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Stress is often associated with work. The main sources of workplace stress, according to research, are workload and people issues. Many also juggle work and personal life and worry constantly about their lack of job security, causing them stress.
It is quite impossible to identify a completely stress-free job. But do you know that there are low-stress careers that let you earn a decent living?
Quick Summarization
Is high income always worth it? A workplace that keeps constantly anxious or unhappy may not be! Whether fresh out of college or keeping a budding profession, you need to consider how work-related stress affects your health and well-being. Make good career choices by settling for low-stress, well-paying jobs!
The Hunt for a Stress Career
Everybody deals with the demands and pressures of work to earn money. But it’s possible to carve out a career path that promotes work-life balance without compromising income.
A low-stress career gives you a lot of perks, including avoiding the most common stressors at work.
Ideally, you should have enough time and energy to devote to the things that make you happy. Spending more time than you should at work is inevitable, but limits will have to be set, so you don’t put your health and social life on the line.
A low-stress job usually lets you enjoy schedule flexibility because, ultimately, it’s all about the results that you deliver!
But an “easy job” is not all there is to it. A low-stress career should pay as much as its demanding and high-pressure counterparts.
The 20 Low-Stress Jobs That Pay Well
Not many people are willing to put extra effort into acquiring their dream job. However, if the pros outweigh the cons, you will want to consider the following high-profile, low-stress jobs that pay high salaries. In providing good pay and fulfillment without the stress, these jobs hit high on the job satisfaction meter:
Curator
A rewarding and stress-free job for those with the talent for it, a curator often works within an art gallery or museum. As a curator, you are responsible for cataloging, managing, and organizing exhibits.
It is also part of your duty to maintain and restore artifacts and collectibles to their former glory along with raising funds and collaborating with renowned institutions.
Part of the job in having this job is the interesting activities involved, including compiling and researching information with historical significance. A common role in determining the value of old and worn paintings. Some days, you may need to interview and hire staff members to work with you.
Median Salary: $53,420
Educational Qualifications: Master’s degree in fine and performing arts, history, social sciences, or other related fields
Freelance Photographer
An exciting career path, freelance photography requires you to draw from your creative and artistic side to capture images in various settings, including studios, events, and other locations.
It is also part of your job to prepare the studio by setting up proper lighting and props. Photography work also includes using editing software.
Freelance photographers must understand their client’s needs. You are often expected to have excellent interpersonal skills and a keen eye for detail.
Median Salary: $40,170
Educational Qualifications: High school diploma or equivalent
Computer Hardware Engineer
Computer hardware engineers are greatly in demand because of the technological advancements that have permeated many industries, including electronics and manufacturing. Computer hardware engineers are responsible for the research and development of new products.
You are often expected to design new computer hardware, create schematic designs of computer equipment to be built, and test the hardware design. You are then tasked to analyze the test results of existing equipment and come up with necessary changes by modifying the design.
The job may not be as difficult for skilled computer hardware engineers who are analytical thinkers and problem-solvers.
Median Salary: $132,360
Educational Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or similar field
Audiologist
Generally, the nature of an audiologist’s work requires very little stress. Your typical workday involves greeting your patients and getting to the bottom of their hearing disorder symptoms.
You are expected to determine the cause of hearing-related disorders and communicate this to your patients.
Audiology is relatively easier than most other jobs in the medical field, thanks to the sophisticated technology and equipment at your disposal.
This career is most suitable if you enjoy using technology, creative problem-solving, and social skills that are integral in identifying and treating hearing, balance, and other auditory disorders.
Median Salary: $82,680
Educational Qualifications: Doctoral or professional degree
Dental Hygienist
A dental hygienist’s job entails cleaning a patient’s teeth and conducting a preliminary examination to determine if the latter suffers from any oral disease.
You will then need to provide preventive care, which includes oral hygiene. It is also part of your responsibility to educate your patients about dental hygiene to help them maintain good oral health.
As dental hygienists, you will be working in general or community dental services, but working for a dental hospital or military dental services is also possible.
Excellent dental hygienists are expected to have good eyesight, manual dexterity, adaptable communication skills, and focus for long periods.
