paid individual: $163,817 This job requires monitoring and measuring Earth's shape, geodynamic phenomena, and gravity field, to determine its exact coordinates and how they might change over time. These trained scientists help track the rise of oceans, the change of tides, and more. It may come as no surprise that most geodesists work for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. #38. Materials engineering Average annual salary (2017): $122,619 Salary for highest-paid individual: $172,100 Materials engineers may work in mechanical, chemical, nuclear, aerospace, civil, or electrical engineering, where they study various materials at the atomic level and sometimes even develop new products, such as technological devices or plastics, from their materials of choice. Most engineers employed in this field have at least a bachelor's degree in their area of expertise. #37. Foreign agricultural affairs Average annual salary (2017): $122,989 Salary for highest-paid individual: $187,000 The Foreign Agricultural Service oversees U.S. agricultural programs abroad, from market development to trade agreements. Personnel for the FAS are employed in offices all around the world. #36. Air safety investigating Average annual salary (2017): $123,653 Salary for highest-paid individual: $163,400 Working primarily for the National Transportation Safety Board, air safety investigators investigate the causes of aircraft accidents. This life-saving job requires a high-school diploma and, typically, a college degree. #35. Education research Average annual salary (2017): $124,507 Salary for highest-paid individual: $187,000 The Institute of Education Sciences, which helps ground education policy in scientifically based information, employs the majority of the government's education researchers. These individuals analyze and share data about student performance and education policies. An education or analysis background is helpful for this job. The best part? The work can result in real changes for the nation's school systems. #34. Foreign affairs Average annual salary (2017): $125,055 Salary for highest-paid individual: $207,800 The duties of foreign affairs personnel are varied. Generally, they represent and support U.S. efforts abroad through foreign assistance programs, working on counter-crime units, enforcing security investigations, aiding military training programs, and more. Education requirements depend on the specialty, but most openings require a college education. #33. Air traffic control Average annual salary (2017): $125,112 Salary for highest-paid individual: $202,285 More than 14,000 air traffic controllers in the United States guide 2.2 million planes from taxi to takeoff every day. It's a demanding job with unusual hours, and one that requires a lot of training. Prospective employees need three years of "progressively responsible" work experience, a bachelor's degree, or a combination of college and work experience. Interestingly, there's also an age limit: Applicants must be under 30. #32. Cryptanalysis Average annual salary (2017): $125,325 Salary for highest-paid individual: $163,900 Cryptanalysts crack secret codes and encrypted messages and, conversely, also work to make sure that messages and data from the U.S. government are kept secure. Only 18 of these workers have been hired by the feds, all working for the FBI. Most of these code-making and code-breaking experts have backgrounds in computer science, math, and computer engineering. #31. Mediation Average annual salary (2017): $125,411 Salary for highest-paid individual: $172,100 Mediators work as middlemen, developing labor–management relationships that work for federal employers and employees. Beyond that, they improve relationships between management and laborers, try to reduce litigation costs, enforce workplace conflict-management training, and help establish workplace rules. #30. Computer cience Average annual salary (2017): $125,751 Salary for highest-paid individual: $220,000 Computer scientists work for tons of governmental agencies, including the Federal Aviation Administration, National Institute of Standards and Technology, National Institutes of Health, and the FBI. Typically, computer scientists need at least a master's degree in computer science, computer engineering, or a similar field. #29. Computer engineering Average annual salary (2017): $126,361 Salary for highest-paid individual: $199,869 Most of the federal government's computer engineers work for the space and air programs. Of the 1,105 federal computer engineering employees, NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center employs over 300 of them, the John F. Kennedy Space Center has 124, the George C. Marshall Space Flight Center has 81, and the Federal Aviation Administration has 78. Computer engineers tend to be experts in hardware, software, or software applications. #28. Medical officer Average annual salary (2017): $126,492 Salary for highest-paid individual: $390,000 Depending on the role, medical officers may be licensed physicians or otherwise be trained in the medical field. Typically, they work for the feds in advisory, consultation, and administrative roles. Medical officers may conduct research, help institutionalize health programs, and more. There's a staggering 33,100 such employees working for the government, many of whom have jobs with the Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. #27. Electronics engineering Average annual salary (2017): $126,746 Salary for highest-paid individual: $192,879 Electronics engineers, naturally, design electronics. This includes circuits, devices, and other electrical components. Education requirements vary by the role. NASA's electronics engineers, for example, are required to have at least a bachelor's degree in their fields. #26. Financial institution examining Average annual salary (2017): $127,731 Salary for highest-paid individual: $288,524 Analyzing insurance companies, housing, farming, and other