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25 Highest Annual Salaries in Government

Searching for a high paying government job? Make sure you're looking in the right places.

16) Human Resources Manager – $76,503

Departments with High Demand:
• Department of the Air Force
• Department of Veterans Affairs
• Department of Health and Human Services

Projected Growth: 17%

Employees Needed: 147,000

Education Level: The educational backgrounds of these workers vary considerably, reflecting the diversity of duties and levels of responsibility.

Internship Opportunities:
The Library of Congress offers a Internship, Fellowship, and Volunteer Programs.

17) Health and Safety Specialist – $73,003

Departments with High Demand:
• Department of Transportation
• Department of Veterans Affairs
• Department of the Army

Projected Growth: 8%

Employees Needed: 3,700

Education Level: Some specialist jobs require a bachelor’s degree in occupational health, safety, or a related field.

Internship Opportunities:
The National Institude of Health offers an in-depth Student Training Program.

18) Air Traffic Controller – $72,049

Departments with High Demand:
• Department of Transportation
• Department of the Air Force
• Department of Justice

Projected Growth: 10%

Employees Needed: 2,600

Education Level: To become an air traffic controller, a person must complete an FAA-approved education program; pass a pre-employment test; receive a school recommendation; meet the basic qualification requirements in accordance with Federal law; and achieve a qualifying score on the FAA-authorized pre-employment test.

Internship Opportunities:
The Federal Aviation Administration offers an Unpaid Legal Intern Program.

19) Budget Analyst – $71,267

Departments with High Demand:
• Department of the Air Force
• Department of the Army
• Department of State

Projected Growth: 7%

Employees Needed: 4,400

Education Level: A bachelor’s degree generally is the minimum educational requirement, but many employers prefer or require a master’s degree.

Internship Opportunities:
The Congressional Budget Office offers a Summer Internship Program.

20) Correctional Officer – $67,140

Departments with High Demand:
• Department of Justice

Projected Growth: 16%

Employees Needed: 82,000

Education Level: Qualifications vary by agency, but all agencies require a high school diploma or equivalent, and some also require some college education or full-time work experience.

Internship Opportunities:
The Department of Corrections offers a variety of