Median Salary: $81,400
Educational Qualifications: Associate’s degree
Geoscientist
As a geoscientist, you will be studying the earth’s composition, structure, and other physical aspects. Your job often revolves around searching for natural resources like groundwater, petroleum, or metals. You need to provide accurate scientific data according to agreed-upon methods, procedures, and techniques.
Typically, oil and gas companies hire the largest number of geoscientists. You can also work for engineering firms or choose the career path of scientific and technical consultants.
Some of the skills you need are critical thinking, reading comprehension, communication, and interpersonal. Part of the charm of a geoscientist’s job is exploring and working in the field.
Median Salary: $87,480
Educational Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Geology and other related fields
Food Technologist
Food technology is an ideal career path if you are passionate about food and flavors. You are responsible for researching and analyzing everything that humans eat.
You will figure out ways to make food taste better and last longer in storage. Food technologists must ensure that products pass the requirements set by the government.
As food technologists, you must have ample knowledge of chemistry, microbiology, engineering, and other sciences to understand the underlying principles of food processing. You will be working in laboratories, offices, and the field, often in a calm and pleasant setting.
Median Salary: $74,940
Educational Qualifications: A bachelor’s degree in Food Technology or other related fields
Librarian
Librarians often enjoy the most relaxing and peaceful work environment owing to the nature of libraries as a quiet place to research or read.
As a librarian, you will be tasked to catalog books, check them in and out, and occasionally help people find a particular book or material. You will also need to conduct inventories and place orders.
Some of the skills you need to become a good librarian include attention to detail, computer research skills, time management, organizational skills, and the ability to work independently.
Of course, it does not hurt if you love reading and creating a fun and educational environment for library users.
Median Salary: $61,660
Educational Qualifications: A master’s degree in Library Science or other related fields
Technical Writer
Technical writers differ from other writers because of the nature of their work which often involves writing descriptive manuals and guides for complex subjects such as products, tools, services, and technologies.
You will be expected to conduct thorough research on a particular topic and generate innovative ideas for content. The goal is to write the complexities of a particular topic in the simplest terms so regular people can easily understand them.
As a technical writers, you will need to be exceptionally good at written and oral communication with keen attention to detail and prioritizing and executing tasks with minimum supervision. You are also expected to be fluent in technical and common office software.
Median Salary: $79,960
Educational Qualifications: A bachelor’s degree in English, Communication, or other related fields
Database Architect
The main goal of database architects is to help businesses attain solid infrastructures like databases, networks, and data warehouses to meet their goals.
You will be collaborating with department heads to determine their data storage and organizational needs while identifying a company’s data sources. You are expected to create and maintain data infrastructure for company employees and ensure they are safe and secure.
Technical skills are needed to succeed as a database architect. You will need to be proficient in math and computer science and good at analyzing and presenting statistical information.
Often, you will have to lead an IT team and communicate with other organizational heads within the company.
Median Salary: $112,120
Educational Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in information systems, computer science, computer engineering, or other related areas
Art Director
Born leaders with a flair for the arts who enjoy the creation process make an ideal art director! This work often involves overseeing visual images and styles of designs for various forms of media outlets, including magazines, television shows, newspapers, and many others.
You are responsible for designing or integrating the best art piece and graphics to achieve a campaign or media piece’s desired look.
As an art director, you often work with artists to determine how to represent their vision and prepare budgets and schedules for gallery shows.
Along with creativity and communication skills, you must also be good at time management, meeting deadlines, and managing projects and people.
Median Salary: $105,180
Educational Qualifications: A bachelor’s degree in fine arts, digital media, visual communications, or other related fields
Optometrist
Optometrists are experts in routine eye examinations. They provide comprehensive vision care to help patients maintain their eye health and support their eyesight.
They also perform pre and post-operation checks and examine patients for signs of diseases related to the eyes.
Most optometrists work in offices, medical clinics, and eye stores. To be qualified, you need to be proficient in modern eye care techniques and equipment and have strong communication skills, keen attention to detail, and excellent communication skills.
Median Salary: $125,590
Educational Qualifications: A bachelor’s degree in optometry and related fields and a doctorate in optometry
Radiologist
In the realm of healthcare, the job of a radiologic technologist is a relatively low-stress option. You will be tasked to use specialized medical imaging equipment to determine a patient’s internal injuries or illnesses.
You will need to meet with patients and talk to them about the different tests they need to complete, including MRIs or CT scans.