institutions to make sure they're complying with all laws and regulations is the name of the game for financial institution examiners. Legal degrees, auditing experience, and accounting backgrounds all help to land one of these jobs. #25. Zoology Average annual salary (2017): $127,875 Salary for highest-paid individual: $173,417 Zoologists study everything about animals and their behavior. It's a dream job for many but, with just 58 federal slots, there aren't many zoologists working for the government. But the ones who do—often for the Smithsonian Institution, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or the Environmental Protect Agency—make good money doing so. #24. Actuarial science Average annual salary (2017): $128,524 Salary for highest-paid individual: $187,000 Actuaries analyze risks for financial institutions, insurance, and other groups and professions. Because their main tools are math, statistics, and business savvy, it may come as no surprise that a background in these fields helps procure this job. Most of the government's actuaries work for the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corp., Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, Social Security Administration, and the Internal Revenue Service. #23. Pharmacology Average annual salary (2017): $128,533 Salary for highest-paid individual: $248,699 Pharmacologists test and research drugs. It's a serious, tedious job, but one that can help countless patients and even save lives. Most pharmacologists attend medical school. What can they expect for all those years of education? A high salary and rewarding work. #22. Aerospace engineering Average annual salary (2017): $128,757 Salary for highest-paid individual: $193,840 These engineers help planes and rocket ships take flight. Their day-to-day job requires designing all manner of aircraft, including satellites and missiles. At least a bachelor's degree in engineering is required. For those doing national defense-related work, special security clearance is necessary, too. #21. General engineering Average annual salary (2017): $129,820 Salary for highest-paid individual: $240,100 Falling under the wide umbrella of "general engineering" are folks who work for the Department of Energy, the Veterans Health Administration, the Federal Aviation Administration, NASA, and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. It's also the 34th most popular job in the U.S. government. Most have a bachelor's or master's in engineering, typically with a specific focus depending on their field. #20. General attorney Average annual salary (2017): $130,515 Salary for highest-paid individual: $287,774 A lot of lawyers work for the federal government. Nearly 35,000, to be exact, in every department or agency from customs to immigration to the environment. Like lawyers in private practice, attorneys for the feds need to attend law school and pass the bar exam. #19. Health system administration Average annual salary (2017): $130,791 Salary for highest-paid individual: $225,398 These administrators are typically responsible for managing health care systems, from hospitals to larger networks. Rather than having feet on the ground working directly with patients, they typically take a larger, overview look at the systems. They may work for the federal prison system, the Veterans Health Administration, or even the Indian Health Service. There are degrees for health system management at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. #18. Fish and wildlife administration Average annual salary (2017): $134,259 Salary for highest-paid individual: $187,000 This job combines environmentalism with government action. Fish and wildlife administrators (who typically work for the Fish and Wildlife Service) evaluate conservation efforts, help with budgeting, and may even oversee certain wildlife preserves. Most of the employees in this role began working as scientists before moving into administrative work. #17. Financial management Average annual salary (2017): $134,671 Salary for highest-paid individual: $280,500 Financial managers oversee everything to do with the fiscal health of a particular federal department, from the Department of Energy to the Veterans Benefits Administration. Most have a bachelor's degree and then work as auditors, accountants, or analysts before becoming financial managers. #16. Naval architecture Average annual salary (2017): $135,553 Salary for highest-paid individual: $161,900 Only seven people are employed by the feds as naval architects. Those lucky enough to snag one of these high-paying gigs, where they design vessels and other water-based devices, find themselves working for the Maritime Administration and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. A specific set of skills is needed for this job, so most have undergraduate or graduate degrees in naval architecture. #15. Financial analysis Average annual salary (2017): $135,750 Salary for highest-paid individual: $286,345 Financial analysts look at how each department is functioning from a cost level. They need to know about accounting, law, and how their department is organized. Accounting, business, and math degrees are useful for this job, which is known as one of the most desirable in the financial services industry. #14. Patent adviser Average annual salary (2017): $136,011 Salary for highest-paid individual: $161,900 Patent advisers work within the Agricultural Research Service and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention when patents are needed for new innovations. The CDC also employs in-house experts who can help review patents when outside scientists file claims related to their scientific discoveries. These advisers tend to have legal degrees. #13. Physics Average annual salary (2017): $136,591 Salary for highest-paid individual: $270,400 Physicists working for the government usually find themselves in labs and conducting research. It's an intensive job, but one that can result in