5 Well-Paying ‘New Collar’ Jobs in 2026

Core Insights - The concept of "new collar" jobs is emerging, where skills and experience are prioritized over formal four-year degrees, particularly in tech and business sectors [1] Group 1: New Collar Jobs Overview - New collar jobs typically offer salaries exceeding $100,000 and are less susceptible to AI replacement [1] - These roles are characterized by a focus on practical skills rather than traditional educational qualifications [1] Group 2: Specific Job Roles and Data - Sales Manager: - Median annual pay: $159,660 - Median hourly pay: $76.76 - Top-earning pay: Approximately $239,200 - Projected job growth (2024-2034): 6% - Estimated AI replacement risk: 39% [6] - Human Resources Manager: - Median annual pay: $140,030 - Median hourly pay: $67.32 - Top-earning pay: Approximately $239,200 - Projected job growth (2024-2034): 5% - Estimated AI replacement risk: 24% [7] - Computer Network Architect: - Median annual pay: $138,060 - Median hourly pay: $66.38 - Top-earning pay: Approximately $239,200 - Projected job growth (2024-2034): 5% - Estimated AI replacement risk: 33% [7][8] - General and Operations Manager: - Median annual pay: $130,390 - Median hourly pay: $62.69 - Top-earning pay: Approximately $198,030 - Projected job growth (2024-2034): 12% - Estimated AI replacement risk: 39% [13] - Additional Role: - Median annual pay: $129,330 - Median hourly pay: $62.18 - Top-earning pay: Approximately $232,110 - Projected job growth (2024-2034): 6% - Estimated AI replacement risk: 36% [14]