The best paying jobs in the Philippines

The best-paying jobs in the Philippines cover a broad range of industries. Although you’ll find many that are in the finance, healthcare, and IT sectors, there are plenty of other high-paying roles in other areas. We take a look at a range of positions that provide a high salary. We also outline some courses and learning areas that might help for each role. 

Of course, there are plenty of other factors aside from money to consider when you’re choosing a career. As well as how much a job pays, you should also consider whether it’s a good fit for you. Work environment, work-life balance, and your own passions and interests should all play a part.

Aircraft pilot

What is an aircraft pilot?

Aircraft pilots are responsible for the operation, navigation, and overall safety of aircraft. It’s about more than just sitting at the controls – they take information about the route, weather, and passengers/cargo to make a flight plan. They also have to brief the cabin crew and communicate with air traffic control during the flight. It’s a role with a lot of responsibility, and as such is one of the best-paying jobs in the Philippines.

How do you become an aircraft pilot?

To become a pilot, you’ll need to work towards a license and certificate from the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP). You’ll also have to pass the Aviation Training Organization (ATO) requirements. To reach this level, you’ll first have to become a licensed private pilot. 

How much do aircraft pilots make?

The average salary for an airline pilot in the Philippines is ₱2,365,574.

Find an Engineering Course

If you want to be an airline pilot, you may want to take an engineering course or even apply for a degree in aeronautical engineering. Try our Engineering the Future: Creating the Amazing course to get inspired.

Financial Broker

What is a financial broker?

A finance broker is a professional that arranges transactions between buyers and sellers. They act as a go-between for the two parties, facilitating large-scale financial transactions. Financial brokers often work with stocks, but there are other fields too. Mortgages, insurance, and currency are also the remit of brokers.

How do you become a financial broker? 

To get into a career as a financial broker, you’ll need to understand how markets work, as well as how to navigate them. A good place to start is with a degree in a subject related to finance. From there, an internship or experience with a firm is the next step. Although it can be a long journey to the top, it’s one of the best-paying jobs in the Philippines. 

How much do financial brokers make? 

The average salary for a stockbroker in the Philippines is ₱350,000. 

Find a Finance and Accounting Course

If you want to learn more about financial markets and get a headstart on your way to becoming a financial broker, our Risk Management in the Global Economy course by SOAS could be ideal for you.

Civil Engineer 

What is a civil engineer?

Civil engineering is one of the six main branches of engineering. Professionals in this field deal with the design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure projects and systems. Whether for the public or private sector, civil engineers focus on projects such as roads, tunnels, bridges, and other similar projects

How do you become a civil engineer? 

If you want to become a licenced civil engineer in the Philippines, you’ll first need to pass the five-year Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. From there, you’ll have to pass the Civil Engineering Licensure Examination, which you can take after some on-the-job training. 

How much do civil engineers make? 

The average salary for a civil engineer in the Philippines is ₱256,815.

Find an Engineering Course

Discover some of the engineering fields you can specialise in with one of our online courses. They can be the perfect first step to an engineering career. You can try our Introduction to Engineering course to start off with.

Actuary

What is an actuary? 

Actuaries work in finance to evaluate, manage, and give advice on risk. Using their knowledge of businesses and financial markets, they use statistics and probability to provide financial advice and predict future trends. Actuaries work in various areas of finance, including banking, investment, and pensions. It’s one of the best-paying jobs in the Philippines thanks to the demand for skilled professionals. 

How do you become an actuary? 

You’ll want to start with a bachelor’s degree in either accountancy or mathematics. A relevant postgraduate qualification may also be beneficial. You’ll then need to pass qualifications to become a member of the Actuarial Society of the Philippines. 

How much do actuaries make?

The average salary for an actuary in the Philippines is ₱364,503. 

Join our Financial Analysis for Business Decisions ExpertTrack

If you want to want to boost your financial planning and analysis skills, our ExpertTrack will cover Data Analysis Tools and Capital Projects, Cash Flow Management, and How to Use Tableau and Financial Modelling.

Computer Programmer

What is a computer programmer? 

A computer programmer (also known as a software developer or software engineer) develops new technologies using their knowledge of maths, science and computers. They write code and design programs, as well as using their knowledge to find solutions to complex problems. It’s one of the best-paying jobs in the Philippines as well as other countries around the world. 

How do you become a computer programmer? 

If you want to work as a computer programmer, you’ll first need a detailed and extensive knowledge of a range of IT systems. As such, you’ll need a degree in an IT-related field, such as computer science. Once you have your qualifications, you’ll need to build up as much experience as possible to find a role in this industry. 

How much do computer programmers make? 

The average salary for a computer programmer in the Philippines is ₱200,219. 

Find a Programming Course

If you want to become a computer programmer but need to learn some of the basics first, our Software Development Fundamentals ExpertTrack will give you a broad introduction to the world of software development and programming.

Accountant

What is an accountant? 

Accountants are professionals who specialise in keeping and understanding finances. Both individuals and organisations employ these experts to help them get a deeper insight into their financial records. Accountants also take on a variety of tasks related to the management of money. Often, they’ll specialise in one particular area, such as tax or auditing.

How do you become an accountant?

To become an accountant in the Philippines, you’ll need to first complete a five-year Bachelor of Science in Accountancy. After your studies, you’ll need to take the Certified Public Accountant’s Licensure Examination. Given how valuable this position is and how long it takes to qualify, this is one of the best-paying jobs in the Philippines. 

How much do accountants make? 

The average salary for an accountant in the Philippines is ₱300,666.

Join our Introduction to Financial Accounting Course

We have plenty of great accounting courses available, including our introductory course above. If you’re more serious about accounting as a career option, our Business Management: Fundamentals of Management Accounting microcredential will teach you all you need to know.

Statistician 

What is a statistician? 

Statisticians are data experts. They focus their efforts on collecting, analysing and interpreting quantitative information. Unlike actuaries who work mainly in finance, statisticians work across all kinds of industries. Education, health, sports, and other sectors can all make use of these professionals. They specialise in collecting data and making decisions based on their findings. 

How do you become a statistician? 

Due to the depth of knowledge needed, you’ll have to start with an undergraduate degree in a subject related to statistics or mathematics. From there, a master’s degree in a field of specialisation can help when looking for a suitable job role.

How much do statisticians make?

The average salary for a statistician in the Philippines is ₱265,248. 

Join our Statistical Shape Modelling Course

If you’re hoping to one day work as a statistician, an online maths course can help you master some of the fundamentals you’ll need. Alternatively, our Data Analysis and Fundamental Statistics course might be useful.

System analyst

What is a system analyst? 

System analysts are an essential part of modern businesses. They use their computer skills to design, modify, and adapt IT systems. They help organisations become more efficient and productive by analysing existing systems and making improvements. The role of system analyst interacts with just about every area of a business.

How do you become a system analyst? 

Most entry-level system analyst roles require a degree in an IT-related field. In addition, you’ll need a detailed understanding of business structures and the technology they use. Often, employers require experience working in IT and business roles.

How much do system analysts make? 

The average salary for a systems analyst in the Philippines is ₱481,392. 

Join our Information Security Design and Development ExpertTrack

If you’re particularly interested in system analysis in information security, our Secure System Analysis and Design course in Coventry University’s ExpertTrack will teach you the fundamental methods and techniques of system analysis and secure design.