As radiologists, you are also responsible for reviewing and interpreting these medical images to determine the patient’s status and provide future medical care.
Some of the skills you must employ include advanced medical and anatomical skills, knowledge of general surgery practices, strong motor skills, and manual dexterity.
Median Salary: $67,180
Educational Qualifications: A bachelor’s degree in pre-medicine, biology, and related fields and a Doctor of Medicine or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DOM) from a four-year medical school
Orthodontist
Orthodontists are responsible for choosing the right equipment and applying it to help straighten smiles and realign jaws.
You will often work with dental professionals and assistants to treat patients’ dental issues and perform special dental procedures. Patients will see you for dental irregularities that will require braces and other aligners.
You will examine dental malocclusions and oral cavity anomalies, communicate with patients about ongoing orthodontic care, and educate them about good oral hygiene and dental health. As an orthodontist, you need to have keen attention to detail, time management skills, and manual dexterity.
Orthodontists work in offices, dental clinics, and other related work settings with relatively flexible schedules, as seeing patients often requires appointments.
Median Salary: $159,530
Educational Qualifications: A bachelor’s degree in biology, human anatomy, biomedical science, or other related fields. Doctors of Dental Medicine or Doctors of Dental Surgery qualify for research and higher positions
Environmental Scientist
Environmental scientists draw from their knowledge of natural sciences to find ways to save the environment and protect human health.
You will often need to collect and analyze food, soil, air, and water samples, develop plans to prevent common environmental issues and educate various organizations on potential environmental health hazards.
You may also need to conduct environmental research projects and prepare reports and presentations based on your findings.
As an environmental scientists, you are expected to be passionate about helping the environment. To be an efficient environmental scientist, you must possess relevant analytical, problem-solving, communication, and self-management skills. You will often work in laboratories, offices, or the fields.
Median Salary: $76,480
Educational Qualifications: A bachelor’s degree in environmental science or a similar field such as biology, physics, chemistry, or environmental engineering
Economist
Economists take on a valuable role in companies, governments, and other organizations. Your main tasks involve studying and analyzing the production and distribution of various goods and resources.
You will often be tasked to give sound advice to governments, individuals, or businesses on various economic subjects.
Part of your responsibilities includes writing papers for academic journals, interpreting market trends, and formulating solutions to economic problems.
As an economist, you must possess communication and critical thinking skills.
Median Salary: $113,940
Educational Qualifications: A master’s degree or Ph.D. in Economics
Biostatistician
Biostatisticians are responsible for analyzing collected information and data during medical research studies. You will then use these findings to make predictions and draw conclusions. The data you will be working on often relates to living things like humans, animals, and plants.
Often, you are expected to work with researchers and scientists in designing and monitoring studies to ensure the integrity of results.
The working environment for biostatisticians is often comfortable and pleasant. You may need to do work travels sometimes, which adds to the excitement of the job.
Some of the skills required from you include mathematical skills, computer proficiency, strong verbal and written communication skills, and time management, among many others.
Median Salary: $99,960
Educational Qualifications: A master’s or doctor’s degree in related fields
Marketing Manager
Marketing managers oversee a team of professionals who work together to reach a company’s marketing goals.
You will be relaying information between the upper management and the department employees regarding budgets and strategy. You ensure the smooth process of implementing marketing campaigns that aim to promote the products or services.
Most of the time, you will need to be leading the development of marketing strategies, organizing promotional events, and identifying new markets and opportunities.
To be an effective marketing manager, you will need to be knowledgeable in marketing-related business practices and proficient in software programs. Effective communication, management, and organizational skills are also needed.
Median Salary: $138,730
Educational Qualifications: A bachelor’s degree in marketing, business, advertising, or other related areas
Dietitian
It is the responsibility of a dietitian to create nutrition plans that can help improve patients’ health and physical conditions.
You will analyze the patient’s health status, set dietary restrictions, track their dietary intake, and monitor their health progress. It is also part of your job to educate patients on maintaining a healthy and balanced diet.
The core meal plans are often provided to general patients, but there will be times when you will need to cater to special requests and create meal plans for critical needs.
Dietitians have abundant options in various work settings, including long-term healthcare facilities, hospitals, and schools.
