8 High-Paying Jobs In Baker City Oregon

Baker City, Oregon, a charming town surrounded by the scenic beauty of Eastern Oregon, offers a unique blend of natural attractions, outdoor recreation opportunities, and a growing economy. While it may not be as large as other cities in Oregon, Baker City has a surprising number of high-paying job opportunities across various industries. In this article, we'll delve into the top 8 high-paying jobs in Baker City, Oregon, exploring the job market, required skills, and average salaries.

Job Market Overview

Baker City's economy is primarily driven by industries such as healthcare, education, manufacturing, and tourism. The city is home to several major employers, including St. Alphonsus Medical Center, Baker School District, and the City of Baker City. The job market in Baker City is relatively small, but it offers a range of opportunities for professionals looking for a more relaxed pace of life.

1. Physician Assistant

Average Salary: $108,610 per year

Physician assistants (PAs) play a vital role in the healthcare system, working under the supervision of physicians to diagnose and treat patients. In Baker City, PAs are in high demand, particularly in primary care and specialty clinics.

• Required Skills: Master's degree in Physician Assistant Studies, certification from the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA)
• Top Employer: St. Alphonsus Medical Center

2. Registered Nurse

Average Salary: $83,610 per year

Registered nurses (RNs) are essential to the healthcare system, providing direct patient care and working closely with physicians and other healthcare professionals. In Baker City, RNs are in high demand, particularly in hospitals and long-term care facilities.

• Required Skills: Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Nursing, licensure from the Oregon State Board of Nursing
• Top Employer: St. Alphonsus Medical Center

3. Software Engineer

Average Salary: $95,610 per year

Software engineers design, develop, and test software applications for a range of industries, including healthcare, finance, and manufacturing. In Baker City, software engineers are in high demand, particularly in the tech industry.

• Required Skills: Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field, proficiency in programming languages such as Java, Python, or C++
• Top Employer: Various tech companies in Baker City

4. Dentist

Average Salary: $156,240 per year

Dentists diagnose and treat dental problems, working closely with patients to maintain good oral health. In Baker City, dentists are in high demand, particularly in private practice.

• Required Skills: Doctoral degree in Dentistry, licensure from the Oregon Board of Dentistry
• Top Employer: Private dental practices in Baker City

5. Pharmacist

Average Salary: $126,120 per year

Pharmacists dispense medication and provide patient care, working closely with physicians and other healthcare professionals. In Baker City, pharmacists are in high demand, particularly in retail and hospital settings.

• Required Skills: Doctoral degree in Pharmacy, licensure from the Oregon Board of Pharmacy
• Top Employer: St. Alphonsus Medical Center

6. Elementary School Teacher

Average Salary: $64,610 per year

Elementary school teachers educate students in grades K-5, working closely with parents and other educators to promote academic achievement. In Baker City, elementary school teachers are in high demand, particularly in the Baker School District.

• Required Skills: Bachelor's degree in Education, licensure from the Oregon Teacher Standards and Practices Commission
• Top Employer: Baker School District

7. Electrician

Average Salary: $62,310 per year

Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in buildings, homes, and factories. In Baker City, electricians are in high demand, particularly in the construction industry.

• Required Skills: Completion of an apprenticeship program or vocational training in electrical work, licensure from the Oregon Construction Contractors Board
• Top Employer: Various construction companies in Baker City

8. Mechanical Engineer

Average Salary: $85,610 per year

Mechanical engineers design, develop, and test mechanical systems, including engines, machines, and mechanical devices. In Baker City, mechanical engineers are in high demand, particularly in the manufacturing industry.

• Required Skills: Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD) software
• Top Employer: Various manufacturing companies in Baker City

Conclusion

Baker City, Oregon, offers a range of high-paying job opportunities across various industries, from healthcare and education to manufacturing and technology. While the job market may be smaller than in larger cities, Baker City provides a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and a growing economy. Whether you're a professional looking for a new challenge or a recent graduate seeking a career start, Baker City has something to offer.

We hope this article has provided valuable insights into the top high-paying jobs in Baker City, Oregon. If you have any questions or would like to share your experiences, please leave a comment below.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of living in Baker City, Oregon?

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The cost of living in Baker City is relatively low compared to other cities in Oregon. The median home price is around $170,000, and the overall cost of living index is 94.3, which is 5.7% lower than the national average.

What are the top industries in Baker City, Oregon?

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The top industries in Baker City include healthcare, education, manufacturing, and tourism.

What is the average salary in Baker City, Oregon?

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The average salary in Baker City is around $50,000 per year, although salaries can vary widely depending on the industry and occupation.