incredible, world-changing discoveries. Most have a doctorate or master's degrees in physics. #12. Mathematics Average annual salary (2017): $136,934 Salary for highest-paid individual: $258,616 Working primarily for the National Institute of Standards and Technology, Federal Aviation Administration, National Science Foundation, and National Institutes of Health, federal mathematicians' duties are varied. They may help research groups process data, analyze statistics, or create models for analysis, among many other things. #11. Patent classifying Average annual salary (2017): $137,809 Salary for highest-paid individual: $161,900 Patent classifiers examine patents that come through the Patent and Trademark Office. Not only do they have to be able to review the applications per rules and regulations, but they often need niche technical experience to understand specific types of innovations, from feats of mechanical engineering to medical discoveries. #10. Program management Average annual salary (2017): $141,595 Salary for highest-paid individual: $325,000 These federal workers oversee an array of departmental projects and programs. They also direct teams and help boost their departments through marketing and other means. This is no small task: Poor program management was largely to blame for issues with HealthCare.gov during its 2013 rollout. Most program managers have some business and budgeting experience, plus expertise in the area their department covers. #9. Astronomy and space science Average annual salary (2017): $141,981 Salary for highest-paid individual: $181,562 The majority of the government's astronomists and space scientists work for NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center. It takes a lot of skills and training to be paid to discover new parts of the universe; most of these roles require doctorate degrees. Some background in computer science is also helpful. #8. Chief engineer Average annual salary (2017): $150,803 Salary for highest-paid individual: $165,164 Not only do chief engineers carry out feats of electrical and electronic engineering, but they also plan and direct projects as managers. Since most of these engineers work for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, that typically means repairing ship systems. A background in engineering is required, as is knowledge of marine systems and machine repair. #7. General mathematics and statistics Average annual salary (2017): $153,214 Salary for highest-paid individual: $241,600 Mathematicians appear on the list again alongside statisticians. Both types of experts crunch data to help solve issues related to engineering, health care, the environment, or even FBI investigations. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, most mathematicians and statisticians have master's degrees and have taken significant math courses, though some of these federal jobs only require bachelor's degrees. #6. Technical systems program manager Average annual salary (2017): $153,430 Salary for highest-paid individual: $199,548 There are 551 technical systems program managers, all employed by the Federal Aviation Administration. They're responsible for a variety of jobs, such as completing and overseeing research on electrical power systems in planes. This typically requires engineering expertise, plus plenty of training on the job and some managerial experience. #5. Patent administration Average annual salary (2017): $161,308 Salary for highest-paid individual: $187,148 Working for the Patent and Trademark Office, these administrators help support patent attorneys. This may mean drafting patent forms, maintaining electronic filing systems, managing attorney prosecution dockets, providing legal advice, and more. This job requires business and organizational smarts, as well as some legal knowledge. #4. Administrative law judge Average annual salary (2017): $163,113 Salary for highest-paid individual: $183,425 These judges oversee cases involving the operations and procedures of various government agencies. Though the vast majority of administrative law judges work for the Social Security Administration, they may also work for the Office of the Secretary of Labor, the National Labor Relations Board, or the Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission. As with any judicial appointment, this job requires a law degree and many years of experience in the field. #3. Nurse anesthetist Average annual salary (2017): $167,818 Salary for highest-paid individual: $207,800 Perhaps it's surprising to see a medical job toward the top of this list. These nurses administer anesthesia during surgery, which is known to be a particularly tricky task. Because of this, nurse anesthetists require special training and accreditation in nursing school. All of the nurse anesthetists employed by the federal government work for the Veterans Health Administration. #2. Patent attorney Average annual salary (2017): $170,079 Salary for highest-paid individual: $190,444 For lawyers who know a ton about intellectual property, filing patent applications and defending patents in court may be their dream job. Not only do patent attorneys have to attend law school and pass the bar exam, they also must pass a federal "patent bar exam." What's more, they may be an expert in a specific topic, such as chemistry or computer science. #1. Securities compliance examining Average annual salary (2017): $181,013 Salary for highest-paid individual: $244,184 The highest-paying government job is with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which works to protect investors and enforce regulations for companies. It's the job of examiners to take on Wall Street and ensure that companies follow the law. According to the SEC, examiners conduct inspections, review portfolios, look at sales activities, and perform interviews and on-site examinations. The SEC usually looks for hires with a law or business degree, and their pay is high to compete with the private sector.