Median Salary: $66,450
Educational Qualifications: A bachelor’s degree in dietetics and related fields and national certifications such as GSCE
IT Manager
IT managers are tasked to oversee a team of IT personnel and the daily operations within the IT department.
It is part of your job to interview and hire qualified candidates, create job posts, relay information between upper management and department employees, and manage the IT budget. Often, you will need to develop new network troubleshooting strategies that aim to reduce downtime.
You must stay up to date with new network technology and create reports for the executive team. You will work closely with other department managers to assess their needs and ensure the maintenance of the company’s network.
As an IT manager, you must have expert knowledge of IT best practices, policies, and regulations and an in-depth understanding of programming and computer science.
Median Salary: $164,070
Educational Qualifications: A bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or related fields of study.
Often considered a growing problem worldwide, work-related stress can affect other aspects of your life, like health and well-being.
In the long run, work-related stress can be overwhelming and impact your coping capability. It can even be possible to lead to illness or injury.
To understand the impact of stress on your work life and beyond, you need to recognize some of the most common stressors at work that you might have encountered in one way or another. Some of the usual work-related stressors include the following:
- Company culture
- Bad management practices
- Demanding job responsibilities
- Tight deadlines
- Changes to duties
- Unstable tenure
- Tedious tasks
- Micro-managing
- Lack of tools and equipment
- Discrimination and harassment
- Toxic workmates and work environment
- Lack of promotional and professional development opportunities
How Stress At Work Impacts You
Work-related stress can lead to a lot of negativity in your life. While stress levels vary between professionals and population groups, they can still adversely affect different aspects of your life regardless. In most cases, demanding jobs that do not pay well can put you at most risk of work-related stress.
The impact can be felt physically, psychologically, mentally, and emotionally. Physical stressors like office noise, poor office layout, poor lighting, and other ergonomic factors can contribute to bad working postures and tiredness.
Psychological stressors are even worse! They harm your job performance and manifest in poor mental and physical health.
Preventing Stress in the Workplace
Most work-related stress comes down to management issues. Companies are expected to take necessary steps to ensure employees are not subjected to unwarranted stress.
Preventing workplace stress can usher in a wealth of benefits, including:
- Fewer work-related illnesses and injuries
- Reduced absences, sick leaves, and staff turnover
- Reduced mental and physical health issues
- Greater job satisfaction
- Improved work engagement
- Increased productivity
- Reduced operational costs
Frequently Asked Questions
How hard is it to get into low-stress, high-paying jobs?
A low-stress job that pays well often requires specialized skills and expert knowledge in a certain industry. Many of these careers include a bachelor’s degree in the qualification requirements.
Others need you to accumulate enough years of training and experience, especially for managerial positions. Still, many low-stress, high-paying jobs greatly depend on your skills and interests.
What skills do you need to acquire a low-stress career?
It will depend on the position and industry you are aiming for. Many low-stress jobs require good communication, critical thinking, analytical, and time management skills.
Flexible hours and pleasant working environments contribute to lower stress at work, but you will need to make sure that you complement these perks with self-discipline and self-management skills.
Is a low-stress job good for people with anxiety?
People who suffer from anxiety should be conscious of their job’s stress on the many aspects of their lives.
The best type of low-stress job for those with anxiety should provide flexibility, enabling them to create their schedule and limit social interactions.
A job that gives you personal space and a good work-life balance sounds ideal if you want to curb your anxiety at work.
What should you look for in a low-stress job?
If you want to find a low-stress job, you need to know exactly what you are looking for. Is it flexible working hours? Light responsibilities? Take a look at these factors that help you define (and find!) low-stress, well-paying work:
- Good working environment
- Work-life balance
- Clearly defined job description
- Professional growth opportunities
- Flexible work schedule
- Work-from-home options
- Output-based approach
How do you find a low stress job?
Before deciding on a low stress job to get into, it is first important to identify what triggers your stress at work. It can be the monthly quota, tight deadlines or a toxic environment.
You can then list the things that make you happy about going to work. Once you have figured out these things, you can research low-stress jobs that match your preferences and skills.
Key Takeaway
It is possible to TRULY enjoy your job! The trick is to find the career track and employer that matches your skills and education, pays you decently, and promotes the well-being of its workers. Before embarking on a job that makes both ends meet for you, consider how it will impact your life!