9 Jobs That Pay About $95,000 A Year

Lawrence Welk, a popular musician, bandleader and television entertainer in the 1960s and 1970s, once said, "If you put all your strength and faith and vigor into a job and try to do the best you can, the money will come."

Welk's words ring true when it comes to the nine occupations listed below. While most of the positions require prior experience or an advanced degree to succeed, the result is a yearly income of around $95,000.

1. Aerospace engineer*

• What they do: Aerospace engineers design aircraft, spacecraft, satellites and missiles. In addition, they test prototypes to ensure that they function according to design.
• Typical education level needed: Bachelor's degree
• Median annual pay: $97,480

2. Airline and commercial pilot

• What they do: Airline pilots fly and navigate airplanes or helicopters for airlines that transport people and cargo on a fixed schedule. Commercial pilots fly aircraft for other reasons, such as charter flights, rescue operations, firefighting, aerial photography and crop dusting.
• Typical education level needed: Military flying experience or an associate or bachelor's degree from a civilian flying school. Pilots who transport passengers or cargo must have a commercial pilot's license.
• Median annual pay: $92,060

3. Computer hardware engineer

• What they do: Computer hardware engineers research, design, develop and test computer equipment such as chips, circuit boards or routers. By solving complex problems in computer hardware, these engineers create rapid advances in computer technology.
• Typical education level needed: Bachelor's degree
• Median annual pay: $98,810

4. Human-resources manager

• What they do: Human-resources managers plan, direct and coordinate the administrative functions of an organization. They oversee the recruiting, interviewing and hiring of new staff; consult with top executives on strategic planning; and serve as a link between an organization's management and its employees.
• Typical education level needed: Bachelor's degree
• Median annual pay: $99,180

5. Judge or mediator

• What they do: Judges and mediators apply the law to court cases and oversee the legal process in courts. They also resolve administrative disputes and facilitate negotiations between opposing parties.
• Typical education level needed: Judges are often required to have a law degree and work experience as a lawyer. Mediators often have a law degree, a certification in conflict resolution and/or a doctoral degree.
• Median annual pay: $91,880

6. Mathematician

• What they do: Mathematicians use high-level mathematics and technology to develop new mathematical principles, understand relationships between existing principles and solve real-world problems.
• Typical education level needed: Master's degree
• Median annual pay: $99,380

7. Optometrist

• What they do: Optometrists perform eye exams to check for vision problems and diseases. They prescribe eyeglasses or contact lenses as needed.
• Typical education level needed: Doctoral or professional degree
• Median annual pay: $94,990

8. Sales manager

• What they do: Sales managers direct organizations' sales teams. They set sales goals, analyze data and develop training programs for the organization's sales representatives.
• Typical education level needed: Bachelor's degree
• Median annual pay: $98,530

9. Systems software developer

• What they do: Software developers are the creative minds behind computer programs. Some workers in this role develop the underlying systems that run the devices or control networks.
• Typical education level needed: Bachelor's degree
• Median annual pay: $94,180

Source: AOL