text:
Cleveland man wrongfully imprisoned for 18 years is still waiting on long overdue compensation
Posted: 10:49 AM, Mar 13, 2018
By: Kevin Barry

Anthony Lemons.

Pool balls bouncing around the table in Divine Detail and Car wash give you a good idea for what it's like to be Anthony Lemons and Darrell Houston.
"Every turn, I win, I lose," said Lemons. "It puts so much mental strain on me and my family."
Lemons and Houston have spent years being bounced from court to court in a world of lawyers and fine print.
"The wins and losses on wordplay, I don't know what you can do to get compensated," said Lemons.
Compensated, because courts found prosecutors withheld evidence during Lemon's trial in 1995. He was found not guilty during his 2014 retrial after already serving almost 18 years in prison. Lemons is still battling in the Ohio Supreme Court to get about a million dollars.
"Winning back my freedom was a big step," said Lemons. "I appreciate that, but I actually need to be compensated so I can restart my life."
Houston's predicament was similar.
He served 20 years for murder before the charges were dropped during his retrial. He didn't get his money for another five years.
"It takes a little money to get your life back in order," said Houston.
Under Ohio law, people who are wrongly imprisoned are entitled to compensation as long as they never pleaded guilty and the prosecutor gives up the right to appeal. When Houston was freed from prison, prosecutors didn't give up that right and held up potential payments for years.
"It's just not fair," said Houston. "It's not fair to someone who's been incarcerated. It's not fair to that person's family. It's just not fair."
RELATED: Taxpayers affected as c ity of Cleveland stalls in paying a man who was wrongfully imprisoned
Houston and Lemons say it's not about getting a big payout. They say after 20 years in prison, people who are let out may not have a conviction to battle, but they still don't have any money or work history and often they need guidance to re-enter society.
Darrell used the money he was eventually paid to open up a car wash and detailing shop where he helps kids stay out of trouble and employs people who might need some help. Anthony says he's still struggling but wants to open up a re-entry program if his money ever comes.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
Riley, 9, conquers the world in Brazilian jiu-jitsu
Nine-year-old Riley Parker-McCulloch with his haul of Brazilian jiu-jitsu medals.
A dedicated nine-year-old boy from Chesterfield is making a big name for himself across the world in the sport of Brazilian jiu-jitsu.
Riley Parker-McCulloch has competed in 21 top-ranked competitions, including the junior world and European championships, over the past year.
Riley Parker-McCulloch in grappling action.
And he has brought home no fewer than eight gold medals, nine silvers and seven bronzes, including national titles, much to the delight of his parents and coaches.
Proud mum Rebecca McCulloich said: "Riley lives for Brazilian jiu-jitsu. He loves it, and comes off the mat smiling, win or lose.
"He has made friends from all over the UK, and his coaches are fantastic, making it fun and enjoyable to learn the discipline."
Riley trains at the Fifty3Degrees gym in Chesterfield, where coach James Boyle said: "Riley is a pleasure to teach. We are very proud to have him as part of the team."
Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ) is a martial art and combat sport that focuses on grappling, with particular emphasis on ground fighting.
The concept is that smaller, weaker people can successfully defend themselves against bigger, stronger and heavier opponents.
Riley is following in the footsteps of older brother Harrison, who has also won multiple medals in BJJ.
Chesterfield ace thrilled to be part of Lewis Hamilton's British Grand Prix weekend


