These Business Jobs Show Promising Earning Potentials After Completing An Associate’s Degree
People who go into the broad field of business often do so for a wide variety of reasons, and with very individualized interests and goals. Because so many jobs fall under the umbrella of business, and because the nature of business jobs often changes with the ebbs and flows of the economy, it can be difficult to know for sure what professional positions will give you a strong start in regards to salary, without requiring the upfront educational investment of a Bachelor’s degree.
While many jobs in business can require Bachelor’s degrees, and some of them may even require the commitment to a more extensive education (like earning an MBA), there are also jobs available for people looking to work in the field right away. Fortunately, because the business world is so inherently diverse, there are many amazing opportunities. And, there are certainly openings for those who have an Associate’s degree in the field.
Our research partner, Burning Glass, has compiled data to pinpoint some promising business jobs for those currently holding an Associate’s degree. Let’s take a look…
Now, after reviewing the visual image above, let’s take a more in-depth look at each business job on this list, to learn more about each professional role…
Buyer/Purchasing Agent: If you like to shop, then one of these two roles may be an ideal fit for you. A buyer is someone who buys whole (or complete) goods and services for their company. Those who buy the parts and materials that help make up finished goods are often called purchasing agents. While the two are indeed very similar, there is often a definite distinction. If you enjoy puzzles and putting pieces together with planning and coordination, then the position of purchasing agent could be an ideal job for you. On average, you could earn around $47,244 per year in these business roles, after completing an Associate’s degree.
Scheduler/Operations Coordinator: Are you organized? Do you have an eye for detail? And, are you driven to excellence? Then perhaps this type of business job might be great fit. A scheduler, also known as an operations coordinator, primarily creates and organizes the schedule of their workplace. It is a terrific job for extroverts, too, since many people are likely to want to talk with you during the course of the day. On average, you could earn around $42,286 per year in this business role, after completing an Associate’s degree.
Payroll Specialist: This business job is a terrific option for people who are good with numbers, and who also pride themselves on timeliness and organization. A payroll specialist handles all aspects of payment processes for a company, from tracking employees' time through to issuing final paychecks. Employees depend on a company to pay them accurately and on time, so a payroll specialist is an essential link in that chain of events. On average, you could earn around $41,021 per year in this business role, after completing an Associate’s degree.
Bookkeeper/Accounting Clerk: For those who have a desire to dive into accounting and budgets, these roles are an excellent starting place. While the two roles can overlap and/or share a lot in common, there can also be some differences in the jobs between companies. When there are differences present, a bookkeeper tends to be considered the main accounting professional in the company, while an accounting clerk will often specialize in one specific type of account, like accounts receivable. On average, you could earn around $36,017 per year in these business roles, after completing an Associate’s degree.
Personal Banker/Banking Sales Staff: Ever want to work in a local bank? Then these two jobs may be just what you are looking for to get started. A personal banker is a sensational role for extroverts in the banking branch of business. Personal bankers get a lot of interactions with customers, both new and existing. They customize accounts to fit the customer’s needs, which can be very rewarding, especially when you get to help people reach their financial goals. Banking sales staff is a bit broader of a term in the same line of work, and people in these jobs work on behalf of a bank, engaging with potential clients. Sometimes there can be overlap between the two jobs, and sometimes they are considered separate positions. On average, you could earn around $34,990 per year in these business roles, after completing an Associate’s degree.
There are many career paths within the large professional field of business, and there are lots of jobs suited to all different personality types and interests. Associate’s degree roles are available for those wanting to get started on their career quickly. If you think a job in business may be for you, check out some of the Stride’s Career Prep options to learn more!
And, be sure to check out the article, Business Skills That Give You The Biggest Salary Boost, too!
