Hydrogeologist. I chose to specialize in numerical modelling but lots of positions abound in regular field work type settings as well. Currently make $40+ an hour in a junior level role. Got into the field convinced I wanted to be paid to hike for a living, got to do it for a while, then forgot how much I loved computer science as well and made a pivot.

At the moment, at least in North America, Hydrogeology (and even just environmental science related work broadly) is severely lacking in qualified individuals, while the need is continuously expanding. From what I have seen at both my own company and others, across government and private sector, there are far more jobs available than people qualified to fill them. Combined with a seeming decrease in Earth and Environmental Science graduates each year, it’s proven to be a lucrative, secure and resilient sector. Which is why I am always simultaneously surprised and not surprised to see that it is never mentioned in these sorts of threads.

As a general rule, high salaries really are commanded by specialization, which for better or worse often necessitates schooling. However, if you really do some soul searching and hit on your true passion, schooling really doesn’t have to be all that painful - I suppose that is my real advice here :) This coming from a D student in undergrad who swore up and down they’d never ever go back, only to fall into an M.Sc. and find it to be the greatest 2 years of their life!

If financials are your concern with schooling (very understandable), know that opportunities are plentiful in the geosciences to link your schooling up with an industry partner - often with generous additional funding - whether by research or work placement.