Career Goals: The 17 Best Jobs To Set You Up for a Comfortable Retirement

Planning for a comfortable retirement starts with choosing a career that offers not just a good salary, but also robust retirement benefits. This means looking for jobs that are designed to support you long after you’ve left the workforce. High-paying jobs with comprehensive pension plans, strong union representation, and generous 401(k) matching programs can significantly ease the transition into retirement. 

These 17 jobs, which provide not just financial security but also peace of mind, can help one's golden years feel as stress-free as possible. Join us as we take a closer look at what they offer in terms of salary, benefits, and retirement perks. 

Working for the federal government offers job stability, a competitive salary, and a steady income stream during retirement. Federal employees are eligible for the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), which includes a pension, Social Security benefits, and a Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government-matching contributions. 

Federal employees typically also have access to excellent health care benefits (which continue into retirement) for themselves and their families.

Though not the highest paid, teachers tend to enjoy a strong pension plan, which can provide a significant portion of their salary after retirement. Many public school districts also offer matching contributions to retirement savings plans, such as 403(b) accounts. Plus, the job comes with long-term stability, summer holidays, and the satisfaction of contributing to society. 

Teachers also typically receive health insurance benefits (including dental and vision) that can extend into retirement. 

Unionized electricians earn competitive wages and are often part of robust pension plans and other retirement benefits negotiated by their unions. These pensions are usually defined benefit plans, meaning they provide a guaranteed income after retirement. In addition, union members may receive matching contributions to their 401(k) plans, adding to their retirement savings. 

The job security and strong representation make this a reliable career choice for those seeking financial freedom.

Registered nurses (RNs) typically command high salaries and have access to strong retirement benefits, especially if they work in unionized hospitals. Many employers offer matching 401(k) contributions, and some provide pensions or other retirement savings plans. Nurses also benefit from job security, longevity, and opportunities for career advancement, which can lead to higher earnings as they gain more experience. 

Due to the physical demands of the job, nurses are entitled to worker's compensation if they're injured at work — and can sometimes even retire early with full benefits. 

High-ranking corporate executives typically snag substantial salaries and receive significant bonuses and stock options, which can be invested in retirement accounts. Many corporations offer generous 401(k) matching programs and may also provide pensions for long-term employees. Executives often also have access to financial planning services, which can help maximize their retirement savings. 

With the right financial management, these benefits can ensure a very comfortable retirement for CEOs and other high-level executives. 

With lucrative salaries coupled with handsome stock options and bonuses, software engineers are in high demand across the U.S. Many tech companies offer generous 401(k) matching, retirement savings, and even pension plans for long-term employees. The ability to work remotely can also extend one's career, allowing for a continued income stream while transitioning into retirement. 

Some tech companies also offer other perks such as unlimited paid time off (PTO) and retirement planning services to help employees make the most of their earnings.

Due to the perilous nature of the job, police officers typically retire earlier than other professionals, often with a pension that covers a large portion of their salary. These benefits are usually based on years of service and final salary, providing a reliable income stream for the officers and their families. Many departments also offer retirement savings plans, such as 457(b) accounts, with employer contributions. 

Early retirement enables officers to pursue a second career to supplement their income if needed, while allowing them to enjoy their golden years with minimal stress. Wondering about other remote jobs for retirees? We've got you covered. 

Military officers receive excellent retirement benefits, including a pension after 20 years of service. The pension is typically based on a percentage of the officer's salary, making it a dependable source of income. In addition to the pension, military members can contribute to the Thrift Savings Plan, which offers matching contributions and tax advantages. 

Another perk of joining the army? Healthcare benefits continue into retirement, providing further financial security for retired officers and their loved ones. 

Pharmacists earn high salaries and often have access to strong retirement benefits, including 401(k) plans and other tax breaks with matching employer contributions. Some employers also offer pension plans, especially for long-term employees. In addition, pharmacists enjoy job stability and a high demand for their skills, which translates into consistent income and the ability to save for retirement. 

Most pharmacists also receive comprehensive healthcare benefits (including dental and vision), which continue into retirement.

Engineers in the oil and gas industry enjoy excellent retirement benefits, including pensions and 401(k) plans with generous employer matching. The industry, which is highly lucrative, often also offers stock options and bonuses, which can significantly boost one's retirement savings over the course of a career. 

The combination of a strong salary, bonuses, and benefits make this career highly beneficial for planning ahead and setting up a nest egg for retirement.

Commercial airline pilots command high salaries and typically have access to generous retirement benefits, including pensions, excellent health insurance, and 401(k) plans with matching contributions. Commercial pilots are legally required to retire by age 65, which allows them to enjoy a longer retirement. Some airlines also offer profit-sharing plans, which can significantly grow one's retirement savings over time. 

With careful financial planning and research, pilots can ensure a comfortable and well-funded retirement.

Unionized construction workers benefit from strong pension plans and other retirement benefits negotiated by their unions. These pensions, which provide a reliable income after retirement, are typically based on years of service and overall salary. In addition, some unions offer bonuses and other retirement plans with matching employer contributions to further enhance retirement security. 

The physical nature of the work can also allow for early retirement with full benefits, making the role a solid option for those seeking a comfortable and long retirement.

College professors who achieve academic tenure enjoy a level of job security that is rare in many other professions. Having tenure can provide peace of mind in knowing that your position is protected against most forms of job loss. Professors typically also receive a pension plan to ensure a steady and reliable source of income throughout retirement. In addition, many universities offer 403(b) retirement plans, which are similar to 401(k) plans, but tailored for educators and non-profit workers.

Even after retiring, professors can also continue teaching part-time or take part in academic research to supplement their income. 

Airline mechanics who are part of a union typically enjoy strong pension plans and other retirement benefits. The job comes with good wages and job stability, with additional retirement savings' options like travel perks and 401(k) plans with employer contributions. Union-negotiated and government benefits often also include healthcare plans that extend into retirement to reduce one's out-of-pocket expenses. 

These combined factors make airline mechanics a reliable and lucrative career for those seeking a stress-free and comfortable retirement.

Public transit workers, particularly those in unionized positions, typically have access to robust pension plans and retirement benefits. These pensions provide a steady income after retirement, usually based on a combination of factors such as years of service, seniority, and overall salary. Many transit agencies also offer 457(b) plans with matching employer contributions to further enhance their workers' savings. 

Firefighters often have the opportunity to retire early with a pension that can cover a substantial portion of their previous earnings. This pension is generally calculated based on years of service and final salary, offering a dependable and consistent income throughout retirement. Beyond the pension, the job provides access to a federal retirement system and 457(b) plans to further set up their workers. 

Healthcare benefits for firefighters also tend to extend into retirement, helping to protect against medical costs that could otherwise diminish retirement savings.

Financial planners (or advisors) not only earn a good salary, but also have the expertise to maximize their own retirement savings. Many work for companies that offer 401(k) plans with matching contributions or profit-sharing arrangements. The knowledge and expertise they possess about investments, tax strategies, and the overall economy also allows them to optimize their savings and plan ahead.