text:
Sibylla är ett släkte av bönsyrsor. Släktet beskrevs år 1856 av den svenska entomologen Carl Stål och  ingår i familjen Sibyllidae.

Kladogram enligt Catalogue of Life:

Bildgalleri

Källor

Externa länkar

Bönsyrsor

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


text:
Q: Saving changed clip into file How can I save an opened audio file with changed volume?
I trying this:
AudioInputStream audioInputStream = AudioSystem.getAudioInputStream(new File("some_file.wav"));

Clip clip = AudioSystem.getClip();
clip.open(audioInputStream);
FloatControl gainControl = (FloatControl) clip.getControl(FloatControl.Type.MASTER_GAIN);

gainControl.setValue(-30.0f); // Reduce volume by 10 decibels.
File file = new File("new.wav");
AudioSystem.write(audioInputStream, AudioFileFormat.Type.WAVE, file);

But this is saving an empty file.

A: I think your best bet will be to take the bytes from the AudioInputStream and convert them to PCM values, then multiply the PCM values by a factor that matches -10 db. I don't know what that factor would be. Then convert back to bytes and write that.
The first code example in the tutorial Using Files and Format Converters shows a while loop where the conversions would take place, at the comment: "// Here, do something useful with the audio..."
The prior tutorial on the Audio Trail: "Processing Audio with Controls" might also be helpful, but the built-in controls are limited and dependent on the host computer and OS. For example, if you want to change volumes (put in a fade-in or fade-out) the control lines probably don't work very well due to the granularity being tied to the size of the audio buffer. So I recommend the advice of the final paragraphs of the "Processing Audio with Controls" tutorial, the section "Manipulating the Audio Data Directly".

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


The Chamber of Commerce would like to thank everyone who took time to submit nominees, fill out an application and vote. This is a new process that has never been tried before and we realize there are some issues to work out. We will continue to work on this process so it will flow smoothly in the future and continue to give the membership a voice in the organization. We have several exciting projects in the works that we cannot wait to reveal to the public that will give our members more options and support than ever before. Together we can accomplish wonderful things in our community and we have a very positive and optimistic outlook for our community's economic future.


