High paying careers and degrees for women in STEM

Our Science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) workforce is important to Malaysia's innovative capacityand global competitiveness. Although men generally hold STEM positions, women are starting to take interest in STEM careers especially now that female candidates are now twice as likely to be chosen as equally qualified men.

In a survey conducted by STEMjobs.com, 78% of surveyed STEM employers say they want to hire more women in the future. If you are interested in STEM, then take a closer look at STEM careers that have significantly increase in female employment.

1. Biomedical Engineer

Average salary: RM3,000-RM4,000 per month

Helps improve patient care through analysing and designing solutions to problems in biology and medicine such as new medication or improving medical technology. Biomedical engineering was identified as a field in which women are having a much more profound impact than in other STEM fields, especially since women make up 39% of graduates in biomedical engineering.

2. Petroleum Engineer

Average salary: RM4,000-RM6,000 per month

Oil and gas has long been a field dominated by men, but a growing number of women are seeing this industry as a viable career path. Petroleum engineers design and create methods for extracting oil and gas from deposits below the earth’s surface. In addition, they find new ways to extract natural resources from already existing, older wells and reservoirs.

3. Computer and Information Science Researcher

Average salary: RM4,000-RM8,000 per month

Discovers novel approaches to computing technology and finds innovative uses for existing technology. They study and solve complex problems in computing for businesses, medicine, science, and other fields.

4. Marine Engineer

Average salary: RM8,000-RM9,000 per month

Also referred to as naval architect, a marine engineer deals with the design, construction and repair of marine vehicles in the oil and gas and marine environment.

5. Business/ Systems Analyst

Average salary: RM5,500-RM8,500 per month

Performs systems feasibility studies, analysis & design to meet user requirements & application. Work closely with engineers & technical support

to resolve customer issues. Provide technical application support to users.

6. Database Administrator

Average salary: RM4,500-RM7,500 per month

Responsible for administration & technical maintenance of the company’s distributed database system through the use of specialised software. They ensure that data is available to users and is secure from unauthorized access or cyber attacks.

7. Actuary

Average salary: RM2,800-RM4,000 per month

Usually employed in insurance companies, actuaries analyze the financial costs of risk and uncertainty. They use mathematics, statistics, and financial theory to assess the risk that an event will occur.

8. Chemical Engineer

Average salary: RM4,000-RM6,000 per month

Designs equipment & develop processes for manufacturing chemicals. Conducts research to develop new & improved chemical manufacturing processes.

9. Web Developer

Average salary: RM4,000-RM5,000 per month

Develops innovative web–based design application and content management.

10. Accountant

Average salary: RM5,500-RM7,000 per month

Does general accounting activities that include preparation of statistical data & financial reports concerning profits, cash & inventory. Analyses, reports & provides advice on the financial dealings 10. Accountantof organizations/ individuals.

*Salary information based on Jobstreet Salary Guide and Kelly Services