Top Highest Paying Jobs in France For 2026

Key Highlights

• The highest-paying jobs in France are led by aviation professionals, medical specialists, and senior corporate executives, with salaries often ranging from €80,000 to €200,000+, depending on role and experience.

• Top-paying sectors include engineering, healthcare, construction, technology/IT, tourism/hospitality, and media/marketing, supported by strong demand and nationwide infrastructure growth.

• To secure high-paying roles, candidates need specialised skills, strong CVs, French language proficiency, networking, and proper work authorisation, with non-EU students allowed to work up to 964 hours per year while studying.

Planning to move to France for a well-paid job is one of the best decisions for everyone, but finding the right job is a bit tough. France is not only famous for its high-quality living but also for lucrative job opportunities that are easily cracked by a lot of candidates. Popular sectors like healthcare, automobile, engineering, construction, etc., offer a variety of job opportunities. But before applying for a job, you must ensure you get a good salary that helps to support your financial needs while staying in France. In this complete article, we will help you to know more about the best, highest-paying jobs in France for 2026.

Top Highest-Paying Jobs in France

For the professionals who aspire to work in France, here is the list given below of the top 10 highest-paying jobs in France.

1. Airline Pilots & Aviation Professionals

Airline pilots are responsible for flying commercial aircraft safely and efficiently. They handle flight planning, navigation, and communication with air traffic control. Due to the high level of responsibility and strict training requirements, this profession offers very high salaries. Senior pilots flying international routes earn even more. Aviation professionals must hold valid licenses and have many hours of flight experience.

Average Annual Salary: €90,000 – €150,000+

2. Medical Specialists (Doctors & Surgeons)

Medical specialists such as surgeons, anesthesiologists, radiologists, psychiatrists, and dentists earn some of the highest salaries in France. Their work requires years of education, training, and specialization. They diagnose complex health conditions and perform advanced medical procedures. Many work in private hospitals or clinics, where income is higher.

Average Annual Salary: €80,000 – €200,000+

3. Corporate Directors & Senior Managers

Corporate directors and senior managers oversee company operations and long-term business strategies. They are responsible for managing teams, improving performance, and making key business decisions. These roles exist mainly in large companies and multinational organizations. Experience and leadership skills are essential for this position. Higher salaries are common in cities like Paris and Lyon.

Average Annual Salary: €120,000 – €200,000+

4. Investment Bankers

Investment bankers help companies raise capital, manage mergers, and make financial investments. Their job involves financial analysis, risk assessment, and advising clients on large transactions. The work can be demanding and stressful, but it pays very well. Bonuses can significantly increase total income. Paris is the main hub for investment banking jobs in France.

Average Annual Salary: €80,000 – €150,000+

5. IT Project Managers

IT project managers plan and manage technology projects from start to finish. They coordinate between technical teams and business stakeholders to ensure projects are delivered on time. This role requires both technical knowledge and strong communication skills. With the growth of digital transformation, demand for IT project managers is increasing. Salaries rise with experience and certification.

Average Annual Salary: €60,000 – €120,000+

6. Data Scientists & AI Specialists

Data scientists and AI specialists analyze large amounts of data to help businesses make smart decisions. They work with machine learning models, data tools, and advanced software systems. These professionals are in high demand across industries like finance, healthcare, and e-commerce. Their skills are rare, which leads to higher pay.

Average Annual Salary: €70,000 – €110,000+

7. Software Engineering Managers

Software engineering managers lead development teams and oversee software projects. They are responsible for planning, coding standards, system design, and team performance. This role combines technical expertise with leadership responsibilities. As companies rely more on technology, experienced software managers are highly valued.

Average Annual Salary: €85,000 – €160,000+

8. Lawyers (Corporate & International Law)

Lawyers specializing in corporate, international, or intellectual property law earn high salaries in France. They advise companies on contracts, legal compliance, and business regulations. Many work in large law firms or multinational companies. Strong legal knowledge and language skills are important for success. Experience greatly affects earning potential.

Average Annual Salary: €60,000 – €150,000+

9. Engineering Managers

Engineering managers supervise technical teams in industries like aerospace, automotive, energy, and construction. They manage projects, ensure safety standards, and improve production efficiency. France has a strong engineering sector, especially in aerospace and manufacturing. These roles require both technical education and management experience.