text:
Monheit brings the magic of Judy Garland to Manchester Craftsmen's Guild | TribLIVE.com
Monheit brings the magic of Judy Garland to Manchester Craftsmen's Guild
Bob Karlovits
Wed., November 19, 2014 9:01 p.m. | Wednesday, November 19, 2014 9:01 p.m.
Timothy Saccenti
Jazz vocalist Jane Monheit
Jane Monheit
When: 6 and 8:30 p.m. Nov. 22
Admission: $52.50, $45 for seniors
Where: Manchester Craftsmen's Guild, North Side
Details: 412-322-0800 or mcgjazz.org
Jazz standards and show tunes, Judy Garland did them both well, singer Jane Monheit says.
"She was an icon in music, a powerhouse in many ways," Monheit says. "She was a show singer first, but jazz always appeared in her songs, whatever she was doing."
That professional admiration is the reason for Monheit's current tour of Judy Garland songs that she will bring Nov. 22 to the Manchester Craftsmen's Guild on the North Side.
While she points out the jazz influence in Garland's work, Monheit's talents will give the show an even-stronger jazz twist.
"Everything in the show is jazz," she says. "For instance, we will do 'Johnny One Note,' but we will do it in a really jazz way."
Monheit says she, naturally, will do "Over the Rainbow," but that should be no surprise. "I do that song anyway, whatever show I do," she says.
Monheit came up with the idea for a Garland show last winter; she's been touring with it since the spring.
"People have been giving it a wonderful response," she says. "From Japan to Spain to the Czech Republic, people seem to love her everywhere. She is one of the greatest singers of all time."
Monheit, 37, grew up in Long Island and attended the Manhattan School of Music. She was a finalist in the 1998 Thelonious Monk Competition. She released her first album in 2000, has been nominated for two Grammy awards and worked with artists such as trumpeter Terence Blanchard and Tom Harrell.
She tours with a trio consisting of her drummer-husband Rick Montalbano, pianist Michael Kanan and bassist Neal Miner.
She is working on putting her next tour package together, based on male performers who have been a big influence. She says that array includes singers Joe Williams and Sammy Davis Jr. and pianist Bill Evans.
But, for now, she is feeling comfortable "touring constantly" with the Garland show.
Monheit admits some listeners will be critical of a focus on Garland music.
"They will say it is too much like cabaret music," she says. "But I have taken it to jazz clubs, and they like it. Cabaret is part jazz, jazz is part of cabaret. They belong together."
Bob Karlovits is staff writer for Trib Total Media. He can be reached at [email protected]. or 412-320-7852.
Popular DJ a favorite with station's sponsors
How much is medical marijuana in Pennsylvania? Prices are coming into focus
ACLU suit alleges 'cruel and inhumane conditions' at Fayette County Prison


House Mice are the most common rodent found in Ohio homes and businesses. They are grayish-brown in color and have lighter colored bellies. They have short hair that also covers their tails. House Mice like to feed on nuts and seeds preferably, but certainly won't turn down an opportunity to eat other foods.
Rats found indoors, most commonly Norway Rats, are brownish in color and have shaggy hair. They have scaly tails and ears. Rat excrement resembles a capsule shape.
Mice and rats can carry disease and pose a risk to your family.
Call us to put a stop to these pests today!


Attractive and very high quality art deco polished chrome cabinet pull handle with a substantial feel. Ideal for matching in with other art deco door furniture for a truly 1930's period feel around your home.
Projects 31mm,32mm and 34mm respectively.
Made in Italy, heavyweight quality.


Sochi, September 30: Lewis Hamilton benefited from team orders to win the Russian Grand Prix ahead of team-mate Valtteri Bottas and extend his lead in the battle for the Formula One world title. Mercedes have now won five out of five races at Sochi Autodrom, continuing their dominance with a one-two on Sunday as Hamilton claimed a third win in a row to take a 50-point advantage over Sebastian Vettel, who took third spot.
Bottas started on pole ahead of Hamilton but was told to move aside and allow his team-mate through into second place on lap 25 of 53.
Max Verstappen led at that point after hitting the front on lap 19, having started way back in 19th on his 21st birthday due to engine penalties both he and Red Bull team-mate Daniel Ricciardo incurred.
Verstappen finally pitted with 10 circuits to go, Hamilton taking the lead on soft tyres and keeping it by 2.545 seconds, with Vettel almost five back in third, to enhance his chances of claiming a fifth world title with five races to go.
Hamilton was not impressed when Vettel passed him after the world champion emerged from the pit lane side by side with his title rival on lap 14.
The Brit overtook Vettel with a move into Turn 4 two laps later after he had been irked when Vettel defended his position at Turn 2, an incident which the stewards looked into to but decided to take no action.
Vettel's Ferrari colleague Kimi Raikkonen was fourth ahead of Verstappen, outstanding on his birthday, and Ricciardo finished sixth.