The state of Kansas offers a surprising diversity of high-demand and well-compensated jobs for individuals possessing a college degree. Beyond its strong agricultural roots, the Sunflower State’s economy is powered by thriving sectors like technology, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing. For those seeking “great Kansas jobs,” opportunities abound in metropolitan areas such as Overland Park, Wichita, and Olathe, where robust industries meet a cost of living often below the national average.

This article highlights six promising career paths in Kansas for college graduates, focusing on job outlook and typical salary expectations based on recent data.

1. Software Developer

The technology sector in Kansas is expanding, with major tech hubs emerging in the Kansas City metro area. Software developers are consistently in high demand, designing, developing, and testing software applications across various industries. This role is ideal for those with degrees in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related technical fields.

• Job Description: Software developers work with clients or other engineers to define system requirements, write and test code, and maintain software systems. They are critical to innovation in local tech companies and large corporations alike and make for great Kansas jobs.
• Average Salary Range (Kansas): The majority of mid-level software developer salaries in Kansas range from approximately $80,300 to $115,900 annually, with top earners making over $135,000. Entry-level roles average around $93,522, demonstrating strong starting potential for new graduates.
• Key Locations: Overland Park, Olathe, and Kansas City, KS, boast some of the highest average salaries for this position.
• Top Employers: Garmin International, Oracle Health, T-Mobile, and various tech startups are frequent employers.

2. Financial Analyst

A strong financial and accounting sector provides numerous “great Kansas jobs” for analytical minds. Financial analysts are essential for businesses, government agencies, and individuals making critical financial decisions. They evaluate financial data, recommend investments, and help companies plan for long-term growth.

• Job Description: This role involves analyzing market trends, preparing reports, and making recommendations to management. A bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, or accounting is typically required.
• Average Salary Range (Kansas): The average annual pay for a financial analyst in Kansas is approximately $78,581, with salaries typically ranging between $62,400 and $98,500 annually.
• Key Locations: Overland Park and Wichita offer some of the highest-paying opportunities for this position.
• Top Employers: Companies in the financial services sector, such as SS&C and relevant departments within major corporations like Garmin and Textron Aviation, frequently hire financial analysts.

3. Registered Nurse (RN)

The healthcare industry in Kansas is experiencing significant growth, ensuring a consistent and high demand for qualified registered nurses. This is a deeply rewarding career path for individuals with a BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) degree.

• Job Description: RNs provide direct patient care, administer medication, monitor patient conditions, and educate patients and families on health management. Hospitals and outpatient centers are the primary employers for these great Kansas jobs.
• Average Salary Range (Kansas): The average annual pay for a registered nurse in Kansas is around $78,365, with the majority earning between $58,400 and $92,800. Nurses with BSN degrees are often among the top earners.
• Key Locations: Wichita and the Kansas City area (including Olathe and Overland Park) are high-paying cities for this profession.
• Top Employers: Major health systems such as The University of Kansas Hospital and Ascension Via Christi Health are key employers.

4. Marketing Manager

For college graduates with degrees in marketing, communications, or business, the role of a marketing manager offers creative and strategic opportunities in Kansas’s competitive market.

• Job Description: Marketing managers develop strategies to promote products, services, or ideas. They manage campaigns, analyze market data, and work to build brand recognition and drive sales.
• Average Salary Range (Kansas): The average salary for a marketing manager in Kansas can be around $74,459, with many roles in higher ranges depending on experience and industry. Salaries in the Kansas City metro area can be higher still, averaging over $82,000 in Overland Park.
• Key Locations: Overland Park, Lenexa, and Leawood offer the highest salaries for marketing management roles.
• Top Employers: Opportunities exist across many sectors, including technology (Garmin), telecommunications (T-Mobile), and retail, as virtually every major company requires marketing expertise.

5. Mechanical Engineer

Kansas’s robust aerospace and manufacturing industries create strong demand for skilled mechanical engineers. This technical field is perfect for engineering graduates looking to innovate and design systems or machinery.

• Job Description: Mechanical engineers research, design, develop, build, and test mechanical devices, including tools, engines, and machines. This role often involves hands-on work in production environments.
• Average Salary Range (Kansas): Specific Kansas data varies, but engineers are highly compensated. The manufacturing sector generally offers competitive wages.
• Key Locations: Wichita, the “Air Capital,” has a high concentration of engineering roles due to its aviation industry focus.
• Top Employers: Spirit AeroSystems, Textron Aviation, and Bombardier are key industry players offering abundant engineering roles. Definitely great Kansas jobs.

6. High School Teacher

For those passionate about shaping the next generation, teaching remains one of the most important and stable “great Kansas jobs” for college degree holders. While salaries may not match private tech sectors, the quality of life, benefits (such as pensions and healthcare), and fulfillment are significant advantages.

• Job Description: High school teachers educate students in various subjects, prepare them for college and careers, and manage classroom environments. A bachelor’s degree and state certification are required.
• Average Salary Range (Kansas): The average salary for education and training professions in Kansas is around $42,567 annually, but teacher salaries typically vary greatly by district, years of service, and advanced degrees. Experienced teachers can earn significantly more.
• Key Locations: School districts in affluent areas like Overland Park, Olathe, and Wichita generally offer more competitive salary schedules.

Conclusion

Kansas’s job market is diverse and welcoming to college degree holders. With opportunities ranging from high-tech software development and financial analysis in the KC metro area to essential healthcare and engineering roles across the state, these “great Kansas jobs” provide not just a paycheck but long-term career stability and growth potential. Utilize resources like the Kansas Labor Information Center to explore current openings and find your ideal professional fit in the Sunflower State.

Now’s the time to get your college degree quickly, conveniently, and affordably.