Average Annual Salary: €80,000 – €150,000+

10. Marketing Directors

Marketing directors plan and lead a company’s marketing strategy. They manage branding, advertising campaigns, and market research. Digital marketing skills are especially important in this role. Marketing directors work closely with senior management to increase business growth.

Average Annual Salary: €90,000 – €180,000+

Also Read: Part-Time Jobs in Latvia

Benefits of Doing the Highest Paying Jobs In France 

Pursuing the highest-paying jobs in France comes with numerous benefits beyond financial rewards. Here are some key advantages:

• High Salary: According to INSEE, a private-sector full-time equivalent employee earned roughly €2,600–€2,750 net per month in recent data (varies slightly year-to-year). The legal minimum wage (SMIC) was revalued: for 2025, the gross monthly SMIC (35 h/wk) is about €1,801.80 (consult URSSAF/official pages for the exact current amount and net equivalent).
• Career Growth: Acquire real-world experience and abilities that will be useful in future employment. You can get a chance to establish professional connections and network.
• Work-life Balance: High-paying jobs in France come with legally mandated shorter working hours, flexible work arrangements, and abundant vacation time that enhance the overall quality of life.
• Tax Advantages: France provides tax benefits for expatriates and professionals in niche positions, making it a financially beneficial option for high-income earners.

Here you can check What is the Average Salary In France

Top Industries to Get the Highest-Paying Jobs in France

Several booming industries in France offer highly competitive salaries and excellent career growth. Here are the top sectors known for high-paying roles:

1. Engineering

Civil, mechanical, electrical, aeronautical, and chemical engineers are in strong demand—especially in companies like Airbus, TotalEnergies, and Renault.

2. Healthcare

Doctors, surgeons, dentists, nurses, pharmacists, and mental-health professionals enjoy some of the highest earnings in the country.

3. Construction

Project managers, architects, site engineers, and quantity surveyors earn competitive salaries due to France’s continuous infrastructure development.

4. Technology & IT

With France becoming a European tech hub (Paris, Lyon, Toulouse), roles in AI, cybersecurity, cloud engineering, software development, and IT project management offer high pay.

5. Tourism & Hospitality

France is the world’s most visited country. Executive-level roles in luxury hotels, travel management, and hospitality consulting pay well.

6. Media & Marketing

Digital marketers, brand managers, creative directors, and communication specialists are in demand across multinational brands and the luxury sector.

Eligibility For the Highest Paying Jobs In France 

Qualifying for the most rewarding jobs in France often involves advanced education, specialised skills, and professional experience. Here are some key factors that make up eligibility:

• According to French law, foreign students may work up to 964 hours per year while enrolled in full-time classes in France. 
• Students who are not citizens of the European Union must have a student resident permit. 
• Multinational positions require proficiency in both French and English.

Tips To Find the Highest Paying Jobs In France 

Selecting the right job in France can build your resume and help you land a high-paying role. The tips mentioned below help you to crack good and Highest-paying jobs in France: 

• Learn French Language: Learning an additional language can help to crack the highest-paying job. For international students, fluency in English is also a significant advantage, but learning French adds value and helps to get an easy job.
• Polish Your CV: Tailor your CV/Resume and cover letter for each job; highlight skills and achievements relevant to high-paying jobs. Practice interviews to leave a good impression during the interview.
• Networking: Build professional connections through events, LinkedIn, and industry associations. Job fairs and alumni events provide access to hidden job opportunities.
• Use Job Portals: Other job portals that include high-paying positions are LinkedIn, Glassdoor, and French-specific job sites like APEC and Cadremploi. Prepare your profile for executive positions.

Popular Companies For Highest Paying Jobs In France 

There are various popular companies that are offering the highest-paying jobs in France. Here we have mentioned a few of the best companies:

• Carrefour
• IKEA
• McDonald’s
• Auchan
• Leclerc
• Decathlon
• La Poste

Explore a detailed Guide On University Teacher Salaries in France

 FAQs 

Relevant Reads

Part-time jobs in Dubai for International Students	Part-time jobs in South Korea for international students
A Guide for Part-Time Jobs In Estonia	Part Time Jobs In China For International Students
Work Part-Time Jobs in New Zealand	Part-Time Jobs In Los Angeles

This was all about the Best Highest Paying Jobs in France For 2026. To get more information about jobs abroad, universities and visas abroad, you can follow Leverage Edu’s page.